Friday, November 28, 2025

How to Reach Spiti Valley: Travel Guide for Every Traveller

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Spiti Valley is one of the most stunning destinations in India, located at a high altitude, it’s known for the serrated mountains, cold deserts, ancient monasteries and serene villages in the Himalayas. So, as that place is in the middle of nowhere, many people like to get clear information on how to reach the Spiti Valley safely and with ease. If you are in for adventure, if you like embarking on a road-trip lover, if you are a biker or simply love nature and offbeat travelling, getting to Spiti takes preparation, knowledge of routes, know-how of weather and travelling at the right time.

This detailed blog post will guide you on how to reach Spiti Valley from Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla or Manali. You’ll discover the best places to go, routes, modes of transport, safety and security tips, road conditions, required permits, little-known travel suggestions, as well as accommodation possibilities and seasonal ideas on how best to capitalise on Peru. By the time you finish, you’ll have all the information you need to plan just the right adventure to this really stunning part of the Himalayas.

Also Read:- Best Time to Visit Bali || Best Time to Visit Scotland

How to Reach Spiti Valley – Quick Guide Table

Mode / RouteDetailsDistance & TimeBest For
By Road (Shimla Route)Delhi → Shimla → Reckong Peo → Kaza~750 km / 2 daysSafe ascent, all-year access (mostly)
By Road (Manali Route)Delhi → Manali → Atal Tunnel → Batal → Kaza~740 km / 1–2 daysFastest but seasonal route
By Bus (HRTC)Shimla → Kaza (daily) / Manali → Kaza (summer only)12–16 hoursBudget travelers
By Taxi/Shared CabAvailable from Shimla, Reckong Peo, ManaliVariesComfortable & flexible travel
By FlightNearest airports: Kullu (Bhuntar), ShimlaRoad needed afterwardsThose short on time
By TrainNearest station: Joginder NagarLong onward road travelNot recommended
Best Time to TravelMay–OctoberPleasant weather & open roads
Winter TravelOnly the Shimla route may remain openRiskyExperienced travellers only

Why take it because It is important to know how to reach Spiti Valley?

It’s essential to know how you can reach Spiti Valley since the region is at an 12,500 ft and is known for its treacherous terrain. Accessibility may be affected by the weather; some roads are closed due to landslides and snow. Any traveller who plans well can have a comfortable trip, not take any risks, and experience the magic of Spiti without stressing around.

There are two main passes across the valley:

  • Shimla to Spiti (all-weather route)
  • Manali to Spiti (seasonal route)

When to us the different routes and how is what makes your trips safe and interesting.

How to Reach Spiti Valley from Major Indian Cities

How to Reach Spiti Valley from Delhi

Most travellers start their Spiti Valley journey from Delhi, as it is well connected by air, road, and rail.

Distance: 730–750 km
Travel Time: 24–30 hours (depending on route)

You can choose one of these routes:

Route 1: Delhi → Shimla → Spiti (All-Weather Route)

This is the most reliable route if you want to understand how to reach Spiti Valley safely throughout the year.

Route Map:
Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla – Narkanda – Rampur – Reckong Peo – Pooh – Nako – Kaza (Spiti)

Why choose it?

  • Open almost all year
  • Gradual ascent, safer for AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness)
  • Better for first-time visitors

Route 2: Delhi → Manali → Spiti (Seasonal Route)

This route is more adventurous but is only open for 4–5 months.

Route Map:
Delhi – Chandigarh – Mandi – Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass – Kaza

Why choose it?

  • Faster route
  • More scenic and adventurous
  • Open only from June to mid-October

By Bus

HRTC and private buses run from Delhi to Shimla and Manali.
From Shimla/Manali, you can board connecting buses to Kaza.

By Air + Road

Fly from Delhi to:

  • Chandigarh Airport
  • Bhuntar Airport (near Manali)

Then continue by road.

By Train + Road

Nearest railway stations:

  • Chandigarh
  • Kalka

From there, continue by road toward Shimla or Manali.

