Once the snowfall starts at Kunzum Pass, the Manali Kaza road closes down for the winter season. The Shimla – Kaza road via Kinnaur then becomes the only route connecting Spiti Valley to the rest of the country. As the season end approaches every year, so do the questions in my inbox and on the DwD Community about making a trip to Spiti Valley from the Manali side in October or later.
In this article, I will write in detail about the reasons why I believe you should avoid traveling to Spiti Valley on the Manali Kaza road in October, what actually happened on this road last October, the risks involved, the passes and paperwork you now need, what to carry if you still decide to go, and the safer alternative route you can take instead. Last Updated: October 2026
Quick answer: The Manali Kaza road is a gamble in October. In 2025, early-October snow had already blocked Kunzum Pass for several days by 11 October. HRTC buses and Batal dhabas wind up mid-month, and black ice forms every night. Go only in the first week, or take the Shimla-Kinnaur road, which stays open year-round.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Is the Manali to Kaza Road Safe in October? [Quick Answer]
In the first week of October, the road is usually still open and passable, but the risk climbs sharply after that. One spell of snow at Kunzum Pass (4,551 m) can shut the road for days, and BRO starts pulling men and machines off the Gramphu – Kunzum stretch as the month goes on. The HRTC bus between Manali and Kaza also stops around mid-October. Hence, after September, the safer option is the Shimla – Kinnaur route, which remains open year-round. If you must take the Manali side, go only in the first week of October and carry enough supplies for 2-3 days of being stranded.
For October 2026 specifically: the 2026 Rally of Himalayas went through Kaza between 26 and 30 September, so that rally rush is already behind us this year. At the time of this update (8 October 2026), I could not find an official closure order for Kunzum Pass yet. Keep in mind that this can change overnight with a single western disturbance, so check the latest status a day before you leave.
What Is the Practical Info for Manali Kaza Road in October?
Quick answer: Manali to Kaza via the Atal Tunnel is about 182-200 km and takes 8-12 hours in October. The only high pass is Kunzum (4,551 m). There is no fuel and no mobile network for most of the way. Your vehicle needs a free e-Aagman e-pass, and the bus and dhabas stop around mid-month.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | Manali – Atal Tunnel – Koksar – Gramphu – Chattru – Batal – Kunzum Pass – Losar – Kaza |
| Total Distance | About 182-200 km from Manali to Kaza via the Atal Tunnel (sources differ) |
| Travel Time | 8-12 hours (longer with snow or nalla delays) |
| Key Pass | Kunzum Pass (4,551 m / 14,931 Ft) |
| October Temperature | Kaza town: roughly 5-15C by day, around freezing at night in early October. Kunzum, Batal, Losar and Chandratal: -5C to -10C at night, colder after fresh snow and late in the month |
| HRTC Bus | Stops around mid-October (last service depends on weather) |
| Fuel | Fill up in Manali. No pump on the route until Kaza |
| Mobile Network | None between Gramphu and Losar (about 85 km) |
| Vehicle Paperwork | Free e-Aagman e-pass for every vehicle entering Lahaul-Spiti, plus small SADA fees for non-HP vehicles |
| Accommodation | Limited after mid-Oct. Batal dhabas shut down. PWD rest houses may be locked. |
| Safer Alternative | Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza route (open year-round, NH-5) |
| BRO Maintenance | Winds down through October on the Gramphu – Kunzum stretch |
Why Do People Want to Travel from Manali to Kaza?
Quick answer: Because it is the shortest way into Spiti from Delhi. Via the Atal Tunnel you can reach Kaza on day two, compared to day three on the Kinnaur side, and the drive over Kunzum Pass, the river bed near Chattru and the Batal water crossings is the most thrilling stretch in Spiti.
Spiti Valley has become very popular among tourists and travelers these days. People are traveling to Spiti Valley from the Shimla – Kinnaur route as well as the Manali – Kaza route based on individual preferences. The Manali Kaza road is the shortest route to reach Spiti Valley from Delhi. It offers stunning views, the thrill of crossing Kunzum Pass, driving through water crossings, and riding on the river bed near Gramphu and Chattru.
