Essential Information
How many days does it take to reach Kaza from Manali?
On the second day, your journey from Manali will lead you through various mountain passes, valleys, and dirt paths after which you will reach Kaza in Spiti Valley, after a good 8-10-hour drive.
Best Time for Manali to Kaza Trip
Due to the location of both the places, wintertime is quite treacherous because of the freezing, sub-zero temperatures. All the accommodations in Spiti Valley and along the route close down because of the frozen water pipes and lack of heat. The Rohtang Pass and the Kunzum Pass are located at high-altitudes, which shut down because of heavy snowfall.
Since driving becomes impossible, the only time of the year you can travel on this route is between June and October.
Manali to Kaza Road Condition
From Rohtang, you have to take a right from Gramphu and cross Losar. This is a dangerous stretch because of the lack of people and resources and the many waterways that flow through it. The roads are narrow and the drop-down to Lahaul Valley consists of roads that are cut into the side of the mountain and prone to landslides.
The next phase of the route is along the course of the river and is possibly the most dangerous stretch. This is the road between Chhatru and Batal, which leads up to the Kunzum Pass where the Manali to Kaza road status regains normalcy and despite a risky but pleasant descend into Spiti Valley, you reach Kaza without crossing any more rivers or obstructions.
Best Itinerary for Manali to Kaza
Day 1: Manali
- After you reach Manali, you will have time to explore the city on foot.
Day 7: Drive from Chandratal Lake to Manali
Mode of Transportation
By 4x4 Vehicle
For this purpose, 4x4 jeeps, SUVs, and other large, heavy-duty cars are recommended. Avoid sedans and small cars on this route.
By Bike
If you don’t own these bikes, you should know the basics of fixing and maintaining a bike in case it breaks down or gets punctured. Also, moderate your luggage according to your bike’s capacity. The greater the torque on your bike, the more stuff you can carry.
By Bus
The buses reach Manali from Kullu at around 4:45 am and leave from Manali at 5:00 am. You should be able to reach Kaza in 10-12 hours’ time. It is ideal for those traveling on a budget since the cost per person is around INR 250. On your way, the bus stops at scenic locales such as Dhankar Monastery, Pin Valley, Ki Monastery, Hikkim, Komik, etc. Even though the buses are slower than private cars, it is much more economical.
Places to Visit During Manali to Kaza Road Trip
Manali
Altitude: 2,050 m
Distance from Spiti: 197 km
Top Experiences To Do in Manali
Explore Manali
- 2D/1N
- Manali
- 2D/1N
- Manali
- 4D/3N
- Manali
Best of
Marhi
Altitude: 3,360 m
Distance from Manali: 35 km
Distance from Spiti: 161.2 km
Rohtang Pass
Altitude: 3,978 m
Distance from Manali: 51 km
Distance from Spiti: 145 km
Gramphu
Altitude: 3,200 m
Distance from Manali: 70 km
Distance from Spiti: 131 km
Chatru
Altitude: 3,300 m
Distance from Manali: 83.4 km
Distance from Spiti: 113.5 km
Chota Dhara
Altitude: 3,517 m
Distance from Manali: 104 km
Distance from Spiti: 96 km
Batal
Altitude: 4,250 m
Distance from Manali: 114.7 km
Distance from Spiti: 82.2 km
Kunzum Pass
Altitude: 4,590 m
Distance from Manali: 127.3 km
Distance from Spiti: 69.5 km
Losar
Altitude: 4,085 m
Distance from Manali: 145.6 km
Distance from Spiti: 52 km
Best of
Kaza
Altitude: 3,800 m
Distance from Manali: 202.4 km
Distance from Spiti: 5.5 km
Must Visit Places in Kaza
Kibber
To call Kibber beautiful would be putting it lightly – arid landscape, rocky mountains, meadows covered in vibrant wildflowers, and all this paired with pristine pollution free environment. Stargazers and photography lovers flock alike to Kibber to gaze at the unsurpassed, exquisite view of the Milky Way. Go to the nearby Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and witness the amazing fauna of Himachal – ibex, blue sheep, red fox, snow leopards, wolves etc.
