A Tale of ‘Un-expectations’: Dixita’s Spiti Valley Trip with Thrillophilia
Often, people realise that the smallest details make the biggest difference—like the tidbits in the kitchen, which add crunch and flavour to meals. Peanuts or favourite namkeens are simple examples.
Following this thought, Dixita decided to visit Spiti again this year, continuing a tradition from the last four years. This time, she noticed the importance of small touches—tricks and treats—that transformed the entire trip.
After exploring several tour operators, both regional and corporate, Dixita chose Thrillophilia for this adventure. Having heard excellent reviews of their Spiti itinerary, she was eager to see how this trip would unfold.
The booking process was entirely online and hassle-free. What stood out the most was Thrillophilia’s suggestion to visit Spiti in March—a month Dixita had never explored this destination. She convinced two friends to join her, and with the departure date approaching, they packed their bags within a week.
The Arrival
They say the mountains call to those ready to be embraced—and Dixita and her friends felt that call at Delhi ISBT, taking their first step toward the journey. This was Dixita’s fifth visit to Spiti, making it a place of solace for her. Excited to see what new experiences awaited, the group flew into Shimla and met Sachin Sharma, their tour leader. He introduced them to the rest of the group before they boarded the bus to Chitkul.
The road to Spiti was breathtaking—frozen rivers, expansive meadows with towering mountains in the backdrop, and dramatic landscapes. Along the way, the group bonded over tea and bowls of Maggi at Hindustan ka Akhri Dhaba, sharing stories with fellow travellers.
Their first surprise awaited in Chitkul—a cosy cottage stay with wooden floors and windows offering views of snow-capped mountains. Though the night hid the mountains, the next morning revealed the majestic peaks in all their glory, making Dixita feel both familiar and awestruck.
Unexpected Twists Lead To surprising turns!
All went smoothly until they reached Nako Monastery, where the group dispersed. Waiting for two hours caused some tension, and one traveller even misbehaved with the tour leader. Remarkably, Sachin managed the situation calmly, displaying exceptional management skills.
The next morning brought another challenge when one of Dixita’s friends started sweating excessively. Thanks to Thrillophilia’s preparedness—with medical kits, inhalers, and oxygen cylinders—the situation was managed efficiently. The friend was given Diamox and advised to rest. When it was time to leave for Kaza, Sachin suggested hiring a separate car, accommodating the friend’s needs.
Around The Corner, There Goes The Mountain!
The third surprise came upon reaching Kaza. Dixita described the homestay as one of the best she had ever stayed in. The geyser and hot water facility in the bathroom was completely unexpected.
The next surprises came with visits to Kalpa and Sangla, where Thrillophilia had arranged fantastic homestays. In Kalpa, the homestay sat literally between two mountains, overlooking a vast valley. In Sangla, they could clearly see Devbhoomi Peak and Rangza Peak from their windows. Standing there, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, Dixita felt as if all the Gandalf-like figures of the mountains had assembled in one place.
Appreciation Because, Well deserved!
Thrillophilia’s arrangements in Spiti completely changed Dixita’s perspective on travelling with a private company. The experience was authentic, with local food and insights about the culture. Sachin enriched the journey with knowledge about regional culinary practices, local plants, and livelihoods. Communication with coordinators was flawless, with no delays in meals or transfers. The group even visited monasteries along the route that were not on the itinerary.
Sachin’s expertise greatly enhanced the travel experience, offering insights Dixita had not gained in her previous four trips. The drivers were punctual, cooperative, and understanding.
P.S. Even small surprises can significantly impact a travel experience. Thrillophilia taught this lesson beautifully, proving that making the yarn comes before stitching the blankets.