Also Read:- Things to Do in San Francisco || Best Time to Visit Andaman

How to Reach Spiti Valley from Chandigarh

Travelers often ask how to reach Spiti Valley quickly, and Chandigarh is one of the easiest starting points.

By Road

Chandigarh → Shimla → Reckong Peo → Kaza
or
Chandigarh → Manali → Kaza (seasonal)

Distance:

  • Via Shimla: 500 km
  • Via Manali: 450 km

Private taxis, self-drive cars, and bikes are commonly used.

By Bus

Chandigarh to Shimla buses operate frequently.
From Shimla, take the HRTC bus to Reckong Peo or Kaza.

 How to Reach Spiti Valley from Shimla

Shimla is the most stable access point to the Spiti Valley.

Ideal Route:

Shimla → Narkanda → Rampur → Kinnaur → Pooh → Nako → Tabo → Kaza

Distance: 420 km
Travel Time: 18–20 hours (spread over 2 days)

This route remains open even in winter unless there are heavy landslides.

 How to Reach Spiti Valley from Manali

If you are looking for a faster and more adventurous answer to how to go to Spiti Valley, then the Manali route is perfect, but seasonal.

Route:

  • Manali → Rohtang Pass → Gramphu → Batal → Kunzum Pass → Kaza
  • Distance: 190 km
  • Travel Time: 8–10 hours
  • Optimal Time to Travel: June – Mid-October
  • The trail is bumpy, rocky and in some places – entirely off-road.

Perfect for:

  • Bikers
  • Adventure travelers
  • Experienced drivers

Also Read:- Things to Do in San Francisco || Best Time to Visit Andaman

Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley

A lot of knowing how to go to Spiti Valley is also knowing the seasons.

Summer (May–October) – Best Time

  • Most roads are open
  • The weather is pleasant
  • Ideal for sightseeing and trekking

Winter (November to April) – For the Adventurous crowd

  • Heavy snowfall
  • Extremely cold temperatures (-20°C)
  • Now, only the road from Shimla is open
  • Winter in Spiti is fantastic, but you have to be prepared.

How to Reach Spiti Valley: Transportation Options for Reaching Spiti Valley

Self-Drive Car

Top pick for travellers looking for flexibility on how to get to Spiti Valley.

Recommended Cars:

SUVs (4×4 preferred)

 Motorbike

Spiti on a bike is the most coveted of Himalayan expeditions.

  • Royal Enfield 350 / 500
  • Himalayan
  • KTM Adventure
  • Triumph Scrambler

Tips:

  • Carry extra fuel
  • Use off-road tires
  • Wear full riding gear
  • Shared Taxis

Available from:

  • Manali
  • Reckong Peo
  • Shimla
  • Good for budget travelers.

Shared Taxis

Avoid:

  • Other small hatchbacks or sedans (not reliable off-road).
  • Motorbike
  • Spiti on a bike is the most coveted of Himalayan expeditions.
  • Royal Enfield 350 / 500
  • Himalayan
  • KTM Adventure
  • Triumph Scrambler
Tips:
  • Carry extra fuel
  • Use off-road tires
  • Wear full riding gear
  • Shared Taxis

Available from:

  • Manali
  • Reckong Peo
  • Shimla
  • Good for budget travelers.

HRTC Buses

Government buses run on a schedule.

  • Shimla → Reckong Peo → Kaza
  • Manali → Kaza (June–Oct)
  • Affordable and safe.

How to Reach Spiti Valley: Route Details

Pathankot to Spiti Route (All Season)

Day-wise Recommendation

Day 1: Shimla → Rampur

Day 2: Rampur → Reckong Peo → Nako

Day 3: Nako → Tabo → Kaza

Road Condition

  • Mostly paved
  • Some rough patches around Pooh
  • Landslides in monsoon
  • Altitude Safety

This route allows gradual acclimatization.

How to Reach Spiti Valley: Manali to Spiti Route (Adventure Route)

Highlights

  • Rohtang Pass
  • Chandra River views
  • Batal’s rugged terrain
  • Kunzum Pass

Road Condition

  • Rocky
  • Water crossings
  • No phone network
  • Narrow roads

Safety

Only recommended for experienced drivers.