The other route from Shimla via Kinnaur to Kaza takes about three days to reach Spiti Valley from Delhi, while the Manali side takes only two days. With the Atal Tunnel operational since October 2020, the Manali approach has become even faster since you bypass Rohtang Pass entirely. You can also read 5 Reasons to Travel Spiti Valley from Manali Route and 5 Reasons to Travel Spiti Valley from Shimla – Kinnaur Route to understand the differences better.
One thing to keep in mind about the Manali Kaza road is that once the season gets over (by October), you should definitely think twice before venturing out. You can get stranded in the middle of nowhere for a couple of days and sometimes more.
What Are the Places on Manali – Kaza Road?
From Manali, you drive up to the Atal Tunnel South Portal near Solang (about 22-25 km), come out at the North Portal in Lahaul and turn right towards Koksar and Gramphu. From Gramphu the road follows the Chandra river to Chattru, Chota Dhara and Batal, climbs to Kunzum Pass and then drops into Spiti at Losar before the final run to Kaza. Note that Sissu, Tandi and Keylong lie to the left of the tunnel exit, so they are not on your way to Kaza at all.
| Stretch | Approx. Distance | Altitude at the end point |
|---|---|---|
| Gramphu – Chattru | 15 km | Chattru 3,560 m |
| Chattru – Chota Dhara | 17 km | Chota Dhara 3,800 m |
| Chota Dhara – Batal | 15 km | Batal 3,960 m |
| Batal – Kunzum Pass | 18 km | Kunzum Pass 4,551 m |
| Kunzum Pass – Losar | 20 km | Losar 4,079 m |
| Losar – Kaza | 51 km | Kaza 3,600 m |
Usually, people make a night halt at Manali and then reach Kaza the next day, or break the journey at Chattru or Batal in summer. Keep in mind that the distance is shorter but you rapidly gain altitude from Manali (1,950 m) to Kunzum Pass (4,551 m) to Kaza (3,600 m). AMS is a real risk, but if you are careful and follow basic precautions, you should be able to manage. In October, though, those summer halts at Chattru and Batal may simply not exist, which is a big part of the problem.
What Happened on the Manali Kaza Road in October 2025?
Quick answer: Snow arrived in the first week of October 2025. By 11 October, The Tribune reported that Kunzum Pass on the Gramphu – Kaza highway was still blocked by heavy snow after a four-day spell, with clearance slowed by bad weather, even though BRO had already reopened the Manali – Leh highway beyond Darcha.
People often tell me “October is fine, I went last year”. Here is what last year actually looked like. According to The Tribune’s report of 11 October 2025, key routes in Lahaul-Spiti were being restored after a four-day snow blockade, but the Kunzum Pass section of the Sumdo – Kaza – Gramphu highway remained blocked due to heavy snow accumulation.
Some years the road stays drivable till the last week of October. The point is that you cannot plan around it. A single western disturbance decides your trip, and you will usually know only 2-3 days in advance from the IMD Shimla forecast.
How Does the Risk Change Week by Week in October 2026?
Quick answer: Days 1-7 are workable with buffer days. Days 8-15 are risky because buses and dhabas start winding up. After the 15th, I do not recommend the Manali side at all. This year the festival rush also lands late: Navratri runs 11-20 October, Dussehra is on 20 October and Diwali on 8 November 2026.
| Window | What to expect | My suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| 1-7 October | Road usually open, nallas low, crowds thin, nights below freezing at Batal and Kunzum | Go only with 2 buffer days and full supplies |
| 8-15 October | First serious snow spells likely. HRTC bus and Batal dhabas may stop any day | Only for a self-drive SUV with camping gear. Exit via Kinnaur |
| 16-31 October | Snow accumulates and stays. BRO resources thin out. Black ice through the day in shaded bends | Avoid. Take the Shimla – Kinnaur route |
| Dussehra long weekend (around 17-20 Oct 2026) | Long-weekend rush from Delhi and Chandigarh lands exactly when the risk peaks | Plan a Kinnaur – Spiti circuit instead |
What Are the 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali Kaza Road in October?
Quick answer: Snow can strand you for days, there is almost nowhere to stay after mid-October, the HRTC bus stops, black ice and sub-zero nights make driving dangerous, and early-October motor rallies can close sections and fill up rooms. Each one alone is manageable. Together, in late October, they are not.
