The road from Delhi to Spiti Valley via Shimla and Kinnaur is one of the most important travel routes in Himachal Pradesh. Every year, thousands of travelers plan their Spiti trip via the Kinnaur route, and the number one question I get asked is about current road conditions. This article covers the complete road status from Delhi to Kaza via NH-05, section by section, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
Last Updated: March 2026
Quick Info: The Shimla-Kinnaur route to Spiti Valley (NH-05) remains open year-round, unlike the Manali-Kaza route which closes in winter. However, temporary closures of 1-7 days can happen between Nako and Kaza during heavy snowfall (December to March). The total distance from Delhi to Kaza via this route is approximately 700 km, taking 2-3 days of driving.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Which Route Does This Article Cover?
This article specifically covers the road conditions on the Hindustan-Tibet Highway, now officially designated as NH-05 (previously NH-22). When you travel from Delhi to Spiti Valley via Shimla and Kinnaur, you follow this historic highway through some of the most dramatic terrain in the Indian Himalayas.
The route passes through Shimla, Narkanda, Rampur, Jeori, Reckong Peo (district HQ of Kinnaur), Kalpa, Sangla, Nako, Tabo, and finally Kaza. It is the only all-season road to Spiti Valley because there is no high-altitude pass on this route that gets permanently blocked by snow, unlike Kunzum Pass on the Manali side.
If you are traveling to Spiti from the Manali side, you should refer to the Manali to Kaza Road Status article instead.
What Is the Current Road Status from Delhi to Kinnaur to Spiti Valley?
Here is the section-by-section road status for the Delhi to Kaza route via Kinnaur as of March 2026. I update this regularly based on inputs from travelers and local contacts. If you have a recent update, please share it in the comments or DM me on Instagram.
| Road Section | Status (March 2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Shimla | Open | NH-44 + NH-05. Excellent roads throughout. |
| Shimla to Narkanda | Open | Good roads. Snow possible at Kufri/Narkanda in winter. |
| Narkanda to Rampur | Open | Good condition. Descend from Narkanda into Sutlej valley. |
| Rampur to Jeori | Open | Good to average. Construction zones possible. |
| Jeori to Reckong Peo | Open | Average. Landslide-prone sections near Wangtu and Tapri. |
| Reckong Peo to Pooh | Open | Average to good. Tight curves, narrow sections. |
| Pooh to Nako | Open | Average. Maling Nala is the critical danger zone. Temporary closures possible due to landslides. |
| Nako to Tabo | Open (intermittent closures) | Snow/ice on road possible in winter. 4×4 recommended Dec-Mar. |
| Tabo to Kaza | Open (intermittent closures) | Shichilling to Kaza can close for days in heavy snowfall. |
| Kaza to Kunzum Pass | Closed | Kunzum Pass (4,551 m) buried under snow. Opens late May/early June. |
| Kaza to Manali | Closed | Opens late May/early June after BRO clears Kunzum and Rohtang side. |
Key takeaway: You can reach Kaza from Delhi via Kinnaur even in March, but keep 2-3 buffer days in hand. The stretch between Nako and Kaza is where closures happen most often during winter and early spring.
What Is the Road Status Within Kinnaur Valley in 2026?
Many travelers heading to Spiti Valley also explore places in Kinnaur like Sangla, Chitkul, and Kalpa. Here is the current status of roads within Kinnaur Valley. Knowing this will help you plan your visit to Kinnaur Valley alongside the Spiti trip.
| Route | Status (March 2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reckong Peo to Kalpa | Open | 7 km climb from Peo. Good road. |
| Karcham to Sangla | Open | 18 km diversion from NH-05 into Baspa Valley. |
| Sangla to Chitkul | Open (may close in heavy snow) | 28 km. Road can close for a few days in peak winter. Usually clear by March. |
| Rampur/Jeori to Sarahan | Open | 17 km climb from Jeori. Good road. |
| Shimla to Kalpa | Open | 235 km via NH-05. Full day drive. |
| Shimla to Chitkul | Open | 247 km. Allow extra time for the Sangla Valley diversion. |
What Are the Road Conditions Like on Each Section?