Permits Required for Spiti Valley

While you are making plans to reach Spiti Valley, plan with a permit in your mind as well.

For Indian Citizens:

  • No Inner Line Permit needed
  • If you are entering from the Manali side, only the Rohtang Pass permit will be required

For Foreign Nationals:

Inner Line Permit for … areas near:

  • Kaza
  • Dhankar
  • Tabo
  • Nako
  • These can be obtained from:
  • Reckong Peo
  • Shimla
  • Kaza DC Office

Where to Stay on the Way to Spiti Valley

  • Shimla
  • Rampur
  • Kalpa
  • Nako
  • Tabo
  • Manali
  • Chatru (basic camps)
  • Batal (basic dhabas)

How to Reach Spiti Valley: Mobile Network & Connectivity

Some information about connectivity is included while planning for the Spiti Valley.

Best Network Provider:

BSNL (largest coverage)

Limited Coverage Areas:

  • Between Manali and Kaza
  • Near Kunzum Pass
  • Around Nako to Tabo stretches
  • Wi-Fi is available at most hotels.

Essential Tips for Reaching Spiti Valley Safely

Acclimatize Properly

Spiti is high and rises gradually.

Keep Fuel Full

Few petrol pumps:

  • Kaza
  • Reckong Peo
  • Manali

Carry Medicines

AMS drugs, Diamox, painkillers , and band aids.

Start Early

Roads become risky after dark.

Check Weather Reports

  • Especially in the monsoon (July–August).
  • Travel Light but Smart
  • Warm clothes, power bank, torch, and snacks.

How to Reach Spiti Valley in Winter

If wondering how to go Spiti Valley in peak winter, there is just one route that serves the purpose:

Shimla → Reckong Peo → Nako → Kaza From Shimla – 446 km one way.

Roads are open unless there are slides or deep snow.

  • Winter Challenges
  • Black ice
  • -20°C temperature
  • Limited accommodations
  • No Manali route

Summer travel is beautiful, but in need of hydration and proper clothing.

Final Thoughts: Planning How to Reach Spiti Valley Smoothly

Knowing how to get to Spiti Valley is the first step in visiting one of India’s most memorable high-altitude destinations. Truth be told, regardless of whether you take the safer Shimla course or even the thrilling Manali course, organized planning will help you to savour the landscapes, monasteries, lakes, as well as their lifestyle to the maximum.

There is, however, an inevitability to it all: A blizzard can be anything from a dark, beautiful, revelatory emotional fortress to something that ruins your shoes. It is possible to control it. Tarr’s people do so by having the right gear (no blue suede in winter), planning their day (use adaptive techniques and tools as needed, or for safety reasons), and dressing properly.

FAQs – How to Reach Spiti Valley

When is the best time to go Spiti Valley? How to Reach Spiti Valley?

When to visit Spiti Valley is best from May to October when roads from Shimla and Manali remain open in the valley, weather is friendly and popular tourist attractions are accessible.

How do I travel to Spiti Valley from Delhi?

From Delhi, you can get to Spiti Valley by the following ways:
Shimla – Delhi → Shimla → Reckong Peo → Kaza How to Reach Spiti Valley by Road?
Highway via Manali – Delhi → Manali → Rohtang/Atal Tunnel → Kaza
There are no trains or flights to Spiti; but Chandigarh, Shimla and Bhuntar has the nearest railheads airport.

Which is a better road , Shimla or Manali?

Shimla Route: Open for most of the year, easier climb, safer ascent due to altitude.
Shorter, scenic route (also closed during the winter and a steep ascent) via Manali.
Most travellers do it clockwise, taking the route through Shimla and returning via Manali.

How secure is the way to the Spiti Valley?

The way is secure yet some roads are very narrow with steep falls and landslide areas.
Always:
Travel in a nice car, preferably an SUV.
Check weather/road conditions
Avoid night travel

Can we get a self-driving car to Spiti Valley?

Yes you can, but for novices it’s not recommended since the terrain is challenging.
Make sure your car is well serviced and has excellent ground clearance.

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