Spiti's economy is distinctively local, with no large corporate headquarters or major industrial business districts. The economy revolves around eco-tourism, hospitality, and agriculture.
* **Tourism & Hospitality:** The valley is supported by a network of local homestays, boutique guesthouses, independent cafes, and trekking agencies, prominently centered in Kaza, Tabo, and Kibber. * **Agriculture:** A critical pillar of the local economy. Spiti is renowned for cultivating high-quality cash crops in a short summer window, particularly green peas, seed potatoes, and barley. Recently, there has been a successful push toward apple orchards and sea buckthorn harvesting. * **Local Commerce:** Small local markets in Kaza serve as the commercial hub for the valley, supplying hardware, groceries, and winter gear. Local cooperatives also sell traditional Tibetan carpets, woollen clothing, and handicrafts.
