How to calculate cost or budget for Spiti Valley trip in 2022?

By Dheeraj SharmaUpdated:Feb 19, 202462 Comments13 Mins Read

Spiti Valley is getting very popular among adventurists year by year. Often people ask me about what could be the budget for Spiti Valley trip, and I feel a dedicated post around will help all seeking such answers. This article is for you in case you are looking forward to preparing or analyzing the budget or cost of your Spiti Valley trip 😉

Frankly speaking, the cost or budget of any trip including the road trip to Spiti Valley, depends a lot upon person to person. The definition of taste and comfort is a matter of personal preference and hence, the cost of any trip can be calculated as an estimate on certain assumptions.

Q9. What is the budget or cost of Spiti Valley Trip in 2022? [Car, Bike, Taxis – Spiti Trip Cost]

Let's quickly dive into the details:

Calculating the cost of Spiti Trip

Spiti Valley is a place where you can get varied stay options depending on your choice for comfort, preference, taste, road conditions, season, and not to forget the present circumstances 😛 … It is true for any remote and tribal place in Himachal Pradesh or other parts of the Himalayas.

The variety of stay options may range from Rs 100 stay at some dhabha tent or shack to Rs 250-400 stay at the low-cost guest house or a homestay in Spiti to a Rs 700 – 1500 at medium cost hotels/guest house to Rs 3000 and above for hotels that offer much more comfort, convenience, food, etc…

Want to know the cost of Spiti Valley trip?

A similar thing applies to food as well. It depends on what you want to eat, pizza or dal – rice or roti – dal fry or maggie/veg/ non-veg food, etc. Well, with food, it also depends upon more importantly where you want to eat and drink 🙂

So, you can see with so many variables of personal perspective and choices, it is quite hard to estimate the cost or budget for any trip, including Spiti Valley. However, still, I will try to sketch a basic average budget analysis for a trip to Spiti Valley. I will consider the choice of accommodation and food which the majority of people will be OK.

What is the Cost or Budget for Spiti Valley Trip?

Given below is a basic budget-friendly itinerary for Spiti Valley via Shimla tour ex. Delhi (without any buffer days) covers all major tourist destinations of Spiti & Kinnaur Valley. This is a common Spiti valley trip plan followed widely by many travelers including me :)…

We will be analyzing or finding the budget or costing for this Spiti Valley tour as a part of our exercise. You can roughly guess for yourself that for a similar trip or based on your point of interest, what will be the approximate cost or budget for Spiti Valley trip. An example itinerary for Kaza Spiti Valley covering almost all basic tourist places including Kinnaur Valley –

Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Narkanda – Rampur – Reckong Peo – Kalpa
Day 3 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley
Day 5 | Pin Valley – Kaza, do Ki – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang in second half
Day 6 | Kaza – Hikkim – Komic – Langza – Kaza
Day 7 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal
Day 8 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 9 | Manali – Delhi

So, you can see for our sample Spiti Valley itinerary we have taken nine days (without any buffer days). You can add/remove modify it according to your needs. Of course, the budget outcome will depend a bit on the plan. However, that is very much trivial to say 🙂

Wondering about budget for Spiti Valley trip? — Wondering about the budget for Spiti Valley trip?

Ideal Group Size for Spiti Trip

Also, consider that while traveling alone the cost of accommodation and transportation is bound to increase. If you are traveling in an evenly balanced group it will surely decrease.

As of now, I will also assume that you guys are five in number so that you can calculate the budget on a twin/triple sharing basis. A group size of five is also ideal for splitting the taxi cost appropriately, as well. Hence, Shimla to Spiti Valley taxi fare will reduce with the number of people in the group.

Dheeraj Sharma

Planning an epic road trip on the newest route to Leh from Manali via Padum, Nerak, Chilling, and Nimmu? Or are you looking out for details about the Darcha to Padum to Nerak to Chilling to Nimmu to Leh route, road conditions, travel time, and distance breakdown?

This is the shortest route to Leh from Manali, popularly known as NPD, Nimmu - Padum - Darcha highway.

This detailed travel guide covers everything you need to know about this spectacular journey through the remote and breathtaking landscapes of Zanskar Valley and Ladakh. In this video, I provide a complete breakdown of the road conditions, distance, travel time, food and accommodation options, and the best vehicles to take on this route.

Not only will you discover the latest updates about traveling from Leh to Nerak - Padum via Nimmu - Chilling, but I also dive deep into the alternative routes that take you from Nerak Junction to Leh:

1. Nerak to Singe La to Sirsir La to Wanla to Leh.
2. Nerak to Lingshed Junction to Lingshed to Singe La to Sirsir La to Wanla to Leh.

