Situated high up in the trans-Himalayan territory, Spiti Valley, meaning “the middle land,” is a place to travel at least once in a lifetime or maybe for a person like me now and then in a lifetime. You can travel to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur – Shimla route, or you can take the route to Spiti from Manali side.
In this article, I will share with you the complete travel guide of traveling to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur – Spiti route. I will talk about the route, the best time to travel, the general itinerary of the Spiti Valley road trip as well as all other details that you always wanted to know for traveling to Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Spiti Valley via Kinnaur – Shimla | A Complete Guide
Similar to Leh Ladakh, I am quite fond of traveling to Spiti Valley as well. With Leh Ladakh and Spiti Valley, it is not only the terrain and the landscape which are more or less similar to each other, but even the culture has its history attached or co-related by one or the other means. Spiti Valley is a place that can surely leave you spellbound by its charismatic natural beauty. The journey on the road to Spiti Valley is not far behind in decorating the entire Spiti road trip with a more beautiful landscape and the thrill of adventure.
The road to Spiti Valley, commonly known as Hindustan Tibet Highway, is a destination in itself. This road that runs to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur – Shimla is also termed as one of the treacherous or deadliest roads in the world. Hats off to the efforts of BRO for creating such a gem of a road network to the far-flung trans-Himalayan places like Spiti Valley. In this article of my “How to Travel” series, we will talk about how to plan a journey on the road to Spiti Valley or Hindustan Tibet Highway.
How many days does it take to reach Spiti Valley from Kinnaur side?
To visit this picturesque valley of the trans–Himalayan region, you can take a long three-day journey over NH05 running through Shimla – Kinnaur Valley. You can also tread along the path of Manali and then take Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass – Kaza (Spiti Valley) route as well. Hence, it will take you three days to reach Spiti Valley via Kinnaur and two days to reach Spiti from Manali side.
As a practice and to enjoy the route entirely, it is always better to do the complete circuit for the first time. Then, you can keep coming back to Spiti trips from one or the other route and explore more and more places in Spiti Valley which is quite difficult to explore or cover in just one road trip to Spiti.
Is there a problem if I travel to Spiti from the shorter route of Manali?
Sometimes, people traveling or going directly to Spiti Valley or Kaza / Losar from Manali suffer from acute mountain sickness due to the sudden change of altitude with which the body is adapted as Kaza is about 3600 Mtrs high in altitude. However, the route to Spiti Valley from Kinnaur Valley provides a gradual ascent to travelers thus helping them fight any chances of acute mountain sickness (AMS) caused due to high altitudes and letting them enjoy the beautiful vistas in a relaxed manner.
However, when traveling over one of the most adventurous roads of the world that are the Hindustan – Tibet Highway, we all must know about it. Its terrain, the route, and the places that fall on this route, the accommodation, modes of travel, basic amenities on the route, time or season to visit, etc.
This will ensure that you have an unforgettable memory of the trip to Spiti Valley. The journey on the road to Spiti Valley can easily turn into a nightmare if planned incorrectly and can get you in trouble, stranded in the middle of nowhere. In this article of the series, “Comprehensive Travel Guide to Spiti Valley,” I will try to put down all my knowledge for traveling to this road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur.
Do not forget to check the five reasons to travel to Spiti Valley from Shimla side.
Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley via Kinnaur – Shimla
The road to Spiti Valley via Shimla – Kinnaur remains open all around the year barring days of inclement weather and heavy snowfall in Kinnaur & Spiti. However, if you want to travel to Spiti and do the full circuit of exiting Kaza via Manali side, you will have to travel from June to September – October.
September, in general, is one of the best times to visit Spiti Valley from Kinnaur – Shimla side because roads are pretty much dry and landslides of monsoon settle in Kinnaur Valley.
The winter months from December to March may have intermittent road closures as well due to heavy snowfall on the route. April – May, and October – November is when you will find that the roads to Spiti open from Kinnaur side but closed from Manali side.
To get into the details of the month by month guide on traveling to Spiti Valley and understanding what is the best time to visit Spiti via Kinnaur, please check my article on Best Season to Travel on Road to Spiti Valley
Modes of Travel on Road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur
When planning a road trip to Spiti Valley, you have many options. You can plan to self-ride by bike, or you can travel in your car. Unlike Leh Ladakh, there is no restriction of outside commercial vehicles, as well. So, you can self-drive your car or rental cars as well. If you are making a budget trip to Spiti Valley, then public transport is also an option to travel to Spiti via Kinnaur.
Private Vehicles i.e. Cars and Bikes | Self Drive or Ride to Spiti Valley
Most people prefer to self-drive or self-ride to Spiti Valley by their car or own bike, and some also prefer to self-drive or self-ride to Spiti Valley by renting a bike or car. In any case, hired car/bike or personal car/bike, the idea is to live the passion of driving or riding through one of the toughest and adventurous terrains accessible not only in India but the world, i.e., Hindustan – Tibet Highway.
Can I take a rented bike or rented a self-drive car to Spiti Valley?
Unlike Leh Ladakh, where outside rented taxis and rented bikes are not allowed for local sightseeing, in Spiti Valley, you can take your own or rented, car, or bike to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur or Manali. However, one must be careful while driving or riding through slushy roads, snow, and water crossing or nallas that come on the route to Spiti. Also, it is always handy to learn little things about maintenance tasks of your vehicle like fixing a puncture before the start of this arduous road journey to Spiti Valley over Hindustan – Tibet Highway.
What is the best car for Spiti Valley road trip?
Well, there is nothing as such the best car for Spiti Valley road trip. It all depends upon the time you are traveling and your driving skills to travel on such rough roads in the Himalayas. Still, regarding the best-suited cars for the Spiti road trip, an SUV/MUV car with high ground clearance is good to have, and of course, a 4WD SUV will help further in deep water crossings.
However, I have seen hatchbacks (including Altos and Nano) and sedans doing a good enough job on Hindustan – Tibet Highway or in Spiti Valley. If you want to drive your sedan or hatchback to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur, then you must drive with extra care and caution, especially in Kinnaur Valley and the road from Kinnaur to Tabo.
Tips for a bike ride or self-drive trip to Spiti
Given below are some of the important tips for a road trip to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur – Shimla route.
- Whenever you are in doubt, always step out of your car, walk down the path, inspect with your foot and plan the path of exit before crossing a dangerous landslide or water crossing on your vehicle. You can also park aside and see how others are crossing the risky section to plan your route of escape.
- In deep water, crossings try to maintain the momentum without any half clutch measures and complete the entire stretch in one go only.
- Similarly, in slush stretches, do not force the issue rather keep the smooth momentum with the required speed to pass you through, without half clutch measures. Do keep an eye on the direction of the vehicle too.
- If you get stuck in slush, then try to back and forth your vehicles. It will help you get out of the stuck position and use a wooden plank to get out of it.
- It is always handy to ask your fellow co-travelers to get out of the car and push the vehicle from behind, in case, the car is struggling to pass through the slush or water crossing stretch.
- DO NOT forget to help other fellow travelers in need on the route.
Essential things to carry for a self-drive to Spiti
The basic toolkit, screwdriver set, small hammer, puncture repair kit, iron rod, two or three “2 ltr” empty bottles of Pepsi / Coke / Limca, etc. to carry extra petrol or diesel (jerry cans will leak, cold drink bottles do not leak), funnel, towing rope, a spare tube (must for bikes), Elfy or Fevi quick (2-3 sachets), jump-start cables/wires, car inverter, M-seal to prevent leakage, etc. were among the few things which I carry along on my trip to Ladakh or Spiti Valley.
Also, do not forget to get your vehicle (car/bike) serviced about 2-3 weeks before the start of the trans-Himalayan journey. This will ensure that you have proper time in advance to test your serviced vehicle and get fixed any hitches that may have been introduced in that service.
Do not forget to check a 40 MUST-HAVE list of things to pack for a self-drive trip to Spiti Valley.
Hiring a Private Taxi | Taxi Number or Private Number
You can also hire a taxi from Shimla or Chandigarh or Delhi to travel on the road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur Valley. It is always better to hire Xylo or Scorpio, and mostly, the charges range from 3000 to 3500 per day from Shimla depending upon the season of travel, the number of days you will travel, and your bargaining skills. But, if you’re traveling in a group, this might not be that expensive of a proposition.
Better confirm from the driver if he has done the route over Spiti Valley and when was the last time he did go on that route. Many times, drivers from Shimla are good but sometimes they are majorly bogged onto local routes in Himachal Pradesh which are in no comparison to the roads of Trans-Himalayas. So, confirm twice before fixing a deal. Hence, it is best to travel to Shimla and rent a taxi from a known driver who has been to Spiti Valley routes.
You can always get connected with local taxi drivers in this list of taxi drivers in Kinnaur and Spiti Valley.
Further, self-drive cars available in Delhi and Chandigarh are also a great way to travel to Spiti Valley from Delhi. These self-drive cars can easily be booked from your starting location point and sometimes proves less expensive than hiring taxis.
HRTC Bus Service & Shared Taxis| Economical mode of travel
HRTC buses ply buses on Chandigarh – Shimla – Reckong Peo – Kaza route along with some semi-deluxe buses as well. You can always reach Shimla from Delhi or Chandigarh by Volvo buses run by both HRTC and HPTDC departments of Himachal Pradesh.
I do not have much idea about the fare, as soon as I get that, I will update it in this section, but regarding the timings, there is one bus that starts from Chandigarh at 5.45 PM and reach Reckong Peo in the morning by 8 AM. Then, there is one bus that leaves Reckong Peo at 7 AM for Kaza by which you can go to Kaza or get down at Tabo which reaches Tabo around 3 PM.
In between, you can also buy yourself a seat in a shared taxi that runs between various places within Spiti Valley. For example, you can cover Dhangkar Monastery, Pin Valley, Kibber/Ki, Hikkim/Komik, etc. all in shared taxis available from Tabo OR Kaza. Even shared taxis run between Losar and Kaza too.
Check my article on how to plan a budget trip to Spiti Valley via Public Transport?
How to reach Spiti from Kinnaur – Shimla side?
The journey over Shimla to Kinnaur Valley and further to upper Kinnaur and Spiti is a pretty long one. Based on my experience, you can opt to plan a journey on the road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur or Hindustan – Tibet Highway in one of the following ways –
Three Day Trip on Hindustan – Tibet Highway
It is always better to travel the road to Spiti Valley over Hindustan – Tibet Highway in 3 days. Traveling with sufficient time on hand not only eases out the arduous road trip a bit but also helps your body is well acclimatized to the high altitude of Spiti Valley because you ascend gradually within these three days in terms of altitude. The general breakup of night stays to reach Spiti via Kinnaur is like below:
- Day 1: Delhi – Narkanda
- Day 2: Narkanda – Reckong Peo or Kalpa or Sangla
- Day 3: Reckong Peo or Kalpa or Sangla – Nako – Tabo (Spiti)
On Day 1, you can start easily from Delhi and reach Narkanda by evening where you can relax for the rest of the evening and take overnight rest. After the opening of Panchkula to Parwanoo Toll road, also called Himalayan Expressway, it is quite an easy drive except for jams around Shimla town.
The next day, you can start towards the adventurous journey by first getting down to Rampur where you can halt for the lunch at either HPTDC Satluj Cafe or HPTDC Bhushahar Regency. Food is OK and acceptable though not very good.
Once you cross over Bhawanagar then you will start to experience the bad roads throughout Kinnaur Valley. You can plan to stay at Kalpa which is a bit off from the main highway ahead of Reckong Peo but has many comfortable options of stay available. Or else, you can either plan to stay at Sangla Valley too but it will increase the distance to Tabo on the next day. If you are interested in budget accommodation then you can also opt for a stay at Reckong Peo OR Shongtong Village.
Finally, on the third day, you can start towards Spiti Valley to either stay at Tabo or Kaza. I always like to stay at Tabo so that I am least bothered by AMS and spend at least three nights at a lower altitude before venturing to the high altitude of Kaza. Another advantage of staying at Tabo is that you can cover Pin Valley or Dhankar Monastery on the next day (Day 4) while traveling from Tabo to Kaza.
Two Day Journey from Delhi to Kinnaur to Kaza
In case you are short on days and still want to travel the road to Spiti Valley over Hindustan – Tibet Highway, but in two days, then you need to play with your fatigues levels and go for a long winding drive to Kinnaur on the first day itself. The general breakup is like below:
- Day 1: Delhi – Peo/Ribba/Jangi (Almost 15+ Hrs drive/ride)
- Day 2: Peo/Ribba – Tabo
OR, you can also plan like below
- Day 1: Delhi – Rampur / Tapri
- Day 2: Rampur / Tapri – Nako – Chango – Tabo
You can start the day in the evening or night or late night say by 2 AM from Delhi and can continue driving/ride till next evening, which is Day 1 to reach either Peo OR Ribba. Please keep in mind that you need to suffer fatigue, you should be accustomed to such long drives in the mountains, and ready to toil for about 15+ Hrs on the road.
You will reach Reckong Peo, or Ribba/Jangi exhausted enough. Peo has some good budgeted accommodation, and Ribba/Jangi ahead of Peo/Powari has just HP PWD Rest Houses.
Another way is to try to reach Rampur or whatever ahead possible. Stay there and again the next morning leaves early to reach Tabo by nightfall.
Again, this two-day trip is not recommended if you are with family or people who love a relaxing trip rather being just on the roads.
Itinerary for Spiti Trip from Shimla – Kinnaur Side
In the above section, you learned about how to reach Spiti from Shimla – Kinnaur side. However, it does not talk about a detailed day-by-day plan to plan such a trip. I will recommend that if you are not making a circuit trip, then you can follow my itinerary of a trip to Spiti from Shimla – Kinnaur only.
Sightseeing on Road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur
Traveling over this beautiful yet most adventurous road to Spiti Valley along Hindustan – Tibet Highway is sightseeing in itself. However, while traversing over it, there are some fabulous places which you can visit alongside this highway to heaven and name a few,
Shimla, Narkanda (Hatu Peak, Tanijubbar Lake), Daranghaati, Kinnaur Valley (Sarahan, Kalpa, Sangla, Chitkul), Nako Lake, Khab, Shipki La Pass, Mummy at Geyu Village, Moorang Fort etc.
Special thanks to Dhananjay for a couple of amazing routes mentioned below as tips for a pleasant change in case you are repeating the journey some twice or thrice. However, keep in mind that because these are link roads, they will take more time while reaching your destination as compared to a quite wider national highway. But, these new routes can be a retreat from the busy National highway in his words ;).
Anyways, he suggests, you can travel like:
- Look at the ridgeline road option from Narkanda till Sarahan. From Narkanda to Baghi, Khadrala, Sungri, Bahli, Taklech, uphill to Daranghati, down to Mashnu, Kinnu, Gharat and then Sarahan.
- Also from Kalpa, the route to Pangi, Rarang, Jangi and then down to Kiran Khud just three km before Spillo can also be followed to get a different feel on this road trip to Spiti via Kinnaur.
List of Accommodation or Stay Options
Among three of the topmost adventurous roads of India, Hindustan – Tibet Highway or the road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur, is much better than its competitor Manali – Leh Highway in terms of accommodation options it offers.