You can visit various tiny monasteries around or go hiking on the small trails around the village. The locals are friendly and offer a warm and comfortable stay, if not the most luxurious, with both Indian and Tibetan home cooked food.
Location: Lahul and Spiti Valley
Best time to visit: October to February
Top Experiences To Do in Kibber
Tabo
The town is approximately 40 kilometers away from the border between India and Tibet, and you are bound to come across it when travelling by road from Kaza to Reckong Peo.The most famous attractions in Tabo include a 1000-year-old monastery, which is considered as one of the holiest by the Dalai Lama himself. The list also includes several temples, and some ancient caves, which were once inhabited by Buddhist monks who wanted to take shelter from the harsh winters.
In 1996, Dalai Lama performed the sacred Kalachakra Initiation here, and thousands of Buddhists from India and around the world attended the ceremony. The town is also known for cultivating apples, and you can find some of the tastiest and crunchiest red apples here.If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a trip to Tabo will surely rejuvenate your mind and body
While Himachal Pradesh is home to a dozen different monasteries, this spectacular place is not just the biggest, but also the oldest one around. A must visit tourist place in Spiti Valley, the Key Gompa is encircled by picturesque mountains and soothing valleys. A wonderful example of monastic architecture and decorated with beautiful paintings, murals, manuscripts, and wind instruments.
Top Experiences To Do in Key Monastery
Explore Key Monastery
- 9D/8N
- 5D/4N
- 6D/5N
Dhankar Monastery is the symbolic salutation to the spiritual beliefs of the Buddhist community. It is located in Lahaul and Spiti valley, and has been listed as one of the hundred most endangered monuments in the entire world. Situated at an altitude of 3,894 meters, it offers a spellbinding view of the Spiti valley and is a melting pot for diverse cultures and religions.
Dhankar Monastery is also known as Dhangkar Gompa or Dhankhar and was built around 1000 years ago. It was also known as Lha-od Gompa after it’s founder and renovator, Lha-od, who was a popular lama. This monastery is the main center of Buddhist culture and houses the collection of centuries-old thanksas.
One of the prime attractions of this monastery is the statue of Vairochana that consists of four figures of Buddha in the state of meditation. You will also find here Buddhist scriptures, Medicine Buddha murals, and protector deities. It also consists of a small museum where murals and scriptures have been stored.
You can also spot many beautiful Thangka paintings on the wall of this monastery. Presently, some of the sections of this gompa have been totally abandoned due to the deterioration of the building, and a new gompa has been built in place of it to lure the visitors.
The monastery is still standing in a fragile condition, and more than twenty people are not allowed to enter this monastery at one time. From the Dhankar monastery, you can indulge in a thrilling trekking experience to Dhankar Lake.
Top Experiences To Do in Dhankar Monastery
- 9D/8N
- 6D/5N
Kunzum Pass
One of the most mysterious, offbeat places to visit in Spiti Valley, the Kunzum Pass is a gateway to the gorgeous Spiti via Kullu and Lahul. Treat your photography loving soul as you click away the jaw dropping vistas around. Take in the panoramic view featuring majestic Bara Shigri Glacier covered with pristine silvery snow, the barren mountains of Chandrabhange range, the azure waters of Spiti river, and the rugged hills of Spiti Valley.
Pay your respects at the temple of Goddess Kunzum Devi and behold the vibrant prayer flags fluttering against the wind. And if you are a mountain biking enthusiast, the Kunzum offers you a special sense of achievement – being the highest motorable pass in India sitting at a jaw dropping height of 4500 metres!
Location: Keylong
Timings: No timing restrictions.
Dhankar Lake
Tucked atop a small hill at an impressive altitude of 4100 meters above sea level, the Dhankar, with its dazzling blue waters, is one of the most popular places to visit in Spiti Valley. The lake sits at the end of the famous Dhankar Lake trek known for its treacherous paths, rocky snow-capped mountains, and incomparable vistas. Adventure enthusiasts and photography lovers are enchanted alike by the magical realism of the trek.
The Dhankar Fort Monastery sandwiched between Spiti and Pin rivers offers a special spiritual touch as it plays hide and seek on the trail. And once you reach the lake, the rare and diversified views will make your jaw drop!
