Spiti Valley, located in the cold desert region of Himachal Pradesh, is a dream destination for travelers seeking high-altitude adventure, serene monasteries, and untouched Himalayan landscapes. Whether you’re planning a road trip, solo bike ride, or guided tour, it’s important to understand how to reach Spiti Valley from different parts of India. Here’s a complete guide to help you plan your journey.
Two Main Routes to Reach Spiti Valley
There are two popular ways to enter Spiti Valley:
1. Via Shimla (Open Year-Round)
Route: Delhi/Chandigarh → Shimla → Rampur → Reckong Peo → Nako → Tabo → Kaza (Spiti)
Distance: ~740 km from Delhi
Time: 2–3 days of travel
Best For: Gradual altitude gain, scenic valleys, safer winter access
Pros:
Open throughout the year (except in extreme snowfall)
Gradual ascent helps in avoiding altitude sickness
Allows you to explore Kinnaur Valley en route
Cons:
2. Via Manali (Open from Mid-June to October)
Route: Delhi → Mandi → Manali → Rohtang Pass → Kunzum Pass → Kaza
Distance: ~520 km from Delhi
Time: 2 days of travel
Best For: Shorter access during summer, dramatic landscapes
Pros:
Cons:
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (Kullu) — ~245 km from Kaza
Alternative Airport: Chandigarh Airport — better connectivity, ~500 km from Spiti
From either airport, you must continue by road to reach Spiti.
Nearest Major Station: Shimla Railway Station (narrow gauge), or Kalka Railway Station for broad-gauge trains.
From Kalka or Shimla, continue by road through Kinnaur toward Kaza.
From Shimla: Daily HRTC buses to Reckong Peo and Kaza (subject to weather)
From Manali: Seasonal HRTC buses to Kaza via Rohtang and Kunzum (June to October only)
Shared cabs and local jeeps are also available in Reckong Peo and Manali
Best Time to Travel: Mid-May to October
Fuel Up: Last fuel stations are in Kaza and Reckong Peo
Permits: Not needed for Indian citizens, but foreigners need an Inner Line Permit if traveling through Kinnaur
Mobile Network: Limited coverage; BSNL and Jio work best
Knowing how to reach Spiti Valley is key to planning a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you choose the scenic Shimla route for its year-round accessibility or the rugged Manali route for its raw adventure, Spiti promises a rewarding experience. Plan your route based on the season, your vehicle, and the kind of journey you’re looking for.