Road status tells you whether the road is open or closed. But road conditions tell you what the actual driving experience will be like. Here is a detailed section-by-section breakdown of road quality on the Delhi to Kaza route.
- Delhi to Kalka: Excellent. 4-lane highway via Karnal and Ambala.
- Kalka to Shimla: Good. Well-maintained NH-05, gentle curves through pine forests.
- Shimla to Narkanda: Good. Smooth tarmac with some tight curves near Kufri. Snow possible in winter.
- Narkanda to Rampur: Good. Continuous descent into the Sutlej valley. Wide road.
- Rampur to Jeori: Good to average. Some construction zones and narrow stretches.
- Jeori to Wangtu to Tapri: Average. Landslide-prone zone. BRO actively maintains this section but expect loose gravel and single-lane stretches after monsoons.
- Tapri to Reckong Peo: Average. Fuel pump available at Tapri (last reliable one before Kaza).
- Reckong Peo to Pooh: Average to good. Tight curves along the Sutlej. The views are stunning but the road demands full attention.
- Pooh to Nako (via Maling Nala): Average. This is the most critical section on the entire route. Maling Nala is an active landslide zone where road closures can last hours to days. BRO has been working on stabilization, but the geology here is inherently unstable.
- Nako to Sumdo to Tabo: Good to average. Relatively stable terrain. Road quality improves as you enter Spiti.
- Tabo to Shichilling to Kaza: Good to average. The section near Shichilling (below Dhankar) receives heavy snowfall in winter, making it the primary bottleneck between Tabo and Kaza.
- Within Kaza: Good. Town roads are well-maintained.
- Kaza to Key to Kibber: Average to good. Paved road to Key Monastery and Kibber village.
- Kaza to Langza/Komic/Hikkim: Average. Narrow mountain roads, some unpaved stretches to Komic and Hikkim.
- Kaza to Pin Valley (Mud Village): Average. 50 km from Kaza, the last few km to Mud village are rough.
Is the Road to Spiti Valley Open in Winter?
Yes, the road to Spiti Valley from the Shimla-Kinnaur side remains open throughout the year, including winter months. The reason is simple: there is no high-altitude pass on this route that gets permanently blocked. The highest point on NH-05 between Shimla and Kaza is around 3,600 meters (near Nako), which is well below the snowline that blocks passes like Kunzum (4,551 m) or Rohtang (3,978 m).
However, “open” does not mean “always accessible.” In heavy snowfall periods (typically December to February), the road between Nako and Kaza can close for anywhere from 2-3 days to 2-3 weeks. The critical zone is the Shichilling stretch below Dhankar, where snow accumulation is heaviest. BRO and HRTC usually clear the road within a few days, but there is no guarantee.
Hence, when you plan a trip to Spiti Valley in winter, keep at least 3-4 buffer days in your itinerary. I have seen travelers get stuck in Kaza for up to a week waiting for the road to Reckong Peo to reopen after heavy snowfall.
What Are the Biggest Danger Zones on This Route?
Two sections on the Delhi-Kinnaur-Spiti route deserve special attention because they cause the most delays and closures throughout the year.
Maling Nala (Between Pooh and Nako)
Maling Nala is the single most notorious point on the entire Shimla-Kaza highway. This is an active landslide zone where the mountain is geologically unstable. During monsoons (July to September), massive landslides can block the road for days. Even in dry months, loose rocks and shooting stones are common here. BRO maintains a permanent presence at Maling Nala and clears debris regularly, but closures of 4-12 hours are routine during and after rain.
Keep in mind that if Maling Nala closes, there is no alternative route. You wait until BRO clears the debris. Carry enough food and water in your vehicle whenever you cross this stretch.
Shichilling (Below Dhankar, Between Tabo and Kaza)
The Shichilling stretch is the primary winter bottleneck. This area receives heavy snowfall between November and March, and the road can remain buried for days. Even when snow is cleared, black ice makes driving extremely dangerous. If you are driving this section in winter, a 4×4 vehicle with good tyres is strongly recommended. Start early in the morning when the road surface is firmest.
