How to Plan a Couple’s Spiti Valley Trip from Pune – Romantic & Scenic Ideas

There is one travel trend that my partner and I hate equally: “ Crowded beaches and overpriced resorts.”

If you and your partner also crave peace and conversations, you need to get away from the crowd so that you are able to listen to each other. A crowded beach with children screaming and hawkers howling is not a place for romantic conversation with your partner.

So, you may ask, “Where should we go?” High up in the Himalayas, away from the chaos of city life, lies a raw, untouched land – Spiti.

And if you’re planning a romantic escape from Pune, Spiti might just be your most unexpected, unforgettable journey together.

This guide will help you plan the perfect couple’s trip that will make you fall in love with the mountains.

Why Couples Are Choosing Spiti Over Traditional Honeymoon Spots

Kashmir Valley and Manali hold the crown for honeymooners in India. Some others who love beaches, choose international destinations such as Bali or the Maldives.

But if you are looking for a budget and offbeat honeymoon destination in India, you have to visit Spiti. ANd here’s why I am saying that:

It’s peaceful, not packed.
No queues, no resorts. Just open valleys, riverside sunsets, and the sound of wind brushing the cliffs.
Nature takes the lead.
Golden hour in Kalpa. Milky Way skies in Chandratal. Fossil hunting in Langza. You’ll be surrounded by sky-high mountains that will make you feel small together in the bigger mechanisms of the universe.
It deepens connection.
No Wi-Fi, no Netflix. It’s just the two of you; walking, talking, and sitting quietly under a sky full of stars.
Great for all stages of love.
Whether you’re newlyweds or a couple needing a break from the digital hustle, Spiti offers the perfect balance of adventure and stillness.

How to Reach Spiti Valley from Pune: Travel Options for Couples

Planning a romantic trip to Spiti from Pune requires a bit of patience. But let me tell you this, the journey is part of the story.

Whether you’re looking for comfort, adventure, or a mix of both, there’s a route for every kind of couple.

Option 1: By Flight + Road (Most Comfortable)

Step 1: Take a direct flight from Pune to Delhi or Chandigarh
Step 2: Continue by private cab or taxi to Shimla (via Delhi) or Manali (via Chandigarh)
Step 3: Begin your journey into Spiti with an overnight halt in Kalpa or Tabo

This is the most recommended route for couples seeking a balance between ease and experience. Flights save time, and the slow road journey allows for scenic stops and proper altitude acclimatization.

Because if you do not acclimatize properly, you might end up in a hospital bed or might be sick throughout your time there.

Option 2: By Train (Scenic but Longer)

Step 1: Board a train from Pune to Kalka (usually via Delhi)
Step 2: Optional: Take the famous toy train to Shimla
Step 3: Hire a cab from Shimla to Kalpa, then continue onward to Kaza

This option is ideal for couples who enjoy train journeys. You can slow travel through the different geographical landscapes. But be prepared for a 36–40 hour journey overall.

Option 3: Fly to Delhi, Then Road Trip (For Adventurous Couples)

Step 1: Pune to Delhi by flight
Step 2: Begin your road trip via the Shimla–Kinnaur route
Step 3: Explore Kalpa, Nako, Tabo before reaching Kaza

This route is perfect if both of you love road trips, photography, and driving through Himalayan landscapes.

Important Note:
Always prefer entering Spiti via Shimla rather than Manali. It helps avoid altitude sickness and offers a gradual, more romantic climb.

For more guidance, see our detailed guide: Shimla vs Manali Route to Spiti – Which Is Better for First-Time Travellers?

Ideal Itinerary for Couples – 8 to 10 Days of Love & Landscapes

Spiti is not a place to rush. For couples, the magic lies in taking it slow. Experiences such as watching sunsets without looking at the clock, sipping tea in silence, and getting lost in landscapes that look like Mars.