What You’ll Learn in This Video:

• Turn-by-Turn Road Conditions: I cover every part of the journey, including the Leh to Nimmu to Chilling to Nerak and Nerak to Singe La to Sirsir La to Wanla to Leh via Srinagar Leh Highway.
• Distance & Travel Time Breakdown: Exact distance between each point on this route and how long it takes to travel between these places.
• Alternative Route: Learn about the Nerak Junction to Singe La to Sirsir La to Wanla to Nimmu route and explore some unknown mountain passes like Chochogori La, Kong La, and Bhumiktse La.
• Food and Accommodation Options: Wondering where to stay or grab a bite along this route? I provide insights into local stay options and places to eat at key points between Padum, Nerak, Chilling, Nimmu, and Leh.
• Best Vehicles for the Route: Whether you’re traveling in an SUV, hatchback, or bike, I discuss the types of vehicles suitable for this road trip, taking into account road conditions and altitude.
• Network Connectivity: Find out about mobile network coverage along the route
• Help and Facilities: Learn about the available facilities, fuel stations, and medical help along the way

This route offers a thrilling adventure through some of Ladakh’s most remote and beautiful regions, crossing high-altitude passes, serene villages, and lesser-known routes of Ladakh and Zanskar that few travelers have experienced.

Key Highlights:

• Nimmu - Nerak - Padum - Darcha Route Travel Guide
• Road Conditions and Travel Time from Leh to Nerak to Padum
• Unknown Passes like Chochogori La, Kong La, and Bhumiktse La

If you need more details, then you can check this detailed article about Leh – Ladakh Taxi Rates 2023 – 24 here https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/new-route-manali-leh-via-zanskar-the-most-complete-guide/

Important Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:09 Nimmu - Nerak - Padum - Darcha Route
3:09 Shortest route to Leh Ladakh from Manali
4:08 Weather and month to travel
4:41 Leh to Nimmu - Sangam Road Conditions
5:23 Unknown Passes of Zanskar Valley & Ladakh
6:20 Two routes from Nerak Junction
7:12 Nimmu to Chilling Road Conditions
7:56 Nimmu to Nerak Road Conditions
10:49 Water crossings on Nimmu Padum Darcha road
11:37 Phone connectivity between Leh and Padum
12:59 Nerak - Singe La - Yulchung Distance Breakdown
14:00 Yulchung Village to Wanla to Leh
12:59 Nerak - Singe La - Sirsir La - Wanla - Leh Road Conditions
15:36 Small cars on Leh to Padum via Chilling - Nerak Road
17:45 Any help-support available between Nimmu to Padum
18:44 Important Tips to travel on Nimmu to Chilling to Nerak Road
20:16 Outro

Join this channel to get access to the members-only perks. These perks include priority comment reply, priority one-on-one chat, or call with me where I can help you plan your Himalayan trips in a better way: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2Gk7dAQOr5-vI7icPHw-3w/join

My gear for shooting this video:
🎥 DJI Osmo: https://amzn.to/3j3LqKo
🎬 iPhone 13 Pro Max: https://amzn.to/3WG8kW6
🎙 Blue Yeti Microphone: https://amzn.to/3Hu6e7f
💡 Lighting Setup: https://amzn.to/3HxXfBV
📽 Vanguard Tripod for Camera: https://amzn.to/3WGOAl2
📽 Boom Stand Tripod for Blue Yeti Microphone: https://amzn.to/3R56lcJ
🎙 RØDE Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/3RmOEWm

Himalayan Travel Gear Packing Lists:
🎒 Zanskar/Spiti/Ladakh Trip Packing List: http://bit.ly/3WBTnUR
🚙 40 Must-Have Items to Pack for Spiti/Ladakh Self-Drive Trip: http://bit.ly/3WKMoc9
🏍️ Zanskar/Spiti/Ladakh Bike Ride Packing List: http://bit.ly/3Y0yLXv
🥾 12 Must-Have Things to Carry on Hiking or Trekking Trips: http://bit.ly/3HxZHZn

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Now, to analyze the budget of Spiti Valley trip on the above or any other itinerary, we can categorize it in two major parts as described below in the article.

That aerial view of Dhangkar Monastery and Confluence of Pin - Spiti River — That aerial view of Dhangkar Monastery and Confluence of Pin – Spiti River

Food + Accommodation + Miscellaneous Budget of Spiti Trip

If you are staying in an average budget hotel with decent comfort and you are traveling in a group (at least 2 in number) then the average cost per day for food, accommodation, and other misc. things like toll, permit fees, entry fees to monasteries, etc. come about Rs 900 – 1200 per day.

This trip will need about nine days at the very least. So roughly you will be spending some Rs 8100 – 10800 per person for food, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenditures. Again, 900 – 1200 figures could be a low budget for someone and a little high for the others depending upon the choice of stay and food or other activities you plan to do.

An example could be, if you dine at a dhabha tent, then the cost of the meal would come out to be around Rs 50 – 70 only per person. However, for the same meal you may pay Rs 150 – Rs 200 per person or maybe more when you eat it at your hotel.

Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian also matters concerning food pricing, so take that too into account. The same thing applies to the other activities, and here I have considered which are unavoidable, such as toll, permit charges, entry fees, snacks, etc. If you are going paragliding in Manali, rafting, mountain biking, shopping, etc.. then that will surely be something additional for you.

Hence, if you are going with the budget hotels having decent comfort, eating decent quality food, and including only mandatory miscellaneous charges then you may need to shell out Rs 8100 – 10800 per person for the above Spiti Valley itinerary of 9 days. For stay options in Kinnaur and Spiti, check the article on Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur Valley.

