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Spiti Valley Circuit Trip

Overview

  • Duration:9 days 8 nights
  • Tour Type:Daily tour, Group tour
  • Language:English, Hindi



  • Maximum Altitude: 15,000 ft (Kunzum Pass)

  • Trip Duration: 8 Nights / 9 Days

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

  • Start Point: Shimla

  • End Point: Manali

  • Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport

  • Best Season: June to October

  • Accommodation: Hotel / Homestay / Camps

  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

  • Permits: Required for some restricted areas

  • Temperature:

    • Day: 10°C to 20°C

    • Night: -2°C to 8°C




The Spiti Valley Circuit Trip is one of the most adventurous and scenic road journeys in India, taking travelers through the mesmerizing cold desert landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. This iconic circuit covers breathtaking valleys, ancient monasteries, remote Himalayan villages, high-altitude lakes, and dramatic mountain passes.


The journey usually starts from Shimla and ends in Manali, offering gradual acclimatization and diverse scenery throughout the route. Travelers explore famous destinations like Kalpa, Nako, Tabo, Kaza, and the stunning Chandratal Lake.


The circuit also includes visits to famous monasteries such as Key Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, and Tabo Monastery. Adventure seekers enjoy thrilling roads, river valleys, and high-altitude villages like Hikkim, Komic, and Langza.


Spiti Valley is perfect for road trip lovers, photographers, bikers, and adventure travelers seeking raw Himalayan beauty, peaceful landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.

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Highlights

  • Complete Himalayan road trip circuit
  • Stunning Chandratal Lake experience
  • Visit Key & Tabo Monasteries
  • Explore Kaza – heart of Spiti
  • High-altitude villages (Hikkim, Komic, Langza)
  • Adventure drive through Kunzum Pass
  • Spectacular cold desert landscapes
  • Scenic Kinnaur Valley journey
  • Perfect for bikers & photographers
  • Ancient Buddhist culture and monasteries

Includes/Excludes

  • Transportation throughout the trip
  • Accommodation
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Driver charges, fuel & toll taxes
  • Sightseeing as mentioned
  • Trip assistance
  • Personal expenses
  • Lunch and snacks
  • Travel insurance
  • Entry fees & permits (if extra)
  • ATV rides / adventure activities
  • Anything not mentioned

Itinerary

Expand all

Day 1: Shimla to Sangla

Begin your journey from Shimla towards the beautiful Sangla Valley. The drive takes you through scenic Himalayan roads lined with pine forests, rivers, and traditional villages. Cross Kufri, Narkanda, and Rampur while enjoying breathtaking mountain landscapes. As you continue deeper into Kinnaur district, the views become more dramatic with steep cliffs and the Sutlej River flowing alongside the road.

The route passes through the famous Kinnaur Gate and several apple orchards before reaching Sangla, one of the most beautiful valleys in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests, Sangla offers a peaceful Himalayan atmosphere. Upon arrival, check into your hotel or campsite and relax after the long drive.

In the evening, explore the local market and enjoy views of the Baspa River. The cool mountain air and scenic surroundings make Sangla a perfect first stop for acclimatization and relaxation before entering the high-altitude desert landscapes of Spiti Valley. Overnight stay in Sangla.

Day 2: Sangla to Chitkul to Kalpa

After breakfast, drive towards Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border. Chitkul is famous for its wooden houses, beautiful river views, and untouched Himalayan beauty. Spend some time exploring the village, taking photographs, and enjoying the peaceful environment. The Baspa River flowing through the valley creates a mesmerizing landscape surrounded by mountains.

After visiting Chitkul, begin your journey towards Kalpa. The road passes through scenic valleys, rocky mountain roads, and small villages. As you approach Kalpa, the majestic Kinner Kailash range becomes visible, offering stunning panoramic views.

Kalpa is known for its apple orchards, traditional Himachali culture, and spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the mountains. After checking into your hotel, relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village. In the evening, take a walk around the village and visit local monasteries or temples. The combination of mountain scenery and traditional culture makes Kalpa one of the highlights of the Spiti circuit journey. Overnight stay in Kalpa.

Day 3: Kalpa to Nako to Tabo

Start your journey from Kalpa towards Nako and then continue to Tabo. This drive introduces you to the dramatic landscapes of Spiti Valley, where green valleys slowly transform into barren mountains and rugged desert terrain. The route follows the Sutlej River before entering the Spiti region.

Stop at Nako village, famous for its peaceful lake and traditional Tibetan-style houses. The village is located at a high altitude and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Spend some time near Nako Lake and explore the local village culture.

Continue driving towards Tabo through winding mountain roads and unique rock formations. Upon reaching Tabo, visit the famous Tabo Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas, often referred to as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas.” The monastery is known for its ancient murals and spiritual significance.

Spend the evening exploring the quiet village and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Spiti Valley. Overnight stay in Tabo.

Day 4: Tabo to Dhankar to Kaza

After breakfast, visit the ancient Tabo Monastery once again before driving towards Dhankar Monastery. Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers, Dhankar Monastery offers breathtaking views of the valley below. Explore the monastery and learn about the rich Buddhist heritage of the region.

