Located in the Lahaul & Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, Pin Valley is carved by the Pin River – a major tributary of the Spiti. The entrance to this side valley lies around 20 km from Kaza – the largest town in Spiti Valley.
Mudh is the last village in Pin Valley, around 50 km away from Kaza. The road to Mudh branches from the main highway at Attargo Bridge and winds through rough patches, craggy mountains and gushing streams. There are a few villages on the way, including Gulling, Sagnam, Teling etc. See How to Reach.
In summer, the fields along the road are lush with crops of barley and green peas, presenting a dramatic contrast against the barren, rocky mountains. June to August-end is peak season for agriculture as some moisture is retained by the soil during this period.
Home to about 12 small villages, the culture and layout of Pin Valley resembles that of Spiti with few minor differences.
Above all, the topography is unlike anything you might have seen in Spiti. These are rugged geological formations typical of the high Himalayas – the stunning kinds that make Pin truly unforgettable.
Don’t take our word. See the photos for yourself.
Pin Valley National Park
Apart from the villages and cultural life, Pin Valley National Park is the only park in Himachal Pradesh that lies in the cold desert area. Home to medicinal herbs, rare birds and large animals such as the Ibex, Blue Sheep and Snow Leopard, the park is extremely popular with researchers, wildlife enthusiasts and birders.
Spiritual Significance
A short distance from the village of Gulling lies Kungri Gompa – the valley’s cultural and religious nucleus.
Belonging to the Nyingma sect of Buddhism (the oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism), Kungri is Pin Valley’s biggest and Spiti’s second-oldest monastery, dating back to 1330.
These days the main monastery and temple at Kungri is contained in an imposing new building, however the ancient temple and monastery is right next door. The older section of Kungri Monastery is usually accessed by monks for daily prayers and ceremonies and is usually kept locked when not in use. You will have to request one of the lamas to let you visit these old chambers if the door appears to be closed.
Trekking Routes
Pin Valley offers various trekking opportunities for all levels. You can choose between the popular Pin-Parvati Pass Trek and the Bhabha Pass Trek among many other smaller routes. Tara House Homestay can organize short and multi-day treks around Pin and Spiti Valley for groups and individuals at affordable rates. Do contact us with your requirements and let us plan your next adventure holiday.
With a living culture that dates back to the mid-14th century, Pin Valley is an exciting place to explore and discover at your own pace. Situated within the larger Spiti Valley, the Buddhist influence is unmistakable, but Pin also offers its own charm through quaint hamlets, cheerful locals and their endearing hospitality.
Head to our travel tips section for more helpful information.
Pin Valley Photo Gallery
How to Reach Pin Valley
Pin Valley is a side valley of Spiti Valley in Lahaul & Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh. This region only has road access. It is connected by a government bus that runs once a day between Mudh and Kaza.
The road to Pin Valley starts at Attargo Bridge, around 20 km southeast of Kaza. Cross this bridge and follow the road till you reach Mudh. It usually takes about an hour of leisurely driving to reach Mudh from Attargo Bridge.
On the map below, you have to follow the road (in white) after the marked bridge location.
Mudh is the valley’s last village that offers some creature comforts for the modern traveller – including comfortable guesthouses and a couple of restaurants.
Booking rooms at our hotels in advance will guarantee you a place to stay for the night, as our rooms often get booked by large groups months in advance.
Travelling Essentials
Pin Valley is remote and only connected to Spiti Valley by a single motorable road. This road is also prone to landslides in bad weather.
We have seen travellers who come inadequately prepared for this part of the Himalayas and often have to shorten their trip.
Prepare for your trip before travelling to Mudh and Pin Valley with these tips:
- Mudh is located at an altitude of 3219m above sea level. The air is thin and feeling breathless is common.
- Do not exert yourself by hiking/climbing as soon as you reach. Allow for rest days.
- As of 2019, mobile phone and internet network connections are NOT available in Pin Valley.
- Carry sufficient cash. There are no ATMs in the valley.
- Carry sufficient fuel for onward and return journey. Fuel is only available at the nearest town of Kaza.
- Carry adequate warm jackets and clothes as the weather is unpredictable and sunny days can suddenly turn cold with rain/snow.
- For ultimate comfort, dress in layers.
- Get good hiking/trekking shoes if you wish to explore Pin Valley National Park on foot.
- Carry along essential personal medicines (including altitude sickness pills etc) and spare parts for your vehicle.
Do contact us for the latest updates on road/weather conditions before your arrival. We will be happy to help you plan better for your trip.
Be the Perfect Traveller
Pin Valley is yet untouched by the troubling effects of ultra-modern societies and we aim to keep it that way. Here are some tips to help you navigate through the peaceful community of Mudh.
- This part of the Himalayas lies in an eco-sensitive zone and we do NOT appreciate travellers who litter. Please use the dustbins provided at all our hotels & rooms.
- Water in Mudh is safe to drink. Reduce your travel impact by avoiding bottled mineral water. Use our UV-filtered water kiosks to refill instead.
- Respect all religious artefacts and shrines – do not drink or smoke around these.
- The local people of Pin Valley are friendly with travellers. Please be respectful towards them.
- Always ask permission before entering someone’s home or taking photographs – especially of children.
- Keep loud noises and music to a bare minimum. Do not disturb locals and other travellers by talking/behaving loudly late at night.
- Maintain decorum and set an example of good behavior, especially when travelling in a large group.
- As a Buddhist community, we value the lives of our people, cattle and stray animals. Do not drive rashly around Mudh & other villages of the valley.
- Greet people with a smile by saying “Julley!” – the equivalent of Hello, Namaste and Goodbye in Spiti. 🙂