Ki Monastery, as seen from road to Chandratal from Kaza — Ki Monastery, as seen from the road to Chandratal from Kaza

Mode of Transportation

On a trip to Spiti Valley, the major cost comes out to be for taxis or transportation or fuel depending upon your mode of transport. Using public transport inside Kinnaur – Spiti Valley is a challenge as the frequency of such shared vehicles or buses is feeble and based on their schedules you may require more days to complete the above trip 🙂 …

So, in Spiti Valley, travelers mostly commute either by privately hired taxis or by finding travel partners and sharing the cost with them or riding rented bikes from Manali or ultimately self-drive on their bikes or cars. All these options will present you with different costs of the trip.

Let’s look at each one of them below to get an idea of the total cost of a Spiti Valley trip.

Self-Drive Private Vehicle – Bike and Car

On this road trip from Delhi to Kinnaur to Kaza, you will be traveling about 1600-1700 KMs for the above Spiti Valley trip. So, if your bike gives a mileage of about 25 KMPL on average in hills + plains, then you are looking for about Rs 7000 for fuel roughly as per current August 2021 petrol prices.

Similarly, you can calculate if you are driving the car. Just keep in mind that in hills, your car will give much lesser mileage than in plains. So, calculate accordingly and divide them among the people traveling in the car to calculate the per-person cost. Most people prefer to ride to Spiti Valley without a pillion on a bike, so cost is calculated singularly.

Finally, taking food + accommodation into account, traveling to Spiti by self-drive mode of transport, you are looking at about ((Rs 8100 – 10800) + (Rs 7000) = (Rs 15100 – 17800)) as the total budget for Spiti Valley trip by bike.

In case you are traveling in your car with 4 people in the car, well you are looking at about Rs 3500 approximately per person for the fuel. So, you are looking at about ((Rs 8100 – 10800) + (Rs 3500) = (Rs 11600 – 14300)) as the total budget for Spiti Valley trip by car.

Self-Drive or Self Ride But Rented Bike or Car

Here, the cost of fuel would be the same as for a self-drive private vehicle calculated above, but you will be adding the cost of bike/car rent as well. Usually, you get a decent bike in good condition at around Rs 1000 – 1200 per day, depending on the make and model of the bike you rent. So, the cost of rent only comes out to be around Rs 9000 – 10800.

Adding the fuel cost as calculated above, the cost here becomes approximately about Rs 24100 – 28600. Please note that bike ride is not twin sharing for bike and fuel. Depending upon the deal you are getting for self-drive cars from Delhi, you can yourself add up that cost. Some car rentals also provide fuel within the rent too, so do that maths accordingly.

You should check more details about the tips on how to hire the bikes in Manali / Leh.

Cost of a Self drive to Spiti Valley? — Cost of a Self-drive to Spiti Valley?

Privately Hired Taxi for Spiti Valley trip

Here I will assume that you have used public transport such as HPTDC or HRTC Volvo to reach Shimla from Delhi and then used the same for Manali to Delhi. We can take the cost of Volvo to be Rs 2500 per person. Now, you are left with Shimla to Kaza to Manali for about 7 days.

Dheeraj Sharma

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Shimla to Spiti Valley Taxi Fare

The rates of the taxis for Kinnaur & Spiti Valley trips are about Rs 3800 – 4000 per day depending upon the number of days you plan to travel, more the days, less the price.

So, for seven days of Spiti Valley tour, you are looking at Rs 5000 per person for a taxi considering five people are traveling in your group. So, total commute expenses by this mod of transport come out to be Rs 7800 – Rs 8100 per person.

Again, taking food + accommodation into account, traveling by privately hired taxi for Spiti Valley and reaching Leh in public/shared transport, you are looking at about ((Rs 8100 – 10800) + (Rs 7800 – 8100) = (Rs 15900 – 18900)) as the total cost for the entire Spiti Valley trip.

Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley

You can get connected directly to some drivers in Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley at the link List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley. These drivers can come and pick you up from Manali / Shimla / Delhi / Chandigarh, too. Of course, with the price of the pickup as well. Otherwise, taxis, in general, are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands.

Spiti Valley Taxi Cost

Please note that experienced drivers from Kinnaur and Spiti region charge about Rs 3800-4000 per day. Drivers who are inexperienced in the roads of Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley or who are from lower hills like Shimla/Manali who have not done many roads in Spiti or who are totally from plains like Chandigarh and Delhi may offer less price per day but then their inexperience, skills, and warmth could pose a question in some challenging water crossing or bad road condition section.

Spiti Valley Backpacking Trip using Public Transport or Shared Taxis

In case, you plan to travel to Spiti Valley by public transport, you can read the article How to make a budget trip to Spiti Valley by public transport?. It covers in detail, how you can make a trip to Spiti Valley in public transport and also project the cost of it.

As explained in the article linked under this topic, you can easily make a budget trip to Spiti Valley within Rs 10000 using public transport and other shared transport means.

Watch this video about Budget Trip to Spiti Valley – 6 Important Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit Spiti Valley from Delhi?

You can make a Spiti Valley backpacking trip using public transport within Rs 10000. When you plan a trip using your car or bike, you will end up spending about Rs 14000 on a nine-day Spiti road trip. If you plan to rent a taxi or take a bike rental, the cost of Spiti trip can easily be Rs 17000 (private rentals taxi) or Rs 24000 (rental bike)

What is a budget-friendly itinerary to Spiti?

