Lahaul-Spiti is a district of Himachal Pradesh in India. It has a long international border with Tibet (China), therefore has a strategic prominence for India. Before 1960 Lahaul and Spiti were separate districts. Spread over 13,833 sq. kms. and having population around 32,000, Lahaul-spiti is the third least populous district in India.
Lahaul-Spiti is one of the most spectacular valley with ancient monasteries and natural formations. Lahaul tends to be a bit more green and fertile, while Spiti is mostly stark high-desert. One has to cross high mountain passes to reach Lahaul-Spiti from the side of Kullu-Manali. The other way to reach is from Shimla. (click here to know 'how to reach'). The area cut-off from rest of the world for around 5-7 months, from November to May due to heavy snowfall in winters. The only way to reach Lahaul-Spiti at that time is by Government Helicopter service. There is no Airport in Lahaul and
People from all over the world, esp. adventure sports lover visit this place. There are lots of popular tourist attractions in this area (click here to know more). On the other hand, a major part of the area is still unexplored. This is a paradise for Mountaineers, Trekkers, Hikers, Bikers and Photographers. Most of the places in Lahaul-Spiti are ideal for outdoor camping.
Spiti.
People
The language, culture, and populations of Lahaul and Spiti are closely related. They are very similar to the Ladakhi and Tibetans culturally. Most of the Lahaulis follow a combination of Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism of the Drukpa Kagyu order, while the Spiti Bhotia follow Tibetan Buddhism of the Gelugpa order. Agriculture is the main source of livelihood. Potato farming is common. Occupations include animal husbandry, working in government programs, government services, and other businesses and crafts that include weaving. Houses are constructed in the Tibetan architectural style, as the land in Lahaul and Spiti is mountainous and quite prone to earthquakes.
Language
Most of the people understand and speak hindi. English is understood among people involved in tourism. Though majority of the people from rural areas do not understand english. Native language is 'Bhoti'