Lingti: The frozen waterfall in Spiti

Waterfalls hold their own charm throughout the year, and the Lingti Waterfall is no exception. Situated in the high-altitude region of the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the area remains pleasantly cool even in the summer months. 

The Lingti Waterfall freezes during winter from November to mid-Februrary. It transforms into a frozen marvel, with temperatures plummeting below zero degrees Celsius and reaching as low as minus 35 degrees Celsius. 

Lingti is the name of a little-known valley, a river and its waterfall. ‘Lingti’ is a Spitian word that translates to an instrument that cuts rocks.

The Lingti valley is bound from all sides by Himalayan peaks and ridges, and the Lingti River is a tributary of the Spiti River flowing through the Lingti Waterfall.

The frozen Lingti Waterfall during the frosty winters creates a breathtaking spectacle. It attracts nature enthusiasts seeking a serene environment untouched by urbanization. Adventure enthusiasts engage in ice climbing during winter. A suspension bridge over the Lingti River has made the area more accessible.

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The beauty of Spiti Valley and its surroundings is renowned, and during winter, this beauty reaches new heights. While the Lingti Valley is covered in snow, the surrounding Himalayas become a sight to behold with their snow-covered peaks. However, reaching the region can be challenging due to snow-covered roads. Despite the challenging conditions, the frozen Lingti Waterfall attracts a considerable number of tourists, making it a popular tourist destination. 

In the summer months of April to June, one can witness the glory of cascading Lingti Waterfall. The Spiti region experiences moderately cool weather in summer, providing relief from the intense heat. The area around the waterfall radiates charm, with the soothing sound of water enhancing the overall experience. 

Exploring the Lingti Valley

Lingti Valley is an offbeat tourism location and there are limited options to access the area. In the mid-1980s, it was notified as part of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Trekkers can explore life in the high-altitude villages of Lingti through treks spread over four to five days. 

Lhalung village in Lingti Valley is home to an ancient Buddhist monastery. Boasting captivating landscapes and delightful weather from June to September, the village has become a popular stop for hikers and bikers embarking on road trips from Shimla and Manali.

The historic Lhalung Monastery, established in the 10th century by Rinchen Zangpo, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist translator, stands to this day despite the challenging climate. 

Locals hold a deep reverence for the monastery. They believe that the monastery was built by angels from willow trees to safeguard the village.

Visitors to Lhalung can enjoy tranquillity, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Those seeking a more immersive experience can opt for homestays with any of the 45 local families, providing not only accommodation but also an opportunity to delve into the intricacies of the native lifestyle. For adventure enthusiasts, the option to embark on short hikes into the nearby mountains surrounding the valley adds an extra layer of exploration.

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