Location: Near Rohtang Pass connecting Kullu and Lahul.
Timings: No timing restrictions.
Chandra Tal is also known as "Moon Lake" is the source of the Chandra River. It is one of the finest treks for trekking in Manali. It was at one time a provisional spot for brokers from Tibet and Ladakh who went to Spiti and the Kullu valley, however today it draws in countless devotees from over the world and it is one of the best places in Kullu.
You will go through two high mountain ranges named Moulkila and Chandrabhaga, which are entirely trying for mountain dwellers. Further, you will see the delightful snow-shrouded mountain tops and slants. There is an unbelievable story connected with this lake.
Sea Preferred Season son: June - mid-Oct
Maximum Elevation: 4250 mts/14000 ft
Duration: 10 day
Difficulty Level: High
Best of
India's highest cold valley National Park, this place was constructed to preserve the unique natural flora and fauna of Himachal Pradesh and is named after the gorgeous Pin River and acts as an interface between the Lahul and Spiti Valley. Against a backdrop of barbarous, rugged snow-covered mountain peaks of the Spiti Valley, the national park is home to Himachal's ferocious predators, the snow leopards, and their prey, the ibex.
The terrain is rough and precarious, so train hard and get into those fitness programs before you undertake this captivating journey. The sanctuary also witnesses a strong spiritual influence due to the presence of Buddhist monasteries around the area.
Location: Near Kaza.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM throughout the week.
A few parchments are composed with The organizer of the Sakyapa group, Khon Konchog Gyalpo, assembled the white castle on the Chun Qu River in 1073 on a dark dirt slope. Occupants named the sanctuary "Sakya", which implies dark soil. Every one of that remaining parts of this northern sanctuary are ruins.
Location: Sakya about 100 miles from the Nepal’s border in the Tibetan prefecture of Shigatse
Prices: CNY 45 Best time to visit: 09:00 to 18:30
Highlights: • Large Collection of Sutras • Tibetan Traditional Art (Thankas & Murals) • Religious Ceremonies
Things to Know During Manali to Kaza Road Trip
Petrol Pumps on Manali-Kaza Route
- In Kaza: There are 2 petrol pumps near Kaza namely, an Indian Oil Petrol pump in Gramphu-Batal-Kaza Road and the Kaza Fuel Station.
ATMs on Manali-Kaza Route
- In Kaza: There are 2 functional ATMs in Kaza- a State Bank of India ATM and a KCC Bank ATM. However, they are not very reliable so stay equipped while you leave Manali.
Mechanics on Manali-Kaza Route
However, it is highly recommended that you carry your own kit of tools when you are embarking on this trip.
Mobile connectivity on Manali-Kaza Route
Even then, you might not get connectivity in all the places. There are STD booths along the route that you can access in case of emergencies.
Permits
- Foreign Nationals require to get an Inner Line Permits to enter the protected areas of the state. You can get this permit from the District Magistrate to access through the villages and areas close to the international borders.
Things to Carry
- Sleeping bags are also an essential addition to your luggage. In case you are planning to make pit stops along the way, a warm sleeping bag can be a lifesaver.
- If you are self-driving, then you can also carry an extra pair of windshield wipers for your car to prevent a situation in case your old ones get damaged.
- Your own supply of food and water is also essential since you will be traveling for over 8-10 hours at a stretch, with only a few stops in between.
- Along with your personal medication, carry general first aid medication as well. A lot of people might not be used to such intense traveling, and the body acting up is not uncommon.
- If traveling on a bike, pack your luggage according to your vehicle’s capacity. If it is a 100cc motorcycle, don’t carry unnecessary luggage. Also, if two people are traveling on one bike, you have to keep your luggage light to compensate for the weight of another person.
- A camera and possibly a pair of binoculars is an absolute must when you are traveling to the Spiti Valley, to capture its inexplicable beauty.
Best of
Clothes to Carry on Manali-Kaza Trip
- It goes without saying that you must carry sufficient warm clothes. The temperature varies between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius between June and October, which makes it pleasantly cool. However, if you are crossing the snow-capped peaks while traveling the Manali to Kaza distance, you should keep your caps, gloves, jackets, and scarves handy.