You can make a budget-friendly trip to Spiti Valley by starting from Shimla side and coming out from Manali side. The trip from Spiti to This article explains the topic in a step-by-step manner using an example of a budget-friendly itinerary for Spiti Valley road trip.

Is there any Shimla to Kaza Bus Service?

There is no direct bus from Shimla to Kaza. However, you can take the daily bus from Shimla to Reckong Peo or Chandigarh to Reckong Peo. And then travel to Kaza the next day by the daily 7.00 am a bus running between Reckong Peo to Kaza. The bus daily from Shimla to Reckong Peo leaves around 7.00 AM as well.

Is there any bus from Reckong Peo to Kaza?

There is a direct daily Reckong Peo to Kaza bus service that starts every day at 7.00 AM from Reckong Peo and similarly comes back from Kaza to Reckong Peo every day at 7.00 AM.

Taxi on the way to Hikkim - Komic - Langza circuit — Taxi on the way to Hikkim – Komic – Langza circuit

Conclusion

I hope the above article helps you calculate your budget for Spiti Valley trip. I understand that it takes one base itinerary into account, but I am sure it will also help you in your itinerary as well. In case you still have any doubts, feel free to post your questions in the comments section of this article.

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.

I will look forward to knowing your perspective/tips on cost analysis for the Spiti Valley trip as well. Kindly share your valuable thoughts/feedback/inputs etc here which will help many other fellow travelers.

In case, you know your friend or the family person who is making a trip to Spiti Valley, please feel free to share this article with them as well.

Dheeraj Sharma

I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

62 Comments

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Jack on Jul 12, 2018 17:08

Day1 Shimla to Solang valley
Day2 Solang valley sightseeing
Day3 Solany valley to Rohtang pass to Kunzum pass to Kaza (stay overnight at Kaza)
Day4 Kaza to Chandratal lake(stay overnight at Chandratal camps)
Day5 Chandratal lake to Manali

Or

Day1 Shimla to Solang valley
Day2 Solang valley sightseeing
Day3 Solany valley to Rohtang pass to Kunzum pass to Kaza (stay overnight at Kaza)
Day4 Kaza to Chandratal lake to Manali

Which among the above 2 will be good as i am travelling with my mom and i’l b planning to book pvt cab for the same

I’l be traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla which is already planned properly with night stay
- Dheeraj Sharma on Jul 15, 2018 14:33
  
  Hi Jack,
  
  Sorry for a delayed reply, I will say that you should spend one more day in Kaza on Day 4 in first plan to rest from the tiring journey and then next day do Kaza – Chandratal – Manali.
  - Jack on Jul 17, 2018 15:59
    
    Oh ohk thanks
    According to you which is the ideal time frame for visiting Chandratal & kaza along with Rohtang & Kunzum pass
    is it june to september?
    - Dheeraj Sharma on Jul 17, 2018 16:05
      
      September will be quite good brother.
    - Jack on Jul 18, 2018 15:01
      
      Thanks for the advice
      Appreciated! 🙂
Rahul on Jul 4, 2018 17:11

Hi,

I am planning for a trip to Spiti valley mid Sep (14 sep – 23 sep). This is the itinerary I’ve come up with.

Day 1: Delhi to Shimla bus at night.
Day 2: Shimla local
Day 3: Shimla to Chitkul
Day 4: Chitkul local. Move to kalpa.
Day 5: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 6: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Mud. Stay at Tara Guest House
Day 7: Pin Valley – Kaza, do Ki – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang in second half
Day 8: Kaza – Hikkim – Komic – Langza – Kaza
Day 9: Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal
Day 10: Chandratal to Manali. Volvo to Delhi
Day 11: Delhi

Please provide your suggestions for the above.
Also, how is the time(Sep mid) to travel to Spiti?

And as we are 2 friends, which is the best mode of transport?
- Dheeraj Sharma on Jul 5, 2018 19:07
  
  You should avoid Chitkul, stay at Sangla. Rest it looks good to me. Either you should rent a bike from Delhi or you should do is that you travel by public transport and get private taxis within Spiti Valley
  - Rahul Pal on Jul 7, 2018 12:11
    
    Any reason for avoiding Chitkul?
    - Dheeraj Sharma on Jul 7, 2018 18:28
      
      You should avoid it as it is too high in altitude to sleep overnight that early in the trip. You may get hit with AMS and whole trip may get spoiled. Better sleep at Sangla and do Chitkul as day trip
Shree on Jun 29, 2018 16:57

Hi Dheeraj,

I am actually planning to visit Spiti from 14th July and then a week. We are two travelling on own bike (1bike) from Delhi. Do you have any suggestion to consider before trip. Like puncture kit, or basic accessories? some thing like that. Do we get help if bike get trouble. I am concerned due to female pillion.
- Dheeraj Sharma on Jun 29, 2018 22:44
  
  Hey Shree,
  
  We have this guide: 40 Must Have Things to Carry on Ladakh Self Drive Trip, you will get an idea of it.
  
  Regarding help, Spiti is not that isolated but there are sections where no mechanic is present.
  
  Regards
  Dheeraj
  - shree on Jul 2, 2018 12:27
    
    Hi Dheeraj,
    Thanks for quick reply. Do you have idea in which places we find no mechanic? What can be done in such places?
    
    Regards,
    Shree.
    - Dheeraj Sharma on Jul 3, 2018 06:42
      
      Shree, you will find mechanic only in select locations after REckong Peo which are Puh, Nako, Chango, Tabo, Kargil and then Manali.
- Anonymous on Jul 2, 2018 12:27
  
  Hi Dheeraj,
  Thanks for quick reply. Do you have idea in which places we find no mechanic? What can be done in such places?
  
  Regards,
  Shree.
  - Dheeraj Sharma on Jul 3, 2018 06:42
    
    Shree, you will find mechanic only in select locations after REckong Peo which are Puh, Nako, Chango, Tabo, Kargil and then Manali.
Rinshu bhatia on Jun 22, 2018 19:56

Hi Dheeraj,

I am planning for a trip to spiti with a travel group. They are asking for 32K for 10D/9N. The route is from Manali. Is it a gud package deal or I shud Google more packages? I will be going solo so any suggestions you would like to give..This is going to be my first solo trip ever.
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Jun 22, 2018 22:52
  
  Rinshu, you should also check with contact@thehimalayanmonk.com
Rupal on Jun 3, 2018 12:09

Hi Dheeraj,
Awesome job on helping travelers!

Day 1
9th june Saturday
Delhi (7:30 AM) – Chandigarh -Shimla ( 376 KM – 9 hours)

Day 2
10th june Sunday
Shimla – Reckong peo – Kalpa – Sangla ( 230-270 km 7 Hours)
( we will decide – to stay at sangla or kalpa or chitkul )

Day 3
11th June Monday
Sangla – Chitkul – Nako ( 150 -170 KM 5 hours)

Day 4
12th June Tuesday
Nako – Tabo – Dhankar – Pin valley mud village (stay at pin valley) (144 Km- 4 hours)

Day 5
13th June Wednesday
Pin valley – kaza – hikkim – komic – langza – kibber – chicham bridge ( stay at langza or kibber ) (114 km – 6 hours)

Day 6
14th June Thursday
Kibber or Langza or Kaza – Manali ( approx 200 km 4 hours )

Day 7 15th friday
Manali to Shimla/Chandigarh ( will start in after noon or night ) ( 250 Km – 7 hours ) i will say afternoon

Day 8 16th/17th Saturday/Sunday
Shimla/ Chandigarh to Delhi ( 300-400 km – 5- 7 hours)

Is my journey doable? We do not wish to treck – it will sightseeing and monastery visits.
Me and my brother are only two travelers and we are aiming budget travel. ( total expense for two, travel +food + stay can be 35000) is it possible?
What do you suggest – given the current water crisis situation of Shimla – should we avoid staying at Shimla?
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Jun 4, 2018 21:45
  
  Rupal,
  
  You should skip Kalpa first of all, do it some other time ot do it on Day 3 before coming to Nako. Nako in general I avoid staying due to AMS but if you want to do it, you can take a chance or sleep at Chango which is lesser in altitude. Rest the plan looks good to me.
Nikhil Jakka on Jan 3, 2018 14:04

Hi Dheeraj,
This is Nikhil from Hyderabad. Is it possible to travel from hyderabad to spiti vally by bike. I am planning to travell entire trip by bike only. And how many days will it take on an average to cover all the places you have mentioned in the article. And are there any more points that we need to take care of… like permissions etc…
Thanks,
Nikhil
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Jan 3, 2018 17:21
  
  Hi Nikhil,
  
  I will not be able to help you with the trip from Hyderabad to Delhi and not sure how long will it take, guess probably 3 days to ride to Delhi if you are frequent rider. However, from Delhi onward, you can find all the details to make complete trip to Spiti Valley below:
  
  You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Spiti Valley followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 10-11 days: Most Common Itinerary for Spiti Valley. No permits are required for Indians to visit Spiti valley
  
  For stay options in Kinnaur and Spiti, check the link: Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur Valley.
  
  You can keep an average of 900-1200 per person per day for food and stay on the tour to Spiti Valley.
  
  I will request that you please refer the following articles for planning a trip to Spiti Valley: Spiti Valley via Manali | How to Plan Your Journey AND Spiti Valley via Kinnaur | How to Plan Your Journey
  
  They have all the details. Feel free to let me know in case of any doubts
Mayank on Dec 12, 2017 11:47

Hi,
We are a group of 5 members and planning to go to spiti valley via manali by our own car from delhi. It is safe and reachable to go by our own car. Also we are planning to go in December near Christmas for 5 days tour so whats the weather report in that time..
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Dec 12, 2017 13:33
  
  Mayank, the road from Manali to Kaza has been closed, so you cannot make a trip to Spiti valley in winter or December from Manali side. For making a trip to Spiti Valley from Shimla – Kinnaur side, you need more days at least about 8-9 days minimum.
  
  I will suggest if you want to be adventurous, don’t be too much and at max, make a trip up to Kinnaur Valley at Kalpa. You can read: Kinnaur in Winters – Most Common Itinerary
Rakesh on Aug 13, 2017 16:43

Hi Dheeraj,

I am planning to visit Spiti from Aug 24th to Sep 01st and the itenary is :

Day Date Day Plan
Day 1 24-8-17 Chandigarh to Shimla
Day 2 25-8-17 Shimla to Sangla via Narkanda
Day 3 26-8-17 Sangla to Kalpa via Chitkul
Day 4 27-8-17 Kalpa to Tabo via Nako and Gue
Day 5 28-8-17 Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar, Kye and Khibber
Day 6 29-8-17 Kaza to Langza, Hikkim, Komic & Back
Day 7 30-8-17 Kaza to Chandratal via Kunzum and Lohsar
Day 8 31-8-17 Chandratal to Manali via Rohtang Pass
Day 9 1-09-2017 Manali to Chandigarh

We are two people: me and my wife and a travel agency is quoting around 27000 per person (standard inclusions stay+breakfast+dinner+sightseeings). Please suggest if this is reasonable price and any changes to the iternary.

Thank you.
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Aug 13, 2017 17:41
  
  Rakesh, the plan seems to be good to me. You have the plan with you and you can book the taxi yourself. The taxi guy will be able to help you with all the accommodation and also mostly act as a guide. So, I am not sure if you need the travel agency 🙂 .. You can get connected directly to some drivers in Himachal or Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley. These drivers can come and pick you up from Manali / Shimla / Delhi / Chandigarh too, of course with a price of the pickup as well.
  
  The rates of the taxis are about Rs 3500 per day depending on the number of days you plan to travel, more the days, less the price. If you are 2-3 in the group, you can opt for sedan taxi cars as well which charges around Rs 2200 per day.
  
  Otherwise, taxis, in general, are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands. These drivers can help you with finding local stay options too.
  
  For stay options in Kinnaur and Spiti, check the link: Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur Valley.
  
  You can keep an average of 900-1200 per person per day for food and stay on the tour to Spiti Valley.
Namrata Nahata on Jun 8, 2017 22:07

Hie..

I m planning to travel in 2nd week of august… Hw would d travel be.. Or wud it be better if we go sum other time.. Of the yr..
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Jun 9, 2017 08:25
  
  Yes Namrata, second half od September is considered as the best time to visit Spiti Valley.
  - Namrata Nahata on Jun 9, 2017 09:44
    
    Thanks dheeraj… For ur response.. I will sirely take ur feedback in consideration..
    - DHEERAJ SHARMA on Jun 9, 2017 16:00
      
      Great, have a wonderful trip !!
Niket on May 8, 2017 23:19

Awesome article, I must say – lot of informative help already.

I am planning for a trip to Spiti in end-June. Following the Kalpa route is there any way where I can do a mix of public and private transport?

As I will be starting from Shimla, until which place can I get comfortable buses? And may be I take private cab from mid-way? I checked public transport, but seems a difficult for comfort and luggage.

10 day trip ending in Manali.

Thanks in advance. Also, any places where need to book in advance? Was trying for Zostel and is booked out.
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on May 9, 2017 02:17
  
  Yes, you can surely give a mix of both public and private transport. You can choose direct buses between Shimla – Peo, Peo – Kaza, Kaza – Manali to traverse long routes and in case you get down in between and for local sightseeing, you can continue to use private taxis.
  
  Perhaps the article of spiti valley by public transport will help you in detail: How to make a budget trip to Spiti Valley by public transport
Bhanu Mahajan on May 5, 2017 14:33

Hi Dheeraj,
A bunch of us are planning for a spiti trip in the first week of june, on personal bikes. The total trip duration will be 9-11 days, starting from shimla – kinnaur – kaza and coming back via rohtang – manali. The itinerary is more or less similar to what some of the above readers have shared. First thing is that, is it possible to drive the bike (royal enfield) on a double sharing basis, so that the whole journey drive can be shared between two drivers?
Secondly, to avoid bike breakdown, i am looking for a guide cum mechanic who cud assist us in the trip. Are there any guides which provide services like this?
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on May 6, 2017 08:30
  
  Yes Bhanu, you can ride with pillion in Spiti Valley as the altitude is not that much high. Yes, you will get mechanics to accompany you in Shimla/Chandigarh/Delhi region but I do not have any specific contact.
  - Bhanu Mahajan on May 6, 2017 11:10
    
    thanks a lot dheeraj
Uday on Apr 27, 2017 10:26

Hey Dheeraj,

This is indeed a very detailed information. While our road trip to Leh last year we returned via Leh-Manali. During this return journey we got to witness very little site of Lahaul-Spiti valley but that was mesmerizing. No wonder since then I am dreaming to be in the arm of Spiti Valley 🙂 – so thanks for these details.

I have two queries :
1. Is Mid-August is a best season to witness Spiti Valley? Is it going to be strictly no-monsoon period around mid-August? I am planning my trip anytime in between 07th Aug to 20 August 2017. If this not the best season then what time you would recommend the most.

2. I have 5 year old kid. Is it suitable for him? He has an issue of bronchitis so we are always afraid of cold. But would there be cold around August? Also, is there anything really happening for kids (I doubt). Having cranky kids during a trip spoils everything unfortunately 😉 😛
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 28, 2017 08:55
  
  Great to know that Uday !! 🙂 🙂
  
  1. Nopes, September is a good time to visit Spiti Valley with apples all around and rains resides from Kinnaur and other lower hill regions.
  2. In general, it is fine to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age or sex or any fitness level. It can happen to anyone of any age or sex or fitness I shall say :D.. The issue with children is that they tend to exert the body considering it the same kind of place they belong to and this elevates the chances of getting struck with AMS. Secondly, they are not much expressive about their uneasy feelings, so it is parents who need to watch out and take care that the child is not suffering from uneasy feelings, headache or nausea and is behaving properly. With 5+ year child, I think he/she would be able to convey the uneasiness with little efforts. If you notice any such feeling or he/she tells you about such a feeling then please do not ascend anywhere, either descend to lower altitude or stay at the same place to watch things overnight and if symptom increase then start descending immediately. Same is applicable for any adult as well. And yes, do keep the body adequately hydrated!!
  
  However, you must consult your doctor and take the required medicines with you.
  - Uday on May 4, 2017 10:59
    
    Thank you so much Dheeraj for such a detailed response. I saw your another post specifically related to best season to visit Spiti Valley and I know why you are saying September is a best time visit Spiti Valley 🙂
    
    Thanks again, if I plan one I will again reach to you for more queries 🙂
    - DHEERAJ SHARMA on May 4, 2017 16:44
      
      Sure Uday, please feel free to post any further questions you may have for your trip to Spiti Valley.
raj on Apr 22, 2017 09:14

hey dheeraj,

do you have any idea of cab charges from kaza to key monastery or any bus services in morning from kaza to key
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 22, 2017 20:49
  
  Hey Raj,
  
  Kaza – Ki Monastery – Kibber trip should cost you around 800-1000 from Kaza. Otherwise, shared taxis can be found as well Rangrik bridge.
Kartik on Apr 21, 2017 13:37

Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to visit Spiti Valley and have custom made an itinerary for the same.
Day 1. Rampur to Kalpa ( short sfays at Sangla and Chitkul )
Day 2. Kalpa to Tabo. ( Avoiding Nako lake as I have been there and it was a big disappointment. )
Day 3. Tabo to Kaza. ( Kibber and Ki Gompha )
Day 4. Local off beat places near Kaza as mentioned in your other articles.
Day 5. Kaza to Batal. ( Chandratal included, planning to spend the night in Batal itself. )
Day 6. Batal to Manali.
Now I had some apprehensions regarding few things –
1. Can I do Dhankar, Kibber, Ki Gompha in a single day ? Where should I stay, Ki Gompha or Kaza ?
2. Is Pin Valley a must visit ?
3. Can I include Lahaul in this itinerary too ? Can I rather go to Sarchu, Keylong, Baralachaa and Suraj Tal in 2 days before going back to Manali ?

Looking forward to your reply.
Thanks in advance. 🙂
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 22, 2017 07:28
  
  Hi Kartik,
  
  1. Yes, you should be easily able to do Dhangkar, Ki, Kibber and come back down to stay at Kaza. Stay at Kaza as it will provide more comfortable stays.
  2. Hmm, depends. If you dont have time, skip it for next time. Pin Valley has a beauty of its own.
  3. I am not sure which month you are planning the trip. But, in general, you will need 3 days for a comfortable trip. Battal to Keylong, Keylong – Baralacha La – Sarchu, may be back to Jispa. Then Jispa to Manali.
Prashanth T P on Apr 20, 2017 16:11

Hi Dheeraj,

We are planning to go on our honeymoon trip to Kinnaur and Spiti valley this June (2017). I have read most of your blogs on the travel itineraries/suggestions to these places. Appreciate your efforts and a big thank you! 🙂

Below is my custom made travel itinerary. Can you suggest me if this is doable or any change is needed.

15-Jun-17 :: Bangalore to Chandigarh, Bus travel to Shimla
16-Jun-17 :: Take cab to Sarahan
17-Jun-17 :: Travel to Sangla
18-Jun-17 :: Site seeing around Sangla Valley
19-Jun-17 :: Travel to Chitkul, spend the day
20-Jun-17 :: Travel to Kalpa
21-Jun-17 :: Sight seeing around Kalpa
22-Jun-17 :: Travel to Nako
23-Jun-17 :: Travel to Kaza
24-Jun-17 :: Sight seeing around Kaza
25-Jun-17 :: Travel to Manali (Is this doable?)
26-Jun-17 :: Visit Kullu, Night bus to Chandigarh
27-Jun-17 :: Flight from Chandigarh to Bangalore

I read in news that we have to take daily pass to cross Rohtang from Manali? Is it applicable if we are travelling from opposite direction as well?

We are planning to book taxi from Shimla for the trip. What would be better option – booking through travel agency or contacting the driver directly?

How safe it is for a couple to travel around these places. Is there additional safety precautions to be taken?

Any suggestions/links to better plan the trip would be appreciated.

Thank you!
Prashanth
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 20, 2017 16:37
  
  Congrats Prashanth for your marriage 🙂
  
  Chitkul and Nako are raw places with basic home stay kind of facilities available. Not sure if you are assuming something here. The plan is doable but then the last part will then becomes quite hectic, so be prepared mentally for it as you plan to have eased itinerary before. Kaza – Manali is doable but long drive, rest I feel it seems OK. On 26th rest in Manali, there is nothing in Kullu.
  - Prashanth T P on Apr 21, 2017 15:11
    
    Thanks for the wishes and valuable inputs 🙂
    
    We are planning to stay in Swiss tents (Kinner Camps) in Sangla and Nako. We are not expecting much, just hoping it to be a comfortable option in that terrain.
    