You can find a decent place to stay within 70 odd km at max on this route from Shimla to Kaza. At some places like beyond Jeori, while going from Shimla, the accommodation options could be a minimal and basic guesthouse or homestay type, including HP PWD Guest Houses widely spread across this tribal belt.
On the other hand, the places like Shimla, Narkanda, Rampur, Reckong Peo, Sangla, Kalpa, etc. do offer a varied amount of accommodation options which may suit the budget for different pockets. So, it is always better to break the journey at Shimla/Narkanda, than in Kinnaur at Kalpa, Peo, or Sangla Valley.
You can check this preferred list of places to stay on Kinnaur and Spiti Valley road trips.
HP PWD Rest Houses – Decent Option of Stay
Apart from private accommodation options, you can also go ahead and vouch for many PWD Rest Houses along the entire road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur – Shimla. The PWD guest houses are comfortable and economical but may not suit the needs of every family due to the cleanliness and food offered. Also, you require bookings for them, and sometimes, in case of some VIP visit, they may try to push you though not in rights.
But, in general, and in case you are OK with average comfort conditions and your food, I will recommend them to save money!! You can always refer to my article on How to Book HP PWD Rest Houses or FRHs
Please keep in mind that Kalpa and Sangla – Chitkul are not exactly on Hindustan – Tibet Highway and you need to take diversions near Karcham for Sangla Valley and near Powari towards Reckong Peo – Kalpa. Hence, keep in mind when doing hotels bookings on your road trip to Spiti Valley from Kinnaur side.
Acclimatization & its importance on Road to Kaza from Kinnaur
Like Manali – Leh Highway, the journey on the road to Spiti Valley over Hindustan – Tibet Highway is quite treacherous, in fact, more than it. However, this route goes through a gradual increase in altitude, thereby helping your body to get acclimatized properly for the high altitude of Spiti Valley.
That is why traveling to Spiti from Hindustan – Tibet Highway is always preferred for a road trip to Spiti Valley as compared to traveling via Manali – Kunzum Pass – Kaza route. While traveling to Spiti Valley from this route through Kinnaur Valley, one gives himself a chance to properly acclimatize to the high altitudes, thereby decreasing the chances of being hit by AMS.
In the return leg, you can come back to Delhi from Spiti via Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Manali route and complete the entire Spiti circuit. Coming back via the Manali side helps you enjoy the whole or high altitude places of Spiti Valley including Chandratal Lake in a much better way as well.
Having said that even on Hindustan – Tibet Highway, it is always good that you take little precautions to minimize the effects of high altitude sickness further. Here are some tips which will help to acclimatize the body faster in the first few days of the trip:
- Try to reach Spiti Valley or perhaps Kaza with at least three-night stays over Hindustan – Tibet Highway viz. Narkanda, Kalpa, Tabo and then finally Kaza on the fourth night.
- Keep your body properly hydrated.
- Try and avoid sleeping at high altitudes earlier in the trip.
- Better limit or avoid overexertion
- Avoid tobacco and smoking and alcohol and other depressant drugs.
- Keep your body warm and eat lots of carbohydrates.
- Avoid sleep during the day.
- Sleep in an upright position, if possible.
- Carry preventive medicines for AMS after consulting your doctor.
- Immediately descend, if symptoms increase.
For more information on Acute Mountain Sickness and all above acclimatization tips, please refer to the following link at least once Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization
Fuel or Petrol Pumps on route to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur
You will be able to find fuel pumps only at Shimla, Theog, Narkanda, Rampur, Jeori, Tapri, Reckong Peo, and Kaza. It is essential not to miss to refuel at Kaza as well as maybe Reckong Peo or Tapri if you are staying at Kalpa or Peo.
There used to be one fuel pump at Powari, but during my recent visit to Spiti Valley, that was not functional. However, there is a new Petrol Pump at Tapri now. Also, there comes a petrol pump once you cross Rampur town completely whose quality is good enough along with the Narkanda Fuel pump.
I only use Narkanda, the last fuel pump at Rampur (while going from Shimla), and Kaza to refuel petrol in my car.
ATMs
As per my knowledge, there are ATMs available only at Shimla, Reckong Peo, and Rampur. There is an ATM at Kaza as well now but its working condition may be a question at times.
Hence, it is advised that you carry enough cash from home or Shimla, Reckong Peo, and Rampur. I guess you should carry enough cash with you on any trans-Himalayan trips because ATMs at these limited places can run out of money or become un-operational at any day or time.
Attractions in Spiti Road Trip from Shimla
Generally, the places on Road to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur including Hindustan – Tibet Highway goes like Shimla – Kufri – Narkanda – Rampur – Jeori – Tapri – Karcham – Powari – Akpa – Moorang – Spillow – Puh – Khab – Nako – Maling – Chango – Shialkhar – Sumdo – Tabo – Kaza.
The approximate distances along with altitude between these places are shown depicted in the chart below. This will help you judge over the acclimatization schedule too.
Hindustan – Tibet Road Altitude & Distance Graph
You may also check this less than 3-minute video on Discover With Dheeraj YouTube Channel on these five reasons to take Shimla to Kaza route instead of Manali to Kaza. If you like my video, please do not forget to SUBSCRIBE to the YouTube channel.
Facilities or Amenities on Hindustan – Tibet Highway
Here is a summary of important facilities or amenities that comes along as you make a Spiti Valley road trip from the Shimla – Kinnaur route.
| Accommodations / Stay Options | Regarding hotels and guest houses, there are lots of options between Shimla and Jeori, then Shontong, Sangla, Reckong Peo, Kalpa, Puh, Nako, Chango, Tabo, Kaza, Dhangkar, Pin Valley, Losar. Even on smaller villages in between along the whole route, there are lots of HP PWD Rest Houses, FRH Rest Houses, and a few IPH Rest Houses. Refer accommodation section for complete lists. |
| Food / Beverages | Lots of options up to Powari, then a few options at every other small village/hamlet up to Kaza. |
| Diesel / Petrol Pumps | Shimla, Theog, Narkanda, Rampur, Jeori, Tapri, Reckong Peo, Kaza There was one at Powari too but think it has been closed and Tapri has a new one, dated May 2013 |
| Mobile Connectivity | Most of the connections work throughout the route but once you cross Powari, the other connections start dying, and eventually from Ribba – Akpa belt only BSNL works, and that too in between only. Of course, BSNL has more coverage and better connectivity within this range than any other operator. Other operators like Airtel, Vodafone, Aircel, etc. work up to Powari – Ribba – Akpa but with poor connectivity. Even BSNL loses connectivity too in between, at places from Akpa – Jangi – Nako – Tabo – Kaza route. SMS does work fine for both BSNL. Packet data works with BSNL that too with EDGE only. It is very slow and terrible. Beyond Kaza, only limited connectivity, and at Losar, if the light/electricity is coming then its tower gets the supply and your mobile comes alive. You should refer to my tips on mobile connectivity in Spiti Valley. |
| Fixed Phones | Almost all the towns/villages en-route Spiti Valley have fixed landline telephone connectivity and I wonder if there is any town that lacks it, apart from very tiny hamlets. |
| Electricity | Almost all the towns/villages en-route Spiti Valley have electricity and I wonder if there is any town that lacks it, apart from very tiny hamlets. |
| Medical Facilities | The majority of the villages en-route Spiti Valley have medical facilities as local dispensaries and some big towns like Reckong Peo, Rampur, Kaza, etc. have bigger hospitals. You can get basic to mediocre medical treatments at these facilities en-route. |
| ATMs | Shimla, Rampur, Reckong Peo, Kaza (But always carry enough cash) |
| Mechanic / Puncture Shops | From Shimla to Jeori, you will find many mechanic shops with almost every village passing by. Then, you will find it at Tapri, Reckong Peo, near Akpa, Spillo, Puh. Do not miss the mechanic shop at Puh for air or puncture or some minor repairs as nothing will be there up to Kaza almost. Not sure about Tabo, but you will find one big mechanic shop at Kaza, just ahead of Sakya Tangyud monastery. |
| Liquor Shops | Shimla, Rampur, Reckong Peo, Kaza. There could be more in between but the rest I am not aware of 😉 |
Conclusion
Have you ever been to Spiti Valley through Hindustan – Tibet Highway or via Manali? If yes, please share your viewpoints, suggestions, or inputs as comments below and help other fellow travelers to plan their journey on one of the treacherous BUT beautiful highways of the world that is Hindustan – Tibet Highway. In the next article, I am going to talk about traveling to Spiti Valley from Manali side.
Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.
Are you planning to go to Spiti Valley via Hindustan – Tibet Highway or Manali? If yes, please feel free to ask any questions or doubts you have regarding your plan either in the comments section OR my Instagram account. I will be happy to reply and discuss them with you.
If you know your friends or family are planning a trip to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur, do share this article with them to help them make a memorable trip.
287 Comments
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what all things we can cover from 23rd of june to 26 from manali to kaza, as we are on road trip.
we are 5 people. and where we cam place our tents near manali (no to trekking). is it safe to place our tents in kaza open area roadside ?
thank you.
RASAP
It is safe to put your camps in Spiti Valley, however, with just 4 days in hand, it is better to make a trip to Chandratal only. You can check: Chandratal Lake – Most Common Itinerary
Dear Dheeraj,
I want to travel to kinnaur and spiti valley with a total 360 degree from shimla to manali on around mid of sept. Can you please suggest me one perfect itinerary in this route?
Thanks,
Sampat
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.
Dear Dheeraj, I want to travel to spiti in last week of June and we have ford aspire car is it ok to travel in this area with sedan car please suggest me.
Ajay, you are definitely going to struggle between Kunzum Pass to Batal – Gramphu – Rohtang Pass but rest should be manageable. I am not saying it is not possible as I have driven my dZire to almost all parts of Himalayas but it is tough and need sacrifices to the car at times.
Dear Dhiraj
Thanks for your reply, one more thing I want to know that whether month of August is ok for visiting Spiti or which is best time to visit, due to some work I want to visit in August only.
Munesh, you will have to face the monsoon hassles in such a case in Kinnaur and lower hills from Manali side. Landslides are pretty common in lower hills on heavy rain days. Once you enter Spiti, being rain shadow region, it hardly rains in Spiti but it remains overcast at times.
Dear Dhiraj
Thank for reply, whether I have to get any permission for visiting spiti, or being an Indian citizen I can move with my id anywhere.
Munesh
No permits are required for Indians in case you travel from Shimla side and come from Manali side. In case you travel from Manali side, you need to get Beyond Rohtang Pass permits.
hi Dheeraj,
scooter/scooty rides are possible on this route in june???
Rachna, have you taken such a trip before in the high Himalayas on scooty?
ahh i have been to uttrakhand 2-3 times (kedarnath,badrinath) and a small part of ladakh(on scooty),i know this will be different and difficult ride and i can not compare it with my previous rides…
Yes Rachna, this will be altogether different, tiring and challenging. I will not advice you to take a scooty on this route if you are not experienced with riding scooty/scooter, fixing repair or punctures on your own. The roads are desolated at places, the water streams are violent on Manali – Kaza road and Kinnaur – Kaza has the possibility of punctures with no mechanic in miles to fix it.
Dear Dhiraj
I am planning a trip of Spiti valley from Ahmedabad with my family and two kids of age 12 and 6 years on my own vehicle (SUV), in last month I have travelled to Tawang, Selapass at 13700 ft. now can you suggest ideal itinerary ( I am planning for 15 days trip from Ahmedabad).
Munesh
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.
Sir I do agree for that, just want o know that self camping is possible, I want to make my journey full of advenure
Munesh, self camping is possible, I will suggest you to please read: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley
hi Dheeraj, I am planning a trip to Spiti Valley with a close friend of mine on bicycle. Can u suggest how do i plan the trip. I will start from Shimla. I have planned to go like this: Shimla-Narkanda-Rampur-Sarahan-Wangtu-Kalpa-Spello-Pooh-Nako-Tabo-Pin Valley-Kaza-Kibber-Losar-Batal-Chandra Taal-Rohtang Pass-Vashist-Manali. Am planning to return to Shimla from Manali by bus.
Please help me by giving ur valuable suggestions.
Thanks and Regards,,
Amar Acharya.
Hi Amar,
I will suggest something like below based on days you have in hand
Simla – Narkanda / Sainj
Narkanda / Sainj – Rampur
Rampur – Sarahan
Sarahan – Tapri
Tapri – Sangla / Kalpa
Kalpa – Puh
Puh – Nako
Nako – Tabo
Tabo – Pin Valley
Pin Valley – Kaza
Kaza – Ki – Kibber
Ki – Kibber – Langza – Komik
Komik – Demul – Lhalung
Lhalung – Lingti – Kaza
Kaza – Rangrik – Losar
Losar – Chandratal
Chandratal – Batal – Chota Dhara – Chatru
Chatru – Gramphu – Khoksar / Sissu / Marhi
Khoksar / Sissu – Rohtang Pass – Marhi – Manali
I am planning the trip from 1st October to 15th October.
You need to beat the morning/evening cold conditions in Spiti and rest shall be fine.
Hello Dheeraj Sir,
Thanks a lot for the information that you have provided, it is very helpful.
We are 5 persons planning for spiti in maximum 6 days from delhi.
We are planning to travel from 20 may so have to take the shimla-kinnaur way towards spiti as we have no other option.
The points for which I want your kind suggestions are-
1. Is it better to take our private taxi from delhi for the entire travel or to take a taxi from shimla? For me the point is, it is always better to have a known driver rather an unknown one.
2. Do we have to pre book all the hotels and accommodations on each and every stop of our 3 day journey or we can get them on the spot (a decent accommodation) ??
Regards,
Aman
IN 6 days it will be very hectic trip to Spiti valley with most time on the road only. Best is to have the taxi from Shimla as those are the best known people on those roads. Prebooking hotels will not be required.
Day 1: Delhi – Shimla / Narkanda
Day 2: Shimla / Narkanda – Kalpa
Day 3: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Tabo
Day 4: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 5: Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Komik, Hikkim
Day 6: Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Kalpa – Rampur/Jeori (very long day)
Day 7: Rampur/Jeori – Delhi (again a long day)
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
Thanks a lot sir..we will plan that way…
Best wishes for the trip, feel free to post any further questions you may have for the trip.
HI DHEERAJ ,
Thank to you for sharing info about spiti valley .
I m planning a 5 day trip in spity valley . KINDLY HELP ME WITH A ITENARY .
im reaching shimla by train on 26 th of may . 27 28 29 30 31 are my dates june 1 2 im heading back to chennai .
thanking you ,
vignesh m
Vignesh, 5 day trip to Spiti valley is very hectic but stil I can tell you a feasible yet hectic plan:
Day 1: Shimla / Narkanda – Kalpa
Day 2: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Tabo
Day 3: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 4: Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Komik, Hikkim
Day 5: Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Kalpa – Rampur/Jeori (very long day)
Day 6: Rampur/Jeori – Delhi (again a long day)
Thank you very much Dheeraj 🙂 .
i shall try to extend it to 7 days .
I am going 2 plan spiti valley in mid April…whether it is possible to cover delhi to spiti I’m 2 dayz via shimla?