Is There a Bus Service from Shimla to Kaza?
Yes, HRTC operates regular bus services on this route. Here are the key details.
Shimla to Reckong Peo
HRTC runs approximately 13 buses daily from Shimla ISBT (Tutikandi) to Reckong Peo. The journey takes 8-12 hours covering about 225 km.
- Ordinary buses: 11 services daily. Earliest departure at 3:40 AM, latest at 11:30 PM. Fare approximately Rs 430-500.
- Himmani Deluxe (2×2 Non-AC): 2 services daily. Departures at 10:30 AM (arrives 7:00 PM) and 10:20 PM (arrives 7:00 AM). Fare approximately Rs 600-650.
- Key stops: Theog, Narkanda, Rampur, Bhawanagar, Tapri.
Reckong Peo to Kaza
HRTC operates 2 ordinary buses daily from Reckong Peo to Kaza. The journey covers approximately 200 km and takes around 9-10 hours.
- First bus: Departs 5:30 AM, arrives approximately 3:00 PM.
- Second bus: Departs 7:30 AM, arrives approximately 5:00 PM.
- Fare: Rs 400-700 (ordinary).
- Key stops: Skibba, Spillow, Pooh, Nako, Sumdo, Tabo.
Schedules may vary seasonally, and buses can get cancelled without notice if the road closes due to landslides or snowfall. Always confirm with the HRTC depot before planning. You can also read about traveling to Spiti Valley by public transport for a more detailed breakdown.
When Is the Best Time to Travel the Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti Route?
The best time to visit Spiti Valley via the Kinnaur route depends on what experience you are looking for.
- May to June: Best overall conditions. Roads are clear, weather is pleasant (10-20°C in Kaza), and all sightseeing spots are accessible. This is also when the Manali-Kaza route opens, giving you the option to do the full circuit.
- July to September (Monsoon): Riskiest period. Landslides at Maling Nala and across Kinnaur are frequent. HRTC buses get cancelled regularly. Not recommended unless you have flexible dates and buffer days.
- October to November: Post-monsoon window. Roads are mostly stable, autumn colours are beautiful, but temperatures drop fast. Kunzum Pass closes by mid-October.
- December to March (Winter): Only the Kinnaur route is accessible. Expect sub-zero temperatures in Kaza (-15°C to -25°C). Road closures between Nako and Kaza are common. This is for experienced winter travelers only. Read the Spiti in winters itinerary before planning.
What Is a Good Itinerary for Spiti Valley via Kinnaur?
Here is a practical 10-day itinerary for traveling from Delhi to Spiti Valley and back via the Shimla-Kinnaur route. You can read the complete Spiti Valley itinerary for more options and variations.
Download your FREE high-resolution PDF copy of this day-by-day plan infographic guide for the Spiti Valley trip from Shimla-Kinnaur side in 10 days. If you found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends.
- Day 1: Delhi to Shimla (350 km, 8-9 hours). Stay overnight in Shimla.
- Day 2: Shimla to Sarahan (170 km, 6-7 hours). Visit Bhimakali Temple.
- Day 3: Sarahan to Sangla (90 km, 4-5 hours). Explore Baspa Valley.
- Day 4: Sangla to Chitkul and back. Day trip to the last inhabited village on the India-Tibet border.
- Day 5: Sangla to Kalpa (70 km, 3-4 hours) via Reckong Peo. Evening views of Kinner Kailash.
- Day 6: Kalpa to Nako (110 km, 5-6 hours). Cross through Maling Nala section.
- Day 7: Nako to Tabo (55 km, 2-3 hours). Visit Tabo Monastery (founded 996 CE).
- Day 8: Tabo to Kaza (50 km, 2-3 hours). Stop at Dhankar Monastery en route.
- Day 9: Explore Kaza. Day trips to Key Monastery, Kibber, Langza, Komic, Hikkim.
