Spiti Valley Road Trip Guide: A Complete Travel Blueprint by FootprintStory
Introduction
Spiti Valley — often dubbed “The Middle Land” between India and Tibet — is a cold desert mountain valley in Himachal Pradesh that promises a surreal experience like no other. From moonlike landscapes and ancient monasteries to high mountain passes and starry skies, a Spiti Valley road trip is the ultimate Himalayan adventure. At FootprintStory, we curate unforgettable travel stories, and this detailed guide will help you plan your perfect escape into the heart of Spiti.
Why Choose a Spiti Valley Road Trip?
Scenic Routes that change from pine-filled valleys to barren deserts.
Cultural Touch with centuries-old monasteries like Key and Tabo.
Adventure Galore with rugged roads, high passes, and camping by the river.
Digital Detox in an area with limited connectivity but infinite peace.
Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley
Season Months Pros Cons
Summer May to mid-July Roads open from both Shimla and Manali. Weather is pleasant. Can get crowded at famous spots.
Autumn September to mid-October Fewer tourists, crystal-clear skies. Nights can get colder.
Monsoon Late July – August Lush greenery en route via Shimla. Landslides are frequent.
Winter November to March White Spiti, snow everywhere. Roads via Manali are closed. Only accessible via Shimla.
➡️ FootprintStory Tip: June to mid-July and September are the best windows for a comfortable and visually rich trip.
Altitude Profile
Understanding altitude is crucial to prepare for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Location Altitude (in metres)
Shimla 2,276 m
Narkanda 2,708 m
Kalpa 2,960 m
Nako 3,662 m
Kaza 3,800 m
Kibber 4,270 m
Kunzum Pass 4,551 m
🚑 Acclimatization Tips:
Take it slow — Shimla route helps with gradual altitude gain.
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
Carry Diamox after consulting a doctor.
Route Map & Distance Overview
There are two popular road routes to Spiti:
- Shimla – Kinnaur – Spiti Route (Recommended Entry Route)
✅ Gradual altitude gain = Less risk of AMS
✅ Open longer in the year
✅ More scenic & culturally immersive
Route: Chandigarh → Shimla → Narkanda → Rampur → Kalpa → Nako → Tabo → Dhankar → Kaza
Total Distance: ~750 km
Recommended Duration: 9–12 Days
- Manali – Kunzum Pass – Kaza (Exit Route)
🚫 Steep altitude gain — not recommended as the first route
✅ High-adrenaline route with rugged terrain
✅ Ideal for returning via the circular circuit
Route: Manali → Rohtang Pass → Kunzum Pass → Kaza
Total Distance: ~200 km from Manali to Kaza
➡️ FootprintStory Suggestion: Enter via Shimla and exit via Manali for a perfect circular road trip.
Day-wise Itinerary (Sample 9-Day Plan)
Day 1: Chandigarh to Narkanda (180 km)
Day 2: Narkanda to Kalpa (160 km)
Day 3: Kalpa to Nako (100 km)
Day 4: Nako to Tabo – Dhankar – Kaza (120 km)
Day 5: Kaza Local (Key Monastery, Hikkim, Komic, Langza)
Day 6: Kaza to Chandratal Lake (100 km)
Day 7: Chandratal to Manali via Kunzum Pass (130 km)
Day 8: Buffer/Rest Day
Day 9: Manali to Chandigarh (300 km)
Best Stays Along the Route (FootprintStory Curated)
Location Recommended Stays
Narkanda Tethys Ski Resort / Hotel Hatu
Kalpa The Monk Kalpa / Echor Kalpa Retreat
Nako Lake View Hotel / Reo Purgil Homestay
Tabo Tabo Monastery Guesthouse / Dewachen Retreat
Kaza Zostel Kaza / The Travellers Shed / Hotel Deyzor
Chandratal Parasol Camps / Jamaica’s Camps
➡️ FootprintStory Exclusive: We offer hand-picked homestays and boutique camps for the most authentic experience.
Where to Find Petrol Pumps on the Route
Fuel up smartly. Here are the important petrol stations:
Shimla
Rampur
Reckong Peo (near Kalpa)
Kaza (Only one pump; limited supply — always keep a jerry can)
🚫 No petrol pumps between Kaza to Manali — fill up at Kaza and carry reserve fuel.
Essential Travel Tips from FootprintStory
✅ Carry sufficient cash — ATMs are rare and often non-functional.
✅ BSNL/MTNL SIMs work best; Jio works in Kaza only.
✅ Bring power banks, medicines, and identity proof.
✅ Avoid single-use plastic — respect the fragile ecosystem.
✅ Keep 2 buffer days for weather-related delays.
How to Reach Spiti Valley
By Air
Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu) or Chandigarh
Best to fly to Chandigarh and begin road journey from there
By Train
Nearest railway station: Kalka (to Shimla side) or Joginder Nagar (to Manali side)
By Road (Recommended)
Start from Chandigarh or Delhi
Self-drive, rent a car, or join a FootprintStory fixed departure group
Why Choose FootprintStory for Your Spiti Road Trip?
At FootprintStory, we don’t just offer trips — we design immersive, soulful journeys with:
Verified stays, local guides & cozy camps
Hassle-free permits and route planning
Small-group road trips for like-minded explorers
24×7 support with emergency assistance
📸 Every moment is a story. Let’s write your Spiti story together.
Conclusion
Spiti Valley is not just a destination — it’s a feeling, a test of spirit, and a celebration of nature’s raw beauty. With the right planning and the right partner like FootprintStory, your Spiti road trip can be the journey of a lifetime.
Connect With Us
👉 Instagram: @footprintstory
🌐 Website: www.footprintstory.in
📞 DM us or Call for customized group & private tours