Last Updated: February 2026
Sometimes it gets difficult to choose between Leh Ladakh and Spiti Valley. Both these places are stunning, and frankly, the heart wants to see it all. So, nowadays, many travelers are making a trip to Spiti Valley and Ladakh together. The most common route for this mega-adventure goes through Spiti Valley to Ladakh from Manali side, and that is exactly what I will help you plan today.
I have been getting questions about this combined itinerary for years now, and after covering both regions multiple times, I can tell you that doing Spiti and Ladakh together is one of the most rewarding road trips you can plan in India. However, you do need enough days in hand and the right planning to make it work. Hence, in this article, I will share a detailed day-by-day itinerary, practical tips on the route, and answer the common doubts travelers have about planning this epic Himalayan circuit.
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Let's quickly dive into the details:
How Many Days Do You Need for a Spiti Valley and Ladakh Combined Trip?
You need a minimum of 16 days for a comfortable Spiti Valley to Ladakh trip from Manali, including buffer days for road closures. If you plan to return via Srinagar – Leh Highway and complete the full circuit, keep 18 to 20 days in hand. Both Spiti Valley and Ladakh need a decent number of days individually, so combining them means you cannot afford to rush.
Keep in mind that this is a high-altitude journey crossing multiple passes above 15,000 feet. Rushing through it not only means missing the beauty of these places but also increases your risk of Acute Mountain Sickness. I always suggest taking at least the number of days mentioned in this plan, and adding 2 buffer days on top for weather or road-related delays.
What Places Does This Spiti Valley to Ladakh Itinerary Cover?
This day-by-day detailed itinerary covers the Manali – Leh Highway as well as the key sightseeing destinations in both Spiti Valley and Ladakh. Hence, it is apt for those looking forward to covering the entire circuit and having enough time to do justice to both regions.
The route in this plan starts from Manali, enters Spiti Valley via the Atal Tunnel and Kunzum Pass, then transitions to the Manali – Leh Highway from Keylong/Jispa towards Leh. In Ladakh, you will cover Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri before heading back. If you want, you can also exit via Srinagar – Leh Highway to complete the full circuit.
I have started the trip from Manali – Spiti Valley side because most of the questions from travelers ask about making this trip from Manali side and less from the Kinnaur Valley side. I believe this is mostly due to the lesser number of days people have in hand. However, my personal preference will always be to start from the Kinnaur side via Hindustan Tibet Highway and go over to Manali – Leh Highway from there to avoid any AMS issues either in Spiti Valley or at Manali – Leh. The gradual altitude gain on the Kinnaur route helps your body acclimatize much better.
What Is the Best Time to Travel from Spiti Valley to Ladakh?
The best time to make this combined trip is from mid-June to mid-September. This is when Kunzum Pass (15,060 feet), the gateway to Spiti Valley from Manali side, and the Manali – Leh Highway are both open. Keep in mind that Kunzum Pass typically opens between early to mid-June and remains accessible until October, while the Manali – Leh Highway usually opens by late May or early June.
If you want the best road conditions with fewer water crossings, July end to September is ideal. Early June can be tricky because snowmelt creates strong water crossings between Batal and Gramphu, and the road surface may not be fully repaired after winter. September offers clear skies, lower water levels, and golden hillsides, making it my personal favorite month for this route.
For more details on Spiti’s seasons, check my guide on best time to visit Spiti Valley. And for Ladakh timing, refer to best time to travel to Ladakh.
What Is the Atal Tunnel and How Does It Change This Route?
The Atal Tunnel (opened in October 2020) is a 9.02 km highway tunnel under Rohtang Pass that connects Manali directly to Keylong in Lahaul Valley. This has been a game-changer for the Spiti route from Manali side. Earlier, you had to cross Rohtang Pass, which was notorious for traffic jams, permit hassles, and unpredictable closures. Now, the tunnel cuts travel time from Manali to Gramphu (the junction for Spiti) from 5-6 hours to about 1.5 to 2 hours.
However, there is an important distinction to understand. The Atal Tunnel does NOT require a Rohtang Pass permit. If you are only using the tunnel to go towards Spiti or Lahaul, you do not need to apply for the Rohtang permit. The Rohtang Pass permit is only required if you want to go over the pass itself (the old road above the tunnel). For this itinerary, you will be using the Atal Tunnel, so no permit is needed for this section.
How to Reach Spiti Valley from Manali via Atal Tunnel and Kunzum Pass?
From Manali, you take the Atal Tunnel to reach Sissu/Keylong in Lahaul Valley. From there, the road goes to Gramphu, where you take the diversion towards Batal and Kunzum Pass. The stretch from Batal to Kunzum Pass is one of the most challenging roads you will encounter, with water crossings and loose gravel. After Kunzum Pass at 15,060 feet, you descend into the Spiti Valley and reach Losar, the first village, from where Kaza is about 60 km further.
The total distance from Manali to Kaza via Atal Tunnel and Kunzum Pass is about 200 km, but it takes a good 8-10 hours depending on the road conditions and water crossings between Batal and Gramphu. I suggest starting early in the morning so that you reach Kaza before dark.
What Vehicle Should You Take for This Combined Trip?
I would highly recommend a SUV or a 4X4 for this journey, especially for the Batal – Gramphu – Kunzum Pass stretch and the Manali – Leh Highway. The water crossings between Batal and Gramphu can be knee-deep during peak monsoon, and a vehicle with good ground clearance makes all the difference. If you are in a sedan or hatchback, the Spiti route from Manali side will be very challenging, and I would honestly advise against it unless you are a very experienced driver.
For those planning on motorcycles, this is one of the most popular biking routes in India. Just make sure you carry sufficient fuel as there are long stretches with no fuel pumps. For details on fuel availability in Ladakh, check my dedicated article. Also, 7 useful tips for a self-drive to Ladakh will come in very handy.
16-Day Itinerary for Spiti Valley to Ladakh from Manali (Day by Day Plan)
Below is a 16-day trip plan for traveling Spiti Valley and Ladakh together from Manali side. I am sure you may have some questions, but more or less, this plan is self-explanatory and will help you make a memorable trip. In case you are interested only in Spiti, you can refer to my most common Spiti Valley itinerary. And for those looking at Ladakh separately, check the most common Ladakh itinerary by road.
Day 1 | Delhi to Manali / Solang Valley
- The drive from Delhi to Manali is about 530 km and takes 13-14 hours depending on the breaks you take in between
- Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali town as sleeping at a slightly higher altitude does help in acclimatization for the days ahead
- If going by own car, note that you do NOT need a Rohtang Pass permit if you are using the Atal Tunnel. The Rohtang Pass permit is only needed if you want to drive over the pass itself
- Overnight at Manali / Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali – Atal Tunnel – Gramphu – Kunzum Pass – Kaza
- Head early morning to Kaza via the Atal Tunnel and Kunzum Pass, the headquarters of Spiti Valley
- The Atal Tunnel takes you directly to Sissu in Lahaul Valley, cutting out the old Rohtang Pass route entirely
- From Gramphu, take the diversion towards Batal and Kunzum Pass. The stretch from Batal to Kunzum Pass has water crossings, so be prepared
- Visit Kunzum Pass (15,060 feet) and enjoy the moment there. There is a small temple dedicated to the Goddess Kunzum Devi
- The drive from Batal through Losar to Kaza is surreal. You will see the landscape transform from rocky barren terrain to the wide Spiti Valley
- About 8-10 hours of driving. Keep in mind that the Batal – Gramphu section can be slow due to water crossings
- Overnight at Kaza
Day 3 | Kaza – Pin Valley (Mud Village) – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Tabo
- Traverse the Pin Valley, visiting Kungri, Sagnam, Mud, and Tailing. Pin Valley is home to the Snow Leopard National Park
- Visit Dhangkar Monastery perched dramatically on a cliff, and hike to Dhangkar Lake (about 2 km trek, roughly 1 hour)
- Leave after early lunch and head to Tabo, home to the 1000-year-old Tabo Monastery, one of the most significant Buddhist sites in the Himalayas
- About 5-6 hours of driving in the day
- Overnight at Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo to Kaza, then Ki – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang – Kaza
- Travel back the 47 km to Kaza from Tabo and in the second half of the day, do sightseeing around Kaza
- Visit Ki Monastery, Kibber, Gette, and Tashigang. Ki Monastery, over 1000 years old, sits on a hilltop like a fortress and is one of the most photographed monasteries in Spiti
- Kibber (14,200 feet) was once considered the highest inhabited village in the world. Gette and Tashigang are even more remote
- About 5-6 hours of driving in the day
- Overnight at Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza – Hikkim – Komik – Langza – Losar – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal / Batal
- Today visit the offbeat villages near Kaza. Hikkim has the world’s highest post office where you can mail a postcard home
- Langza offers a stunning view of the Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak and has a beautiful Buddha statue looking down the valley. It is also known as the Fossil Village
- The Tangyud Monastery at Komik is one of the most important and the highest monastery in the Spiti Valley
- You can move to Chandratal on the same day if you are short on time, or go over to Chandratal next day
- Kaza to Losar to Kunzum Pass is the most scenic drive of the entire Spiti Valley
- About 2-3 hours of driving, and in case you go over to Chandratal, add about 4 more hours
- Camps are about 2.5 km from the lake. Either stay at the camps or back to Batal where there is a PWD rest house. Better stay at Batal and save time as well as energy for the next day
- Overnight at Batal or Chandratal Camps
Day 6 | Batal / Chandratal – Gramphu – Keylong / Jispa
- Head towards Keylong / Jispa in the direction of Leh
- The Batal to Gramphu stretch is notorious for water crossings and bad road. Take your time and do not rush
- Jispa is a lovely small village on the banks of the Bhaga River, and I personally prefer staying here over Keylong. The peace and quiet are unmatched
- About 6-8 hours of driving depending on road conditions between Batal and Gramphu
- Overnight at Keylong / Jispa
Day 7 | Keylong / Jispa – Baralacha La – Pang / Sarchu – Leh
- Leave Keylong / Jispa early morning, say by 4-5 AM, so that you reach Leh by evening
- You will witness the beauty of the Manali – Leh Highway with lakes like Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal, and the vast Moore Plains
- Cross over Baralacha La, Lachalung La, Nakee La, and Taglang La passes
- About 11-12 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Rest and Inner Line Permits
- This day is crucial for acclimatization. After 7 days of continuous driving and gaining altitude, your body needs rest
- Explore local sightseeing places in Leh town like Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and the local market
- Get your inner line permits for Ladakh online or from the DC office
- Stock up on fuel, cash, and supplies for the next few days
- Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder (Nubra Valley)
- Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
- Cross Khardung La Pass (17,982 feet as per survey, though the signboard claims 18,380 feet). Enjoy a cup of soup at the top but do not spend too much time at this altitude
- Diskit has a beautiful monastery with the tallest Maitreya Buddha statue, and Hunder has sand dunes and Bactrian (double-humped) camel safari
- About 5-6 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take at Khardung La
- Overnight at Hunder / Diskit
Day 10 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Khardung La – Leh
- Drive further north in Nubra Valley to Sumur (famous Samstanling Monastery) and Panamik (hot water springs)
- If you have an extra day, I strongly recommend visiting Turtuk, a Balti village near the LoC. It is absolutely worth the detour, and I bet you will not regret it
- Return to Leh via Khardung La
- About 7-9 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Leh
Day 11 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
- Cover Hemis Monastery on the go towards Pangong Tso. Hemis is the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh
- Cross Chang La Pass and descend to the stunning Pangong Tso Lake at 14,270 feet
- The first sight of the lake is something you will never forget. The changing colors of the water are simply mesmerizing
- About 5-6 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 12 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thiksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
- Spend the morning at Pangong Tso. Sunrise at the lake is magical
- On return to Leh, cover Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace
- About 5-6 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Leh
Day 13 | Leh – Chumathang – Tso Moriri
- Drive to Tso Moriri Lake via Chumathang. This is the less-crowded, more pristine sibling of Pangong Tso
- Visit Karzok Monastery on the shores of the lake
- The landscape on this drive is raw and barren. You will cross several small streams and the vast Changthang plateau
- About 7-8 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 14 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
- From Tso Moriri, drive to Tso Kar (another beautiful high-altitude lake) and then join the Manali – Leh Highway at Debring
- Cross the vast Moore Plains and try to reach Sarchu where accommodation options are better than Pang
- Start early in the day. This is a long driving day
- About 11-12 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 15 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Atal Tunnel – Manali
- The return journey takes you back over Baralacha La and through Keylong. From Keylong, you can now use the Atal Tunnel to reach Manali directly, avoiding the Rohtang Pass
- On the way, stop at Suraj Tal and Deepak Tal which are right on the roadside
- About 10-12 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take and traffic at the Atal Tunnel entrance
- Overnight at Manali
Day 16 | Manali – Delhi
- Return home. About 530 km, 13-14 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- You can also break this into two days by staying at Chandigarh if you are tired
Day 17 + 18 | Buffer Days
- Keep some buffer days in case of road closure due to landslides, snowfall, or simply because you want to enjoy more in these remote corners of the Himalayas
- Road closures on the Batal – Gramphu stretch and the Manali – Leh Highway are common, especially after heavy rainfall
What Are Some Important Tips and Variations for This Itinerary?
- Nubra to Pangong Direct: Instead of coming back to Leh from Nubra Valley, you can head directly towards Pangong Tso via the Shyok or Wari La route. This saves one day and can be spent elsewhere. However, read the tips for Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso direct route carefully before attempting it, especially regarding fuel availability
- Add Turtuk: You can make a three-day Nubra Valley trip so that you can spend one night at Turtuk, a beautiful Balti village near the LoC. Add one day to the above plan. I bet you will not regret it
- Accommodation in Ladakh: For budget and moderate hotels in Leh – Ladakh, check budget accommodation in Leh and moderate budget hotels in Ladakh
- Budget Doubts: For detailed cost calculation, check How to calculate cost or budget for Leh Ladakh trip
- Taxi Rates: If you are hiring a taxi for any section, refer to the latest Leh Ladakh taxi rates
What Is the Estimated Budget for a Spiti Valley to Ladakh Trip in 2026?
The cost of this combined trip depends heavily on your mode of travel, group size, and choice of accommodation. Here is a rough breakdown per person for a 16-day trip, assuming a group of 4 sharing a car.
| Expense Category | Budget (Per Person) | Mid-Range (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (self-drive, shared by 4) | Rs 7,000 – 8,000 | Rs 7,000 – 8,000 |
| Accommodation (16 nights) | Rs 6,000 – 8,000 | Rs 12,000 – 16,000 |
| Food (16 days) | Rs 4,000 – 5,000 | Rs 6,000 – 8,000 |
| Permits and Fees | Rs 500 – 700 | Rs 500 – 700 |
| Miscellaneous | Rs 2,000 – 3,000 | Rs 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Total Per Person | Rs 19,500 – 24,700 | Rs 28,500 – 37,700 |
These are approximate numbers for 2026 and can vary depending on your choices. Fuel costs assume current petrol prices (around Rs 100-110/liter in Himachal/Ladakh) and a car averaging 10-12 km/l over mountain terrain. If you are on a bike, fuel cost will be lower. For those using public transport like HRTC buses or shared taxis, transportation cost will be even less but you will need more buffer days.
How to Complete the Full Circuit via Srinagar – Leh Highway?
The other option is that instead of returning via the Manali – Leh Highway, you take the Srinagar – Leh Highway to return home and complete the whole circuit. This adds about 2-3 more days to the trip but gives you a completely different experience. The Srinagar side has its own charm with Zoji La, Sonamarg, and the Kashmir Valley.
If you choose this option, here is how Day 14 onwards changes:
Day 14 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
- Come back to Leh via Tso Kar and the Manali – Leh Highway
- About 10-11 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Leh
Day 15 | Leh – Sham Valley – Lamayuru – Kargil
- Sham Valley includes Alchi Monastery, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hill, Sangam (Confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers), and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
- Cover Mulbekh Maitreya and Lamayuru Monastery (Moon Land). The Lamayuru landscapes are otherworldly
- About 8-9 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Kargil
Day 16 | Kargil – Drass – Zoji La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
- Cross Zoji La pass and enjoy the vistas en route. The Z-Morh Tunnel (inaugurated 2025) may ease this section in the coming years
- Have a late lunch at Sonamarg, one of the most beautiful places in Kashmir
- About 7-8 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Srinagar
Day 17 | Srinagar – Patnitop – Jammu
- Drive through the beautiful Kashmir Valley and over the Banihal Pass / Jawahar Tunnel
- About 8-9 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
- Overnight at Jammu
Day 18 | Jammu – Pathankot – Ambala – Delhi
- Back home. About 600 km, 11-12 hours of driving depending on the breaks you take in between
Day 19 + 20 | Buffer Days
- Keep some buffer days in case of road closure due to landslides, snowfall, or because you want to explore more of Kashmir
What About Mobile Network and ATM Availability on This Route?
Mobile network is patchy throughout this route. In Spiti Valley, you will get intermittent signal (mostly BSNL) at Kaza and Tabo. Between Batal and Gramphu, there is no network at all. On the Manali – Leh Highway, Jispa and Keylong have decent coverage, but between Keylong and Leh, the signal drops significantly. In Ladakh, Leh town has good 4G coverage on Jio and Airtel, but Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso have limited connectivity. For more details, check my article on mobile phone connectivity in Ladakh.
ATMs are available in Manali, Kaza, Keylong, and Leh. Beyond these towns, do not count on finding an ATM. I suggest carrying enough cash (Rs 10,000-15,000 per person) before you leave Manali, and topping up again at Kaza and Leh. UPI works in most hotels and restaurants in Leh and Kaza as of 2026, but dhabas and smaller homestays on the highway still run on cash.
What Permits Do You Need for This Combined Trip?
For the Spiti Valley portion, Indian citizens do not need any special permit. However, for certain areas near the border (like Pin Valley near Mud Village), there may be seasonal restrictions that your hotel or local authorities will inform you about.
For Ladakh, you need Inner Line Permits (ILP) to visit Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, and other restricted areas. As of 2026, these can be obtained online or from the DC office in Leh. For a complete step-by-step guide, check my article on how to get Ladakh Inner Line Permits online. The Ladakh environment/green fee also needs to be paid online before entry.
What Should You Pack for a Spiti Valley to Ladakh Road Trip?
- Warm Layers: Temperatures can drop below zero at night even in summer at places like Chandratal, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri. Carry a good down jacket, thermals, and gloves
- Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and shoe covers. The Batal – Gramphu stretch involves water crossings where you might get wet
- Medicines: Diamox for AMS prevention (consult your doctor), Crocin, Disprin, ORS packets, and any personal medication
- Fuel Cans: If riding a bike, carry a spare fuel can. There are no fuel pumps between Kaza and Tandi (Keylong), and the stretch between Keylong and Leh has limited options
- Snacks and Water: Carry enough for the long driving days when dhabas may be closed or too far apart
- For a detailed packing list, check my article on 40 must-have things to carry on a Ladakh self-drive trip
Can You Do This Trip by Public Transport (Bus)?
Yes, you can, but it will require more days and more planning. Here is a rough idea of the HRTC bus connectivity:
- Delhi to Manali: HRTC Volvo and semi-deluxe buses run daily. Fare is around Rs 1,200-1,500 for Volvo
- Manali to Kaza: HRTC runs a daily bus from Manali to Kaza via Kunzum Pass during summer (June to October). It is a grueling 12-14 hour journey
- Kaza to Keylong: There is a bus from Kaza to Manali that stops at Gramphu. From Gramphu, you can take another bus to Keylong
- Keylong/Manali to Leh: HPTDC runs a deluxe bus service from Manali to Leh with a night halt at Keylong. Fare is around Rs 3,000 including dinner and breakfast
- Within Ladakh: LSRTC local buses connect Leh to Nubra (Diskit), Pangong Tso (Spangmik), and other areas, but frequency is limited
If you plan to make this trip by public transport, add at least 3-5 extra days to the itinerary for waiting time and connections. Bus schedules may vary seasonally, so verify with HRTC/HPMC before travel. Shared taxis are another option, especially within Ladakh, where they are easily available from Leh.
Related Reading
- Most Common Spiti Valley Itinerary
- Most Common Itinerary for Leh Ladakh by Road
- Leh Ladakh Itinerary by Air (7-9 Days)
- How to Plan a Journey on Manali – Leh Highway
- 5 Reasons to Choose Srinagar – Leh Road Over Manali – Leh Road
- List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh
- List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley
Conclusion
I hope this itinerary for Spiti Valley and Leh Ladakh together will be useful for travelers planning this combined trip for the first time. It is one of the most rewarding road trips you can do in India, and with the right number of days and some basic planning, it is very much doable. Just remember to respect the altitude, keep buffer days, and do not rush through the journey. After all, the details lie in the journey and not in the destination 🙂 …
I look forward to any queries, doubts, or valuable suggestions you have and would love to discuss your custom plan as well in the comments section. If you plan to customize or make any deviation from the above plan, feel free to ask, and in case you know a friend who is interested in such a plan, feel free to share the article with them.
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If you know your friends or family are planning a trip from Spiti Valley to Ladakh, do share this article with them to help them make a memorable adventure road trip. For other details about traveling over this adventure trip, discussions, queries, and finding travel partners, please go through the DwD Community. You can also check the DoW Travel Calendar from the link in the Main Menu of the website 🙂 …
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a trip to Spiti and Ladakh together?
Yes, you can make a trip to Spiti and Ladakh together. However, you need at least 16 days for a comfortable trip covering both regions from Manali side. Both Spiti Valley and Ladakh require a decent number of days individually, so combining them means you need more days at hand. If you are short on time, it is better to do one at a time rather than rushing through both.
How to travel from Spiti to Ladakh?
You can travel from Spiti to Ladakh by going from Kaza to Manali – Leh Highway via Kunzum Pass, Batal, Gramphu, and Keylong. From Keylong/Jispa, you take the Manali – Leh Highway northward to Leh. The other route options include entering Spiti via Kinnaur (Shimla side) and exiting from Manali side towards Leh, or reversing the entire circuit by starting from Srinagar.
Which one to choose: Spiti Valley or Leh Ladakh?
Both places have amazing natural beauty, warm hospitality, and Buddhist culture. If you have 7-10 days and want a more raw, less touristy experience, go for Spiti. If you have 10-15 days and want diverse landscapes (lakes, valleys, monasteries, sand dunes), Ladakh is the pick. If you have 16+ days, do both together using this itinerary. The choice also depends on your budget, group size, and time of travel.
Can I travel from Leh to Spiti Valley by bus?
You can take the HRTC bus from Leh to Keylong in Lahaul Valley, and then there is a daily bus from Keylong to Kaza during the summer season when the road from Keylong to Kaza via Kunzum Pass is open. The Leh to Keylong journey takes one full day, and Keylong to Kaza takes another day. Plan for at least 2 days of bus travel with an overnight halt at Keylong. Schedules may vary seasonally, so verify with HRTC before travel.
Is it safe to drive from Spiti Valley to Ladakh?
Yes, it is safe if you are well-prepared and drive carefully. The main risks are Acute Mountain Sickness (acclimatize properly and do not rush altitude gain), water crossings between Batal and Gramphu (especially in early season), and unpredictable weather at high passes. Carry basic medicines, sufficient fuel, warm clothing, and always inform someone about your route. Drive during daylight hours only, and avoid driving in bad weather.
Do I need a Rohtang Pass permit for this trip?
No, if you are using the Atal Tunnel (which this itinerary recommends), you do not need a Rohtang Pass permit. The Rohtang permit is only required to drive over the old Rohtang Pass road. Since the Atal Tunnel directly connects Manali to Lahaul Valley, you bypass Rohtang Pass entirely. This has simplified the logistics of this trip significantly since the tunnel opened in 2020.
What is the best month for Spiti to Ladakh trip?
July end to September is the best window for this combined trip. By late July, most water crossings on the Batal – Gramphu stretch settle down, and the Manali – Leh Highway is well-maintained. September offers clear skies, golden landscapes, and fewer tourists. Avoid early June as water crossings can be dangerous due to snowmelt, and the roads may not be fully repaired.
Can I do this trip with a sedan or hatchback?
I would not recommend it, especially for the Batal to Gramphu stretch which has water crossings and rough terrain. A SUV or 4X4 with good ground clearance is the right vehicle for this route. If a sedan is your only option, you can consider entering Spiti via the Kinnaur route (Shimla – Narkanda – Reckong Peo – Kaza) which is a proper tarmac road for most of the way, and then exit towards Manali – Leh Highway.
84 Comments
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Hi Deeraj,
The itenary suggested by you is wonderful, am totally excited about a completing circuit trip of Chandigarh to Chandigarh, going via a manali and coming back via Jammu. I am planning a trip for 10-12 days. And this is what I had planned as following.
Day 1 – Chandigarh to manali
Day 2- manali to spiti valley
Day 2-3 : wanna spend in spiti valley,
Day 4: hoping to drive from spiti to leh, planned as google says 540km 13hrs drive. So planning to spend the night at leh
Day 5: travel to neubra valley
Day 6: neubra to pangong lake
Day 7: pangong to leh
Day 8: leh to Srinagar
Day 9: Srinagar to Jammu
Day 10: Jammu to Chandigarh.
Have kept 2 day’s buffer just in case required.
My main concern is how safe it would be to drive from spiti to leh considering that it would be only 2 of us, me and my mother.
Would be very kind of you if you can guide us and suggest if any changes needs to be made.
Actually I am coming from bangalore on 22 by flight and land in Chandigarh at 7.40am and planning to fly back on 2nd sept.
Planning to take zoom car from Chandigarh. Hope that should not be a hindrance for me to execute this road trip.
Hi dheeraj, great info here….i just wanted to ask . ..which is better..to do spiti valley first or. Leh ladakh first and then spiti…plan is to cover leh and spiti both through public transport mainly….
I am confused between covering spiti valley first or leh ladakh ..with entry from manali side..TIA
Nitin, I will suggest that you start with Spiti Valley first and then cover Ladakh. It will help you keep motivated and see bigger things like bigger mountains, bigger lakes later 😀
Hi Dheeraj,
I’m planning a trip to Ladakh in first week of October starting from Delhi then going to Jammu-Srinagar-Leh-Keylong-Manali and back to Delhi but I also want to cover Spiti Valley in this trip itself so coming from Leh side which route should I take exactly.
And after seeing Spiti Valley can I cover Shimla, Kullu and Kufri too, I’ve 1 month of time in hand.
Hi Talha,
I will suggest you to start from Manali side so that Manali – Leh can be done early in the OCtober as possible. Then come from Srinagar side to Manali and go to Spiti Valley and exit from Shimla side.
Thanks for your valuable suggestion and I really appreciate your informative articles.
Actually I’ve been to Ladakh in October 2015 but this time I wanted to complete the full circuit including Spiti Valley but I have also read your other article in which you suggested not to visit Spiti Valley in October so even this time I’m going to skip Spiti and will look forward to complete the circuit starting from Srinagar side as I’ve to take my friends from there.
Regarding Spiti Valley I’ll try covering it in my future trip to Dalhousie and Khajjar and then from there going to Manali then Spiti Valley and returning from Shimla side, one advantage I’ll get in returning from Shimla side is that rather than going to Delhi I’ll head towards Paonta Sahib and then from there to Mussoorie and Dehradun and via Haridwar-Najibabad to finally my home in Moradabad.
Sounds like a plan Talha, do you want to consider including Pangi Valley in it? Like Dalhousie – Sach Pass – Killar – Keylong – Spiti Valley – Kinnaur Valley – Shimla?
hi, Dheeraj it is possible to make our trip from
BHILWARA -CHANDIGARH–MANALI-SPITI-LEH-KARGIL-SRINAGAR-JAMMU-DEHLI
IN 10 DAYS
mr. Dheeraj…i am from bhilwara rajasthan wants to go to manali to leh via spiti and leh to kargil -sri nagar-jammu-dehli bhilwara………….is possible to make it on enfield 350cc in 10 day…..?/
It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.
hey bro it is great to know all about it before we start our trip from Bhilwara to Manali………1000km
from Manali to Qaza …………
from Qaza to Leh….without coming back to manali side
from Leh to SRinagar………..
fron Srinagar to jammu
from jammu to Dehli……………
from dehli to bhilwara
how many day at list we must have for this trip bro…?????
may you have any contact to make it
we are about to leave from bhilwara within two days please
guide or way to do it Mr. Dheerij……..
also i need to know the way from Manali to kaza to leh in map if you may prowide us it will be great to know………………….
thanking you for your great response on my curiosity..
we are looking forward your going to start it…………..
pawan parashar and team
Hi Pawan
You cannot do such a trip and is not possible. Extend the days to 9 days and Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for such an amazing and detailed itinerary. I have a question related to self driven cars ban in ladakh.
1. Can we use self driven cars (zoom car) to visit spiti valley from Shimla or Manali both?
2. In ladakh till what location can we take self driven cars without any issues I. E. Interference of locals?
Also we are planning to start our trip on 28th July or 4th August, so will there be any problems at this time travelling to spiti valley and ladakh?
We will be bringing our tents with us and will camp near villages, any tips that you want to give us?
Thanks a lot !!!
Majid Ansari
Hi Majid,
1. Yes, self driven rental cars can be used in Spiti Valley
2. You can take self driven rental car to Leh and come back from Leh. After reaching Leh, you have to rent a local taxi for further sightseeing in Ladakh
Regarding camping, please read: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley
Thanks a lot Dheeraj..
About the dates, will there be any problems if we travel at that time?
Thanks
Well, It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains, though rains does reach Ladakh now but to minimum and mostly it might remains overcast conditions. There is no thumb rule of certainty about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …
Please refer the link in our community: FAQ | Is Monsoon season good time to travel to Ladakh? for more details.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks Dheeraj for the awesome itineraries. Even though I havent been on any one yet, I still like to read it for the love of Himalayas and India as I have been living outside India for last 4 years. I was looking to do this whole route & I came across this luckily.
Being Outside, I am not able to gather much info or form any groups to travel. I may find bike trips online from
Chandigarh- Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Chnadigarh but none of offer Chandigarh-Srinagar-Leh-Spiti-Lahaul-Chandigarh or whole circuit as you suggested.
Are there any tour operators that provide a bike trip to this route.
Thank You for the awesome work and the knowledge you provide for the Mecca of riders.
-Rikin
Thank you for kind words Rikin !!
Well, nowadays I am partially in your boat only, read more and less travel being in US for about a year 😉 … You will not find any tour operators doing this whole trip. How about riding solo and tag along in the groups? Also, you can find some people entries in Travel Calendar from the main menu to look for them.
Hi, Dheeraj.
So I was thinking to travel in reverse manner i.e, from Srinagar-Leh-Manali including spiti so could you please suggest me an itinerary for this trip I’m so confused.
Thank you.
Rahul, you can easily reverse the above plan and fit the same. You can post it here and I will be happy to review it. If you still are unable to do it, I will help you out.
Hi
This is the present road status –
Shimla Kaza Road Status 2017 : Open
Manali Kaza Road Status 2017 : Closed
Manali Keylong Road Status 2017: Closed
Rohtang Pass Status 2017: Open
Sach Pass Status 2017: Closed
Kunzum Pass Status 2017: Closed
Chandratal Status 2017: Closed
Expected Manali to Kaza road Opening time 2017: June End
Expected Chandratal opening time 2017: June End
Expected Sach Pass opening time 2017 – June second week
Expected Rohtang Pass Opening date 2017 – Open
Expected Manali Leh Highway opening time 2017 – May 25th
Expected Srinagar Leh Highway Opening Date 2017 – May 15th
Update May 1st: A fresh snowfall around Manali saw the snow clearing work coming to a stand still. Rohtang pass received around 30 cm of snow and locals were turned back from both Manali and Kokhsar side to avoid any incidents. Kunzum Pass this year received way more snow than usual. As per a latest report from BRO, snow at some places is over 70 ft deep. The Batal Gramphoo stretch is badly damaged and the entire Manali to Kaza stretch is not expected to open any sooner than June end.
Thank you Sachin for posting the updates. Rohtang Pass is only open for locals, not for tourists. We will change the status once it opens for tourists.
Hi,
Is it possible to consider doing this or reverse during those 15-16 days..?
Will this itinerary solve the problem of closure of manali – kaza road ?
21st may – 4th June 2017
Day 1. Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2. Narkanda – Sangla
Day 3. Sangla – Tabo
Day 4. Tabo- Kaza
Day 5. Kaza
Day 6. Kaza – Batal
Day 7. Batal- Keylong
Day 8. Keylong – Sarchu
Day 9. Sarchu – Pangong
Day 10. Pangong – Nubra
Day 11. Nubra – Leh
Day 12. Leh
Day 13. Leh – Kargil
Day 14. Kargil – Srinagar
Day 15. Srinagar – Jammu
Day 16. Jammu- Delhi
Depending on present road conditions on sx4 ( ground clearance 180) ?
Well, reversing the plan may give a slight hope at least that Manali – Leh Highway gets open by the time you hit Manali – Leh Highway. However, the opening of Manali – Kaza road is very optimistic in end of May or early June.
Thank you for your suggestions, vl reconsider my plans.
Hi dheeraj, congratulations and thanks for such wonderful work.
Pls suggest a 15 days (21st may – 4th June 2017) self drive day wise trip plan from delhi, covering lahaul spiti and leh ladakh combined,preferably starting from kinnaur side, not missing out on the list of must sees.
Delhi – shimla – lahaul spiti – leh ladakh – manali – delhi.
Hi Dr. Sachin,
The roads to Ladakh will not be open during that time or may have just opened through Manali – Leh Highway by the time you reach there. However, the road from Kaza to Manali – Leh Highway will not be open as it will open in June. In case you wish to travel by road to these places, you will have to postpone the trip by at least couple of weeks if not three weeks and hope Manali – Kaza road gets open by that time.
Dear
Should I include sach pass here or d route u mentioned is enough??? Is it worth enough to add sach pass??? And what will be the approximate budget required for whole circuit of Spiti and Leh for 15 days which includes average stay ( not too bad or not too expensive) .
I will says with just 15 days in hand, exclude Sach Pass for now. You should keep about 900-1200 per day for food + stay on an average in the entire route with average stays. Rest is your fuel.
Thank you Dheeraj. You being a real admirer for all of us who’s looking to explore the himalayas. Hope once in life time looking forward to meet u up in person mostly some where around in himalayas itself Cheers and thank you so much once again. Will get back to you for any other expertise advice.
Thank you Firaz, sure, gods will we may meet on the highway in Himalayas !! Feel free to post any question you may have for your trip to Ladakh or Spiti.
Hi Dheeraj
Would like it know that is this litinery is safe for a solo drive?? I mean if I plan a drive on my own car to spiti and Leh alone will it be safe or will I land up in trouble??? What’s ur expertise view???
Firaz, well, there will be 1000s of other fellow travellers too on those routes and you may wish to join or tag along with them in any case I will say. Having said that, every year 1000s of people do the solo ride or drive to Ladakh and Spiti Valley, so I don’t think there shall be any issues.
Thanks for the prompt reply. As I asked u earlier July 2nd week will be a gud time do d whole circuit alone by drive??? Whether manali will have snow on those time ???
Yes July is a good time to travel to Manali, Spiti Valley and Ladakh. Regarding snow, you will only find that on high mountains passes including Baralacha La pass.
Dear
I would like to follow up this plan to visit Spity and Leh by own car as am accompanied with one of my friend. But got some doubts as 1. July 10 to July 25th is the planned date Can we find good amount of snow at rothang pass and places we travel. Other option for this trip is May 5th to May 20th. Is it possible???? As we can’t make in the month of June as it is ramzan month for us. Please give us your valuable suggestions
Firaz, I replied to your other comment.
Hi Dheeraj,
Respect and thankfulness from the traveller community, this site had become my Bhagwad Gita for my trips to the Cold Deserts in 2015.
With the same belief, support from the Gita, this time though, in May 2017, We plan to sel drive from Mumbai with family (Brother, wife and a 12 year old), while including Zanskar & Dha Valleys as well as doing Spiti Valley, all which I missed last time, due to time crunch.
We are 2 drivers and plan to enjoy every bit of the circuit to the fullest, God forbidding, leaving none (except Chumathang) for the next time.
Please suggest of this itinerary if doable / to cut short / to give time, at places.
(A day is separated by #*#).
#*# Srinagar – Kargil #*# Kargil – Zanskar #*# Zanskar #*# Zanskar – Kargil #*# Kargil – Dha – Lamayuru #*# Lamayuru – Leh #*# Leh #*# Leh Local + Permit #*# Leh Monastery tour #*# Leh – Turtuk (Tyakshi) #*# Turtuk – Panamik #*# Panamik – Spangmik (Via Agham) #*# Spangmik – Chushul – Hanle #*# Hanle – Korzok #*# Korzok – Debring – Leh (Wife and Child depart) #*# Leh – Jispa #*# ONWARDS REQUIRE HELP –>> Jispa – Gramphu – Chandratal #*# Chandratal – Kunzum – Losar – Kaza #*# Kaza – Kibber – Tabo #*# Tabo – Pin Valley – Kaza #*# Kaza – Rohtang – Manali
Thanks in Advance… CHEERS !!
Hello Himanshu,
Well, the plan is doable but hectic I will say. I will highly recommend that you add one day in Zanskar Valley and do Kargil – Padum, Padum Rest Day, Padum – Rangdum, Rangdum – Kargil. Rest is OK.
Add one day in Kaza as well to do Langza, Hikkim, Komik. Must do. Rest is fine.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
N wht abt finding snow on Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway? Which route opens early N blocks later?
Snow is available only at Zojila pass on Srinagar – Kargil – Leh Highway and that too when the highway opens up in late April or early May. This is the route that opens early and remains open almost up to November.
Which is the best time to visit Leh via Manali side…. so that I can enjoy full snow on the route. I visited Leh in September this year but did’nt find snow on roadsides. I wanna see ice walls on roadsides.
That will be late May or early June as soon as the road to Ladakh opens. You have to be flexible with your leave plan.
Hi Dheeraj,
Guide me with the below Itinerary and guide me with the approximate total expense of the travel as per you.
14TH September – 29TH September SPITI LADAKH TRIP
14TH SEPT / DAY 1 / MUMBAI – CHANDIGARH – KAZA
MUMBAI TO CHANDIGARH
REACH CHANDIGARH AT 11.30
CHANDIGARH TO SPITI CAR RENTAL / 13 HRS JOURNEY
NIGHT AT HOTEL IN KAZA
15TH SEPT / DAY 2 / KAZA – PIN VALLEY – DHANGKAR LAKE – TABO – KAZA
KAZA TO TABO 49KM ***** TOTAL 100KM RUN *****
Traverse the Pin Valley | Kungri – Sagnam – Mud – Tailing
Visit Dhangkar Monastery and Dhangkar Lake and leave after early lunch
Enjoy the magnificent vistas all day
About 5 – 6 Hrs of drive in the day
Overnight at KAZA
16TH SEPT / DAY 3 / KAZA – KEY – KIBBER – GETTE – TASHIGANG – KAZA
KAZA TO KEY – 12KM
KEY TO KIBBER – 8KM
KIBBER TO GETTE – 11KM
GETTE TO KEE TO TASHIGONG – 6KM
TASHIGONG TO KAZA – 32KM
• OVERNIGHT AT KAZA
17TH SEPT / DAY 4 / KAZA – HIKKIM – KOMIC – LANGZA – RANGRIK – LOSAR
KAZA TO HIKKIM – 15.5KM
HIKKIM TO KOMIC – 3.5KM
KOMIC TO LANGZA – 10KM
LANGZA – RANGRIK – 18KM
RANGRIK TO LOSAR NOMADS COTTAGE – 50KM
Great view of Chau Chau Kang Nelda peak from Langza
Statue of the Buddha near Langza looking down the valley
Tanggyud monastery at Komik, is one of the most important and the highest monastery in the Spiti Valley
NIGHT AT LOSAR , NOMADS COTTAGE
18TH SEPT / DAY 5 / LOSAR – KUNZUM PASS – CHANDRATAAL / BATAL – GRAMPHU – KEYLONG – JISPA
LOSAR TO KUNZUM PASS 18KM
KUMNZUM TO BATAL 12.6KM
BATAL TO GRAMPHU – 49KM
GRAMPHU TO KEYLONG – 50KM
KEYLONG TO JISPA – 23KM
Head towards Keylong / Jispa in the direction of Leh
About 9-10 Hrs drive easily if you do not get messed up Rohtang Pass
Overnight at JISPA Hotel Ibex / Hotel Jispa
19TH SEPT / DAY 6 / JISPA – BARALACHA-LA – LEH
JISPA TO BARALACHA–LA – 53KM
BARALACHA-LA TO KARZOK – 251KM
• Overnight at KARZOK
20TH SEPT / DAY 7 / TSO MORIRI – KARZOK
KARZOK TO TSO MORIRI – 30KM
• OVER NIGHT AT KARZOK
21ST SEPT / DAY 8 / KARZOK -TSO KAR – DEBRING – SPANGMIK
KARZOK TO TSO KAR – 88KM
TSO KAR TO DEBRING – 31KM
DEBRING TO SPANGMIK – 212 KM (VIA KEYLONG – LEH ROAD )
• OVER NIGHT AT SPANGMIK
22ND SEPT / DAY 9 / SPANGMIK – LUKUNG
LEISURE TIME AT PANGONG LAKE AND EXPLORE NEAR BY PLACES
• OVER NIGHT AT SPANGMIK
23RD SEPT / DAY 10 / SPANGIK – HEMIS – THIKSEY – SHEY – LEH
SPANGMIK TO HEMIS – 132KM
HEMIS TO THIKSEY – 26KM
THIKSEY TO SHEY – 10KM
SHEY – LEH 15 KM
• OVER NIGHT AT LEH
24TH SEPT / DAY 11 / LEH – NUBRA VALLEY
LEH TO NUBRA VALLEY – 160KM
PANAMIK TO HUNDER – 65KM
• KHARDUNG – SUMUR – PANAMIK – NUBRA
• OVER NIGHT AT HUNDER
25TH SEPT / DAY 12 / HUNDER – TURTUK
HUNDER TO TURTUK – 83KM
• OVERNIGHT AT TURTUK
26TH SEPT / DAY 13 / TURTUK TO LEH
TURTUK TO LEH – 204 KM
• LEH TO SPITUK
• OVERNIGHT AT LEH
27TH SEPT / DAY 14 / LEH TO LAMAYURU MONASTERY
LEH TO LAMAYURU MONASTERY 108KM
• OVERNIGHT STAY AT LAMAYURU MONASTERY
28TH SEPT / DAY 15 / LAMAYURU TO SURU VALLEY
LAMAYURU MONASTERY TO SURU VALLEY – 194 KM
• OVERNIGHT STAY AT SURU VALLEY
29TH SEPT / DAY 16 / SURU VALLEY – SRINAGAR
SURU VALLEY TO SRINAGAR – 291KM
• OVERNIGHT STAY AT SRINAGAR
30TH SEPT / DAY 17 / SRINAGAR – MUMBAI
FLIGHT FROM SRINAGAR AT 3:30 PM REACH MUMBAI AT 6:30 PM
Hi Soni,
Your itinerary is a bit impractical and since you have 16-17 days in hand, I will suggest you refer: Spiti Valley to Ladakh from Manali – Most Common Itinerary
Hi Dheeraj ,
Please suggest me if the below plan looks good to go . How much will this trip cost approximately as I do not want any packages? Also if anywhere you think that the trip will get stressful then please suggest alternative. Also please share your email address.
14TH September – 29TH September SPITI LADAKH TRIP
14TH SEPT / DAY 1 / MUMBAI – CHANDIGARH – KAZA
MUMBAI TO CHANDIGARH / 6500
REACH CHANDIGARH AT 11.30
CHANDIGARH TO SPITI CAR RENTAL 10500 / 13 HRS JOURNEY
NIGHT AT HOTEL IN KAZA
15TH SEPT / DAY 2 / KAZA – PIN VALLEY – DHANGKAR LAKE – TABO – KAZA
KAZA TO TABO 49KM ***** TOTAL 100KM RUN *****
Traverse the Pin Valley | Kungri – Sagnam – Mud – Tailing
Visit Dhangkar Monastery and Dhangkar Lake and leave after early lunch
Enjoy the magnificent vistas all day
About 5 – 6 Hrs of drive in the day
Overnight at KAZA
16TH SEPT / DAY 3 / KAZA – KEY – KIBBER – GETTE – TASHIGANG – KAZA
KAZA TO KEY – 12KM
KEY TO KIBBER – 8KM
KIBBER TO GETTE – 11KM
GETTE TO KEE TO TASHIGONG – 6KM
TASHIGONG TO KAZA – 32KM
• OVERNIGHT AT KAZA
17TH SEPT / DAY 4 / KAZA – HIKKIM – KOMIC – LANGZA – RANGRIK – LOSAR
KAZA TO HIKKIM – 15.5KM
HIKKIM TO KOMIC – 3.5KM
KOMIC TO LANGZA – 10KM
LANGZA – RANGRIK – 18KM
RANGRIK TO LOSAR NOMADS COTTAGE – 50KM
Great view of Chau Chau Kang Nelda peak from Langza
Statue of the Buddha near Langza looking down the valley
Tanggyud monastery at Komik, is one of the most important and the highest monastery in the Spiti Valley
NIGHT AT LOSAR , NOMADS COTTAGE
18TH SEPT / DAY 5 / LOSAR – KUNZUM PASS – CHANDRATAAL / BATAL – GRAMPHU – KEYLONG – JISPA
LOSAR TO KUNZUM PASS 18KM
KUMNZUM TO BATAL 12.6KM
BATAL TO GRAMPHU – 49KM
GRAMPHU TO KEYLONG – 50KM
KEYLONG TO JISPA – 23KM
Head towards Keylong / Jispa in the direction of Leh
About 9-10 Hrs drive easily if you do not get messed up Rohtang Pass
Overnight at JISPA Hotel Ibex / Hotel Jispa
19TH SEPT / DAY 6 / JISPA – BARALACHA-LA – LEH
JISPA TO BARALACHA–LA – 53KM
BARALACHA-LA TO TSO MORIRI – 261KM
• Overnight at TSO MORIRI
20TH SEPT / DAY 7 / TSO MORIRI – KARZOK – TSOKAR – DEBRING – TSO KAR
TSO MORIRI TO KARZOK – 30KM
KARZOK TO TSO KAR – 88KM
• OVER NIGHT AT TSO KAR
21ST SEPT / DAY 8 / TSO KAR – DEBRING – SPANGMIK
TSO KAR TO DEBRING – 31KM
DEBRING TO SPANGMIK – 212 KM (VIA KEYLONG – LEH ROAD )
• OVER NIGHT AT SPANGMIK
22ND SEPT / DAY 9 / SPANGMIK – LUKUNG
LEISURE TIME AT PANGONG LAKE AND EXPLORE NEAR BY PLACES
23RD SEPT / DAY 10 / SPANGIK – HEMIS – THIKSEY – SHEY – LEH
SPANGMIK TO HEMIS – 132KM
HEMIS TO THIKSEY – 26KM
THIKSEY TO SHEY – 10KM
SHEY – LEH 15 KM
• OVER NIGHT AT LEH
24TH SEPT / DAY 11 / LEH – NUBRA VALLEY
LEH TO NUBRA VALLEY – 160KM
PANAMIK TO HUNDER – 65KM
• KHARDUNG – SUMUR – PANAMIK – NUBRA
• OVER NIGHT AT HUNDER
25TH SEPT / DAY 12 / HUNDER – TURTUK
HUNDER TO TURTUK – 83KM
• OVERNIGHT AT TURTUK
26TH SEPT / DAY 13 / TURTUK TO LEH
TURTUK TO LEH – 204 KM
• LEH TO SPITUK
• OVERNIGHT AT LEH
27TH SEPT / DAY 14 / LEH TO LAMAYURU MONASTERY
LEH TO LAMAYURU MONASTERY 108KM
• OVERNIGHT STAY AT LAMAYURU MONASTERY
28TH SEPT / DAY 15 / LAMAYURU TO SURU VALLEY
LAMAYURU MONASTERY TO SURU VALLEY – 194 KM
• OVERNIGHT STAY AT SURU VALLEY
29TH SEPT / DAY 16 / SURU VALLEY – SRINAGAR
SURU VALLEY TO SRINAGAR – 291KM
• OVERNIGHT STAY AT SRINAGAR
30TH SEPT / DAY 17 / SRINAGAR – MUMBAI
FLIGHT FROM SRINAGAR AT 3:30 PM REACH MUMBAI AT 6:30 PM
???????????????
Replied to your other comment.
Hi Dheeraj, Could you tell me if it would be comfortable to travel to Spiti Valley in September, between 17-27 / 2016 !?
I plan to go from Delhi – Manali and back from same route.
Could you guide on the Itinerary to follow !!!
Hi Renu,
Yes, that will be a great time to visit Spiti Valley. Fabulous vivid colors of nature along with ultra delicious apples all around in Spiti 🙂
Day 01 : Reach Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley as preferred for acclimatization
Day 02 : Manali / Solang – Kaza
Day 03 : Kaza – Lingti Valley (Lhalung) – Tabo
Day 04 : Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley
Day 05 : Pin Valley(Mud) – Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Kaza
— Start a trekking tour in Spiti for its most beautiful villages, it is motorable so you can go up there by car and then start day treks in between these villages. Awesome way to soak in the beauty of trans Himalayas.
Day 06 : Kaza – Langza – Komic – Hikkim – Demul – Kaza | Villages trek (Stay at Langza)
Day 07 : Kaza – Langza – Komic – Hikkim – Demul – Kaza | Villages trek (Stay at Komic)
Day 08 : Kaza – Langza – Komic – Hikkim – Demul – Kaza | Villages trek (Stay at Demul)
— End tour
Day 09 : Kaza – Chandratal
Day 10 : Chandratal – Manali
Day 11 : Manali – Delhi
Thank you so much Dheeraj. Do you think I could cover up in 9 days as well. In that case, what should I skip.
And would you be able to tell me decent accomodations and transport contacts if any.
I would be travelling solo.
Any other tips that you could give, I would really appreciate !!
And do you organize tours as well by yourself !?
Renu we do not organize and tours and beware of people who are doing with our name or similar name like us. 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. You can keep an average of 900-1200 per person per day for food and stay on the tour to Spiti Valley.
Hi Dheeraj,
First of all, your blog is a gem and I cannot thank you enough for compiling and putting this together for fellow travelers. I am planning to undertake the Manali -> Spiti -> Leh journey as suggested on this page. I have some questions regarding stays and transport options, which will be really helpful if answered. Here is my plan:
I plan to start the trip from Delhi on Monday/Aug 1 from Delhi and we are two guys/students on a shoestring budget. We would love wherever things can be done on shared taxis or public buses, as we are only 2 guys and we dont prefer not to book a full taxi for ourselves. I have marked my questions with **.
> Day 1: Aug 2| Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
Overnight at Manali on Aug 2
> Day 2: Aug 3| Manali / Solang Valley – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass – Kaza
Overnight at Kaza on Aug 3
** What are the stay options at Kaza? Could you please share any contact details of some cheap and good hotels/homestays/guest houses? Is prior booking needed for this coming week or we can just drop by at Kaza?
** What are the transport options from Manali to Kaza? Are there buses or options for shared taxis which will drop us at Kaza (and then we book another mode for rest of the days?) or maybe take a taxi for the Spiti trip only [till Day 7 till dropping us at Leh OR till Day 6 till dropping us at Keylong/Jispa]? What will be the cheapest option to pursue?
> Day 3: Aug 4 | Kaza – Pin Valley (Mud Village) – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Tabo
Overnight at Tabo on Aug 4
** What are the stay options at Tabo? Could you please share any contact details of some cheap and good hotels/homestays/guest houses? Is prior booking needed for this coming week or we can just drop by at Tabo?
** Again, what are the best options for travel if we don’t have our own cars/transport?
> Day 4: Aug 5 | Tabo to Kaza and then Ki – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang – Kaza
Travel back the 47 KMs to Kaza from Tabo and in second half do sightseeing
Overnight at Kaza on Aug 5
> Day 5: Aug 6 | Kaza – Hikkim – Komik – Langza – Rangrik – Losar – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal / Battal
We plan to stay at Chandratal
** Again, what will be the best travel options from Kaza to Chandratal and back?
** Could you please share any contact details of the camp organizers at Chandratal? Is prior booking needed?
Overnight at Battal or Chandratal Camps on Aug 6
> Day 6: Aug 7 | Battal / Chandratal – Gramphu – Keylong/Jispa
Head towards Keylong / Jispa in the direction of Leh
Overnight at Keylong/Jispa on Aug 7
Possible options:
• Nalwa Guest House, Keylong
• Jispa Journeys, Jispa
• Padma Lodge, Jispa
** Could you please suggest whether to stay in Keylong or Jispa, based on the mode of transport you suggest for the Spiti Valley journey since we will come from Chandratal?
** Is there option for shared taxis dropping us at Keylong after Spiti and we taking public transport from Keylong to Leh?
> Day 7: Aug 8 | Keylong/Jispa – Baralacha La – Leh
Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that we reach Leh in the evening
Overnight at Leh on Aug 8
> Day 8: Aug 9 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Rest
Overnight at Leh on Aug 9
> Day 9: Aug 10 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
Overnight at Hunder / Diskit / Sumur / Turtuk on Aug 10
** Among the villages of Diskit, Hunder, Sumur and Turtuk, which will be the most scenic, less touristy, offbeat as well as cheap? We would prefer a less crowded place (Diskit?), however a more scenic and beautiful place to stay?
** Depending on the village you suggest, which guesthouse/stay option will you suggest? We will be fine with anything Day 10: Aug 11 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Overnight at Leh on Aug 11
> Day 11: Aug 12 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung) on Aug 12
Possible options:
• Padma / Gongma / Sasoma Guest House – Home Stays at Spangmik
• Tangste (Rs 1000 – 1500): Dothguling Guest house or Yakmik Changla Guest House
** We would love to stay next to the lake and will be ok with cheaper tents if not luxury ones, if nothing works, maybe we will work out a home stay. The tents listed by you are most 3-4K, are there options to have cheap tents next to the lake? Are we allowed to put our own tents there?
** If we stay in the Home Stays at Spangmik, how far is the lake from there?
** If we stay in Tangste, how far is the lake from there?
> Day 12: Aug 13 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
Overnight at Leh on Aug 13
> Day 13: Aug 14 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri on Aug 14
• Tsomoriri Camp and Resort Tso Moriri, Korzok (2.5-3K)
• Goose Homestay Tso Moriri Lake (Rs 700 – 1000) – Korzok Village
• Lake View Guest House – Tso Moriri, Korzok – 01982-264867
** Could you please suggest if we should pre-book one of the camps or drop by there and see?
** What is your suggestion to balance the price and view (next to the lake)? Are the views from tents worth the extra money? Or is better to spend more for tents in Pangong Tso than here?
** How far is the Goose Homestay from the lake? Is the lake clearly visible?
> Day 14: Aug 15 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
Overnight at Leh on Aug 15
> Day 15: Aug 16 | Leh – Sham Valley (Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib)
Overnight at at Leh on Aug 16
> Day 16: Aug 17 | Leh
Overnight at at Leh/Rest/Buffer
> Day 17: Aug 18 | Flight to New Delhi
I would be extremely grateful if you answer my questions, specifically about the travel options we can pursue to minimize cost for the Spiti portion and the stay options.
Also, please fell free to suggest any changes where you feel its getting too hectic or too dangerous.
Hi Biswaraj,
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.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
Then you can read: How to make a budget Ladakh trip by public transport
The shared taxis are available all through in Spiti and also Spiti is well connected all through the circuit from Manali to Kaza, Kaza to Keylong. Keylong to Leh and rest of Ladakh I have covered in the article linked above
Hi Dheeraj,
Good Morning…
Thanks for the Itinerary on Spiti Valley..
Two Queries:-
1. Do you have a ready-made Lahaul & Spiti combined itinerary with entry from Shimla and Exit from Manali.
2. Can you suggest a Car-Owner/driver “at-par of Rigzin of Leh” ( I travelled with Rigzin for 14 days in Ladakh last year) on whom i can launch my aspiration of Lahaul & Spiti Travel ?
Thanks in advance for your time to respond on my queries.
Best Regards,
Kuntal
Hi Kuntal,
1. Here you go: Spiti Valley | Most Common Itinerary
2. Personally I have never used taxi in Spiti and has always driven myself. But, 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
Hi
Hi,
With the help of your post, I have prepared for following plan for Spiti – Leh.
Travel Mode : EcoSport
30.7.2016 – Start from Mumbai
31.7.2016 Mumbai – Shimla journey
1.8.2016 Reach Shimla
2.8.2016 Narkanda – Chitkul – Approx. 200 km (Google map)
• lunch at Rampur
• About 8 – 9 Hrs of beautiful drive through Kinnaur Valley
• Overnight at Chitkul
3.8.2016 Chitkul – Tabo – Approx. 200 km
• Visit Kamru Fort at Sangla
• Check Out Khab, Confluence of Spiti and Satluj Rivers
• See the Leo Purygal Peak from Khab Bridge
• Have your lunch at Nako Lake
• Meet the dreaded Malling Nalla ahead of Nako
• After Chango – Sumdo you will enter Spiti Valley.
• After Sumdo police registration, detour towards Geyu Village to visit the 500 Year old Mummy
4.8.2016 Tabo – Pin valley – Kaza – Approx. 150 kms
• Visit Dhankar Monastery and Dhankar Lake
• Traverse the Pin Valley
• Visit Ki – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang
5.8.2016 Kaza – Hikkim – Komik – Langza – Losar
• Great view of Chau Chau Kang Nelda peak from Langza
• Statue of the Buddha near Langza looking down the valley
• Tanggyud monastery at Komik, is one of the most important and the highest monastery in the Spiti Valley
6.8.2016 Losar – Chandra Taal – Batal – Keylong
• Visit Chandratal via Kunzum Pass
7.8.2016 Leh Journey
Is this doable?
Am I missing anything?
Regards,
Aditya
It is doable Aditya, the only challenge I see is sleeping at Chitkul that early in the trip. You may get hit with AMS, so better plan to stay at Rakcham on that day
Thank you Dheeraj for your quick reply.
I will change my plan to stay at Chitkul.
Best wishes for the trip Aditya !!
Hello Dheeraj,
Brilliant site and write ups. I had read your (5 Reasons to choose Srinagar – Leh Road over Manali – Leh Road) and then this / has actually put me in dilemma. I have only 7-8 days. Me and 2 -3 of my friends were planning for a road trip (Bike / SUV) from Manali to Leh. Since its only a Weeks time. I believe we can make it only 1 Trip Either Srinagar – Leh or Manali – Leh or Leh – Manali. Which one according to you is the best and must do (Apart from Acclimitization factors 😉 ) We will flying in and out of the starting and ending point.
Just wanted to add. We are planning the trip for 2nd Week of September. We are 30 years old and travelling without our wives and So we dont have to ponder much over stay and travel and can take a bit of risk. We will be definitely coming back with our wives for a more leisurely trip. We just want to do the harder/must do part now.
I suppose a peg or 2/smoke wont matter as well 😉 https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/top-9-mistakes-people-commit-ladakh-trip/
Just suggested the plan in other comment. Since, you have already ready the Top 9 mistakes, for other part will leave it at your wisdom to decide 🙂
Thanks Dheeraj. Your points are well noted. I guess taking the Manali to Leh will be better for Acclimatization as well.
But the major problem right now is Hiring a self drive SUV from Manali.
I read your link.
https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/how-to-hire-self-drive-car-on-rent-for-ladakh-himalayas/
But i believe this can be done only from Delhi. We are looking for a Self Drive car to be picked up from Manali. I Googled the hell out and didnt find any feasible Solution in this regard 🙁 . Do let me know if you have a solution.
No Arjun, you can only get a self drive vehicle from Delhi only. Also, Manali to LEh is not better for acclimatization, where did you get that impression?
Read somewhere that …if you land in Leh directly…you would need atleast 2 days to get acclimatized …where as if you are travellling from Manali it would be “better” due to the gradual increase in height during the 2-3 days travel.
If this is wrong then you can enlighten me and add this to your mythbuster list 🙂
Manali – Leh is a highway that runs over ~14000 feet in almost 300 KMs of length. In order to be acclimatized to 14000 feet, you need at least three nights as per rule books. Hence, when anyone travel over Manali – Lhe Highway, he is bound to hit with AMS no matter what, those who claim they dont get hit, well, except those less than 1% god gifted people, others mostly either are not aware of it or they just dont want to accept. So, the worst way of making a trip to Ladakh as per recommendations is going by Manali – Leh, followed by directly flying to Leh where you dont reach such height and with ample of rest it can be controlled, best being traveling from Srinagar and returning from Manali.
Dheeraj appreciate it. Your patience and passion in replying to all the queries over here is…..just……unbelievable…..Keep up the good work. Will follow ur inputs as best as we can :-). Thanks and Godspeed…. :-). See u in d himalayas sometime ind future brother. Cheeerzzzzz
Best wishes for the trip Arjun, have fun !! If possible do share the experience with DwD Community !!
Still searching for a self drive SUV Option….. what ever it is……will update..and try to contribute to this community. 🙂
Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days.
Hi Dheeraj,
Reading your posts itself feels i have traveled the places..:)
Small suggestion is it advice able to go to leh during the dates 13th aug’16 to 28th aug’16??
Will i be able to see snow,since i am too much excited for seeing snow 🙂
Roshni
Roshni, there will not be any snow during that time of the year.
Thanks Dheeraj for your reply!
Just need your help in helping me design plan
1.14th Aug’16-Stay in Manali
15th Aug – Manali to Sarchu
16th Aug – Sarchu – leh
17th Aug – leh
18th Aug – leh – numbra
19th Aug – numbra – Pangong Tso
20th Aug – Pangong Tso – tso moriri
21st Aug – tso moriri – leh
22nd Aug – leh – Kargil
23rd Aug – largil-sonmarg-srinagar
24th Aug – leave to desitination from Srinagr
2.14th Aug’16-Stay in Manali
15th Aug – Manali to tabo/kaza
16th Aug – kaza to sarchu (while covering the important monasatries at max 2)
17th Aug – sarchu – leh
18th Aug – leh
19th Aug – leh – numbra
20th Aug – numbra – Pangong Tso
21st Aug – Pangong Tso – tso moriri
22nd Aug – tso moriri – leh
23rd Aug – leh – Kargil
24th Aug – kargil-sonmarg-srinagar
25th Aug – leave to desitination from Srinagr
Small queries:
1. Which plan is adviceable since we are willing to see spiti valley as well? If not full atleast the important places around spiti valley!
2. We are planning to take the direct routes to ply from numbra-pangong Tso – tso moriri like you had mentioned in your articles
Is it safe to travel in bike(renting it from leh) in those routes during august?
3. In case yes, do we need to get any special permissions for the same?
Thanks in Advance!
Roshni
Awaiting your reply 🙂
Hi.. Nithin here, photographer based out of bangalore. Got to know about DOW while googling. Am having my trip planned from July 10th till 28th in Srinagar. The report is just amazing. I like to ask if we (me n friend) can get a cab from Manali with an experienced driver who knows all the photography- not to miss- places ?
Nithin, you can refer: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/ladakh-zanskar-travel-guides/listof-taxi-drivers-for-ladakh-srinagar-leh-manali-t353.html
It has feedback of people who were patient but finding someone with all photography places might be difficult all you can find one is patient driver who does not get frustrated with frequent stops.
Thanks alot for the quick reply Dheeraj Sharma. Will share my pics and experience with DOW soon after the trip…!
Cheers,
Nidhin GP
Looking forward to it !!
Dear Dheeraj
I am planning to undertake a trip from Chandigarh to Leh in my Honda Jazz in mid JUlY 2016. However, i have but 9 days. is it prudent/possible ?
Thanks
Aadhaar
It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have just 9 days. Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days. You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan
Thanks a lot Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj, reading about your suggestions as how to take a trip by car from Srinagar to Leh was very exciting. I am a senior citizen and your blog has helped me to make up my mind to make the trip with my wife and another couple in 2017.
I hope to take your advice at that time. Thank you.
Dilip
Sure sir, feel free to post any queries you may have for your trip