- Day 10: Begin return journey. Kaza to Reckong Peo or reverse the route over 2-3 days.
What Tips Should You Keep in Mind for This Route?
- Fuel up at Tapri. The petrol pump at Tapri (before Reckong Peo) is the last reliable fuel station before Kaza. There is a fuel pump in Reckong Peo as well, but Tapri is where most travelers fill up. Kaza has a fuel pump too, but availability can be inconsistent.
- Carry cash. ATMs are available in Reckong Peo and Kaza, but they run out of cash frequently. The nearest reliable ATM cluster is in Rampur. Carry enough cash for your entire trip beyond Rampur.
- Mobile network. BSNL postpaid has the widest coverage on this route. Jio and Airtel work in most towns (Shimla, Narkanda, Rampur, Reckong Peo, Kaza) but signals drop in between. There is no network at Maling Nala, Nako, or between Tabo and Kaza.
- No inner line permit needed. Indian nationals do not need any permit to travel to Kinnaur or Spiti Valley via this route.
- 4×4 for winter. If you are traveling between December and March, a 4×4 SUV with good ground clearance is strongly recommended beyond Nako. 2WD sedans and hatchbacks can manage in summer but will struggle on icy/snowy roads in winter.
- Start early. Always start driving by 6-7 AM. The critical sections (Maling Nala, Shichilling) are best crossed in the morning when road crews are active and visibility is good.
- Buffer days. Keep at least 2-3 extra days in your itinerary, especially during monsoon (July-September) and winter (December-March). Road closures are not a matter of “if” but “when.”
Related Reading
- How to Plan a Spiti Valley Trip via Kinnaur
- Manali to Kaza Road Status 2026
- Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley
- Kinnaur Valley Complete Travel Guide
- Spiti Valley in Winter Itinerary
- Hindustan-Tibet Road (NH-05): An Introduction
- Cost and Budget for a Spiti Valley Trip
- Budget Trip to Spiti Valley by Public Transport
Conclusion
The Delhi to Spiti Valley route via Shimla and Kinnaur is the lifeline for anyone wanting to visit Spiti outside the summer months. It is a beautiful but demanding drive that requires patience, preparation, and respect for the mountains. I try to keep this page updated with the latest road conditions, but conditions change fast in the Himalayas. If you have a recent update from the road, please drop it in the comments or send me a DM on Instagram. It helps the entire community plan better trips.
In case you have any questions about planning your Spiti trip via this route, feel free to ask in the comments below. I would be happy to help. Safe travels, my friend 🙂
Please share this article with anyone planning a trip to Spiti Valley or Kinnaur. It might help them avoid a difficult situation on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Shimla to Spiti road open right now in March 2026?
Yes, the road from Shimla to Kaza via Kinnaur (NH-05) is open as of March 2026. However, the stretch between Nako and Kaza may experience intermittent closures of 1-3 days due to snowfall or ice on the road. The Manali to Kaza route via Kunzum Pass remains closed and typically opens in late May or early June.
Do I need a permit to travel from Delhi to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur?
No, Indian nationals do not need any inner line permit to travel to Kinnaur or Spiti Valley. Foreign nationals need to obtain an Inner Line Permit from the SDM office in Shimla or Reckong Peo.
Can I drive a sedan or hatchback on the Shimla to Kaza road?
In summer months (May to October), a sedan or hatchback with decent ground clearance can manage this route, though an SUV is always more comfortable. In winter (November to March), a 4×4 SUV is strongly recommended beyond Reckong Peo due to snow and ice on the road, especially near Nako and between Tabo and Kaza.
Where is the last petrol pump before Kaza on this route?
The last reliable fuel station before Kaza is at Tapri (before Reckong Peo). There is also a petrol pump in Reckong Peo. Kaza has a fuel pump, but availability can be inconsistent, especially in winter when supply trucks may not get through. Fill your tank completely at Tapri or Reckong Peo.
Is there HRTC bus service from Shimla to Kaza?