Adventure lovers can also take a short hike to Dhankar Lake, a beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by barren mountains. After spending time in Dhankar, continue driving towards Kaza, the main town and cultural center of Spiti Valley.

The road to Kaza passes through dramatic landscapes with unique rock formations, small villages, and scenic mountain views. Upon reaching Kaza, check into your hotel or homestay and relax. Kaza offers modern facilities compared to other villages in Spiti and serves as the perfect base for exploring nearby attractions.

In the evening, explore the local market, cafes, and Tibetan shops. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning mountain surroundings create an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Overnight stay in Kaza.

Day 5: Kaza Local Sightseeing

Today is dedicated to exploring the famous attractions around Kaza. Begin with a visit to Key Monastery, the largest and most iconic monastery in Spiti Valley. Located on a hilltop, the monastery offers panoramic views of the valley and houses ancient Buddhist artifacts and murals.

Next, visit Kibber Village, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world connected by motorable road. Continue towards the famous Chicham Bridge, one of Asia’s highest suspension bridges, offering thrilling views of deep gorges below.

Later, explore Langza, Hikkim, and Komic villages. Langza is famous for giant Buddha statues and fossil hunting, while Hikkim houses the world’s highest post office. Komic is among the highest motorable villages in the world and offers spectacular mountain views.

Throughout the day, you will experience traditional Spitian culture, whitewashed houses, prayer flags, and dramatic landscapes. Return to Kaza by evening and relax at your hotel or café while enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere. Overnight stay in Kaza.

Day 6: Kaza to Pin Valley and Mudh Village

Drive from Kaza towards the beautiful Pin Valley National Park, known for its unique cold desert ecosystem and stunning mountain scenery. The valley is home to rare Himalayan wildlife including snow leopards, ibex, and Himalayan foxes.

The road passes through small traditional villages and rugged mountain landscapes before reaching Mudh Village, the last motorable village in Pin Valley. Mudh is famous for its peaceful surroundings, traditional Spitian houses, and breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks.

Spend time exploring the village, interacting with locals, and enjoying the serene environment. The contrast between Pin Valley’s greener landscapes and the barren terrain of central Spiti creates a unique visual experience.

Adventure lovers can take short walks around the valley and enjoy photography opportunities. The peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty of Pin Valley make it one of the hidden gems of the Spiti circuit. Return to Kaza by evening for overnight stay.

Day 7: Kaza to Chandratal Lake

After breakfast, begin your adventurous journey towards the stunning Chandratal Lake via Kunzum Pass. The route is rugged and challenging but offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas.

Cross Kunzum Pass, located at around 15,000 ft, and enjoy panoramic views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains. From the pass, take the off-road route towards Chandratal Lake. After reaching the campsite area, take a short walk to the lake.

Known as the “Moon Lake,” Chandratal is famous for its crystal-clear blue waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky. Spend time enjoying the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the lake. Sunset at Chandratal is considered one of the most magical experiences in Spiti Valley.

Camping near Chandratal under a sky full of stars creates an unforgettable high-altitude Himalayan experience. Overnight stay in camps near Chandratal.

Day 8: Chandratal to Manali

Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise near Chandratal Lake before beginning your journey towards Manali. The route passes through rugged mountain roads, river crossings, and dramatic landscapes. Drive through Batal and Gramphu before entering the greener landscapes of the Kullu Valley.

One of the highlights of the journey is crossing the famous Atal Tunnel, one of the longest highway tunnels in the world. The scenery changes dramatically as barren mountains give way to forests, waterfalls, and green valleys.

Upon reaching Manali, check into your hotel and relax after the adventurous road journey. In the evening, explore Mall Road, cafes, and local markets. Manali offers a lively atmosphere compared to the remote villages of Spiti, making it a refreshing final stop of the trip. Overnight stay in Manali.

Day 9: Departure from Manali

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Manali. Depending on your travel schedule, you can explore nearby attractions like Hadimba Temple, Old Manali, or local cafes before departure. The beautiful mountain town offers the perfect ending to an adventurous Spiti Valley circuit journey.

As the trip concludes, travelers leave with unforgettable memories of dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, peaceful villages, high-altitude lakes, and thrilling mountain roads. The Spiti Valley Circuit is not just a road trip but a complete Himalayan experience that combines adventure, culture, spirituality, and breathtaking natural beauty.

The journey through remote valleys, rugged terrain, and scenic mountain passes creates a deep connection with nature and Himalayan life. Whether you are a biker, photographer, adventure lover, or nature enthusiast, the Spiti Valley circuit remains one of the most rewarding travel experiences in India.

Great and helpful

May 6, 2026

Waoo what we heard these guys are osm and their hospitality is great and commendable thanks 👍 hope will be soon with you all

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Anonymous

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May 6, 2026

Commendable and exceptional service by staff happy with you hope next time will be there ☺️

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