Spiti Valley 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary 2026 — Shimla to Manali Circuit
Spiti Valley is a high-altitude cold desert in Himachal Pradesh — moonscapes, ancient cliff-top monasteries, the world’s highest villages, and impossibly blue skies. This 7-day road trip itinerary covers the classic Shimla-to-Manali Spiti circuit with safe acclimatisation, key stops, and practical tips.
Best time & how to go
June to September is the season (both roads open; the Manali side opens later). The Shimla→Spiti→Manali direction is recommended for gradual acclimatisation. This is rugged terrain — go with a reliable vehicle/driver or experienced bikers.
Day-by-day plan
- Day 1 — Shimla to Sangla/Chitkul: Drive through Kinnaur; Chitkul, the “last village.”
- Day 2 — to Kalpa/Nako: Apple country and the high-altitude Nako Lake.
- Day 3 — to Tabo: The 1,000-year-old Tabo Monastery; Gue mummy detour.
- Day 4 — Dhankar & Pin Valley: Cliff monastery and the green Pin Valley.
- Day 5 — Kaza base: Key Monastery, Kibber, Hikkim (world’s highest post office), Komic, Langza.
- Day 6 — Kaza to Chandratal: Cross Kunzum La to the “moon lake.”
- Day 7 — to Manali: Over Rohtang/Atal Tunnel.
Altitude & tips
- Acclimatise gradually; the Shimla side ascends slowly — don’t rush.
- Carry cash (few ATMs), warm layers, and basic meds (consult a doctor re: AMS).
- Fuel up at Kaza; petrol pumps are scarce.
- Homestays are the heart of Spiti — book ahead in peak season.
- Respect monasteries and fragile high-altitude ecology.
FAQs
Is 7 days enough for Spiti? Yes for the circuit. Add buffer days for weather and acclimatisation.