- Raincoats and waterproof clothing are a must to combat the various streams and rivulets you will have to encounter and drive through on your journey.
- Waterproof boots that are thick and provide grip and friction with the ground are also a must, so that you climb over the mountains, walk through the rocky plains and cross the rivers with ease.
Medical Facilities on Manali-Kaza Route
- Lady Willingdon Hospital
- Rawat Clinic
- Civil Hospital
Safety Tips and Guidelines
- If you are planning to travel by car, make sure you choose a sturdy vehicle, such as a 4x4 Jeep, or SUVs like Land Rovers and Sumos that are equipped to handle the tricky terrain of Spiti Valley.
- For those traveling on bikes, heavy-duty motorcycles like Royal Enfields are highly recommended. The tires of your bikes should have a good grip and you should also know how to fix their basic problems such as a flat tire.
- Some of the areas on your route, such as Chota Dhara, are prone to landslides because of the terrain and the water streams that flow through the road itself. You should proceed very carefully through these areas.
- The route consists of a rollercoaster of valleys, hills, mountain passes, streams, and rocky plains, so make sure you navigate your vehicle with caution, especially when climbing downhill.
- Shooting stones are a concern when you are driving on this route, so you must be alert at all times.
Information about AMS and Acclimatization
As you climb higher and higher towards Spiti Valley, the change in temperature, air pressure, oxygen levels, and other such factors can create physiological effects such as nausea, dizziness, vomiting, breathlessness, weakness, nosebleeds and even fainting spells. To combat this, you need to help your body acclimatize to the changing conditions.
Examples of these changes are:
- Do not sleep at high altitudes. If you are trekking to a place that is higher than your base camp, make sure you climb back down before going to sleep.
- If you start to show symptoms of AMS, stop climbing immediately and rest for a few hours before continuing.
- Avoid all kinds of drugs, depressants and otherwise, such as alcohol, sleeping medicines, allergens, tobacco, etc. when you are climbing.
- Before you start climbing to higher altitudes, make sure you have a carbohydrate-rich diet which will increase the number of calories in your body, and therefore give you greater energy.
Spiti Tour Packages
- 9D/8N
- 9D/8N
About the Tour:
Get ready for a heart-pounding biking expedition to the virgin land of Spiti that is dreamt by many, but only a few dare to experience. Flaunt your biking skills as you mark your way through the high altitude passes that provide spectacular views of the snow-clad mountains and the gravelly pathways that are cut by glaciated waterfalls.
The tricky curves of Spiti will take you to the tiny hamlets, 1000-year-old monasteries and some high suspended bridges that will give you chills. Pat yourself for pulling out this adventurous journey as you look back at the dusty roads against the rugged Himalayan backdrop.
Quick Info:
Route: Chandigarh - Narkanda - Chitkul - Kalpa - Nako - Gue - Tabo - Kaza - Key - Langza - Hikkim - Komic - Chicham - Kunzum Pass - Chandratal - Manali - Chandigarh
Duration: 9 Days 8 Night
Start Point: Chandigarh
End Point: Chandigarh
- 8D
- Manali
- 8D
About the Destination:
As everyone knows, Lahaul and Spiti are the most beautiful valleys located in the Himalayas at a greater altitude exhibiting the best natural sights of the mountains and green valleys. The quaint villages, the Buddhist monasteries, the lakes and rivers, the high altitude roads and passes, the snow-covered peaks and the picturesque sights on both the sides will enable you to make your girls' gang feel a high level excitement and joy.
Wondering what you will be ticking off?
- Lahaul Valley: One of the most spellbinding places to visit in Spiti Valley, the Lahaul Valley is a staple for adrenaline junkies and solitude seekers alike. Bare mountains covered with null vegetation, clear blue skies, pollutions free environment, green meadows – Lahaul is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Key Monastery: A must visit tourist place in Spiti Valley, the Key Gompa is encircled by picturesque mountains and soothing valleys. A wonderful example of monastic architecture and decorated with beautiful paintings, murals, manuscripts, and wind instruments – the Kye attracts history and cultural buffs round the year.