October and November are the months of festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, Durga Puja, and other holidays. People get long weekends and plan trips they could not do during the peak summer season. Those who missed traveling to Spiti Valley in June – September tend to plan the trip in October or November, hoping to catch the last window. Hence, the chances of people attempting the Manali Kaza road in October increase. Given below are the top reasons why I strongly recommend avoiding this road after mid-October.
To know more about the best season to travel to Spiti Valley, please check the article: Best Season to Travel on Road to Spiti Valley
1. How Likely Is Snowfall and Getting Stranded on Manali Kaza Road?
Quick answer: Quite likely after the first week. Kunzum Pass is one of the first passes in Himachal to get snow, and once it sticks, clearing takes days. Plan for a real chance of a 1-3 day hold-up, sometimes longer, and carry food and warm gear for it.
By late September, the winter season starts to set in the trans-Himalayas and all high passes start receiving snowfall at frequent intervals. The road from Manali to Kaza passes through Kunzum Pass (4,551 m / 14,931 Ft), which is one of the first passes to get snow. Once heavy snowfall hits, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) cannot clear the road quickly, because its resources on this stretch thin out as October goes on.
The chances of temporary road closure increase significantly. In early October, the snow usually melts within a day or two. However, after mid-October, the temperatures drop enough that snow starts accumulating and does not melt easily. BRO tries to keep the road open until the last week of October in good years, but you can get stuck for 1-3 days, sometimes more. As I wrote above, in 2025 Kunzum was already blocked for several days in the first half of October.
Hence, it depends entirely upon the weather. If you are lucky, you may get through without a single blockage. The point here is that there is a real risk of a 1-3 day delay (or longer), which you must keep in mind before planning any journey on this road in late September or October.
Real Stories of Getting Stranded
A couple of years before I first wrote this post in 2017, more than 25 people got stranded in August when sudden snowfall occurred at Kunzum Pass. Please note it was August, and still they got stuck. Some of them had to be rescued by helicopter, and many almost starved. Dorje Uncle at Batal Chandra Dhabha gave them food and a place to stay, essentially saving their lives. If a similar thing happens in October, things can be very different due to much lower temperatures. Also, the Chandra Dhabha at Batal usually packs up by mid-October. Similarly, hundreds of people got stuck in September 2018 when sudden snowfall blocked the roads in Spiti and the Manali – Leh Highway for several days. And as recently as October 2025, Kunzum stayed shut for days after the first snow.
What Food and Supplies Should You Carry?
I will strongly suggest making sure that you have sufficient food stock and drinking water with you when traveling from Manali to Kaza in October. Pack enough dry rations (biscuits, instant noodles, peanuts, glucose, energy bars) for at least 2-3 days. Carry a portable gas stove if possible, as boiling water becomes critical in cold conditions.
Days in early October are not freezing and fresh snow often melts, but the chance of getting stuck is still real. Hence, better safe than sorry. Carry all essentials when traveling to such remote areas. A car inverter or a power bank (20,000 mAh or more) is also a must, so you can charge your phone and make calls when you reach a signal zone.
2. Why Is Accommodation a Problem After Mid-October?
Quick answer: Between Gramphu and Losar there is no permanent village. The only shelter is the PWD rest houses at Koksar, Chattru and Batal and a few seasonal tent dhabas, and most of these close or go unattended by the second or third week of October.
Once you cross the Atal Tunnel and reach Gramphu, there is no permanent place to stay up to Losar, which is about 51 km short of Kaza. There is a PWD Guesthouse at Koksar (about 5 km from Gramphu) and PWD rest houses at Chattru and Batal. You also have Dorje Uncle’s Chandra Dhabha at Batal and a couple of other makeshift tent dhabhas.
However, these makeshift dhabhas and the availability of caretakers at PWD rest houses become unreliable after mid-October. Most dhabha owners pack up and leave by the second or third week of October because there are not enough travelers to sustain their business. The PWD rest houses may be locked with no caretaker. If you get stuck due to snow on any adjoining pass, you will have nowhere to stay.
The point is the risk of running out of accommodation options if you get stuck at an unplanned location. So, if you must travel this route in October, carry your tent and sleeping bag rated for -10C or lower. A camping kit can literally save your life on this stretch. On the Spiti side, Losar and Kaza do keep a few homestays open well into winter, so once you are over Kunzum the stay problem mostly goes away. Our Kaza travel guide lists what stays open.
