Itinerary template · Adventure · 8 days

8-Day Spiti Valley Circuit Itinerary Template

An eight-day Himachal circuit from Shimla to Manali through Kinnaur and Spiti: monasteries, high villages and Chandratal. The route climbs gradually to help acclimatisation, and the closing legs depend on when the passes are open.

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Day 1

Arrival in Shimla

Check in and rest. Explore The Ridge and Mall Road, with Kufri as an optional half day.

Day 2

Shimla to Kalpa

A long day drive into Kinnaur with views of the Kinner Kailash range; overnight in Kalpa.

Day 3

Kalpa to Nako

Drive up the Sutlej and Spiti rivers to Nako, with a walk around Nako Lake and its village.

Day 4

Nako to Kaza via Tabo

Visit Tabo Monastery, with its ancient murals, before continuing to Kaza, the main base of the valley.

Day 5

Spiti villages

Key Monastery, Kibber, Chicham Bridge, Langza and Hikkim, home of one of the highest post offices in the world.

Day 6

Kaza to Chandratal

Cross Kunzum La to Chandratal Lake and camp overnight, if the road is open and weather allows.

Day 7

Chandratal to Manali

A long day drive through Lahaul back to Manali, with a free evening.

Day 8

Departure

Drive to Chandigarh or Delhi, or fly out from Bhuntar; allow a full day for the road.

Typically included

7 nights in hotels, homestays and a camp with breakfast and dinner
Private SUV with a driver experienced on mountain roads
Inner line and entry permits where required
Oxygen cylinder in the vehicle

Usually excluded

Transport to Shimla and from Manali
Lunches
Monastery and camera fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses and tips

Best time to go

June to mid-October is the main window, when Kunzum La and the Manali side of the circuit are open. In winter the Kaza to Manali road is closed, Spiti can be reached only from Shimla, and temperatures drop far below freezing.

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Frequently asked questions

Why does the trip run from Shimla to Manali and not the other way?

Going from Shimla gains altitude gradually, through Kinnaur at about 2,000 to 3,000 metres before Kaza at 3,800, which helps acclimatisation. Starting from Manali reaches Kaza quickly over high passes and raises the risk of altitude sickness. Explain this in the quote, and always add rest time if a client feels unwell.

Is Chandratal always possible?

No. The road to Chandratal is open only in the summer season and depends on snow, landslides and river crossings. Treat the night at Chandratal as a plan with a backup, such as an extra night in Kaza, and never promise it as a fixed inclusion.

What should clients be told about connectivity and facilities?

Mobile coverage is patchy and ATMs and fuel are limited in Spiti. Ask clients to carry cash, download offline maps and start the trip with a full tank arranged by the driver. Accommodation in villages is simple, and power and hot water can be limited.

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