Where should I reach at first night to complete d way in 2 dayz
Well you can do it like Shimla to Reckong Peo, Reckong Peo to Tabo in two days.
Hello Dheeraj,
Your blog took me to Tungnath few years back and again your Spiti blog taking me there..this time with my better half. 🙂
Looking to do entire circuit with Bike. planning for around 10-12 days with few small treks like Chandrataal.
I m still not sure about going by bike as I have never done biking in himalayas,only in western ghats.
So asking you if it safe and advisable to do by bike alone-only two of us? what should be good months to do- early in Mid-June or in September? If something goes terribly wrong with bike in between- how to deal with that-possibility of any mechanic can come from nearby and check it ?
Hope you can answer 🙂
That;s wonderful to know Akash 🙂
I will recommend September month for the trip but please keep in mind that you will surely face some challenges especially on Manali – Kaza road and if you are not much used to bikes, well, the challenge can seems really arduous. Mechanic will not be there but well, it is a route that is frequented by travellers so someone will surely help you out 🙂
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.
Thank you Dheeraj for advice..!
Only purpose of going there by bike is independently we can go anywhere and change plan according to conditions without worrying about transport.
I always prefer 2-3 buffer days if I go super tired or something breaks.. with Bus its very straightforward, with strict timings, we can go/stay at certain places only ..and Taxi for 7-8 days will be a costly affair.
Will definitely keep your advice before final decision 🙂
Sure Aakash, makes sense. Take it easy and it should be OK in such a case. Many people entice by the luring pictures and make rushed plans which increases the difficulty level of doing these trips.
We 5 persons go to simla via Saharan,sangla,chitkul,kalpa,kaza,and manali how much money spent for10day hotels rate .?tell me minimum rate of hotels.
Hello Sampa,
You can refer: How to make a budget trip to Spiti Valley by public transport
We will go Chandigarh 2 kalpa nd kunjum pass to manali 15th may to 27 may .this time open kunjum pass road .
Sampa, usually the Manali to Kaza road over Kunzum Pass opens by second week of June, so on above dates it is unlikely that Manali to Kaza road will be open because this year there has been lot of amount of snowfall
We r 5 persons .we will go to Chandigarh via Saharan to kunjum pass.l want to know how much money spent for tata sumo?pls ans
Sampa, charges are usually around 3150-3500 per day for taxis in that region. 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.
Sangla to kunjum pass this road open 17-22 th may
Sampa, usually the Manali to Kaza road over Kunzum Pass opens by second week of June, so on above dates it is unlikely that Manali to Kaza road will be open because this year there has been lot of amount of snowfall
I m planning to visit spiti on march ,can you please tell me is this the correct season to visit
Shivam, Spiti in march is still harsh and frozen. If you are used to such conditions then only plan a trip as even the hotels will be closed and only home stays will be working condition, so make sure you are determined to make such a trip else plan the trip in season time.
Hi Dheeraj,
you have set up such a useful and informative site here. it is really heartening to get such extensive and reliable information about one of the most exciting but elusive (illusive in terms of information) stretch. I must commend and thank you for the same.
I plan to visit the Spiti valley in the last week of this march with my wife and two daughters and i need a little information. If you could help.
1. My kids have been hankering me to do a camping holiday, hence I was thinking if I could carry our own camping gear on this trip. the question is , a) will the weather be suitable for tenting in the places on the route ? b) is it safe to tent with three women ? c) are there places where we can pitch our own tents?
2. How many places will be accessible during this period like chandratal, kibber, MUDH etc?.
await your response.
warm Regards
Thank you Viveck.
No, weather will not be suitable for camping trip to Spiti Valley in March. It is still winters in Spiti in March and place is harsh at taht time. You may like to restrict yourself to Kinnaur Valley which should be fine for camping in March but even there Chitkul will be cold.
For Kinnaur Valley trip, you can refer: Kinnaur Valley – Most Common Itinerary
Thanks ton Dheeraj. !!!
Best wishes for your trip, feel free to post any further queries you may have.
sir,i m planning to go spiti velly in this may. we r three members.which route i shoud select shimla to kaza or manali to kaza?can we go rampur by bus from shimla and then hire a taxi to kaza from there?
You have to go to Spiti Valley from Shimla – Kinnaur route only because the route from Kaza – Manali opens up in June.
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to visit Spiti valley in the first week of October (8 October to 15 October). Since none of my friends really showed up, I’ll have to go there alone. I am planning on hiring a bike, although I have no experience of driving in rough terrain. Now I am confused whether I should take the Manali-Kaza route or Shimla- Kaza route, keeping factors like snow fall and rough terrain in mind.
Will be ever grateful if you can help me choose the better route of the two available, for I will be going for sure, be it with or without anyone.
Cheers,
Surajit
Surajit, if you do not have experience of riding in rough terrain I will strongly not advice you to do Spiti Valley on your own alone as they are one of the worst roads you might have come across.
Hi Dheeraj
Can I rent a bike in peo?
There is no bike rental available in peo.
Nd in kaza
Kaza, also do not have any bikes on rent.
Hey Dheeraj,
Me and my 5 friends are planning a trip to Chandratal Lake, we are primarily looking to spend a night at Chandratal lake in the second week of October. Below is the rough itinerary, can you please suggest how feasible this is:
Day 1: Leave for Manali from Delhi, Himachal Tourism Bus.
Day 2: Reach Manali, eat Breakfast and leave for Batal, acclimatize and stay overnight in tent at Batal.
Day 3: Take a local sumo/cab for Chandratal Lake. Stay Overnight at Chandratal Lake.
Day 4: Chandratal Lake to Manali. Stay overnight at Manali.
Day 5: Manali to Delhi.
Can we expect accommodation and dinner/food supply at Chandratal Lake in second week of October or we need to take the same with us.
Thanks in anticipation.
Keep in mind that it will be freezing cold night at Chandratal during the month of October. You can rest at PWD Rest house in Batal or Uncle Dorje dhabha. You have to have a cab with you, no cab will be available at Batal to take you to Chandratal.
I doubt if anything will be functional in second week of October at Chandratal. Mostly they pack up by end of September.
hi, we 4 friends are planning a round trip from Shimla to Spiti Valley covering Manali and Sangla on motorbikes in 7 days. Please suggest suitable time period and how much it may cost us approximately.
Jatin, you can follow below plan:
Day 1 : Reach Manali by overnight volvo of and stay overnight at Solang Valley as preferred for acclimatization
Day 2 : Manali / Solang – Chandratal – Kaza. Leave early morning from Manali to see Chandratal too.
Day 3 : Kaza – Rest Day. Evening pay a visit to Ki, Kibber
Day 4 : Kaza – Langza – Komik – Hikkim – Kaza – Tabo
Day 5 : Tabo – Geyu Mummy – Nako – Kalpa
Day 6 : Kalpa – Sangla / Chitkul – Sarahan / Rampur
Day 7 : Sarahan / Rampur – Delhi, long drive back
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a group of 5 people who are planning a trip via Chandigarh – Rampur – Sangla – Tabo – Kaza – Manali – Chandigarh in a self drive SUV (Duster) between 14th – 22nd August with 2 of us to drive.
Do you suggest this as a good time to travel ?
Mansi, you may be going to face monsoon hassles in lower hills and once you cross Kinnaur, you will enter the rain shadow region of Spiti Valley where there wont be much rains. It will mostly be cloudy and overcast with light rains if at all. The weather at yr.no shows partial clouds, light rains during this period in Kalpa and around.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am back in manali after a ladakh trip. I will be leaving to spiti via kinnaur on 6th morning. Driving a swift diesel 2010 model. The overwhelming advice from locals at khoksar was not to try gramphoo baltal road on a hatchback. Traveling with my wife and have time to do it via kinnaur. So, back to manali now. What do you suggest regarding itineray. I would like to include chandratal.
We have 6 days in hand and have to reach Bangalore by 15th.
Also, I saw a road to sangla from manali via Aut, Bandar, shoja, Tinman and Rampur. Need your advice on that.
As I will be leaving very early tomorrow, a quick response is highly appreciated.
Vageesh, well, it will surely be challenge to take a hatchback on Gramphu – Batal road. If you really want to accept the challenge, you can take the risk but leave by 4 AM so that water crossings have less water by the time you reach there. Else take a taxi and do Spiti trip and come back. In 6 days in hand, you can easily do
Day 1 : Manali / Solang – Kaza
Day 2 : Kaza – Dhangkar – Tabo
Day 3 : Tabo – Pin Valley
Day 4 : Pin Valley – Kaza. Do Ki, Kibber in the evening.
Day 5 : Kaza – Langza – Komik – Hikkim – Chandratal
Day 6 : Chandratal – Manali
Or you can take the route from Shoja – Jalori Pass on your own car and visit Sangla – Chitkul – Kalpa in these 6 days:
Day 1 | Manali – Shoja – Jalori Pass – Rampur – Sarahan
Day 2 | Sarahan – Sangla
Day 3 | Sangla – Chitkul – Sangla
Day 4 | Sangla – Kalpa
Day 5 | Kalpa – Narkanda
Day 6 | Back home
Hi Dheeraj,
First of all I want to thank you for writing such lovely and informative articles. You are really the king of himalayas :).
I am planning a trip from chandigarh to Kaza in a 4×4 suv. Sadly it is a short 5 day trip from 13th aug to 17th aug. Need your inputs in the below iterery.
Day1: chandigarh – kalpa/peo
Day2: kalpa – mud/sangnam(pin valley)
Day3: mud – kaza – ki – kibber – losar
Day4 losar – Chandrtal – manali
Day5 manali – Chandigarh
Chandrtal is 1 place I really want to cover, that is why i am planning to stay in losar.
Well it looks OK to me but have been better that you stay at Kaza only on Day 3 and next day moved to Chandratal as an easy drive afeter covering Langza, Hikkim. Needless to stay it is prone to AMS and very hectic.
Thanks for your inputs. Just wanted to clear is kaza – Chandratal – manali possible in single day? Is there any other place between kaza and losar where we can get accommodation.
No, you can either reach Losar or Batal or Chandratal after Kaza to stay. Yes, if you leave early morning Kaza to Chandratal to Manali is possible
Hi Dhiraj I am Sandhu from Haryana. And want to go Kinnaur to spiti. But I am alone or one more. Wht date sute me. And I need to come here. U can call me 9996399964 pls msg first on whatsapp. Soon
Sandhu, do you have any queries. Regarding visiting Spiti Valley, September is a good time to travel.
Ya many things which month suitable for shimla to kinnaur and spiti. What auto motor we use. What the need items in bag pack and what the price of trip many more bcos its my first.9996399964 my no pls call me but first msg me on whtsap
I am planning to visit Spiti valley with friend by car by the end of august. please tell me is it right time to visit spiti valley.
regards,
Vinay Rawat
End of August mostly the rains subside, you cn surely plan a trip during that time. Do check the weather updates before leaving
Hello Dheeraj,
Is swift will be ok for travel on this route? because Ground Clearance of swift is 170 mm.
regards,
Vinay Rawat
Vinay, it will definitely take a beating on these roads of Kinnaur and Spiti. The road from Gramphu to Battal in Spiti Valley will be a hell road and would definitely test driving and patience skills with low GC vehicle. Expect some bruises in under belly of the car on that route.
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks for detailed information. We are two family going on a 7 day trip to losar village in spiti.
We are 4 adults and 3 kids age 9,4 and 2 yrs.
Our vehicle will be Tata Zest diesel which has 165 mm ground clearance.
Our itinerary is as follows:
August 9: Delhi to Narkanda
August 10: Narkanda to Kalpa
August 11: Kalpa to tabo
August 12:. Tabo to Losar
August 13,14,15 : losar as base with visit to chandratal, key monastery and few other villages.
August 16: losar to Manali
August 17: manali to delhi
Can you suggest if the plan is good or not considering 3 children with us.
Is tata Zest will be ok for travel on this route?
If not till which city we can go by tata Zest and from there we can hire local car for further journey.?
In case we change our car and need to return via similar route through Narkanda, what are the places we should stay enroute without repeating the same locations.
Is August is ok to travel to spiti valley.
We need vey calm and lonely places and hate crowd. Hence can you suggest us places where we can stay while returning.
Personally I hate manali due to crowd?
What precaution we should take for children and adult specially AMS.
Regards
Rashmi
Hi Rashmi,
Why is Losar base to visit Chandratal and other places, any specific reason. Well, Losar is a harsh and high place and you are going with kids. Bodies will not be acclimmatized by then. If you afraid of crowd, well, you can stay at Rangrik at Spiti Sarai, 7 KMs ahead of Kaza. Ki, Kibber, Langza, Komik, etcc. places are far more closer to Kaza and it makes more sense to stay in Kaza as you have better places to stay and better facilities at disposal in case required. With 2 yr kid, I will not recommend sleeping at Chandratal at all or will say skip it. If required, You can go over and stay at Sissu or Khoksar from Kaza whie doing Chandratal.
Dear Dheeraj,
We are not staying at Chandratal. Though we will be visiting chandratal.
We will be spending the whole day in losar on 12th and 13th August at our guest house to acclimatize . Is 2 day not enough to acclimatize for us.
I just randomly picked losar as very less people stay there and I found nomads place a good place to stay.
If you say I can increase a day at guest house to acclimatize. Please suggest. Due to acclimatization issue I had selected higher altitude stopover. In case acclimatization will not happen in this itinerary. Can you suggest which place should we make our base for 12-16 August. After tabo or before tabo for 4 days. Our earlier plan was a night halt at Sissu only when I was planning via manali. But I dropped the idea because I do not want to stay at manali or solang valley. and altitude change seemed to me very drastic and was more afraid of road condition from manali to losar.
Please help me suggesting a lonely alternative to losar if possible in case you find my itinerary not suitable for proper acclimatization.
Regards
Hi Rashmi,
That is what I suggested. You cannot be acclimatized to sleep at altitude of Losar after sleeping at Tabo and with kids it is a high risky situation. I will not suggest at all. I will suggest that you stay at Rangrik which is just 8 KMs from Kaza, away from hustly bustle and quite village. Offers views of the valley and near by Spiti river streams. From there only the roads to Ki-Kibber goes up and you can easily visit these places including Langza, Hikkim, Komik too. So, spend the two days at Rangrik instead of Losar and visit these places at very ease.
Then, you should leave at 7 AM from Rangrik, go over to Chandratal spend couple of hrs there and move back towards Battal. Have lunch at Battal dhabha at uncle Dorje place and from Batal leave for either Khoksar PWD Rest house, if there if no availability you can move ahead to Sissu to stay at Hotel Triveni or any other up there. This way you will distribute the journey to Manali and will be able to enjoy the Chandratal for couple of hrs too. If you get the stay at Khoksar, nothing like it but Sissu is just 30-35 minutes ahead with fine roads from Khoksar. Next morning you can cross over Rohtang Pass from Khoksar or Sissu to Manali.
Hi Dheeraj,
Just wanted to tell that You are awesome.
I am going on your suggested itinerary in 9 days.
Delhi–Narkanda-kalpa-nako-tabo-dhankar-pin valley-kaza-chandratal-manali-delhi
The dates are 13 Aug – 21 Aug.