    I spoke with few drivers from the DoW drivers list. They sound reliable, most of them are asking 4,000/day for Innova including all charges (rent+fuel+taxes+toll+driver’s expenses). Is that a nominal charge for the month of June?
    
    Thanks again!
    Prashanth
    - DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 22, 2017 07:24
      
      Prasanth, try few more options. Up to last year, it was more or less 3200-3500 per day. So, check few more and try to bargain that number.
    - Shekhar on May 30, 2017 19:20
      
      Hi Prashanth. We are also planning similar trip from Bangalore in mid June. I’ve asked a couple of travel agents and they are asking Rs. 90000 (for 2 persons) for 10 days itinerary from Chandigarh/Shimla/Manali. Can you please share how did you plan your trip. thanks in advance.
  - Shekhar on May 30, 2017 19:18
    
    Hi Dheeraj. we’re also planning similar itinerary for Kinnaur & Spiti valley in mid June for 10 days. I’ve spoken to a couple of travel agents and they are asking approx. Rs. 90000 for 10 days trip (standard inclusions stay+breakfast+dinner+sightseeings). Is it reasonable or can you suggest some alternatives. Thanks in advance.
    - DHEERAJ SHARMA on May 31, 2017 09:30
      
      Damn, that looks expensive. Why not making the trip on your own? There is enough info. on this website to make your own trip.
    - CS Rathore on Jun 1, 2017 10:20
      
      Hi Dheeraj. Thanks for the info. As per some travel agents, for Spiti trip a MUV is required and it will be costly to hire a MUV as we’re a couple. Is it necessary to hire a MUV or sedan will suffice?
    - DHEERAJ SHARMA on Jun 1, 2017 16:05
      
      Please connect with drivers directly. You can get connected directly to some drivers in Himachal or Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley. These drivers can come and pick you up from Manali / Shimla / Delhi / Chandigarh too, of course with a price of the pickup as well.
      
      The rates of the taxis are about Rs 3200-3500 per day depending on the number of days you plan to travel, more the days, less the price. If you are 2-3 in the group, you can opt for sedan taxi cars as well which charges around Rs 2200 per day.
      
      Otherwise, taxis, in general, are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands. These drivers can help you with finding local stay options too.
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 20, 2017 16:37
  
  Best is to contact the drivers directly. You do not need to take any Rohtang Pass permit as you will be coming from Spiti side to Rohtang Pass.
- Shekhar on May 30, 2017 19:23
  
  Hi Prashanth. We are also planning similar trip from Bangalore in mid June. I’ve asked a couple of travel agents and they are asking Rs. 90000 (for 2 persons) for 10 days itinerary from Chandigarh/Shimla/Manali. Can you please share how did you plan your trip. thanks in advance.
Pavan shukla on Apr 13, 2017 18:35

Dear Deeraj,

Can I visit spiti leh laddakh by my hatchback tiago from Delhi. I want to know if it is wise decision to visit such place by hatchback family.
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 14, 2017 08:18
  
  For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
Milan on Apr 13, 2017 15:20

We are group of 6 persons planning to travel spiti in 2nd week of July our iternary is
Day-1 Delhi to Narkanda/Rampur
Day-2 Narkanda/Rampur to sangla to Kapla
Day-3 Kalpa-reckong peo-nako-tabo
Day-4 tabo-dhankar-pin valley(mud)-kaza
Day-5 kaza-komic-hikim-langza-tashigang
Day-6 tashigang-gette-ki-kibber
Day-7 ki-chincham-batal-chandratal
Day-8 chandratal-manali
Day-9 manali-delhi

Suggest change if any…

Thanks…
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 13, 2017 16:09
  
  Hi Milan,
  
  Day 5, there is nothing to stay at Tashigang. You will have to come down to Kaza or if interested stay in Langza home stay. Again Day 6 will be kibber home stay and rest looks good 🙂
  - Milan on Apr 13, 2017 16:15
    
    Thansk for your valuable feedback…
Milan on Apr 13, 2017 15:10

We are group of 6 persons planning spirit valley trip in 2nd week of July our iternary is
Day-1 Delhi to Narkanda/Rampur
Day-2 Narkanda/Rampur to sangla to Kapla
Day-3 Kalpa-reckong peo-nako-tabo
Day-4 tabo-dhankar-pin valley(mud)-kaza
Day-5 kaza-komic-hikim-langza-tashigang
Day-6 tashigang-gette-ki-kibber
Day-7 ki-chincham-batal-chandratal
Day-8 chandratal-manali
Day-9 manali-delhi

Please suggest changes if any…

Thanks….
- DHEERAJ SHARMA on Apr 13, 2017 16:14
  
  Just replied to your other comment.
Shweta Upadhya on Apr 3, 2017 20:00

Hi, this is Shweta here. Read your ‘budget trip to Spiti’ article.
I’m an amature photographer and like travelling.
I’m planning a trip this month end to Spiti. Need more info. Can you please reply to me on my email ID where I can connect with you and get the details.

Thanks,
Shweta.
- Dheeraj Sharma on Apr 5, 2017 07:56
  
  Guess, we had few discussion on the FB Message chat.

How to calculate cost or budget for Spiti Valley trip in 2022?

Calculating the cost of Spiti Trip