- Dhankar Lake: Tucked atop a small hill at an impressive altitude of 4100 meters above sea level, the Dhankar, with its dazzling blue waters, is one of the most popular places to visit in Spiti Valley. The lake sits at the end of the famous Dhankar Lake trek known for its treacherous paths, rocky snow-capped mountains, and incomparable vistas.
- Dhankar Monastery: The Dhankar Fort Monastery sandwiched between Spiti and Pin rivers offers a special spiritual touch as it plays hide and seek on the trail. And once you reach the lake, the rare and diversified views will make your jaw drop! A truly curious landmark, the monastery is perched so precariously amongst rocks that it appears as if it is seconds away from falling all over.
- Tabo Monastery: Tabo Monastery is one of the most wondrous places to visit in Spiti Valley. Founded a millennium ago, the temple is a unique amalgamation of history, culture and natural splendour. In the cold barren deserts of Tabo valley, the monastery appears as a sanctum from the brutality of barbarous rocky mountains around.
- Khibber: To call Kibber beautiful would be putting it lightly – arid landscape, rocky mountains, meadows covered in vibrant wildflowers, and all this paired with pristine pollution-free environment. Stargazers and photography lovers flock alike to Kibber to gaze at the unsurpassed, exquisite view of the Milky Way.
About the Tour:
This road tour starts from Chandigarh and takes you through the major villages and locations like Sarahan, Kalpa, Tabo, Kaza and the sights you will come across during the journey include Narkanda, Lahaul Valley, Khibber, Tabo, Key Monastery, Dhankar, etc.
Your 7 day adventure starts from Chandigarh. You travel all the way around seeing popular, beautiful and hidden sites in the Spiti Valley and come back to Chandigarh. Stay at great places, eat local food, travel around the valley, know the culture and visit landmark spots that will take your breath away. Read the advisory and inclusions carefully before going for the tour.
In peak winter i.e. January and early February all the places might not be open due to adverse weather conditions. We will keep you updated of the same in case any last minute changes need to be made to your plan.
- 9D/8N
- Spiti Valley
- 9D/8N
End Point: Shimla-Delhi
Highlights of the Spiti Valley Winter Tour:
Adore the stunning view of Kinner Kailash peaks over a cup of tea.
Experience in a local Spitian homestay.
Visit Key Monastery
About the Places:
- Nako Village: Highest village in the valley, Nako owns a lake formed out of the masses of the ice. Fauna including, Yaks, kine, horses and asses, can be found in abundance here.
- Spiti: Spiti is one of the coldest places in the country. Snuggled at an altitude of 12,500 feet above the sea level, the valley serves as a paradise to adventure lovers.
- Key Monastery: A famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery, Key Monastery is also known as the Kye Monastery and Ki Monastery. Explore the long and interesting history of the monastery with this tour.
- Kalpa: Having beautiful temples and monasteries, the village of Kalpa is famous for its apple orchards.
About the Spiti Valley in Winter Tour:
Get ready to start the adventure from Delhi. and go to all the places you wished to visit. This tour allows with all the experiences where you get to experience the beauty of winter and have memories that you can share with all.
Drive through places like Kufri, Narkanda and many more. Get to explore Chitkul. Chitkul is the last village on the old Hindustan - Tibet Trade route. It is on the banks of river Baspa and is the last place Indians can visit without a permit. Situated at an altitude of 2759 m from the sea level, Kalpa is located close to the foot of Kinner Kailash, the winter home of Lord Shiva.
Spiti Valley is a paradise to all the trekkers and mecca to travel lovers. Spiti means 'The Middle Land' and it separates India from Tibet. It is the best place to visit to experience the winter Spiti as Spiti is one of the coldest places in the country. Sprawling 360-degree views of the beautiful mountains will take your heart away.
All in all the tour is best suited to go for a perfect trip to explore Spiti in winter and allows you to create memories that are worth-sharing and worth-living. The Spiti Valley In Winter tour will be remembered for the rest of your life and you will have stunning pictures for your social media.
- 6D/5N
- 6D/5N
About the Tour:
A region nestled between India and Tibet known for adventure and thrill - Lahaul & Spiti’s pictures from its unreal landscape must have crossed your newsfeed a few times. Inspired by them and stories from Instagram, plan your drive to Spiti with Thrillophilia, to experience the unique vibe of this cold deserted, landlocked mountain valley. To put it simply, a perfect playground for those who seek adventurous off-road driving to Spiti which is not just a place, it is a feeling.
Feel like being on top of the world, as you look down at a tiny truck that lies below Asia's highest suspended Chicham Bridge. After a long riding haul, experience a unique calmness at your pitstop by the vibrant yet peaceful vibes of the 1000-year-old Key monastery that stand aloof on this rugged terrain. Breathe in the fresh air as you sit and relax on the isolated slopes of the highest village while you soak in the magnificent landscapes surrounded by you.
Quick Info:
Route: Manali - Kaza - Kibber- Komic - Hikkim - Langza - Kunzum La - Chandratal - Manali
Duration: 6 Days 5 Nights
Start Point: Manali
End Point: Manali
Best of
- 6D/5N
- 6D/5N
About the Tour:
“Surely the Gods must live here, this is no place for men'' a trip to Spiti will make you understand why Rudyard Kipling said the above quote. Drive through the iconic high passes on the challenging roads with unnumbered waterfalls winding, Nature’s wonder can be best explained through this Spiti valley road trip.
Breathe in the fresh air as you sit on the isolated slopes of the last village - 'Chitkul' while you soak in the magnificent landscapes surrounded by you. Be the first one amongst your group to get your car fueled up from the world’s highest petrol pump in Kaza. Capture an Instagram perfect story as you slip into silence with an encompassing view of Kinnaur Kailash peaks which are high enough to leave the world below and enter the world of dreams.
Quick Info:
Route: Shimla - Chitkul - Nako - Gue - Key - Kibber - Kaza - Komik - Hikkim - Langza - Dhankar - Kalpa - Shimla
Duration: 6 Days 5 Nights
Start Point: Shimla
End Point: Shimla
- 11D/10N
- 11D/10N
About the Tour:
Fuel up your bikes from the world’s highest petrol pump at Kaza and fire up the rider in you for a most thrilling biking expedition into the rustic land of Spiti. This valley will fascinate you with its ever-changing vistas, the tricky terrain, and the nerve-chilling high altitude views that will give you a feel of being on top of the world.
Feel like being on top of the world, as you look down at a tiny truck that lies below Asia's highest suspended Chicham Bridge. After a long riding haul, experience a unique calmness at your pitstop by the vibrant yet peaceful vibes of the 1000-year-old Key monastery that stand aloof on this rugged terrain. Don't forget to take a perfect postcard picture in the “I’m a conqueror” pose with your bike by the sparkling turquoise lakes, and cherish your dream vacation for life.
Quick Info:
Route: Delhi - Manali - Jibhi - Rampur - Chitkul - Kalpa - Kaza - Chandra Tal - Manali - Delhi
Duration: 11 Days 10 Nights
Start Point: Delhi
End Point: Delhi
- 5D/4N
- 5D/4N
About the Tour:
Get your heads out of the car window and indulge in the breathtaking views of the rugged Himalayan terrain, where every curve will greet you with endless valley views, snow-clad peaks, and a moon-shaped lake on an adventurous trip to Spiti. The rustic landscape of this remotely resting land will leave you awestruck. To put it simply, a perfect playground for those who seek adventurous off-road driving along with an added bonus of spotting the ever-elusive Snow Leopard.
A drive from the highest village to the last village is totally worth remembering as you breathe in the fresh mountain air while sitting on the isolated slopes of the last village surrounded by magnificent landscapes. Feel the chills as you look down upon a tiny truck from Asia’s highest suspended Chicham bridge or cross the manually operated cable ropeway to Kibber village, Spiti makes a perfect powerpack for an adventurous vacation.
Quick Facts:
Route: Manali - Atal tunnel - Kaza - Hikkim - Komic - Langza - Key - Kibber - Kumzum Pass - Chandratal - Rohtang Pass - Manali
Duration: 5 Days, 4 Nights
Start Point: Manali
End Point: Manali