I read in your multiple blogs that avoid Monsoon in Kinnaur valley. I just want to ask your advice on few questions –
is it impossible to make this trip in mentioned dates?
Or if we have 2 spare days can we still make it facing few troubles?
We will be traveling in a Fiat-Linea (sedan) which has 185 mm ground clearance. Will linea make it?
1. It will be monsoons, Kinnaur is not a place to be in monsoons.
2. No one can predict that but of course in monsoons, you will need buffer days.
You will have to face slush, the road from Tapri – Urni will be in mess then once you start towards Nako from Kalpa, then it will be in mess at places in between. With rains, slush will make it a little more difficult if you are not used to driving on such roads.
Hi guys, thank you for the great info. you’ve really inspired me. I’ve decided to go this season to spiti & kinnaur but I plan on doing it mostly by foot – do you think its possible to walk on the motorable road or is it too dangerous?
Hi i have been reading the comprehensive guide to spiti valley in the DOW website and i must say its wonderful.. i am planning for a solo roadtrip to spiti via kinnaur and back to manali during late August-September.. the guide has covered everything (almost) but i have few querries.. please take some time out and reply :-
1)as i would be travelling solo(or at max if i can persue one of my friend to join) ,can i hire a dZire for may be 2500 per day(keeping in mind that DUV/MUV’s charges around 3000 per day)? Please note that i am looking out for cost cutting but also am sceptical about travelling in buses or shared taxis because it reduces the flexibilty of ” viewing the road trip ” to the fullest and also by travelling in a private car i have the option to halt during the journey to few more places on the way ..
2) We only have to pay for the car or do we also need to pay for the driver’s fooding and lodging?
3)i have read the article on homestayshotels around spiti . Is it advisable to book them prior or do spot booking ?the travel time would be around august end or september begining !!
Once again thanks for whatever you are doing here …..:)
Hi. I m Vikas from chd.
Suggest me abt route condition from Mandi to sangla via Jalori. Any extra precautions for route Banjar, Shoja, luhri.
1. Mandi-sangla
2.chitkul-Sarahan
3. Sarahan-Chandigarh
These routes are OK to travel except Sangla 20 KMs diversion to Urni – Tapri – Choling route.
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for your excellent articles on Himalayan travels.We have often used to plan our trips. We are now planning to go to Sangla later this week. Due to the weather and the fact that we have aFord Figo, we decided not to go all the way to Kaza, and just stick to the Sangla area. The only thing is we are starting from Jalandhar, as we are visiting friends. What route should we take from Jalandhar- Google shows one through Chandigarh shimla and another through ropar nalagarh and SH 22, avoiding shimla. Is that second route okay? Can we take it?
Also we have not made any reservations, will we get rooms easily? And finally, can we take Figo to Tabo?
Thanks
Sorry Mini, I missed replying it earlier. You should be able to get the room easily as it is end of season now. So, no worries on that front. Yes from Kinnaur side drive slow on bad roads to avoid punctures and you should be good with taking Figo to Tabo. However, make sure it will go under punishment for sure on such roads in Kinnaur. DO NOT come from Manali – Kaza road now at this time fo the year as it will further punish the vehicle and snowfall has started. Regarding the routes for avoiding Shimla and going via Shimla, Ropar – Nalagarh is OK in condition too.
Hi dheeraj
We are 8 friends going spiti on 5th June . we have 8/9 days. We have planned for whole circuit drive entering shimla and exiting through manali. We have a Renault duster and Ford figo for the same. What will be the best possible stopages and what all we should take during this season. What mobile networks are available their? Will Ford figo 2011 model be okay? Do I need to increase its height with spacers? Suspension and tyres are new. What all need to prevent and cure AMC. Please explain in detail. Your blog is really helpful but need some answers specially about car and mobile network. Thanks in advance
Hi Sam,
We are also planning our tour via same route from 18th June
Please share your experience and suggestions
We have 7 days
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Sunil
Hi Dheeraj,
We are four people travelling from delhi, want to visit lahaul & spiti on 10-12 june
We are in a self drive car, we want to take the delhi-shimla-lahaul& spiti- manali- delhi route.
The main problem is we have only 6 days in hand.
So, can u pls suggest an optimum travel itinerary for what places we should be visting and planning for to and fro journey in these 6 days.
~Thanks in Advance
Dear Dheeraj,
I am your neighbour, staying in Rama Park C Block and I even had a pleasure to meet your better half & your adorable son due to some charity initiative. I am taking this route to go to Kaza, just let me know if you see any hiccups in the Itinerary:-
14th May: Delhi-Ambala (starting in the evening).
15th May: Ambala-Sarahan
16th May: Sarahan-Nako
17th May: Nako-Kaza
18th May-Kaza
19th May: Kaza-Giu-Tabo
20th May: Tabo-Kalpa
21st May: Kalpa-Shimla
22nd May: Shimla-Delhi
It is going to be a crazy driving trip in my Humble Alto, and I am prepared for that. What do you say Mr. Pro?
Hello PRatik,
Dear Dheeraj,
Sorry for a delayed reply bhai and good to know that you met them and stay close to our home. We moved to US for couple of years else would have met you in person and gave the response.
14th May: Delhi-Ambala (starting in the evening).
15th May: Ambala-Sarahan
16th May: Sarahan-Nako
— Stay at Chango in case you do not feel well at Nako, there is a PWD guest house in there
17th May: Nako-Kaza
18th May-Kaza
Do, for sure Langza, Hikkim, Komik
19th May: Kaza-Giu-Tabo
Giu will be done when moving from Tabo to Kalpa
20th May: Tabo-Kalpa
21st May: Kalpa-Shimla
22nd May: Shimla-Delhi
Rest looks OK and if you drive slow, with caution the alto shall be fine to complete the trip. If you over speed, the chances of puncturing the tyre becomes higher.
Dear Dheeraj,
Thank you so much, I got the news of you moving to US from your home last week. Appreciate your response, and all the best for your new endeavour.
See you soon, when you come back to India.
Thanks,
Pratik
Thanks a lot Pratik, feel free to post any further doubts or queries you have leftover 🙂
Hi.
I am from kolkata. I want to have a trip over mainly spiti kaza via kinnar or manali whatever suits for.
Remember we are going for a honeymoon trip. Will it b a hectic one ?
plz give me a plan & itinerary.
Pritam
My trip plan starts 3rd july onwards from kolkata.
Pritam
Dear Pritam,
Spiti is a cold desert area where body looses water very quickly. It is meant for adventure and pushing your fitness to the limit to enjoy such a beauty. For honeymooners, it is recommended only if the couples are “Adrenaline Junkies”.. 😉
I fully agree here.
Pritam, Spiti Valley is anot a place for honeymooon rather adventure. Are you sure and have checked with your better half to do it?
HI DHEERAJ,
FIRSTLY A GREAT THANKS FOR PROVIDING SUCH USEFUL AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
WE ARE FROM HISAR (HARYANA). LAST YEAR WE 7 FRIENDS WENT ON A 15 DAYS TRIP FROM 3rd JUNE TO 18th JUNE, TO LEH – PANGONG LAKE FROM SRINAGAR – DRASS – KARGIL – LAMAYURU – LEH ROUTE. ALL WENT WELL, BUT WE MISSED NUBRA VALLEY & MANALI – LEH ROUTE. AND WE REGRET THAT.
NOW, THIS YEAR IN JUNE WE ARE PLANNING TO VISIT LAHAUL – SPITI – KAZA ON 12 – 15 DAY TOUR FROM OUR PRIVATE VEHICLE (INNOVA). PLEASE SUGGEST US THE BEST ROUTE TO OUR DESTINATION, WHICH COVERS ALMOST ALL THE IMPORTANT AND BEAUTIFUL PLACES AROUND THAT COMES IN THE WAY.
WE WANT TO COVER ALMOST ALL THE NATURAL BEAUTY. WE ALSO WANT TO KNOW ABOUT OTHER FORMALITIES LIKE PERMITS, INNER LINE PERMITS, NECESSARY TO VISIT.
THANKS IN ADVANCE
You can follow below plan:
Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Nakranda – Sarahan
Day 3 | Sarahan – Sangla/Chitkul
Day 4 | Sangla/Chitkul – Kalpa
Day 5 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 6 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Lallung
Day 7 | Lallung – Pin Valley
Day 8 | Pin Valley – Kaza Local Sightseeing
— For stay check Sakya Abode or snow lion are two good options at Kaza apart from PWD Guest houses. Get in touch with Tsering bhai, the guy who runs it. He is a very good friend of mine.
Day 9 | Kaza Local Sightseeing
— Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang
Day 10 | Kaza Local Sightseeing
— Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit
Day 11 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal
Day 12 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 13 | Manali – Hissar
Day 14 | Rest daywhereever you like above, Chitkul will be great place to spend one more night
Day 15 | Rest day whereever you like above
Hi
I am planning for shimla to manali via spiti valley on june 10. I spoke to some drivers mentioned on the website. They are saying 80% chance of road opening to manali during journey period. Is it safe to travel? Should I opt for a package option or hire a vehicle since I am planning with my family?
Yes Praddep, most likel the road will be open from Kaza to Manali during this time of the year. Hiring the vehicle will be better and rest can be sorted once you reach the place. Most of the drivers will have contact to help in case you are unable to find any decent stay.
Hi Dheeraj,
Your posts and inputs are truly invaluable for people like us planning to visit Himalayas for the first time…. I, along with, a friend planning to do a bike trip from Delhi to Spiti valley between 11th – 23rd April. Basis your inputs, we plan to go via Hindustan- Tibet highway.
Wondering if you have any updates on the road conditions on this route and what’s the weather expectations during this period given less snowfall this time in this region?
Thanks, Neeraj
Neeraj, the route from Shimla – Kinnaur to Spiti Valley is open. In general March, April are months of snow melting with snowslides/landslides common. So, you have good number of days in hand and shall be OK with 1-2 days of blockage if at all on your journey. Do Carry heavy woolens with you AND above all leave as early as possible in the day because snow melts as sun comes up causing snow slides/landslides, wind starts picking up pace as sun comes up causing shooting stones especially in upper Kinnaur and entire Spiti region. So, the early you start the day the early you reach the destinations.
Thanks for your super prompt response, Dheeraj. What time you recommend to start and end the day to minimise chances of getting stuck because of snowslides?
What kind of temperature one can expect during day time and night time?
Any tried and tested places to stay along the way as per your suggested itinerary?
Thanks, Neeraj
No later than 7 AM. Tempratures shall be OK up to Nako and then from Schichiling the cold will start up to Kaza where day time will be quite cold too. For stay options in Kinnaur and Spiti, check the link: Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur Valley
Hi Dheeraj, an silent admirer of your work. can please assist me as I am planning Delhi – Shimla – Spiti valley trip from April 8 to April 17. Is this a right time to make a trip and can I rent a bike in Shimla to KAZA and give back the bike in return trip to Shimla, is bike rentals available in Shimla and also help me with budget ? Thanks Dheeraj
There might be few options available in Shimla but not many I am aware about. You have good number of days in hand from Shimla and it will be a good trip for you. Roads conditions will be tricky and climate will be quite cold though in Spiti. So, go prepared. There will be landslides snow slides along with shooting stones common in these days due to snow melting. So, leave early each day as more wind starts in afternoon resulting in more shooting stones and same is true for snow melting later in the day. So, key is to leave early in the day.
Dheeraj, Thanks for writing such an eloquent article. I would like have your suggestions regarding my upcoming trip from Kolkata to the Shimla- Spiti -Manali route in the last week of May this year. From your article it’s now clear to me that I won’t be able to make it to Manali at that period of time since the road from Kunzum-Manali opens after mid-June. I believe we will be able to go up to Tabo/Kaza.
Can you please suggest whether it will be better for us to return to Shimla- via the same route? I would also like to know what is the easiest way to reach to Amritsar from Kaza as we also planned to visit there.
Is there any possibility that the road to Manali from Kunzum will be opened in the end of May or the first week of June. I will be grateful to you if you please make the possible plan for the trip. We would like to catch our train to Kolkata on 3rd or 4th June.
Nupur, well, this year there has not been much of a snow. So, the chances are that road from Kaza to Manali over Kunzum Pass may open in May and you may travel over that road. You should keep both options open
Day 1 | Chandigarh – Narkanda – Sarahan
Day 2 | Sarahan – Rakcham/Sangla/Chitkul
Day 3 | Rakcham/Sangla/Chitkul – Nako – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza
— For stay check Sakya Abode or snow lion are two good options at Kaza apart from PWD Guest houses. Get in touch with Tsering, the guy who runs it. He is a very good friend of mine and you can refer my name or DoW to him. Read more about Sakya Abode at: Sakya Abode Kaza – An Enriching Experience in Spiti Valley
Day 5 | Kaza Rest and Local Sightseeing
— Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang
Day 6 | Kaza – Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit – Kaza, may be in the second half go towards Kunzum Pass or till where the road is open towards it.
Day 7 | Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Kalpa
Day 8 | Kalpa – Narkanda
Day 9 | Narkanda – Chandigarh
OR
Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Narkanda – Sangla/Chitkul
Day 3 | Sangla/Chitkul – Kalpa
Day 4 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 5 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Pin Valley (Mudh Village)
Day 6 | Pin Valley – Kaza Local Sightseeing
— Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang in the second half of the day
— Sakya abode or snow lion are two best options at Kaza. Get in touch with Tsering at 09418208987, he is more than a friend to me. Will offer you best price. Both are run by him only. He has home stays too.
Day 7 | Kaza Local Sightseeing (Hikkim, Koumik)
— Hikkim, Kaumik, Langza circuit
Day 8 | Kaza – Kuzum Pass – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— Many options, my fav. is Johnson. Check Sabya review in Hote Review forum.
Day 9 | Manali – Delhi
Dheeraj, Sorry for my late reply. Thanks again for your suggestions and guidance. I have two more queries.
1.Where from shall we get the proper information regarding opening up of the road from Kunzum to Manali? Will u post it?
2. Shall we be needing any kind of route permit for travelling on the road?
I will be in contact with you.
Nupur, yes, we have a dedicated thread in DwD Community to track updates on Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Manali route. Here is the link, you can subscribe to it to get the mail updates: Manali – Kunzum Pass – Spiti Valley Road Status
In case you are traveling in the direction from Manali to Kunzum Pass then only permit is required but if you are travel in opposite direction that is from Kunzum Pass to Manali, then no permit is required. Rest of Spiti Valley and Kinnaur Valley also do not require any permit in case you do not have any foreigner in the group
Hello Dheeraj, As I told you before, we are on our way to Shimla- and we are reaching there on 27th May. We, me and my husband, have planned our trip like this:
28th May: Shimla-Sangla
29th: Sangla-Chitkul-Sangla
30th: sangla-Kalpa
31st: Kalpa-Kaza
1st June: Kaza sight seeing
2nd: Kaza-Manali
3rd: Manali-Ambala
4th:Train to Howrah
Or, if road is closed
31st: Kalpa-Sarahan
01st: Sarahan-Manali
2nd: Manali Stay
3rd: Manali-Ambala.
Please suggest whether this plan is alright.
