The report provides an insight to the indigenous settlement pattern and architecture in the cold desert of Spiti. It deals with the settlement types, building materials, site characteristics, construction methods, interiors and decoration. Spitian architecture has seen a gradual shift from traditional methods of construction, which require low heating to modern ones, which translate into increased energy bills, increased stress on forest resources and higher maintenance costs. The report highlights the need for adoption of sustainable and feasible construction techniques for the region that blend ancient wisdom with modern features.