There is no direct bus from Shimla to Kaza. You need to take a bus from Shimla to Reckong Peo (13 daily services, 8-12 hours, Rs 430-650) and then a connecting bus from Reckong Peo to Kaza (2 daily services, 9-10 hours, Rs 400-700). Schedules may vary seasonally. Confirm with HRTC before travel.
What is the most dangerous section on the Delhi to Spiti route?
Maling Nala between Pooh and Nako is the most dangerous section. It is an active landslide zone where road closures lasting hours to days are common, especially during monsoon (July-September). There is no bypass route available. BRO maintains a permanent crew here for debris clearing.
How many days do I need for a Spiti trip from Delhi via Kinnaur?
A comfortable round trip from Delhi to Spiti Valley via the Kinnaur route and back takes 10-12 days. If the Manali-Kaza road is open (June to October), you can do a circuit going via Kinnaur and returning via Manali (or vice versa) in 10 days. In winter, you must return the same way through Kinnaur, so plan for 12-14 days.
When does the Manali to Kaza road open in 2026?
The Manali to Kaza road via Kunzum Pass typically opens in late May or early June after BRO completes snow clearance operations. In 2025, BRO started snow clearance in April and the road opened around late May. The expected opening for 2026 is similar. Check the Manali to Kaza Road Status page for the latest updates.
51 Comments
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Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to Visit Spiti Via Shimla We have Audi q3 4×4 will this car be gud for travel, And I have Infant with us so do you suggest to travel with Infant in this route. Age of Infant is 15 months
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the article.
We are planing to go to Kaza via Narkanda in the coming week of July from 17 to 23. please suggest if this is the right time to visit Spiti ??
Hi Dheeraj please advise me for car trip to Kinnaur and Spiti. Please mention and route days .we are traveling through hatchback petrol car.
Hello,
Can Any one please guide me For Spiti Valley Trip, Just want to ask about which mobile network will work and how about internet working speed there ?
Thanks In advance
Rajest please check: 11 Tips on Mobile Phone Connectivity in Spiti Valley
Sangla to chitkul road is open as of June 2019
Thanks, Anuj for reminding me of this thread. I have updated the post with Update Date June 2019 now.
Dear Dheeraj,
First of all thanks for the information you provided on Tirthan which helped us have one of our most memorable vacations in 2016. This website is my go to guide for Himachal:)
This year I want to do Delhi – Shimla (1N stopover)- Sangla (incl. Rakcham + Chitkul)- Kaza (Kunzum/ Chandertal if open)- Kalpa- stop over at a suitable location (pl recommend)- Delhi
Dates are between 30th May ( Delhi) to 8th June (back in Delhi). Pl recommend if this is a good circuit to do with a 9 year old ( due to high altitudes at Kaza) or should we stop at Kinnaur valley locations. Also are the no of days sufficient.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Dheeraj..!
Thanx a lot for this article and trip specific articles similar to this. It came as a huge relief to me as I am planning a delhi-shimla-kaza-manali-delhi this month end.
A few quick questions
1. Is shimla-Kaza-nako-tabo open now?
2. What tentative costing shall I put aside if I hire a taxi from shimla or chandigarh itself for the entire trip.will that be preferable to take bus or may be train.
Dear Dheerajj,
Thanks for the article on spiti Valley. Can you please advise if we can get the pure veg and jain food for the entire trip from Chandigarh to Spiti Valley and back to chandigarh. Your early reply will be appreciated. If you feel no can we plan our trip to only Kinnaur valley. Pl guide us.
Thanks
Hi Dheeraj,
We have planned to run the Sangla half marathon from Batseri this year and have to be in Sangla by 30th April 2019. Thinking of making a road trip out of this because we have not yet visited Sangla / Chitkul and beyond. (Have done Spiti road trips etc 6-7 times before from both Shimla/ Manali sides). Will obviously be doing the Shimla route now.
1. Would be grateful if we could get some idea about the road conditions till Chitkul as of now because we have about 2 weeks to go before we start from Pune. I have a Fortuner AT vehicle (It is not a 4×4).