Do check this list of 40 must-have things to carry on a self-drive trip to the Himalayas.
3. When Does the HRTC Bus Service Stop on Manali Kaza Road?
Quick answer: Usually between the second and third week of October, or earlier if snow hits Kunzum. There is no fixed date. HRTC suspends the service once black ice or snow makes the pass unsafe for heavy vehicles, and it resumes only after BRO reopens the road in late May or June.
The HRTC bus running between Kaza and Manali/Kullu also stops operating in October. The exact date varies by year, as explained above.
In the 2026 season, the daily Kullu – Kaza bus left Kullu at around 4:30 AM and passed Manali bus stand early in the morning, reaching Kaza by late afternoon, with a fare of roughly Rs 500-590 per person as of July 2026. Timings shift a little through the season, so confirm at the Manali bus stand a day before. Once the bus service stops, you are entirely dependent on your own vehicle or a private taxi/shared taxi, both of which also become scarce as the season ends.
The frequency of shared taxis between Manali and Kaza also drops dramatically in October. Only locals who absolutely need to travel follow the Manali Kaza road that late in the season. Hence, if you are dependent on public transport, the Manali route becomes nearly impossible after mid-October. The Shimla – Kinnaur route is your only option for bus travel to Spiti in late October or beyond. If you would rather hire a local driver who knows the late-season road, have a look at our list of taxi drivers for Spiti and Kinnaur.
4. How Bad Are the Road and Weather Conditions in October?
Quick answer: Days are pleasant, nights are brutal. Kaza town sits around freezing at night in early October, while Kunzum, Batal, Losar and Chandratal drop to -5C to -10C, and lower late in the month. Black ice on shaded bends is the biggest danger, especially for bikers.
In October, you will need to handle cold conditions, especially at night, late evening, and early morning. Temperatures around Chandratal, Kunzum Pass, Batal, and Losar can drop to -5C to -10C at night, and it keeps getting colder as the month goes on. During the daytime, Kaza can still be 5-15C, but strong cold winds will leave you numb, especially if you are riding a motorcycle.
The bigger danger is black ice on the road. As the temperatures drop below zero at night, water on the road surface freezes into a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice. This is called black ice, and it is extremely dangerous for both cars and motorcycles. Black ice is most common around Kunzum Pass, the Batal – Chattru stretch, and shaded sections of the road. Riding or driving over black ice without realizing it can lead to a serious accident with no help nearby.
Water crossings (nallas) between Gramphu and Batal are typically at their lowest in October since the glacial melt has reduced. However, if there is fresh snowfall followed by a sunny day, the melt water can flood the nallas again unexpectedly. So the road conditions are unpredictable. Start early in the morning, but not in the dark. Leave Manali by around 6 AM so that you reach the nalla crossings before the afternoon melt, and cross Kunzum by midday when the sun has had a few hours on the shaded bends.
5. Do Motor Rallies Cause Problems on This Road in October?
Quick answer: Sometimes. Rallies here run in late September or early October. The 2026 Rally of Himalayas passed through Kaza from 26 to 30 September, so it is done for this year. In rally years, expect short section closures and fully booked rooms on the route.
For years, October was the month of the Raid De Himalaya on the roads of Spiti, Ladakh and the Manali – Leh Highway. These days it is the Rally of Himalayas. Its 2025 edition was planned for 3-6 October via Gramphu and Batal, and the 2026 edition ran from Manali through Kaza to Padum from 26 to 30 September. When these rally events are happening, you may find various road sections closed temporarily for their smooth conduct. The organizers coordinate with BRO and the district administration to close specific stretches for hours at a time.
This can be a major inconvenience as it may delay or completely disrupt your travel plans. Moreover, finding accommodation among the already limited open options in Spiti Valley also becomes a challenge during rally time, as most hotels and homestays are pre-booked for rally participants and support crews. This further means trouble, delays, and higher prices for the few rooms available. Hence, check the rally dates for your year before you lock in your plan.
Which Permits and Passes Do You Need for Manali to Kaza in October 2026?
Quick answer: Indian travelers need no Inner Line Permit on this route. Your vehicle, though, needs a free e-Aagman e-pass for Lahaul-Spiti, and non-HP vehicles pay small SADA entry fees in cash. The Rohtang permit is not needed when you use the Atal Tunnel.
- Travelers: No permit is needed for Indian citizens anywhere between Manali and Kaza. The Inner Line Permit discussion only matters for foreign nationals, and mainly on the Kinnaur side.
- Vehicle e-pass: Every vehicle entering Lahaul-Spiti district must be registered on the HP government’s e-Aagman portal. It is free and gives you a QR e-pass to show at the checkpost. Fill it in Manali the day before, because there is no usable network at the barriers.
- SADA fees: Vehicles registered outside Himachal pay small Special Area Development Authority fees in Lahaul and in Spiti, last reported at around Rs 200 for a car and less for a two-wheeler. Keep cash and verify the current rate at the barrier.
- Rohtang permit: Not needed. You are using the Atal Tunnel, and there is no toll on the tunnel itself.
What Should You Do Instead? The Shimla – Kinnaur Alternative
Quick answer: Take NH-5 from Shimla through Narkanda, Rampur, Reckong Peo, Nako and Tabo to Kaza. It stays open all year, has no pass that shuts in October, and HRTC buses keep running. It takes a day longer, but you are never trapped on the wrong side of a closed pass.
If you absolutely want to visit Spiti Valley in October or later, the smart choice is to take the Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza route. This road runs on NH-5 and stays open throughout the year. You will pass through towns like Narkanda, Rampur, Sarahan, Sangla, Chitkul, Kalpa, Nako, and Tabo before reaching Kaza. The journey takes about 2-3 days from Delhi, but it is significantly safer because there are no high passes that close in October. Landslide-prone patches in Kinnaur do exist, so read the NH-5 road status and driving guide before you go.
The Kinnaur route also offers its own beauty, especially the autumn colors in October. The apple orchards of Kinnaur are at their best in September – October, and the valley turns golden. You can read the Kinnaur Valley Complete Travel Guide for detailed planning, and the Kinnaur apple season guide if you want to time it with the harvest. In case you want to do a loop, you can enter Spiti from the Shimla side and, if conditions allow in early October, attempt to exit via the Manali side. But never plan it the other way around, because getting stuck on the Manali side with no exit is far worse than being stuck on the Kinnaur side where the road stays open.
Even the reverse loop needs a fallback. If you reach Kaza and hear that Kunzum has snow, simply drive back the way you came via Tabo and Nako. Ask the BRO post or local taxi drivers in Kaza the evening before. They always know the status before any website does.
Can You Visit Chandratal Lake in October?
Quick answer: Only in the first week, and only if you carry your own gear. The camps near the lake shut by mid-October, nights fall to -10C or lower, and there is no network or help at the lake. After about the 10th, I would skip Chandratal from either side.
Chandratal Lake sits at about 14,100 Ft (4,300 m) and is accessible from both the Manali side (via Batal) and the Kaza side (via Kunzum Pass and Losar road). In early October, you can still visit Chandratal, but keep in mind that all camping sites near the lake shut down by mid-October. The lake area gets very cold at night, dropping to -10C or lower. There is no mobile network, no dhabha, and no help available if something goes wrong.
If you want to visit Chandratal in October, go in the first week and come back before the 10th. Carry your own camping gear, food, and enough fuel. The Chandratal Lake Itinerary has all the details. After mid-October, I would strongly recommend against visiting Chandratal from any side. The risk is simply not worth it. You can plan a short trip to Chandratal in June – September instead, when conditions are much better.
What Are Some Positives of Traveling in Early October?
Quick answer: The thinnest crowds of the season, low water crossings, a road BRO has spent months repairing, autumn colors around Losar, and good bargains on taxis and rooms. The catch is that all of this applies only to the first week or so.
Having said all that, in early October you will find the least crowd, some of the best road conditions of the season (nallas are dry, BRO has done months of repairs), very little water in the crossings, and the best bargains on taxis and hotels 🙂 (except during rally time). The autumn colors in Spiti, especially around Losar and the Lahaul stretch, are genuinely beautiful. So, evaluate the risks honestly and then make a call. However, you should never plan a road trip on the Manali Kaza road after mid-October, as that is when the chances of getting stuck for days (or longer) increase dramatically and travel becomes genuinely life-threatening.
What Should You Carry If You Still Decide to Go?
Quick answer: Three days of dry food, 5 litres of water per person, a tent and a -10C sleeping bag, a full tank from Manali plus spare fuel on a bike, a 20,000 mAh power bank, a basic medical kit with Diamox, offline maps, and your e-Aagman QR pass saved on the phone.
If after reading all this you still want to attempt the Manali Kaza road in October, here is a checklist of essentials. Going prepared can make the difference between a tough adventure and a dangerous situation.
- Food and water: Dry rations for 3 days minimum (biscuits, instant noodles, peanuts, energy bars, glucose). 5+ liters of drinking water per person.
- Warm clothing: Thermal inner layers, fleece mid-layer, windproof outer jacket. Proper gloves, woolen socks, and a balaclava for sub-zero nights.
- Camping gear: Tent (3-season minimum) and sleeping bag rated for -10C. Sleeping mat for ground insulation.
- Fuel: Full tank in Manali. The Tandi pump is a detour to the left of the tunnel exit, not on the Kaza road, and the next pump is in Kaza. Carry extra fuel if you are on a motorcycle.
- Power: Car inverter or power bank (20,000+ mAh). This ensures you can charge your phone for emergency calls once you reach a signal zone.
- Medical kit: Basic first aid, Diamox for AMS, painkillers, ORS packets, any personal medication.
- Communication: BSNL postpaid SIM (best network coverage in Spiti). Download offline maps before you lose signal after Gramphu.
- Paperwork: e-Aagman QR pass (free) saved offline, vehicle RC, insurance, PUC and driving licence, plus cash for SADA fees.
- Vehicle: SUV or 4×4 strongly recommended. Ensure your vehicle has good tyres (not worn out), working heater, and a tow rope. If on a motorcycle, make sure chain and brakes are in top condition.
For a complete list, check the 40 Must-Have Things to Carry article. Also read what clothes to pack for a Spiti Valley trip. If your plan is drifting towards November or later, the Spiti in winters planning guide is the one to read next.
Conclusion
In early October, if you are well prepared for the risks I have described above, you can try to make a trip on the Manali Kaza road at your own risk. The first week of October is usually manageable if the weather cooperates, although 2025 showed that even that is not guaranteed. Personally, I will STRONGLY recommend NOT TO attempt any travel on the Manali Kaza road in late October or November. Getting stuck in these conditions is not an adventure. It comes like a nightmare, and the consequences can be life-threatening.
The smarter plan is to take the Shimla – Kinnaur route for your October Spiti trip. You get to see Spiti Valley, you travel safely, and you do not risk being stranded for days with no food, no shelter, and no help. Read the Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley guide for a complete month-by-month breakdown. Heading to Ladakh instead? The same logic applies there, and I have covered it in 5 reasons to avoid the Manali Leh highway in late September or October.
I hope you will take into consideration the above risks before planning your journey on the Manali Kaza road in October or later. Feel free to post your questions under comments, reach me on my Instagram account, or join the DwD Community for discussions, finding travel partners, and getting real-time road updates from fellow travelers 🙂
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Manali to Kaza road open in October 2026?
It depends on the weather. As of 8 October 2026, I had not seen an official closure order for Kunzum Pass this season, but snowfall can close it any time from late September. In 2025, snow had already blocked Kunzum for several days by 11 October. Check the Manali Kaza Road Status page for real-time updates before planning.
When does the Manali Kaza road close for winter?
Typically between mid-October and early November. The Kunzum Pass stretch (Gramphu to Losar) is the first to close. In 2025, snow blocked Kunzum Pass for several days in the first half of October. In years with mild winters, the road has stayed open until the last week of October. It does not reopen until late May or early June the following year.
Can I ride a motorcycle from Manali to Kaza in October?
You can attempt it in the first week of October, but it is risky. Black ice on the road is the biggest danger for motorcyclists. Two-wheelers have very little grip on icy surfaces, and a fall in a remote area with no help nearby can be very serious. If you do ride, read the Spiti bike ride tips and carry extra warm gear, a sleeping bag, and enough food for 2-3 days.
Is the Shimla to Kaza road open in October?
Yes, the Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza road (NH-5) remains open throughout the year. This is the safer alternative for reaching Spiti Valley in October and beyond. It takes 2-3 days from Delhi but does not cross any high passes that close in winter. HRTC buses and shared taxis also operate on this route year-round, though landslides can cause short delays.