Our problem is that we have not booked any accommodations. Can you assure if that’s alright at this time of the year? Please give me another suggestion. Is it safe to hire a small car on this road? Can we avail public transport on this road?
You have been extremely helpful. Please reply as early as possible
Nupur, well, the road will not be open from Manali to Kaza almst 80% chances. Time is fine to travel and it is well connected with public transport.
Sir, i am planning to go through this high way to spiti on the month of October this year. What is the best time to go there? Am also planning to visit sangla.. kalpa.. and chitkul…. How long it will take (more or less) to go from shimla to spiti via Kinnaur valley?
Arpan you can refer: Spiti Valley from Manali – Most Common Itinerary and Spiti Valley | Most Common Itinerary
Hi AM planning to travel to kinnau district from delhi on end of april/1st week of may…please suggest whether am making the rught plan or not
1)Day1 start from delhi to shimla.
2)Shimla-Sangla
3)shangla-Kalpa
4)Kalpa-Kaza/Tabo
5)Kaza/Tabo-Kalpa
6)Kalpa-Sarhan
7)Sarhan-Shimla
8)night bus from Shimla-Chandigarh-Delhi
Please tell me if its right itenary…..i have planned for Manali through Kunjum pass but heard that Kunjum will not be opened them
While returing from KAzo/Tabo,,,i dont want to stay Kalpa,,,is their any other alternative on the way…
Also can you please tell me the time taken to travel to Sarhan from Kaza/Tabo?
NB: me and my wife will be the travellers
Hi Sananda,
You can plan like:
1) Day1 start from delhi to Narkanda.
2) Narkanda-Sangla
3) Sangla-Tabo
4) Tabo-Kaza covering Dhangkar
5) Kaza Rest day, may be cover Langza, Hikkim, Komik or Ki – Kibber
6) Kaza-Kalpa
7) Kalpa-Sarahan-Rampur
8) Either take direct bus from Rampur to Delhi OR take Rampur Shimla in day and then Volvo bus from Shimla-Chandigarh-Delhi
Yes Kunzum Pass will not be open during that time of the year.
Hi Dheeraj,
Many thanks to you for starting this blog which is so well written and maintained for fellow travellers. Thanks for introducing me to the lesser known parts of The Himalayas and how to travel through. I have been reading your blog since last two years and it has let me and my friends plan two good trips since last year. The very recent one been to Kinnaur and Spiti from 19th Oct till 24th Oct 2015. Literally we have been living each of your experiences, locations and even meeting people, described on DOW’s member articles regarding Kinnaur and Spiti Valley. We have thought we have reached in to some other world which can only exist in books, for those days. I will try built in an article to tell everyone of my first encounter with the spectacular, scenic, serene beauty, the hospitality, the food and culture of Kinnaur and Spiti. No words would be good enough to describe of what we experienced, it was so overwhelming. We have taken help to plan our trip by calling Vinkal – our driver friend (he has done many trips with DOW members) to reach Sunil-Our Driver cum Guide. We have stayed in the home of locals on top of Asia’s Highest motorable village-Komic. It is for sure love at first sight…We will go back again definitely . Just to add , we have completed the Shimla-Kalpa- Kaza-Kye-Kibber – Komic- Kalpa- Shimla in record 5 Days and 3Nights time.
Wait till you read and see clicks on my travelogue to refresh your memories of the valley. Thanks Again. Archana & Neal.
Wow Neal, congrats for completing the trip. We will be waiting eagerly in the community for your experience to unfold. Super glad that we were able to help you out in making your Spiti – Kinnaur trip successful
THERE IS AN ATM(SBI) IN KAZA, RIGHT AHEAD OF TAXI STAND.ABOUT MOBILE MOBILE NETWORK,ONLY BSNL WORKS.
Yes, there is an ATM in Kaza. But, mostly do not rely on it. On emergency bank also allows you to use POS and take out 1000 rs one time at times.
thanks
i want to travel simla to manali via kalpa, sangla, kunjum on own scooter in ist week of october 2015.
any suggestion ?
That will be quite possible to do in first week of October.
Hi dheeraj,
I’m planning to complete the circuit from Delhi -shimla-kalpa/sangla-kaza-kunzumla-manali during 23 th sept to 28 sept by own car. Wiil the weather & road conditions allow to complete the circuit during this period .Is it possible to complete the circuit in 5 days. Thanks
Any update on road status from shimla to kaza?
Thanks
Shimla to Kaza road is open
Awesome, what about kunzum pass? I plan on doing whole circuit in my Swift.
Thank you for the reply.
Karan, Kunzum Pass road is also open.
planning to do a 6 night trip ariund the 15th aug weekend from delhi to kaza and back. using 4×4 fortuner
Any tips in terms of road conditions and other do’s and dont’s
night halts at narkanda, puh, kaza, tabo, kalpa/peo, narkanda
diesel pumps ahead of Rampur ?
Bharatvir, why coming back from same route. You can exit from Manali as well. Ahead of Rampur you will have fuel pump at near Jeori, Tapri and reckong peo. Then all the way at Kaza
I’m also planning to complete the circuit from Delhi -shimla-kalpa/sangla-kaza-kunzumla-manali during 14th Aug to 22Aug but by public transport. Wiil the weather & road conditions allow to complete the circuit during this period and will the public transport will be available between Kaza-Manali. Thanks
Pallav, all depends upon luck. It is rainy time and surely you can run into landslides in kinnaur.
HRTC buses will be running between Kaza and Manali for sure.
Hi Deeraj,
we are planning to go spiti in second week of Aug. I have read your almost all article 🙂 they are really great.
Can you please tell where we will get mobile network in the whole circuit . We are going from Shimla route.
I know only BSNL works there but I want to know which are the places we will find NW.
Thanks 🙂
No Suneel, you will not get mobile signals in the whole circuit. The moment you will leave Kaza it will depend Losar signals, in case losar has power. Once you cross losar, you enter a no signal zone from Kunzum Pass to almost upto base of Rohtang Pass. Same happens the moment you cross over from Spellow/Moorang from Kinnaur side and until you reach Tabo.
Thanks 🙂 …. so we will get network in Moorang –> Tabo–> Kaza (will depand on Losar sugnals) –> after Rohtang pass. Is that correct?
We are going from Kinnaur side and coming back from manali..
Suneel ji, sorry for confusion due to language but I meant up to Moorang there will be signal and then there is no signal up to almost Tabo. In between Tabo – Kaza, patchy signals. Beyond Kaza, all depends upon Losar signals. Beyond Losar up to Gramphu no signal at all.
can we make my trip for spiti valley by santro or alto or not ? plz suggest a car & best time to visit with route from Dehradun
Prem, in case you are making a trip to Spiti Valley or Kinnaur in September mid and beyond, than it should be fine to travel by small car as well as water becomes less in water crossings. Though roads will be bad but manageable.
Thank you for all the informations you have shared on your blog. I am planing a trip to Kinnaur and Spiti valley with my friends. On this regard I need your expert advise and guidance to make a practical plan.
Our travel plan is as follows
Day 1 reaching Shimla
Day 2 Shimla-Sarahan-Sangla- Chitkul
Day 3 Chitkul- Reckong Peo- Kalpa
Day 4 Kalpa-Puh-Nako-Tabo
Day 5 Tabo-Kaza-Langza-Komic-Kaza
Day 6 Kaza-Losar-Kunzum Pass- Batal -Rohtang Pass-Manali (Chandratal Lake is also in the wish list)
Day 7 Manali-Sight seeing
Day 8 Manali- Kalka
We are going to travel on third week of October (i.e; Puja vacation). We have total six travellers with two women, all ages between 25-30.
Is it practically possible to cover the whole plan during that time?
What will be the expected status of Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass During that period of time?
On day 6, can we cover Chandratal Lake also on the way to Manali from Kaza?
As we will be six people travelling, what should the ideal car available and from where should we book this car?
Is there any necessity to book car and hotel in advance? (as we are travelling on peak season)
Waiting for your reply ….
Hi Anikendu,
Practically possible yes but you will be at a greater risk of passing the no mans land that late in the season which in general is not recommended at all. Do check the weather before going past Kunzum Pass because you may get stuck in scase it snow up there.
You can cover Chandratal but leave by 5 AM from Kaza. Book a xylo or innova for 6 people.
Thank You Dheeraj,
I have few more quarries …
Will there be any problem reaching Kaza on that route during that time?
Will we get a weather update of Kunzum Pass from Kaza and if we get, how much reliable it can be?
Can you give us an idea about the fare rate of Xylo or Innova?
Do we need to book them in advance?
And last but not the least ….
Can you suggest us an alternative plan for that region?? (if Kunzum la is not open).
Please reply ….
Reaching Kaza from Shimla side is not problem but snowfall starts at high passes from September end and road gets blocked. You need to cross Kunzum Pass from MAnali – Kaza road that is where the risk is. In case you find weather is not good in Kaza, better come back from the same route of Kaza – Kinnaur Shimla. No need of any advance booking.
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
Hello sir,
You have done a great job with this blogs, your write up are the only torch light for travellers to spiti valley. We are a group of 4 planing to drive from Delhi on 5 th July, entering through Shimla route and return on 11th July through Rohtang pass, we want to know the weather and road conditions during this period. And also we want to know if any airlift or helicopter service available in case of any emergencies, if yes how long would it take us to be back to Chandigarh or Kullu.
Prabhu, in case of extreme issue GOVT does help by chopper like in August few years back when a big group got stuck in extreme weather otherwise for normal road block nothing happens than wait for road to get cleared. Weather in general remains fine till mid of July. Road conditions starting from Kinnaur to Rohtang PAss over Spiti Valley are mostly bad with Kunzum Pass to Gramphu very bad in shape.
Thanks Dheeraj for your valuable input.
we just want to know, in case of personal emergencies can we hire a helicopter to Chandigarh or any nearest big cities, as one of us are a little aged and not in great health. In such case how fast can we reach the nearest airport.
Prabhu, it will take sometime to reach to safety. Airstrip is in Kullu and at times flight cancel too. Regarding chopper, there are services but not sure if they will be operational in summers as they are in winters.
Hii Dheeraj
I am too adventure & mountain lover and Its good to see you helping/inspiring others to ‘journey to reach the destination’.
I am planning a road trip in first week of July for 10-12 days from delhi to Lahaul-Spiti Vally via Kinnaur & Sangla Valley. Pls help to make itinerary for my trip. In between i also want to explore areas of Kinnaur & Sangla Valley. How are road conditions if i make my return via Kaza-Keylong-Manali or should i come back by the same rout.
Sachin, 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.
Thank you Dheeraj
Following the same itinerary.
How are road condition form Kaza to Manail? Is it open.
Is it ok to drive in sedan.
Kunzum Pass to Gramphu is only open for bikes where bikes need to be pushed up the block of snow manually. So, technically road is not completely open but will open in 2-3 days for sure.
Thats valuable info Dheeraj !! Love the each & every details mentioned out here ! I`m planning to for a bike trip for 9 days. What would be the best time bracket to go ? I stay in Gurgaon. Could you suggest an itinerary that would do the complete circle ?
Regards
Hi Rahul,
You can travel to Spiti before the rains hit the himachal region and then in September. Regarding plan for 9 days to Spiti,
Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Narkanda – Kalpa
Day 3 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Pin Valley (Mudh Village) – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza Local Sightseeing
— Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang in the second half of the day
— Sakya abode or snow lion are two best options at Kaza. Get in touch with Tsering at 09418208987, he is more than a friend to me. Will offer you best price. Both are run by him only. He has home stays too.
Day 6 | Kaza Local Sightseeing (Hikkim, Koumik)
— Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit
Day 7 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal/Losar
Day 8 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 9 | Manali – Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj
Wow !! that`s a brilliant neat plan !! Thanks for all the help Dheeraj !!
One last question – Is july the right time to go there ?
Rahul
Yes Rahul, July will be good time to go. Better make it before last week of July before the rain hits the region of lower Himachal.
DoW is doing a great job. My appreciations to you, Dheeraj. Though I went through the conversations on Spiti trip, I wished I take some information from you before deciding on my itinerary. I had plans of visiting Tirthan valley and Dharamsala for about 7 days. But after reading the conversations here, I am pondering on the idea of making it to Spiti. I’ll be reaching Delhi on 29th morning from Hyderabad and I have my return journey on 7th evening from Delhi which means I am left with 9 nights. I am a budget traveler (solo) intending to take public transport or a shared vehicle / budget accommodations. Can you suggest a suitable itinerary for me?
Hello Sarathy,
You can follow something like below:
29: Delhi – Narkanda
30: Narkanda – Reckong Peo – Kalpa
1: Kalpa – Tabo, bus runs from Reckong Peo to Kaza every morning at 7 AM
2: Catch the same bus coming from Reckong Peo to get to Kaza on this day
3: Use shared taxi and explore Ki, Kibber
4: Use shared taxi and explore Langza, Hikkim, Komik
5: Kaza – Chandratal
6: Chandratal – Manali and take the evening volvo to Delhi from Manali.
For 5 and 6 date commute and planning, please refer: Chandratal Lake | Cheapest Ways To Travel There
Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for your valuable suggestions. I missed the month in my earlier message. I’m reaching Delhi on 29th July & my return train is on 7th Aug. Do you still suggest this itinerary? Just few more quick questions –
1) Is it better to take a bus to Rampur instead of Narkanda? I prefer to travel by AC bus so that it’ll be a little comfortable.
2) Which is the best option? To stay in Kalpa or Reckong Peo?
3) Do you suggest a night stay at Langza?
4) Do you suggest booking of rooms in advance?
Yeah, I will still prefer the same plan for you.
1. Yes it will be better to go to Rampur too. I doubt you will get AC buses all the way
2. If you can manage to come down from Kalpa to take morning bus from Reckong Peo to Kaza in time, better stay at Kalpa.
3. If you have time, then go ahead with night stay at Langza.
4. Not really, you will be able to manage on the spot as well.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks for your response. One last question – Are there days buses to Narkanda from Delhi? My train reaches Delhi by 9.15am.
There will be buses from Rampur to Delhi or Chandigahr which goes through Narkanda. You can catch them for sure.
Hi Dhiraj
first thank you very much for such a detailed note on your web page. really helpful
am planning about 13 days (including one day for any delay) on a bike with my wife
will be reaching chandigarh on 7th evening (if all goes well) from Ahmedabad and will leave for Narkanda on 8th july.
and reach 19th or 20th to keylong and then proceeding to udaipur / killar (to cover such pass) and on to chamba or delhousie
is kunzum pass and such pass open now ?
Ajay, Sach Pass is not open yet but by the time you will reach there, it will get open. Kunzum Pass and road from Manali to Kaza is open
Hello Dheeraj,
Though I could see in DOW page Manali-Kunzum pass -Kaza , Kaza -Kunzum pass – Keylong and Manali-Keylong-Leh routes are not opened yet. Do you any rough idea when these road will open?