2. Does one need a permit to drive beyond Chitkul to the ITBP post (subject to the roads being opened up till then) ?
Thanks very much.
Sanjay
Hi Dheeraj!
I am planning to visit Kaza via Shimla with my friends around 20th March 2019. We’ll be travelling in a Santro xing and a Ritz. Is it safe to go there? And do you think we should carry chains?
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to travel Kinnaur valley between 21st March to 24th March 2019 on road (car) from delhi and will cover places such as Kalpa, Chitkul, Sangla valley and other nearby places. Few Questions :
1) first, whether March is a good season to travel by road ?
2) based on the latest updates and your network, whether we will reach Kinnaur valley ? What are the chances of road blockage ?
3) what are the chances of snow melt affecting road trip after 20th March based on previous year experiences ?
I look forward for your expert advise.
How are conditions now on the Hindustan-Tibet Highway? I am planning a solo motorcycle trip starting 7th Sep. Hopefully conditions should be better by then?
The highway is open as of now, by 7th September the road conditions will further stabilize
Thanks Dheeraj.
Have the rains eased out?
As of now it seems like, no reports yet of bad weather from any parts.
Thank you Mr Dheeraj. We will consider canceling.
Mrs Jain
Hello Mr Dheeraj,
My husband and I (both in late fifties) are planning a Spiti trip starting from Shimla on the 1st of September. We plan to travel in an Innova. Can you help me with any update about the road conditions? The erratic rains seem to have made it unsafe this year. Should we continue or postpone our trip.
thanking you
Mrs V Jain
Hello Mrs Jain,
As there is heavy rainfall predictions in coming days and alert has been issued in Himachal and Uttarakhand, I will recommend that you go postpone it by a week or so.
I am planning a visit to spiti valley from Shimla side and exit from Manali covering all major landmarks including chandrataal. Is it safe now to go and are the bus routes also open?
Rishu, as of now Himachal is not safe to travel with all the rains going on. I will suggest that you postpone the trip by a week or two.
Hi Dheeraj, Please advise from your experience if VW Vento is good for a Chandigarh-Shimla-Manali run? And are the roads on this route dangerous for self drive? Appreciate your response. Thanks,
Hello
4 of us want to rent Innova from Delhi airport to Shimla sarahan Kinnaur sangla Nino
Tobo kaza chandratal Keylong and end up at Manali .9 nights and 10 days
Please advice
Hello Dang,
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.
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 a price of pickup as well.
The rates of the taxis are about Rs 3000-3500 per day depending upon the number of days you plan to travel, more the days, less the price.
Otherwise, taxis in general are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands
For stay options in Kinnaur and Spiti, check the link: Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur 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
Many thanks .It is very nice to get th know DoW.My trip is 20 May -2 June .Will share this trip later
Thank you Dang, looking forward to it.
Hello,
Me and my husband are planning a road trip from
Delhi – shimla / kinnaur – spiti. The same route you mentioned in this post. We will strt on 17 th/ 18 th dec. is this time of year ok to travel this side. Also how many days would you suggest if we plan to stop at shogi. Then 2 -3 more places so tht we can enjoy the complete road trip. Apart from this is audi q3 ok for this route? Thnks!
Hello Niti,
No this is not the right time for a trip to Kinnaur Valley or Spiti Valley unless you are OK with extreme harsh conditions of winters and cold beyond Kinnaur, OK with washrooms with no water, OK with very basic food and OK with very basic stay. On top of it, in case it snows and you are in Spiti, the chances of getting stuck for a couple days to week is possibility.
Thnks!! If we go till kalpa? We are not planning to go beyond that. Spoke to one of the hotels there and as per them the roads will be clear and it shouldnt be much of a problem till there. Also we are ok with harsh winters. Hope the road conditions are ok to drive down. Thnks!
Best wishes for the trip, keep a tab on weather updates. It gets ugly at time up there, so be prepared, mentally.
