Once the snowfall starts at Rohtang Pass and 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 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 from the Manali Kaza road in October, the risks involved, what to carry if you still decide to go, and a safer alternative route you can take instead. Last Updated: March 2026
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Is the Manali to Kaza Road Safe in October? [Quick Answer]
In early October (first week), the road is usually still open and passable, but the risks increase significantly after mid-October. BRO typically stops maintaining the Gramphu – Kunzum Pass stretch by late October. HRTC bus service between Manali and Kaza also stops around mid-October. If you are planning a trip, the safer option after September 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.
What Is the Practical Info for Manali Kaza Road in October?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | Manali – Atal Tunnel – Gramphu – Chattru – Batal – Kunzum Pass – Losar – Kaza |
| Total Distance | About 200 km from Manali to Kaza |
| Travel Time | 8-12 hours (longer with delays) |
| Key Passes | Kunzum Pass (4,590 m / 15,060 Ft) |
| October Temperature | Day: 5-15C | Night: -5C to -10C at higher altitudes |
| HRTC Bus | Stops mid-October (last service depends on weather) |
| 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 | Stops by late October on Gramphu – Kunzum stretch |
Why Do People Want to Travel from Manali to Kaza?
Spiti Valley has become very popular among tourists and travelers these days. People are traveling to Spiti Valley from Shimla – Kinnaur route as well as 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 now operational, 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.
Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this infographic guide on top reasons to avoid Manali Kaza road in October. If you liked it and found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends.
What Are the Places on Manali – Kaza Road?
The places that fall on the Manali Kaza road along with approximate distances go like this: Manali – Atal Tunnel South Portal (24 km) – Sissu/Tandi (50 km from Manali) – Gramphu (66 km) – Chattru (81 km) – Chota Dhara (98 km) – Batal (113 km) – Kunzum Pass (131 km) – Losar (151 km) – Kaza (202 km). With the Atal Tunnel now open, you no longer cross Rohtang Pass on this route. The tunnel takes you directly to Sissu in Lahaul Valley, saving about 2-3 hours compared to the old Rohtang Pass road.
Usually, people make a night halt at Manali or Jispa/Keylong and then reach Kaza the next day. Keep in mind that the distance is shorter but you rapidly gain altitude from Manali (1,950 m) to Kunzum Pass (4,590 m) to Kaza (3,600 m). AMS is a real risk, but if you are careful and follow basic precautions like proper acclimatization at Keylong or Jispa, you should be able to manage. Below is the altitude and distance graph for reference.
What Are the 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali Kaza Road in October?
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?
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 (4,590 m / 15,060 Ft), which is one of the first passes to get snow. Once heavy snowfall hits, BRO (Border Roads Organisation) cannot clear the road quickly because they start pulling resources from this stretch by late October.
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 most years, but you can get stuck for 1-3 days, sometimes more. In 2025, the Kunzum Pass stretch closed by mid-October due to early snowfall.
Hence, it depends entirely upon the weather. If you are lucky, you may get through without any 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
More than 25 people got stranded in August a couple of years back 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, Dorje Uncle packs up the dhabha by mid-October. Similarly, hundreds of people got stuck in September 2018 when sudden snowfall blocked the roads in Spiti and Manali – Leh Highway for several days.
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.
Although it is not freezing cold in early October and snow melts away, the chances of being stuck in a dangerous situation are still very 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?
Once you cross the Atal Tunnel and reach Gramphu, there is no permanent place to stay up to Losar, which is about 51 km from Kaza. There is a PWD Guesthouse at Khoksar (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.
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?
The HRTC bus running between Kaza and Manali/Kullu also stops operating in October. The exact date varies by year, but generally the service is suspended once BRO reports that black ice has started forming on the road or when snowfall makes the Kunzum Pass section unsafe for heavy vehicles. In most years, this happens between the second and third week of October.
In the 2025 season, HRTC operated daily buses from Manali to Kaza departing at around 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM from Manali Bus Stand, with the journey taking 9-12 hours. These services run only from June to mid-October. 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.
4. How Bad Are the Road and Weather Conditions in October?
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. During the daytime, it can be warmer (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 (by 5-6 AM from wherever you are) so you cross the high-altitude stretches while the black ice has not melted and refrozen.
5. Do Motor Rallies Cause Problems on This Road in October?
October is the month when popular rally events like the Raid De Himalaya and the Himalayan Car Rally take place on the roads of Spiti Valley, Ladakh, and the Manali – Leh Highway. When these rally events are happening, you may find various road sections closed temporarily for their smooth conduct. The rally organizers coordinate with BRO and 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.
What Should You Do Instead? The Shimla – Kinnaur Alternative
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 (now NH-505) and stays open throughout the year. You will pass through beautiful 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.
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 entire valley turns golden. You can read the Kinnaur Valley Complete Travel Guide for detailed planning. 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.
Can You Visit Chandratal Lake in October?
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?
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?
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 before Tandi (last petrol pump before Kaza on the Manali side). Carry extra fuel if 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.
- 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.
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. 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.
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. In most years, the road remains open until mid-October, but snowfall at Kunzum Pass can close it any time after late September. BRO maintains the road until late October in a good year. 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, it closed by mid-October due to early snowfall. 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/NH-505) 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.
What is the temperature in Spiti Valley in October?
Daytime temperatures in Kaza range from 5C to 15C. Nighttime temperatures drop to -5C to -10C, especially at higher altitudes like Kunzum Pass, Chandratal, and Losar. Carry proper cold-weather gear and a sleeping bag rated for at least -10C.
Is there mobile network on the Manali Kaza road?
After you exit the Atal Tunnel, mobile network (BSNL, Jio, Airtel) works at Sissu and Keylong. After Gramphu, there is no network at all until you reach Losar or Kaza. This means if you get stuck between Gramphu and Losar (a 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.