We are planning Manali -> Kunzum pass -Kaza on 27-Jun-15 and from Kaza – Keylong -Leh on 28-Jun-15. Is these routes will be open by then? What about Manali -> keylong->Leh route? when is this route expected to be open ? waiting for your valuable reply. thanks
Here is the current status of Manali – Kaza road status Saikat: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/road-status-conditions-f32/manali-kunzum-pass-spiti-valley-road-status-2013-t36-90.html#p21263
i m planning bike trip tp lazuli spit via shimla kinnaur kalpa, kaza. can anyone tell , is i have to change my punctured tyre by myself or in between shops ka available nearest to fuel pumps,
Jitendra, best is that you should know how to fix the puncture because there will be places where you not find any puncture shop in between. There is one at Spellow, than Puh and then Nako and then Tabo. In between, I did not seee any puncture repair shops.
Also, there is no petrol pump between Tapri and Kaza, almost around 200 KMs
Planning a tour with family (H/W/C 12/C 6) to visit Shimla – Narkanda – Sarahan – Kalpa – Sangla – Tabo – Nako – Kaza from 29/05/2015 to 8/06/2015. What are the aftereffects of earthquake ? How are the road conditions now? Will it be safe to travel ? Please advise.
There is no after effects of earthquake as such I know or reported yet from this region. Road conditions from Kinnaur always remain bad and they are bad. Safety, not sure in which sense you meant?
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning a trip to Lahual Spiti Kinnaur. Below is my intenerary. Please suggest with your valuable tips.
Day 1 :
Morning flight from Bengaluru to Chandigarh
chandigarh to narkanda : 180 km in (5 hrs)
Day2 :Narkanda to Sangla 160km (4 hrs) sangla to chitkul 25km (1hr) chitkul to reckong peo to kalpa 70kms (2hrs)
Day3 : Kalpa Nako Tabo 160kms wid break and lunch max 8 hrs
Day 4:Tabo > Dhankar(35kms), Dhankar > Mud Village(55kms), Mud village to kaza (50kms)
Day5 : Kaza >Kye> Kibber>Tashigang>50kms(4hrs)
Day6 :kaza>hikim>komik>langza> (28 kms) Langza>Losar (entire spiti scenic beauty) 68kms
Day7:losar to chandrataal vuia kunzum pass (78kms) and stay in camps near lake 4-5hrs drive
Day8 : Chandrataal to rohtang pass via Kunzum (80kms) Rohtang to manali 55kms
Day 9 :Manali sightseeing and then start from manali to chandigarh (300kms drive 6hrs)
Day 10 : Return flight from Chandigarh to bengaluru
Please suggest whether the above itenerary is feasible or not.
If any other off beat places can be covered please do mention. Thanks a lot for your help
Regards,
Debarshi
Please find my inputs below:
1. Not sure which month you planning but Manali – Kaza roads open after mid of June only.
2. Narkanda to Sangla can only be covered, may be next day do Sangla – Chitkul – Nako/Chango and skip Kalpa
3. Day 4 now becomes Nako/Chango – Tabo, explore Tabo and move to Pin Valley or Dhangkar.
4. Rest looks OK
Regards
Dheeraj
hye folks,planning for a trip to lahaul & spiti valley in May, and hence need ur valuable inputs from you.
please share an itinerary for 7 days to cover spiti & lahaul, we will be starting from delhi.
what is the best time to visit?
Shresth, 7 days are a bit less time to explore both Lahaul and Spiti Valley and in May it will not be possible to explore Lahaul as roads to Lahaul might be closed. For Spiti you can choose to travel from Kinnaur Valley but it takes 3 days to reach Spiti just and 3 days to come back. 1 day you need complete rest for acclimatization.
which places are covered in Lahul and which places are covered in Spiti?
Also I am planning a bike trip to Spiti starting from Shimla then covering whole spiti and ending at rohtang (manali) during 1st week of June? Will the roads be clear?
Hi Dheeraj,
I have been reading your travelogues and inspired to travel to kaza.Is it possible to travel up to kaza by H R T C bus during the first week of DEC 2014 from shimla with sufficient breaks in between for acclimatization,my choice of December is to enjoy snowfall will there be any during this period.I will be happy to know the bus timing fromshimla to kaza and return.
Regards
N.Balaji
Balaji, thank you so much and glad to know that you were inspired. Buses do run in winters too upto Kaza but all depends the amount of snowfall. IN most cases if the road is closed then bus drops you at one point where people walk to the other end and exchange passengers to the bus coming from the other side. But, all hotels will be closed, water in pipes will be frozen so only dry toilets. First you need to reach Reckong Peo from Shimla and then you need to take bus that leaves Reckong Peo to Kaza.
Hi Dheeraj Bhai, We intend to do the entire route from Shimla, Rampur, Peo to Kaza, Manali. We live in shimla. I want to ask few questions- 1. I have a Santro car with me which I have driven myself to Chamba, Jot Pass, Khajiyar and interiors, Rohru-mid way till Chanshal over snow and till Sarahan. Would it be ok to take the car on the entire circuit. 2. I have a 3+ years daughter and my friend has a 4+ years daughter, would it be ok to bring them along on the trip. Both are fond of camping and travelling. 3. We intend to travel in first week of October this year, is it fine to travel now or should we reschedule the trip for next year?
Gaurav, I will sincerely suggest to travel next year as even the children will also have grown up and the dry chillness in the air will be less too. Santro with a bit difficulty should be able to do it as we just completed the circuit with a dZire and Alto. But, the bruises were made at the underbelly, so that needs to be sacrificed and above all you should know what to sacrifice and what not to.
Dheeraj bhai,
Thank you for the reply.Is it possible to know about the amount of snowfall around kaza by way of any weather forecast sites before embarking on the journey and if the hotels are closed is there any other alterative.I had checked HRTC website for timing of buses to kaza from reckong pio but it is not listing any,does that mean the services are withdrawn during this period.
Balaji, you can check yr.no website as I use it more for my weather updates verification. Homestays will be open and some running but with dry toilets, basic food and facilities. The bus from Kaza to Reckong Peo leaves at 7 AM and same time from the opposite end.
Hi Dheeraj, It’s a veritable landmine of information here, and thanks for that! I would like to know if a Shimla-Spiti trip can be done in 7 days (excluding of course my return to Delhi after that). Also, for that number of days, how much should the car hire cost? I spoke to some and they said for 6/7 days it will be too steep (45oo per day). What do you suggest?
Asad, Sorry for the delayed reply but I was away on DoW Mega Meet in Spiti Valley for last 10 days.
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 too.
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
7 days will be good enough for a trip to Spiti Valley via Manali.
Dheeraj,
Could you lease advise on the route : manali- kaza – kinnaur-shimla(fagu). We will be starting on Oct 1, 2014.
Bonnie, it should be fine to travel from Kinnaur side to Spiti Valley.
Hello Dheeraj,
I and my wife are planning on traveling from Delhi to Kinnaur, Tabo on a bike (Pulsar) around the 1st week of Oct 2014.
1. Is it Ok to travel pillion?
2. Would the Pulsar bike be ok for the trip?
Regards
Vishal
Vishal, that should be fine with the pillion. Just travel light. Pulsar should be fine too. How many days are you planning it?
Dheeraj, I have a few doubts if you can help me clear them:
1. What is your suggestion for the Kinnaur Tabo route/trip?
2. Chances of AMS ?
3. How much days should we have at hand to do the trip?
4. Weather during the 1st week of Oct.
5. Any places/destinations you suggest around Tabo, since this would be my first trip to the region.
Your thoughts would be welcome.
Regards
Vishal
Hi vishal,
1. Kinnaur – Spiti Road trip in October first week will be filled with lovely colors, though it will be cold up there. So, go prepared with layers of woolens.
2. If you travel easy without much fatigue, drink water at regular intervals and travel from Kinnaur side, chances of AMS decreases quite a lot.
3. Refer: Spiti Valley | Most Common Itinerary
4. Will be cold up there.
5. Point 3
Regards
dheeraj sharma
Hi Vishal…
I am also travelling to spiti valley with my friend. but we are staring on 27th sept 2014.
we can further communicate via emails.
my email id is kamlesh.karwande@gmail.com
Hi, For my end of sept. tour please suggest few car driver name with phone no.
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 too.
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 Dheeraj
We are planning a Spiti tour from 27th Sep to 2nd Oct.
Please find below my itinerary:
27 SEP: Chandigarh-Kalpa
28 SEP: Kalpa-Tabo
29 SEP: Tabo-Losar
30 SEP: Losar-Manali
01 OCT: Manali-Banjar
02 OCT: Banjar-Narkanda-Chandigarh
We are approx. 12 people and traveling on Honda Jazz petrol, Figo petrol, Swift diesel.
Is my plan fine? And most importantly is the drive on hatchbacks advisable on Losar – Manali road, crossing Kunzum and Rohtang?
I have driven hatchback from Chandigarh to Kalpa 2 weeks back. Somebody adviced me to avoid hatchbacks for this tour. I am confused.
Dalbir, why stay at Losar. Stay at Kaza and do some sightseeing at least. BTW, you ae just measuring the road rather enjoying anything these places offer. It can be done but will be tough, very tough specially from Kunzum Pass to Gramphu before Rohtang Pass.
Thanks a lot Dheeraj. If plan goes through, will definately share the experience. 🙂
All the best, waiting for your experience back in Travel Tales section of DwD Community 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for sharing your insightful experience.
We are group of 7 people planning a trip to Spiti Valley from Oct 2-7.
Below is the itinerary which we have planned till now, request your views/suggestions on the same
Oct 1: Since we are working on Oct 1 hence we will start in the evening at 7pm and stay over at chandigarh
Oct 2: Chandigarh to Sangla/Chittkul
Oct 3: Sangla/Chittkul to Tabo via Nako & Kalpa
Oct 4: Tabo to Pin Valley & around
Oct 5: Pin Valley to Kaza & around
Oct 6: Kaza to Sarhan
Oct 7 Sarhan to Delhi
We don’t have an option of increasing the no of days hence we have to adjust in 6 days only.
Abhishek, the plan is very very hectic but just doable if you are one of those who can do it. If you want to do further in 6 days then remove Kalpa. But keep in mind that this will be back breaking drive.
Dheeraj,
Finally i have booked my to and fro tickets to Delhi to do Simla – Spiti – Manali circuit this Aug 23rd..
Earlier i have planned twice but couldnt go as my son was 2 years at that time.. He is 4 now and now we have decided to do this circuit.
Read through your recommendation and chalked out this plan
Aug 23rd : Arrive Delhi at 1pm – Proceed to Simla(Nigtht Stay)
Aug 24th : Simla – Sarahan(HPTDC Shrikand)
AUg 25th : Sarahan – Chitkul(Panchali Guest House)
AUg 26th : Chitkul – Kalpa(HPTDC Kinner Kailash)
Aug 27th : Kalpa – Nako – Tabo(Tiger Den)
AUg 28th : Tabo – Dhankar- Pin Valley – Mud(Tara Guest House)
AUg 29th : Mudh-Kye-Kibber-Tashigang- Kaza(Hotel Spiti Valley Owned by Jamaica)
AUg 30th : Kaza-Hikkim – Langza -Kaumik- Demul – Kaza(Hotel Spiti Valley Owned by Jamaica)
Aug 31st : Kaza – Chandrataal(Jamaica’s Tent)
Sep 1st : Chandrataal – Manali(Johnsons Guest house)
Sep 2nd : Manali Sight Seeing and back to Delhi
Sep 3rd : Delhi (22:30)to SG
Bookings are made through some of my friends and Innova has been arranged for the trip..
How easy the trip will be?
How will be the Cold in Chitkul and Chandratal?
Should we need heavy or light woolen? will the temprature drop less than 10 deg in any of the places?
Pin Valley to Kaza for lunch and proceed to Sight seeing or can we go directly to Langza, Komic and Hikkim and then to Kaza? where can we have lunch on that day?
As i m bringing my 4 year kid around thought of preparing mentally on the same.
Thanks for your time Dheeraj
It is fine Chandra. Cold will be fine too, more or less cool. Carry at least one pair of heavy woolens for backup plan. Lunch should be at Kaza. Bhai, please take care of the kid and be vigilant of the conditions.
Thanks for your words Dheeraj and a wonderful site you are maintaining.
We have checked with local doctor and they have mentioned that Kids are generally not affected on AMS issue and he has asked me to plan in such a way that the height is gradually increased to get better accilimatisation. And going through your recommendation i have planned to do through Shimla.
Will the monsoon gets subsidised by end of August? Just getting worried about the Rains in Himachal area..
Chandra, they should get but you never know. Some residual rains still remains. So, all you can do is keep an eye on the weather forecasts.
Hi Dheeraj,
How are you? Once again I have to refer to you. With your good tips, I had made a remarkable trip to Ladakh (upto Hanley) in Oct’11 and this time I have planned to go to Spiti in coming Sep-Oct’14. I spoke to 2-3 tour operators based at Spiti and we’re going to finalise with one of them. I need your specific advise on going to Kaurik/Lepcha village from Sumdo. No tour operator is willing to go to that route by saying that tourist won’t be permitted in that road…only Army tankers move in this 22 km stretch from Sumdo.
Please let me know how to obtain appropriate permission to travel in this road? We, two families with 2 kids(12-13 yrs)will be travelling by a hired car. Both the families have had experience to visit Ladakh. I arranged permit in Ladakh to travel through Man, Merak, Chusul area…but here nobody is willing to support. One tour operator has agreed to go under pressure provided I have to arrange the permission to go there ! Do we have to approach to ITBP? Please do advise at the earliest.
Saugata Mahindar
Hi Saugata,
I am doing good… Hope the same from you too. That is really good to know that you had a wonderful trip to Ladakh. Yes, they are right and you do not get permissions to visit Kaurik and Lepcha post.
It is extremely hard to get these permissions and if at all you need, probably you need to take permissions from Army / ITBP CO at Reckong Peo (I am guessing)… I think only CO can give you that permissions. You were able to get the permits for Ladakh because there is a standardized procedure for it and that is why people were ready to help. Here, there is no procedure. You may need to beg to CO at Reckong Peo or some top shot in Army who can only help you get such a permission
Regards
dheeraj
Many thanks for your tips, Dheeraj. Sorry, I could not respond to you so early. We actually planned to enter spiti valley through Rohtang Pass-Losar-Kaza-Mud-Tabo route. So can I have any means at Kaza to get the permission for Kaurik/Lepcha Post? Can you suggest some good contacts? I would try heart and soul to visit these places. Can I write a letter now to ITBP HO seeking the said permission? Please help…it has become simply irresistible to me to be at Lepcha outpost & watch the Chinese village from Indian territory!
Saugata
Saugata, I do not think you can get permissions to visit Kaurik or Lepcha at all. It is forbidden for civilians and unless and until you can ensure the CO there and apply for permissions and he grants you, I think then is the only possibility. Do not thing at Kaza you will be able to get the permission, may be Reckong Peo or ask when you reach the Sumdo post as they will be able to better suggest from where the permission can be taken.
Hii….
I am planning to visit Kinnaur and Spiti next year first week of April. As I hardly know anything about that place so I have started my research work for the coming trip very early…
As we want see snow please suggest me what should be our itinerary.. We have got 8 days in hand. We are from Kolkata so whether we should go via delhi or chandigarh???
Could we reach till Loser???
Please suggest…
Moumita, I doubt you will be able to reach Losar in first week of April and please note that it will be winter like conditions especially in Kinnaur with most of the roads closed. Following is the itinerary you can think to attempt. But a lot will depend upon which is open and which is not. So, take a call accordingly.
Day 1: Chandigarh – Sarahan
Day 2: Sarahan – Kalpa
Day 3: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Tabo
Day 4: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 5: Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Komik, Langza – Kaza
Day 6: Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Sangla / Chitkul
Day 7: Sangla / Chitkul – Narkanda / Shimla
Day 8: Narkanda / Shimla – Chandigarh
Thanks a lot for your reply.. actually our main target to see snow.. that’s why we are opting for 1st week of April. Snow will be there (either in Kinnaur or Spiti) at that time??
You can see ample of snow ahead of Sangla and near Chitkul and around it.
1)How long it will take from Narkanda to Chandigarh??
2)I want to stay at Kalpa for 2 days atleast. How could it be adjusted into this itinerary??
3)How is Rakcham?? Should I go for it??
1) Narkanda to Chandigarh is about 5-6 Hrs drive
3) Rakcham will fall on the way to Chitkul from Sangla. You can rest there.
2) You can skip a day in Kaza if you want to add Kalpa. Though not really wise.
Hii..
After reading your blogs and different suggestionss I have decided a tentative itinerary… please go through it and correct me whereever I am wrong… I have got some queries also-
Day 1: Chandigarh Airport (arrival @12.20pm) – Narkanda
Q1 – is it possible?? How long it will take??
Day 2: Narkanda – Kalpa
Q2 – how long it will take and any sightseeing in between??
Day 3: Kalpa
Q3 – any sightseeing??
Day 4: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Tabo
Q4 – the timing it can take??
Day 5: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 6: Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Komik, Langza – Kaza
Q5 – if Geu mummy visit can be accommodated in beteen somewhere??
Day 7: Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Chitkul
Q6 – is it possible and how long it will take??
Day 8: Chitkul – Sarahan
Q7 – whether I should stay in Sangla or chitkul??
Day 9: Sarahan – Chandigarh airport to catch 5.45pm flight to Kolkata
Q8 – as we ll have to catch evening flight whether we will be able to reach by 3 pm from Sarahan or not??
Please I am eagerly waiting for your reply…
Hi Moumita,
Below are the replies to your queries:
Day 1: Chandigarh Airport (arrival @12.20pm) – Narkanda
Q1 – Possible, around 5-6 Hrs it will take.
Day 2: Narkanda – Kalpa
Q2 – It will take about 6 Hrs to reach Kalpa from Narkanda
Day 3: Kalpa
Q3 – Refer Kinnaur Valley Travel Guide | Kalpa, Sangla & Chitkul
Day 4: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Tabo
Q4 – About 6-7 Hrs it will take.
Day 5: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 6: Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Komik, Langza – Kaza
Q5 – There is no Geyu here, it is about 2 Hours detour while coming to Tabo from Nako as soon as you cross Sumdo.
Day 7: Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Chitkul
Q6 – Possible but a bit long. About 9-10 Hrs drive. Leave Early.
Day 8: Chitkul – Sarahan
Q7 – Stay at some home stay guest house at Chitkul OR stay at Rakcham may be.
Day 9: Sarahan – Chandigarh airport to catch 5.45pm flight to Kolkata
Q8 – It will take about 9 Hrs to reach Chandigarh from Sarahan. So, leave accordingly.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks a lot for your immediate response… Its a great help for me.. I ll definitely plan accordingly..
Hello Dheeraj and DoW
We [me and 4 other friends] just completed a Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti-Shimla trip. It was a superfast trip because some of the guys had tight leave schedules; we literally spent more time traveling than staying at a place. And having suffered from HAPE in Ladakh a few months back, I was extremely wary of altitude issues [it was the first time the rest of the gang had done 3000 mtrs plus]]
But it went off brilliantly thanks to all the helpful information your site has. We based our itinerary almost entirely on your advice. We did miss out a lot of places [we had just 6 days from Shimla > Kaza > Shimla and we lost a few hours waiting out landslides at Pangi Nala] but that has left us even more enthusiastic about returning to this place next year on our motorcycles.
Once again, many thanks to DoW from our group, keep up the great work!
Info for fellow travellers – Our schedule:[6 days/5 nights] from 3rd to 8th July 2014. Our route : Shimla to Sarahan, Sarahan to Sangla, Sangla to Nako, Nako to Kaza, Kaza to Kalpa, Kalpa to Shimla. Mode of transport : We booked a Xylo from Shimla : 19k for 6 days all inclusive. Stay : we booked hotels after reaching our destinations and scouting around, we paid between 1000-1200 for 2 rooms shared by 5 guys.
Road conditions – Roads were clear apart from a 20 km detour we had to take around Karcham. We were held up near Pangi for 5 hours because of a small slide, but overall, roads are OK.
People – The people are amazing. You will notice it more if you are coming from Delhi 😉
Conclusion – Absolutely blown away; can’t wait for the next trip!!!
Hi Sumit,
Thank you so much for jotting down the experience of your Spiti Valley trip here with us. I am sure this is going to help many. I have moved that into the DwD Community at the link here so that it is preserved and much wider audience of people can benefit from your experience. If possible do add some pictures and more elaborated stories to this summary of your trip.
Yeah, that Pangi Nalla has become every day stoppage in Kinnaur now. Hope one day it gets to stabilized.
Regards
Dheeraj
Your research must have saved so many people from trouble.
Its a general site but so statistical, so helpful in severe terrain and condition. Why not send it to listing of best sites in the world?
Aditya, thank you so much but I feel it is still a long way to go brother !! I wish that day shall come soon 🙂
I just visited Spiti from the 20th to the 30th of June and witnessed one of the most beautiful places ever.The entire credit goes to our driver Mr. Tenzin Chauppel, a local resident of Kaza, who knew the dangerous road to Spiti Valley from Manali in and out. Being a local, he took us to many exciting places which a non resident driver would not know. i got his number through Dorgee, who is also a resident of Kaza and is highly recommended on this blog to appoint as a driver. Since Dorgee was not free, he gave us Tenzin’s number and the beautiful journey started from there. If any of you is looking out for a driver for your trip, Tenzin is highly recommended. His number – 09418433973. He’s a 25 year old, innocent chap but an excellent driver and now our very good Tibetian friend 🙂
That is awesome to know Preeti, thanks alot for the update. I think you have posted in the DwD Community under the drive list thread too, thanks again.
Hi Preeti,
Based on your positive comments, we have booked our trip to Spiti with Tenzin. If it is not a problem, can you please share with us how much did he charge you for the entire trip and also the per day charge. This would really help us a lot… thanking you in advance and awaiting your reply eagerly…
Best Regards,
Nupur
Hi Dheeraj,
Your blog is very well written and I have been reading from last two hours. I am planning to go to spitti valley ( Chandigarh-Spitti-Manali-Chandigarh) driving myself and 1-2 other driver friends. I have driven in mountains to shimla before. Will it be ok to drive my own car(i20 {does i20 have enough ground clearance with the kind of roads}) or hire a taxi, please suggest.
Thanks,
Mayank
1. Hiring a taxi will be the best option.
2. i20 has less ground clearance and you may face problems in some the stretches, including road at landslide cleared and streams overflowing sites. But it could be manageable with proper driving techniques and risk. Locals drive Alto on this route regularly.
3. Hiring a local (spiti or upper kinnaur) driver (although difficult to get one) to drive your i20 could also be an option.
Dheeraj bhai: Hill driving require some special skill and techniques. Why don’t you put a write up on it? You have been driving swift Dzire and know the skills. This will help many, as most of the travelers own cars (and not SUVs)and they will always dream about taking/driving their own car.
Hi Ravindra,
Thanks for your response, It will be better to hire a taxi instead of giving my own car 🙂
Yes Mayank. 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
The rates of the taxis are about Rs 2800-3000 per day.
Ravindra sir, yeah I have documented the tips on Self Drive. Most of them are documented and clubbed under the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
Also, sir, We have started a thread in the community where people 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
I have mentioned your referenced drivers too. Please feel free to add some if you have more contacts.
Mayank, I will not suggest you to take i20 there as it has quite a low ground clearance. Better hire taxi for the trip. Even if there is some other hatch or sedan, I could have said yes but i feel i20 is less GC as compared to other cars. I drive my dzire on this route anyhow and if you don’t love your car more than adventure then For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
Dheeraj, can a Figo diesel would be capable to sustain on that road if driven carefully.
I see that there is only difference of 2 mm between figo and dzire in ground clearence
Subhashish, yeah it can but you need to be sure enough that you do not love the vehicle more than your spirit or passion of travel and adventure. If you love your car I will not suggest you take it especially from Kaza to Manali route.
Dear Dheeraj,
We are planning a trip to spiti valley.We are planning to reach kalka on 28th June early morning and our returning journey is on 6th july night.
So there are 9 whole days.I have been in contact with Mr Vinkal(mentioned in the list of drivers in your site) and he has given me the following itenerary
Day 1. Pick from CHD to shimla night halt at hotel –116 km
Day 2. After breakfast proseed to Sarahan via Kufri & narkanda night halt at hotel –150 km
Day 3. In the morning visit famous bhima Kali temple and proseed to sangla or rakchham over night at hotel –97.9 km
Day 4. Visit chhitkul village and proseed to kalpa over night at hotel –70 km
Day 5 after breakfast proseed to tabo via nako lake(100km) over night at hotel –161.0 km
Day 6 visit tabo monastery in morning and proseed to kaza via dhankar monastery over night at hotel –48km
Day 7. Day trip to key monastery and kibber village and back to hotel
Day 8 proseed ko Manali via kunzum pass if possible visit chandertal lake over night at hotel –204 km
Day 9. Proseed to CHD or kalka drop –283.4 km
Requesting you to please check the itinerary and suggest whether its alright?Is there some places which we will not cover as per the itinerary?If so,please
amend the itinerary and tell us the best places to cover in 9 days.
I have further more queries.
1)He has charged Rs 3000 per day for travelling.Is it ok?
2)Whats the average room rent per day over the whole tour?
3)Is it possible to visit chandratal?If so ,is there possibility to have a night stay in chandratal?
4)Losar /mud village/pin valley /Geyu Mummy/Dhankar Lake /Gette / Tashigang Hikkim / Komik /Langzais missing in our itinerary.Can that be incorporated?
Please amend my itineray,if required in a way so that we can cover almost all the beautiful places in spiti valley.
Thanks
Rupesh
Hi Rupesh,
Here are my replies:
The plan for Spiti is fine. But, I will suggest to drop Sarahan and directly go to Sangla from Shimla, in fact stay at Narkanda on first day. So, second day go to Sangla staright from Narkanda. This way you will save one day. Use that one day to spend a day in Kaza and do Langza + Komik on that day.
I have further more queries.
1) Refer DoW or Vinod’s name, should be Rs 2800-2900.
2) Should be around 800-1200
3) Should be possible to visit Chandratal at this time. There will be camps too at that time. So no worries, else go prepared from Kaza.
4) Hikkim, Komik, Langza can be done as I suggested above for saving a day.
Regards
Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for your suggestions 🙂
As per your suggestions, i have modified our itinerary in this way. Please check and confirm whether its ok now.
Day 1 : chandigarh to narkanda
Day 2 : narkanda to sangla
Day 3 : Visit chhitkul village and proseed to kalpa over night at hotel
Day 4 : after breakfast proseed to tabo via nako lake(100km) over night at hotel
Day 5 : visit tabo monastery in morning and proseed to kaza via dhankar monastery over night at hotel
Day 6 : Day trip to key monastery and kibber village and back to hotel
Day 7 : Kaza – Hikkim – Komik – Langza – Kaza / Losar
Day 8 : proseed ko Manali via kunzum pass if possible visit chandertal lake over night at hotel
Day 9 : Proseed to kalka drop
Justa few more queries 🙂
1) Can Dhankar Lake and Pin Valley (Mud Village) be incorporated on Day 5 ?
2) On day 7,whether we should go to losar and start the next day from losar to Manali via kunzum pass and chandrataal OR should we head back to kaza on day 7
end and start the day 8 from kaza?
3)Please give us (if possible ) the list of atleast one hotel for accomodation in all the places mentioned above.We are ready to spend 1000-1200 Rs per day
per room.
Thanking you in anticipation
Rupesh
Please reply 🙂
Done
Hi Rupesh,
1) Yes, start from Tabo early morning, visit Dhangkar Monastery and then head to Pin Valley and go to Kaza for overnight stay.
2) Better head to Losar in this case as you need to visit Chandratal and head to Manali. Had it been the case of staying at Chandratal, I would have adviced to stay back at Kaza and do Komik, Langza at ease.
3) Check the link: Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur Valley
Regards
Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj bro,
Thanks a lot for the suggestions. 🙂
Regards
Rupesh
hi,we are planing to lahual speti in next month. would u please suggest the best way to go there. by bus or taxi.we are 3 guys.plz reply soon..
Best is ofcourse Taxi brother. You can make it stop anywhere you like for taking pictures. 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
The rates of the taxis are about Rs 2800-2900 per day.
Hi….If possible can I join you….
Regards
Akash
9891959433
Can we put tents on the way from sangla to spiti?
yes, you can put tents. Best is to use some locals villager space so that you get a comfort a safety as well as availability of help and food around, if required.
This the travel plan which we followed last year and it came out exactly as on paper. No regrets, except the HPTDC hotels, as they are not value for money options and they are very poorly maintained. I will never stay in them again. There are very good hotel options available which you will find on net.
Travel itinerary for the East Himachal & Spiti Valley
25th May : Pune to Chandigarh and stay.
Day 1 (26th May 2013)
1) Start form Shimla at 12.00 noon ( all participants will meet at Main Bus stand at Shimla for the pick up by the cars) —65 km – 2 hrs—Narkanda (Hatu Peak – 7 km – 20 min – from Narkanda – time spent – 30 min. Total time – max 1 1/2 hrs. Panoramic view of snow Dhauladhar range (higher Himalaya part in Himachal Pradesh).
2) Hatu Peak(Narkanda) — 65 km – 2 1/2 hrs (via Rampur)— Sarahan (Night Stay – at Hotel Shrikand HPTDC or Hotel Bhimkali complex.
Day 2 (27th May 2013)
Sight seeing at Sarahan, BhimkaaliTemple; beautiful view of Shrikand Mahadev peak.
Start from Sarahan before or after noon —-82 km – 3 hrs —Sangla. Night Stay at Sangla HPTDC hotel or at Chitkul (28 km from Sangla).
visit Kamru Fort and Chitkul.
Suggest, have lunch in Chitkul.
Day 3 (28th May 2013)
Sight seeing at Chitkul/Sangla and around Baspa river. Trout fishing / angling can be explored. One more Night Stay at Sangla.
Day 4 (29th May 2013)
Start at morning from Sangla —-51 km – 3 hrs —Kalpa. Night stay at Hotel Kinnar Kailash HPTDC or Hotel Kinnar Villa. Late afternoon view of Roldang , Jaikanden and the colour changing Kinnar Kailash (Shivaling) peaks, 1000 year old Monastery, Narayan Nagani Temple. Night stay at Kalpa.
Enroute: Visit St. Mary’s Church and Tannijubbar Lake.
Suggest, have lunch in a ‘Dhabha’ famous for Rajma Chawal, before entering Kinnaur District.
Day 5 (30th May 2013)
Kalpa to Tabo – 180 km of total travel.
Start early morning from Kalpa (7.00 am) — 105 km —–Nako lake. En-route , have breakfast at Speelo as u start entering into theTrans-himalaya zone.
Nako — 46 km Gue ( 1000 year old Mummy) —-32 km —-Tabo. (Night Stay at Monastery).
Enroute: Will be crossing Khab, motor able entry point of Satluj in India from China +
confluence point of Spiti & Satluj rivers + visit Nako Lake & 500+ yrs old Mummy at Gue.
Suggest, have lunch in Nako.
Day 6 (31st May 2013)
Tabo — 30 km —Dhankar (Monastery, Lake etc) —Stay at Kaza.
Enroute: Visit Tabo Monastery built and Dhangkar Monastery + Explore Kaza Bazaar in the evening.
Suggest, have lunch in Dhangkar.
Day 7 (1st June 2013)
Kaza—-Demul—-21 village point trek (2 km)—-lunch on the open meadow—Back to Kaza for night stay. Lallung will be visited as and when possible.
Day 8 (2nd June 2013)
Start early morning from Kaza —– Shepherds camp (near Demul)—–Hikkim—-Comic Monastery—-Langza—-Kaza. Night stay at Kaza
Day 9 (3rd June 2013).
Kaza—Kee—Tashigong—-Gette (world highest village connected with motorable road)—Kibber—-Kaza. (night stay). Around 160 km.
visit Langza & Komic + explore the pastures and meadows at one of the highest motor able villages of the World. Today, you will get packed lunch.
Day 10 (4th June 2103)
Kaza—-Pin Valley—Stay at Losar
visit Takcha ( Yak grazing grounds ) and Kunzam la/Kunzum pass.
Day 11 (5th June 2103)
TOTAL DISTANCE – 104KMS)
Losar—– Near Losar sight seeing — start by 12.00 noon -reach and stay at Tabo)
Day 12 (6th June 2103)
Tabo (early morning)—215 km – 8 hrs—– directly to Rampur for an overnight stay.
Day 13 (7th June 2103) (Optional and buffer day)
Start early morning from Rampur —– have sight seeing in Shimla. Or proceed to Manali and other places ……..further on…..
Retiring Room at Kalka Railway Station: 01733-225088
Hotel The Lotus:
Basic hotel at 300 metres from the station
Ordinary room: Rs. 650/- ; Delux: Rs. 850/-
Tel: 01733 224 533
Kalka Shimla Toy Train Timings
Train Name Dep (Kalka) Arr (Shimla) Fare
72451 Rail Motor
05:10 09:50 FC: Rs. 247
52451 Shivalik Delux
05:30 10:15 CC: Rs. 280
52453 Simla Express 06:00 11:05 2S: Rs.48
52455 Himalayan Queen 12:10 17:20 CC: Rs.167
Shivalik Express train Booking
Bookings for Shivalik Express can be made at IRCTC website.
“KLK” is the station code for Kalka, “SML” is the station code for Shimla
52451 /54452 are the train numbers for Shivalik Deluxe Express
Trains are in demand, please book tickets ASAP
Indigo Flights
MUM-CHG – 16:30
CHG-MUM – 17.10
Bus tickets
http://www.hrtc.gov.in/hrtctickets/
Also try Punjab roadways website for online booking. They well timed buses for Shimla.
Thanks for the detailed plan. Yeah, it looks really good. Guess there are few typos, like Tannijubar Lake should be on Day 1 near Narkanda not near Kalpa. Also, I suggest to better visit Pin Valley while coming back from Losar towards Tabo instead of coming back to Pin Valley from Kaza and then going to Losar again. Or else, Kaza – Losar – Kaza – Pin Valley can be done.
Dear Dheeraj!
I’ve been an avid reader of your interesting posts and feel greatly benefited from your well researched and experienced accounts. You’ve done a terrific job indeed.
I’m visiting spiti valley on the 9th of June onwards. We are two families consisting of two couples and two children, one boy aged 13 and my daughter aged 5 years. Our itinerary is like this:
1. Shimla to Rekong PEO visiting sangla
2. Rekong PEO – chitkul – Rekong PEO
3. Rekong PEO to Tabo
4. Tabo – Dhankar – Kaza
5. Kaza – chandratal- Kaza
6. Kaza – Rekong PEO
7. Rekong PEO – Sarahan
8. Sarahan – Shimla end of tour.
Sir this tour has been prepared as per the advice of my travel agent. Is it feasible? Kindly also let me know about chances of ams during the tour. I’m a bit apprehensive about the chandratal part. Can you please suggest any alternative destination or sightseeing?
I’ll be eagerly awaiting your reply.
Regards. Sheshadri Trivedi.
Helllo Sheshadri,
Firstly whosoever is your Travel Agent PLEASE DROP him as he doesn’t know about Kinnaur or Spiti Valley. HE is putting you up in concrete jungle of Reckong Peo when there is Kalpa. He is taking you to peo after visiting sangla and then again asking you to come back to sangla, visit chitkul and go back 🙁 🙁
Best is that you kind of drop Chandratal firs as it will be difficult to do with kids that early in the season.
Regarding itineray, please follow something like below:
1. Shimla to Sangla
2. Sangla – chitkul – Sangla – Peo – Kalpa
3. Kalpa to Tabo
4. Tabo – Pin Valley – Dhangkar – Kaza
5. Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Gette in first half, Komik, Langza, Hikkim in second half. Rest at Kaza.
6. Kaza – Tabo – Geyu Mummy – Nako
7. Nako – Sarahan
8. Sarahan – Shimla end of tour.
OR if Kunzum Pass and route to Manali opens from Kaza by that time then do like
3. Kalpa – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
4. Tabo – Pin Valley – Dhangkar – Kaza
5. Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Gette – Kaza,
6. Kaza – Komik, Langza, Hikkim – Kaza
6. Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Rohtang Pas – Manali
7. Manali
8. Manali – Chandigarh/Shimla
Regards
Dheeraj
hi,
Im planning for a trip to Spiti in July(4-5 people) please help me with my queries below:
1. Is it safe for all girls
2. I am planing to take the Manali-Rohtang Pass-Kunzum Pass-Kaza road. Can you please help us on places we should halt overnight to avoid AMS or acclimatization?
3. It would be great if you could help us with an iternary going this way to spiti & around for 5-6 days Manali-Spiti-Manali.
(including place to visit in spiti)
Thanks,
Amrita K.
Hi Amrita,
Most of the queries are replied in the other post. You have 6 days from Manali to Spiti to Manali, I will propose that you follow the plan like below:
Day 1 | Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass – Kaza – Tabo
— Staying at Tabo will help you with acclimatization
Day 2 | Tabo – Dhangkar Lake – Dhangkar Monastery – Pin Valley
Day 3 | Pin Valley – Kaza. Do Ki, Kibber in the evening
Day 4 | Kaza – Langza – Komik – Hikkim – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal
Day 6 | Chandratal – manali
You can stay at Sakya Abode or Sakya Homestays in Kaza which is run by a dear friend of mine, Tsering. You can get connected with him at 09418208987 and can refer my name to him. He will ensure any concerns you have over there being taken care.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey….m sorry bt my friends r confused between leh Ladakh n spiti valley…can u please help.?
In terms of cost per person as r budget is 15-20k per person.n it’s all r first time up north.what do u recommend?
Amrita, cost wise Spiti Valley will be much economic and again beauty wise as well you will never regret the decision of opting the trip to Spiti Valley. Both have their own unique beauty, whatever Ladakh offers, Spiti Offers in much less wider aspect. Examples, lakes in Ladakh are hugely wide, so as valleys but in spiti there are much less wider though similar in terrain.
hii,
I am planning for a trip to simla-kalpa-chitkul-sangla-manali in the month of june(end)& july(1st).I think it will be little rainy but I have no option left.what do you suggest?
Hmm… I feel you should go ahead and plan your trip to Kinnaur Valley. But, are you planning for Spiti Valley trip too?
can i travel from shimla via kinnuar , kaza & end at manali in 9 days.by road. give me the best itenary . we are six in family. want to start from delhi on 9/5/14. is road will be open.
Sanjay, in May Kunzum Pass does not open. Hence, you will not be able to do the entire circuit. If you want to do the circuit, the make the plan from mid June to September.
i mean on 26th can we reach kaza or any spiti district !
It will be a very difficult task, as the road beyond Rampur (after 20 – 30 km) is in very bad condition, upto Spiti. Treacherous journey, as they call it. If are traveling in a private vehicle, it will be start early from Shimla and late evening anchoring at Tabo. Beyond this, you will be a contender in The Great Himalayan Rally. But I will not recommend it unless you have traveled there earlier or you have an experienced driver regularly traveling on that route. You may try to halt at Nako (Kinnaur district), if you are so keen on it. But Rekong Peo will be a much safer bet.
your suggestion is very helpful.we hired a experienced driver(innova). we are considering to stay at rampur on 1st day and then at tabo or reckong peo.
If you are starting from Rampur, you may think of anchoring at Tabo. However, it depends on the condition that you are not stranded in between due to landslide and you are not interested in the places outside Spiti valley. Also,the itinerary given by Dheeraj is good choice for you. Still, my suggestions to all travelers will be that if you intend to spend more time outside Spiti valley, it is justified that you get driver from Shimla or Chandigarh. However, if your plan is to spend and travel more in Spiti, hiring a driver and vehicle belonging to Spiti/Kaza makes a sense. Plz be prepared for bone freezing cold. Day time will be fine. Hotels in Spiti do not provide room heating. Best wishes.
Anshul, both Kunzum & Rohtang Pass has got snow again and it is not recommended to travel as the roads might close down now in case of heavy snowfall. Do take calculative risk and suggestions by Ravindra ji.
hi, on october24 ,2013 i alongwith my friends are going to spiti valley via shimla route . taking rest @shimla on 25 , if we leave early can we make upto kaza on that particular day !!
Anshul, guess I replied on other post. It is already very cold up there in Spiti Valley. Doing a circuit is not recommended now because Kunzum Pass & Rohtang Pass & surrounding hills have started getting snow and can close anytime. Still, wanna make it then in 7 days you can do something like below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Narkanda – Kalpa
Day 3 | Kalpa – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Kaza in first half and then Kaza – Komik – Hikkim – Langza – Kaza in second half.
Day 6 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Rohtang Pass – Manali
Day 7 | Manali – Delhi
Keep in mind it is a risky affair now.
dheeraj. thank u very much . this itenary will be very useful. i’ll plan accordingly.
thanks , as you said the roads are block in rohtang and kunjum pass . is it risky to go kaza via kinnaur and retrace while returning ?
No apart from bad roads between nako to powari and further to wangtoo, you should be able to re trace the route back.
hi friends, october 12, 2013 i along with my friend are heading for kaza on bike. we dont have any plans as such, but we will appreciate suggesstion..
Which route are you taking Amit? Passes have started getting snowfall now and winters have started to set in too.
PS: Sorry for delayed reply as I was traveling Ladakh for last couple of weeks.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj, thnx for the reply, we will be taking shimla route, as i mentioned we don’t have plans, except we intend to camp where ever we find good place.. any suggestions for good camping options ?
Amit there are many places to put camps on including Narkanda, Rakcham, Tabo, Nako, Kaza, Pin Valley, etc.. but it all depends if you can brave such cold up there in Spiti in tents. There are already sub-zero winds/temperature.
A small but a wise suggestion: Always hire a local taxi and tourist guide. If you intend spend more time in the lower stretches of Himalaya (Shimla or Manali), it is a god decision to hire a taxi from this place. But if your main focus is on Spiti valley, it make sense to hire taxi of that place in Manali or Shimla itself. Lower hills or Delhi drivers will ruin your journey and rob you from information and interpretation of Spiti valley. The taxiwala form upper valleys will always take you out from hopeless situations and never desert you. He will never complain about roads. you just wish, he will take you anywhere and anytime or help you find your way. I wonder how people, despite of doing all their homework manage to neglect this common sense fact for any tourist place.
Very true!! These local drivers know in and out of these routes and sometimes, even the drivers from plains or lower hills do not have much idea because they make more profit in lower hills, so are used to it only. hiring a local driver has numerous advantages and he gets more say as well and above all other find it hard to bully you as well. Drivers from plains usually are a big risk but for handful of money people do not understand that they are risking the entire tour, leaves, bookings and money spent just to save one portion of local taxis. Above all there is a life risk to involved with someone who has least knowledge of the terrain. I remember one incident when one driver cam from Bihar and the transport guy from plains sent him to Ladakh. He was terrified with the Manali – Leh highway, somehow we =escorted him and that family to Leh safely from where they finally returned just seeing khardung La as he could not take more. Loss of time, leaves, money and experience!!
I hope, fellow travelers do consider this suggestion seriously. Also, the duration spent, clothing, dehydration, high altitude sickness, mood swings and anger (yes, its there and its my observation for years together) and acclimatisation dos and donots as written on this website. High altitude environment is completely different than what we speculate about it. Yesterday, I read somewhere on this blog about you suggesting Mr. Mohit regarding acclimatisation and canceling his trip to Ladhak. I hope, he understands it. People take such suggestions very lightly. I wanted to pen down on travelers experience on your blog. But my month long Spiti valley trip was a box mixed feelings. Despite my (more than 15 years) traveling experience in Himalayas, my dearest friend and his wife (like a pampered teenage son) neglected all my suggestions. His wife is a doctor and was overconfident. The trip was the worst one for them. They literally ran away from Spiti, abandoning their trip. The other group of family friends (including senior citizens) followed all my instructions and experienced a wonderful trip (of a lifetime) with a feeling of returning to Spiti again. They also did the challenging 21 village point and junction of three rivers(Phalangri top). Some of them are planning the Spiti – Tsomorari trek for the next year. The handler and trek guides came out to be my students. Anyway, I am not consolidating myself to write the horrifying experience or the pleasure part. I am still not been able to come out of it. I hope the thanks giving treat planned by the second group will torque my energy.
Very well said sir!! I have tons of examples here at the blog where some people do report that just not following the valuable advices on AMS, how they have ruined their own trips!!! It feels bad sometimes that people feel too overconfident and take things that lightly in the end come back and pollute the name of the place by cribbing about it. It is like the way they have planned their own trip which was at fault not the place… Thanks for sharing this experience, I am sure others listening might follow too 😀
Hi, Do you hav the number of any such driver?
thanks,
Amrita
Spiti Local Drivers: Mr. Tashi – 09418501644, Mr. Chering – 09418840616.
Best wishes
Some more can be including above two can be found at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley
Thx! Dheeraj for sharing detailed information for travelling on this track
Pleasure Deepak!!
Your article is of great help for enthusiast travelers like us… thanks a lot Sharma ji!
Thanks alot. Glad to know you too friend. Also, since you are avid traveller then request you to JOIN recently launched DoW – Himalayan Travel Community and share your Himalayan knowledge and experiences with other like minded travellers too and help us materialize the vision to help a Himalayan life & help travelers travel with a difference in various parts of Himalayas
Wonderful Dheeraj Bhai!
Thanks alot Tarun bhai!!