Visit Giu Village and its Mummy

Visit Giu Village and its Mummy, Spiti Valley Overview

Deep in the remote mountains of the Spiti Valley, far off the beaten path, lies a hidden gem that few tourists have ever seen - the ancient Giu Village and its mysterious mummy. Nestled in a breathtaking setting of alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear rivers, this sleepy little village is home to a remarkable thousand-year-old legacy.At its heart is an attraction that has intrigued scientists, historians, and even the local residents for centuries.

An ornate glass enclosure houses the remains of a Buddhist monk, mummified and perfectly preserved through time. Sitting in the cross-legged meditation style, he has been given the nickname “The Old Man of Giu” by local villagers.Though no one is certain how the monk’s remains were so perfectly preserved, scientific tests have revealed that the mummy was air-dried, with its skin painted with a preservative oil that gives it a unique yellow hue. Researchers have also found fragments of ancient Tibetan sacred texts on the inside of the case, lending further credence to the mummy’s spiritual significance.For those wishing to pay their respects to the “Old Man of Giu,” the village monastery offers access to the glass case and a chance to learn more about the monk’s story. Visitors may wonder at his thousand-year-old gaze, and learn more about the fascinating customs of the ancient Giu village. Though the village itself has no permanent population, a few monks still abide there, and are happy to share their knowledge with guests.No visit to Spiti Valley, or the Himalayas more broadly, would be complete without a visit to Giu Village and its mysterious mummy.

As well as offering a unique insight into the area’s history and spiritual beliefs, it is a chance to truly appreciate the isolated beauty of these sacred spaces and witness a remarkable story that still resonates today.