Do I need a permit to drive from Manali to Kaza?
Indian travelers do not need any permit for themselves. Your vehicle needs a free e-Aagman e-pass for Lahaul-Spiti district, and vehicles registered outside Himachal pay small SADA fees in cash. The Rohtang permit is not required because the route uses the Atal Tunnel, which has no toll.
What is the temperature in Spiti Valley in October?
Daytime temperatures in Kaza are roughly 5C to 15C, and nights in Kaza town hover around freezing in early October. Higher spots like Kunzum Pass, Chandratal, Batal and Losar drop to -5C to -10C at night, and everything gets colder towards the end of the month. Carry proper cold-weather gear and a sleeping bag rated for at least -10C.
Is there mobile network on the Manali Kaza road?
Mobile network works on the Sissu – Keylong side of Lahaul, which is to the left of the tunnel exit and off your route. After Gramphu, there is no network at all until you reach Losar or Kaza. This means if you get stuck between Gramphu and Losar (an 85 km stretch), you have no way to call for help. Carry offline maps and inform someone about your travel plan before starting. Read Mobile Connectivity in Spiti Valley for complete details.
Is it safe to camp on the Manali Kaza road in October?
Camping is possible but requires proper preparation. You need a tent rated for high winds, a sleeping bag for -10C or lower, and a ground insulation mat. Do not camp near nallas or river beds, as sudden meltwater can flood the area. The best camping spots are flat areas near Chattru or between Batal and Kunzum Pass. However, camping in October is only for experienced campers who have proper gear.
33 Comments
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hi Dheeraj
i am planing for Spiti trip in 1st week of October and as u are aware there are heavy rainfall and snowfall in Himachal. can i have your input on this.
Also my 3.5 year old son is also travelling with me. our alternate plan is also ready for spiti through Shimla.
thanks
Hello dheeraj
Your knowledge and patience is commendable.
Thank you very much for sharing everything in so much depth .
I am going to himachal for the first time and have no previous experience about the conditions there.
Would you recommend bike trip from shimla to spiti in Jan 2018…I was planning it from manali to spiti but as you said that roads are closed and Google also shows NH505 as closed, I am thinking about making it from shimla. Would it be possible from shimla to spiti?
Hey Nitish,
I will suggest that as it is your first trip, better keep it simple to Shimla and at max Kinnaur Valley. It will be difficult for you even Kinnaur as it is first trip but I am not sure how much you are used to cold conditions? Are you used to cold? If yes, then check: Kinnaur in Winters – Most Common Itinerary
Stay away from harsh winters of Spiti Valley on your first trip
Regards
Dheeraj
sir,
planning a trip to spiti via manali on coming 17th and planning to exit through shimla. I have been checking the weather updates these days and so far its ok. What do you suggest?
Go for it Gopika, if the weather is clear it shall be fine. Please go with at least one heavy woolen jacket.
hi dheeraj
i have read all your articles and i am your big fan.you have provided so much information which is very essential.now i am planning to do spiti from 8th oct to 15th oct from shilma side to enter and manali side to exit.i know its risky please help buddy because if i cancel my plan it will be third time in this season and if anything else i can do in these days in himalaya please suggest.
i will be riding solo by my bike.
Sorry Deepak for seeing it late. I wish you wonderful trip as you will be on the way now …
Hi Dheeraj,
What are the chances of the Shimla-Kaza highway to be cut off as well? Incase, can a trip like Shimla-Kaza-Shimla possible?
We are planning to leave Delhi on 14th Oct and come back around 21.
Shimla – Kaza highway remains open all around the year barring few days of heavy snowfall or any major landslides, snow slides. So, in October, it is fine to travel on Shimla – Kaza road.
Hi Dheeraj,
I have one more question to ask – Any tips on how to survive the cold weather? Just checked the temperature, it is as low as – 8 degrees at Kunzum Paas. Any special do’s or don’ts?
Please reply ASAP!
Hi Richa,
Well, you should go through: Tips for Carrying Clothes for Spiti Valley Trip
One thing: Always protect your head, chest and lower neck from where the cold winds actually set the cold in. So, even if there is little warmth, I always keep a light jacket on myself. Warmth does not do harm like cold, so I prefer it over always.
Sure Dheeraj . Will follow your advice. Thanks a lot 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
I will be travelling through Spiti Circuit in the first week of October. I will leave on 29th September from Delhi and will enter the circuit through Manali. I also have Kaza, Kibber, Rekong PEO , and other places to cover enroute.I will be travelling on Enfield and plan to come back to Delhi on 8th October.
Please suggest.
Just replied you on your question: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/question/spiti-circuit-trip/
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to visit Spiti from 29th September to 7th October. We are starting from manali on sep 29 and staying in batal. We are visiting chandrathal next day and continue to kaza. We have made our bookings in kaza and planning to trek Mt. Kanamo. Is weather conditions are good for trekking? We have done few high altitude treks(Max 16000ft) before but still little concerned about spiti weather and altitude. Please advice. Thanks 🙂
Shruthi, it starts to get cold in September end but day time shall be good to trek. I hope you have guided trek and are not attempting the trek on your own. It is high altitude trek, so make sure you are acclimatized properly before attempting the trek. What is the itinerary of the trek?
Hi Dheeraj, I posted my reply twice but i do not see it in the page. 🙁
All the replies are moderated and approved by me, to be visible on the page but not sure where your reply went. I checked the spam as well but I think there could be some other glitch. Can you please post it as a question which do not reply any moderation: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/travel-questions/
I am reading your blog and because me and my friend going to visit this place in the next month. I like your suggestion and i would try to follow your tips.
Thank you, glad it is helpful.
Hi Dheeraj,
Started reading your blogs few days back and find it really informative. Keep up the good work!
We are planning to visit Spiti from 29th September to 8th October. We are going from Delhi via Shimla-Narkanda and booked a zoom car (Eco-Sport). It would be really great if you can help me with few things.
1. What are the chances of getting AMS and what measures can be taken to minimize the effects?
2. What about the weather conditions that we might face?
3. Is it recommended to visit Baralacha la pass in October (mostly will be the night ride)
4. How about the weather conditons at Chandratal and will it be okay to camp? (Chandrataal will be on 7th October)
Looking forward to hear from you.
Thanks a lot .
Thank you Richa !!
1. As you are traveling from Shimla to Kaza, chances are minimal. You should keep the body hydrated and do not exert too much.
2. It will start getting a bit cold especially in night, rest should be OK.
3. I will suggest to skip it for some other trip
4. Chandratal will be cold and windy, if you are used to such conditions, then you may give it a try else visit in the day for couple of hrs and reach Manali.
Thank you so much. That was really helpful 🙂
Best wishes for the trip, feel free to post any further questions you might have for your Spiti trip
Sure. 🙂
Hey Just wanted to say thanks for Sonam A. number. His English is really good and he gave me a very good rate. I wanted to ask you a few questions:
1. Since I am an foreign national, how can I get a PAP permit for myself because I can not find any tour groups to join in first week of October?
2.Do you know any good places to stay in Leh Ladakh , Nubraa Valley, Pangong lake in month of October?
I really appreciate your help.
Thanks.
Hello Himalayan Kind,
Good to know you could connect with Sonam.
1. Now even as an individual, you can apply for protected area permit. You will have to go through a travel agency or your hotel. They will be able to help you with it.
2. As you have the driver with you, he will help all along with them. Otherwise, Hotel Kidar in Leh, Hotel Sten Del in Deskit, Guest Houses in Hunder, Himalayan Wooden Cottages in Pangong Tso are few good options of stay.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hello,
I am an planning a trip from Manali to Ladakh in the second week of October, is this adviseable? Also I want to know if you have any good ladakh homestays options and an updated number for Rigzin? Also do you have any numbers for good drivers available that can drive me from Manali to Ladakh ? If there is any tour groups planning on going during this month please let me know? Thanks
Thanks,
You can call the local drivers directly to connect with them and check the more comprehensive List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali with recommendations/reviews for DoW community members.
Personally, I will not travel on Manali – Leh Highway in the second week of October.
I read your Article carefully and there I got many information and many things. Thank u very much for great blog.
Sir,
Travelling to Spiti valley via Shimla during last week of Sept and planned to exit via Manali which will be on 2/3rd Oct. Should we change plan and return via Shimla as you advised to avoid Kaza Manali road. Please advice as we never travelled to that road.
First week of October shall still be fine.
Thank you Sir for your kind reply.