Here’s a lovingly crafted 8–10 day itinerary perfect for couples traveling from Pune:

Day 1: Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla or Narkanda

Land in Delhi or Chandigarh and drive to the hills. Stay overnight in Shimla or Narkanda to begin acclimatization gently. Choose a cozy homestay with balcony views.

Day 2: Shimla/Narkanda to Kalpa

Drive past pine forests and apple orchards to reach Kalpa. Check into a room with views of the snow-capped Kinner Kailash. Watch the sunset together. It’s unforgettable.

Day 3: Kalpa to Tabo via Nako

Stop at Nako Lake for a peaceful moment and lunch. Reach Tabo by evening, known for its ancient monastery and mystical caves. The starlit sky here feels like a planetarium.

Day 4: Tabo to Kaza

Head towards Kaza with a scenic stop at Dhankar Monastery. Once in Kaza, settle into a boutique riverside stay and take the evening slow.

Day 5: Explore Hikkim, Langza, and Komic

Visit the world’s highest post office, fossil-rich villages, and lunar-like landscapes. This day feels like a road trip on another planet, perfect for couple photos and quiet awe.

Day 6: Rest Day in Kaza or a Bonfire Evening

Stay back in Kaza for a relaxed day. Book a private bonfire, sip chai, and write postcards to your future selves.

Day 7: Drive to Chandratal Lake

If the weather and roads allow, drive to Chandratal. Camp under a sky overflowing with stars. It’s one of the most romantic nights you’ll ever have.

Day 8–9: Return via Manali or Retrace via Kalpa

If returning via Manali, prepare for a steep, scenic descent. If roads are shut or you prefer stability, go back via Kalpa. End your journey the way it began — together, slow and steady.

Optional Day 10:
Add a buffer day in Manali or Shimla before your flight back. It helps ease back into the world before you return to city life.

Most Romantic Places to Visit in Spiti Valley as a Couple

Spiti isn’t your typical honeymoon spot. There are no resorts or candlelit dinners here. Instead, you’ll find wild skies, raw beauty, and a kind of silence that brings people closer.

Here are the most romantic places every couple should include:

Chandratal Lake – For Milky Way Nights

Chnadratal is a glacial lake tucked between barren mountains. If I have to describe its beauty, I’ll use the words divine and enchanting.

Chandratal is the most stunning jewel in the crown of Spiti. As night falls, you can find the stars coming alive, and you can also see their reflection in the water.

This sight is something that feels otherworldly and one that you cannot forget for a long time. Camping here with your partner is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Langza Village – For Solitude and Stories

Langza is home to ancient fossils, giant Buddha statues, and endless silence. Langza is perfect for couples who want to disconnect from the brouhaha of the world. Here, you can wake up to mountain views and wander around hand in hand with no plan, no deadline to chase and no client to follow.

Dhankar Monastery – For Cliff-Edge Sunsets

Perched on a cliff with views of the Spiti and Pin rivers merging below, Dhankar is an ideal place to sit quietly and reflect together. Come here in the late afternoon and watch the sky paint the valley golden.

Tabo Caves – For Quiet Morning Walks

Take a slow walk up the caves near Tabo Monastery. It’s peaceful, surreal, and perfect for early morning meditations or whispered conversations.

Kaza Riverbank – For Golden Hour Romance

Right outside Kaza town, the Spiti River flows gently past pebbled banks. Spend an evening here, soaking your feet, journaling together, or just lying back and listening to the water.

These places won’t give you room service. But they’ll give you presence, the kind of shared stillness that stays long after the trip ends.

Unique Couple Experiences You Can Plan in Spiti

A trip to Spiti isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s about experiences that stay with you. If you’re a couple looking for more than just photos, here are beautiful, meaningful things you can do together in the valley:

Stargazing Under the Clearest Skies

Nothing says intimacy like lying under a sky full of stars at Chandratal or Langza. Carry a blanket, lie back, and count shooting stars — it’s quiet, magical, and unforgettable.

Bonfire Date Night in Kaza or Kalpa

Book a stay that offers private bonfires. With warm tea, local food, and the crisp mountain air, even simple conversations turn soulful.

Meditate Together in an Ancient Monastery

Spiti’s monasteries — like Tabo and Key — aren’t just spiritual spots. They offer rare stillness. Sit side by side and meditate together. You’ll come out feeling more connected.

Set Up a Timed Couple Photoshoot

Bring a small tripod and capture your love against dramatic backdrops — be it Langza’s giant Buddha, the surreal roads near Komic, or a golden sunset at Dhankar.

Journal, Sketch, or Just Be

Carry a notebook or sketchpad and spend time journaling your thoughts together — especially in quiet places like Tabo or the riverbank near Kaza. These slow moments often become your favourite memories.

Best Romantic Stays in Spiti Valley (Couple Friendly)

In Spiti, your accommodation isn’t just a place to sleep — it becomes part of your story. Whether you’re looking for cozy mountain-view homestays or tents under the stars, here are some of the most romantic stay options for couples:

Kalpa – Balcony Views with the Kinnaur Kailash

Stay in a super deluxe wooden cottage or boutique hotel with snow-capped views of the Kinnaur Kailash range. Wake up to golden sunrise hitting the peaks, and sip tea on the balcony wrapped in warm blankets.

Suggested options: Echor Kalpa Retreat, The Monk Kalpa

Tabo – Warmth of a Spitian Homestay

Family guesthouses here are perfect for couples looking to slow down. You’ll get home-cooked meals, stories from the hosts, and a chance to truly disconnect from the fast-paced world of the concrete jungle.

Try places like: Tashi Khangsar Homestay or Norbu Guesthouse

Kaza – Boutique Comfort by the River

In Kaza, id suggest you choose a stay near the riverbank or with views of surrounding peaks. You can find everything here, from rustic homestays to stylish boutique rooms.

Recommended: Zostel Kaza (private room), The Alpinist, or Solo Yolo Kaza

Chandratal – Tents with a View of the Galaxy

This is the place to go off-grid. Pre-book a tent stay at Chandratal with bonfire add-ons. While it’s basic, the location and star-filled sky make it one of the most romantic overnight experiences in Spiti.

Note: No mobile network here. Arrive early and carry essentials.

Pro Tip: Book your couple-friendly stays in advance, especially between mid-June and early October. These places get filled quickly — and the best rooms are often taken first.

Packing Tips for Couples (Don’t Forget These)

Spiti isn’t just cold, it’s also remote. And when you’re travelling as a couple, a little extra planning can make your trip far more comfortable and memorable.

Here’s what you must pack:

Clothing & Gear

Matching thermals and jackets – Thermals will not just keep you warm, but the matching ones will be perfect for cute couple photos
Woolen socks, gloves, and caps – Layers are non-negotiable in higher villages like Langza or Chandratal. Woolen socks and gloves are extremely important to protect your feet and hands from frostbite.
Comfortable trekking shoes – For monastery visits, village walks, and short hikes, you need to carry comfortable trekking shoes as most of these monasteries are perched on a hilltop.
Sunglasses & sunscreen – The high-altitude sun can be harsh; you need to be extra careful about your eyes and skin. Use powerful sunglasses and an ample amount of effective sunscreen.

Essentials for Romance & Comfort

Portable tripod – Please carry this so that you can set it up anywhere for wide-angle couple shots. This is important as you will not always find people wandering at the same time as you so that you may seek some help
Power banks & extra batteries – Electricity can be limited in remote areas. So, please carry power banks so that you can keep your accessories charged and active.
Surprise gifts or notes – This is absolutely not a necessity, but if you are traveling with your spouse, you need to make it romantic. So, to create one such cute moment with your partner, you can choose to hide loving notes in your partner’s bag.
Books or a shared journal – For quiet evenings in Kalpa, Tabo, or Kaza, you can leisure away with a book together. A shared journal is great if you guys are seasoned travelers and want o keep a log so that you can blog about it later.

Health & Safety

Diamox or prescribed altitude meds – Carry if you’re worried about AMS. These are going to keep you out of the hospitals and help you enjoy your trip.
Rehydration salts, lip balm, and moisturiser – The air is dry, especially in Kaza and Chandratal, so please, please…..please carry things that keep you hydrated.
Basic first aid kit – Band-aids, paracetamol, motion sickness tablets. Always carry a basic first aid with you whereever you go. Tis a good travel habit.

Budget for a Couple’s Trip to Spiti from Pune (Approximate)

Planning a romantic escape doesn’t require you to empty your bank balance and make your account cry for the next whole year.

With the right mix of comfort and smart choices, your Spiti Valley couple’s trip from Pune can stay memorable and affordable.

Here’s a mid-range estimate for two people:

1. Flights (Pune to Delhi or Chandigarh)

Round-trip airfare: ₹10,000–₹15,000 per person
Total for couple: ₹20,000–₹30,000
Tip: Book at least a month in advance to get the best fares.

2. Transport (Cab or Self-Drive Rental)

Private cab (Delhi–Spiti–Delhi): ₹25,000–₹35,000
Self-drive rental (from Delhi): ₹4,000–₹6,000 per day (plus fuel)
For comfort and safety, most couples prefer hiring a cab.

3. Stays (8–10 Nights)

Budget stays: Anywhere between ₹1,500–₹2,500 per night
Luxury or premium stays: ₹3,500–₹5,000 per night
Total: ₹15,000–₹40,000 (depending on your choices)

4. Food & Experiences

Daily meals: ₹800–₹1,200 for two
Entry fees, permits, and activities: ₹2,000–₹4,000 total
Tip: Try local dishes like thukpa, momos, and Spitian bread.

Total Estimated Cost for a Couple:

Budget Trip: ₹55,000 – ₹65,000
Comfort Trip: ₹70,000 – ₹90,000
Premium Escape: ₹1,00,000+ (with luxury stays and private camps)

Spiti might be a remote location, and honeymooners might be apprehensive at the start. But please don’t forget that it’s still one of India’s most affordable high-altitude romantic destinations. Especially when you compare it to overseas trips or luxury hill stations.

FAQs – Couple Travel to Spiti Valley (2025 Guide)

Is Spiti Valley safe for couples to visit?
Yes, Spiti is quite safe for couples. It is known for its peaceful villages, warm hospitality, and low crime rate.

Can honeymooners go to Spiti Valley?
Yes, more and more couples are choosing Spiti over crowded hill stations these days. The landscapes, lack of crowds, and raw beauty make it ideal for an offbeat honeymoon.

Is it safe for a female traveller with her partner?
Yes. The region is respectful, and locals are kind. Just follow basic safety protocols and you’ll be fine.

Which route is more romantic: Shimla or Manali to Spiti?
Shimla route offers a slower, scenic drive which is perfect for romance.

What’s the best time to visit Spiti for couples?
The best time to visit Spiti for couples is between Mid-September to early October.

Do we need to book everything in advance?
Yes, especially your transport and stays. Spiti has limited accommodation, and good couple-friendly options fill fast during peak season.

Can we do this trip by bike or scooter?
It’s possible but not recommended for first-time visitors or couples prioritising comfort. A cab or rented SUV is safer and more enjoyable on these rough roads.

What’s the most romantic thing to do in Spiti?
Watching the stars together at Chandratal Lake.

Why Spiti is the Most Unexpected Romantic Escape?

Spiti is not the typical overcrowded honeymoon destination, and that is the reason why it is so special. No luxury spas. No fancy cafés. All you shall find here are ancient villages, Himalayan silence, and long stretches of road where it’s just the two of you.

If you’re ready to trade chaos for calm, Wi-Fi for warmth, and sunsets for stargazing, Spiti will give you a love story you’ll talk about forever.

Want help planning your perfect couple’s trip to Spiti?
Get a customized itinerary with romantic stays, local experiences, and safe routes made just for two.

Also read: Top 7 Pit Stops on the Spiti Circuit That Are Worth Every Detour