Mr Dheeraj am planning to go HP in Kinnaur upto Kaza with my family members is there any type of breathing problem in that part also please suggest a car type
Hello Nirban,
Upto Kinnaur it is fine but then you start ascending yourself into high altitude zone where the trouble starts. Key is to travel slow and gradually increase the altitude.
Regards
Dheeraj
hi sir . is innova is safe for on route to shimla-kinnuar-leh. tell me pls
Raman, if you are getting some Xylo or Scropio, better prefer that in front of Innova. Though with experienced hands behind the wheel, innova will not face any issues too.
hi dheeraj
m planning tour to spiti valley via shimla, kinnaur on 22nd june in my VW VENTO… how r the road conditions for a sedan…
Nitin, there are few bad patches of slush and all after Bhawanagar but it is manageable by sedans as well if driven carefully.
Dear Dheeraj, Seems I had to find you some day and you are my light on this journey.
I am planing for Delhi Kunzum pass via Shimla. I want to do the treking to Chandrataal Lake. I may extend to Rohtang Pass.
I have Beat Petrol. Can i manage this journey with by car and what will be the best time to do this journey? Please guide.
Manish, best time for you to cover entire Spiti Valley journey in small car will be September brother. Still, you might not come clean with low GC Car and hence, I will, strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
Dheeraj bhaai……m plang to celebrate new year some where on shimla kaza highway..as close as possible to kaza ……I have innova so u plz suggest how far we cn go on this route…..plz reply soo ……….regards Aman Rao…gurgaon
You can go all the way upto Kaza Aman bhai 🙂 … Roads are open all round the year barring few days of heavy snowfall which might get you stuck until clearance for a day or two anywhere beyond Narkanda. so, if you do not have anything important to handle back at home and are OK with very cold conditions, then you may go all the way to Kaza. Do not go anywhere inside or diverted from main highway because those roads can get blocked for more time and are not often cleared until next season, like Pin Valley.
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
Hello. Please give your comment If I can visit in my wagon R to pin valley in October.
Hello Abhijit,
Yes, you can visit Pin Valley in Wagon R buddy. I have done it in my dZire without much of an issue. Sorry for the delayed reply, I was traveling Zanskar Valley for past 9-10 days and was away from network.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks dheeraj,taking ur advise will realy help.Are there any turns where one can miss d correct route ? Perticularly new malling rt.(asking this cos long bk l got puzzuled beyond rohtang,No one to ask ther
Hi Manoj,
No, there aren’t any turns that would confuse you. The road leads you all the way straight to Kaza. Just keep following th road signs for Kaurik and once you reach Sumdo, there will be a Y-Fork where straight road (main one) will lead you to Tabo – Kaza and left uphill will take you to Kaurik where any civilian is not allowed. So, keep following the main highway.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks dheeraj.l m planing d trip in mid september. I hope new malling route is better ?? Any more worst spots on this rt,other then malling??? FOR DZIRE.,????
Hi Manoj,
As you see the above road conditions, they tend to be very similar through out the year. Most troublesome spot is Malling only but now if you are considering Pin Valley, then again you might face few more due to recent mud slides in there. After Powari roads are real bad upto Akpa bridge. Rest as you see, my dzire rocked and so will yours but do drive carefully.
Regards
Dheeraj
I m planing delhi-kaza via shimla in september in swift dzire.is it ok for roads on this route ???
Hello Manoj,
Make it late September as and when the rains reside the region and with careful and cautious driving, it will be manageable in dzire. Read my whole journey of first week of October last year in my dzire only at the link here: Spiti Valley Sprint | A Crazy Drive from Kaza to Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks dheeraj.pls tell me more about malling nala,..new bypass to skip malling nala.i went to kalp in oct 2010.just beyond kalpa d road was being widened…so dropped going further. As u can guide me d best….i wud to talk 2 u. I m in NOIDA. EMAIL. manojsh15@gmail.com pls reply so that i can call u to know more.thanks
Hello Manoj,
You cannot by pass Malling Nala friend. There was a old Malling Nala and the route through it has been closed now. The new route is now at more altitude and even this one does poses a problem or two every now and then. When are you planning for the trip?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma