NOTE: This post was for road status in the year 2016. Please CLICK HERE or at the link for recent updates on road conditions in year 2017. Road conditions mentioned in this post were for 2016.
Lahaul & Spiti Valley Road Status 2017
This is a dedicated post for Spiti Valley Road Status and road conditions this year which I will keep updating as I receive inputs from from several readers who visited the valley.
ROAD STATUS :
Shimla to Kaza: OPEN
Manali to Kaza: CLOSED
Chandratal: CLOSED
UPDATE :
After recent snowfall at Kunzum Pass top, the stretch from Batal to Losar has been declared closed by officials for year 2016. Civilian traffic is now no longer allowed to travel on this stretch of the road. Even though the state run bus service from Manali to Kaza is now no longer operational, local cab drivers are still commuting on the road. This too however will stop after the snow at the top of the pass increases.
If you were planning a trip to Spiti, It is advised to travel from Shimla to Kaza and return via the same route. Do not risk travelling on Manali to Kaza stretch as it is quite risky right now. The road leading to Chandratal too is snowed out and there is no accommodation available at the lake anymore.
In my opinion, now is not really an ideal time to visit Spiti valley. If you are interested in catching some snow, then give it another couple of months and go in the month of January or February because at that time, the entire valley will be under a thick cover of snow. Right now, snow is only limited to the peaks like Kunzum Pass. The weather however has already gotten way too cold already.
Road from Manali to Keylong however is still open as Rohtang Pass has not yet been declared closed. Do not however plan anything as Rohtang too will close any day now.
Below is how the road conditions are in Spiti.
Latest update on the road conditions from Manali to Kaza. Kunzum Pass is expected to be closed on 15th Nov 2016
With Manali Leh highway already declared closed for 2016, It is no longer safe or advised to travel from Manali to Kaza. Even though both Rohtang La and Kunzum Pass are still open for civilian traffic, weather has already gotten way too cold in Spiti. Chandrataal is already closed so if you are travelling from Manali side, there is no other choice but to travel directly to either Losar or Kaza. Dhabas at Batal are still operational but spending the night in a chadar tent in this weather is not recommended. There is a high possibility that you may not even find a place to stay at Batal. Kunzum Pass can experience snow and declared closed any time now.
Shimla to Kaza road is still open and there is no snow on the stretch yet. If you are starting from Shimla, you can travel all the way to Kaza but inquire with the locals before proceeding towards Kunzum Pass. If you are in Kaza and there is snow at the top, you will have no other choice but to return to Shimla via the same route that you took to reach Kaza.
Here is another update from a fellow traveler who just returned from Spiti.
“the road from Manali to Rohtang is only good…Rohtang to gramphu,…is some ok….from there till batal and chandratal. Even to kunzum also the roads are too bad…I felt it’s a real night mare ,….”
Here is the most recent road update on road conditions from a friend who recently completed the Spiti valley circuit in his Renault Duster.
“Road is generally ok up to just short of Tapri but since it is raining in upper Shimla and lower Kinnaur, you could encounter a landslide or two. We were stuck in Neugalsari (just short of Bhabanagar) for about 4 hours. Road condition from Tapri to Pooh is bad (except for a few short stretches where widening and black-topping has been completed) as BRO is widening the road. The construction of multitude of hydro-power projects between Tapri and Karcham has not helped matters (tunneling for these projects has destabilized the mountain slopes). Pooh to Sumdoh stretch is generally quite good but beware of shooting stones in this area. Sumdoh to Kaza is again bad. Since the army and ITBP movement lessens on this stretch (Sumdoh is on the Tibet border), the traffic thins here.
Kaza to Losar is not bad, Losar to Kunzum top and then to Batal is not as good (I find that going up the Kunzum from the Spiti side is better than from the Manali side). Please remember to stop at Chacha-Chachi dhaba at Batal for breakfast or tea. I have known them since 1993. They are the last ones to close down in winters and have been known to help numerous tourists stuck in that area. You can see Chachi in one of the Incredible India ads of Aamir Khan (the one where an old lady helps a young female tourist who has missed her bus).
The real challenge is Batal to Rohtang top. I last drove on this road in 1993 and there has been absolutely no improvement in the condition of the road in 23 years. You will be driving on embedded rocks for almost 4-5 hours. However, the good news is that the nallahs on this stretch (especially between Chhatru and Gramphoo) have been bridged and are no longer a menace they used to be. Even the road leading to Rohtang top from Gramphoo is bad as that stretch is also being widened. The other side of Rohtang up to Manali has been widened and is good.
For those who have not travelled this side in the recent past, please note that the road from Parwanoo to Solan and also from Sundernagar (on Manali side) till Kiratpur is in a bad shape as both these highways are being four laned. So keep an extra time cushion for covering these stretches.
Happy driving.”
Spiti Valley Road Status
Delhi-Parwanoo: Good Condition
Parwanoo-Solan: Just ok, road widening in progress
Solan-Narkanda: Good Condition
Narkanda-Rampur: Good Condition
Rampur-Wangtoo: Good Condition
Wangtoo-Karcham-Very bad condition
Karcham-Chooling: very bad and steep via Urni village diversion
Chooling-Powari: very bad condition
Powari-Apka: bad condition
Akpa-Spillow: Good Condition
Spillow-Pooh: bad, good from 5kms before Pooh
Pooh-Khab: mostly good with a few bad patches
Khab-Nako: very good
Nako-Shalkar: good
Shalkar-Sumdo: bad, rockfall zone
Sumdo-Gue Village: good
Gue Village cut-Tabo: bad
Tabo-Kaza: mostly bad, last 10kms before Kaza good
Kaza-Langza: good
Langza-Komic: average
Kaza-Key: good
Key-Kibber: good
Kibber-Chicham bridge: good
Kaza-Rangrik: very good
Rangrik-Losar: bad with one water crossing
Losar-Kunzum: bad and steep
Kunzum-Chandratal: very bad with 2 water crossings
Chanderatal-Batal: very bad
Batal-Chattru: very bad, river bed track, full of stones. Numerous water crossings, 3-4 big ones
Chattru-Gramphoo: bad with a couple of water crossings
Gramphoo-Rohtang: mostly good
Rohtang-Manali: very good, slushy at a couple of places
While the road from from Manali to Keylong has been declared open and is currently is use by civilians, Kunzum pass remains to be closed. Here is a pic of the current condition of the road.
Spiti Valley Road Status
The entire stretch from Gramphoo to Batal and then to Losar via Kunzum Pass is still covered in snow and closed.This road including Kunzum Pass usually opens towards Mid of June however due to mild snow-fall, it is expected to be open a little early this year, either towards end of May or by early June. Road to Chandrataal also is closed and is expected to open around 10th of June, after Kunzum pass opens.
Spiti Valley Road Status
If you are planning a trip to Spiti this year, best time would be by mid-June or after. If you must travel earlier than that, the only way would be to do Shimla to Kaza and return via the same route.
191 comments
hi sir
chandigarh to shimla to spiti vally full trip details &
kaza to leh jane ka hai route details plz
or leh to manali return route details chahiye
Front axle of a loaded truck broke down yesterday morning around 11 am about 10km from grampoo along chandrataal route. It might take about two days for repair. Even bikes are unable to cross. We had to return back. People planninv to go there today along this route please take note.
Thanks Puneeth Bhai for update
Planning a Cycle Ride Starting from Spiti valley to Leh, Khardhung lah.
how can i get a bus to reach spiti from Manali.?
is it possible to carry packed cycles in bus?
There is a regular bus service between Manali and Kaza. Take a look at the below post for more details.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/spiti-valley-bus-service-frequency-fare/
Hey Vargis, this is Sreejith from Kerala. Planing a trip from Chandigarh – Manali – Kaza – Shimla and back to Chandigarh on a Scorpio in June 2nd week 2k17. We are 6 people including girls. Is it possible to complete the trip in 5-6 dys? Where would you suggest us to stay in between?
Hi Allipra – Yes you can do it in 5-6 days. However the Manali Kaza stretch as of now is expected to open by June end, it may remain closed in 2nd week.
Provided that it is open, you can journey in the following manner.
1. Chandigarh to Chitkul
2. Chitkul to Nako
3. Nako to Kaza
4. Kaza to Chandratal
5. Chandratal to Manali
6. Manali to Chandigarh
Hello
Hum simla 27 may aur lahulspiti last manali return 7jun kalka us time road open or close hoga.
7th June tak toh Manali Kaza road open ho jaayegi
hello sir,
Hum shimla – kaza-shimla plan kr rhe h bikes pe, 16 may ko, roads conditions kaisi hogi.
Aapka contact no. mil sakta h?
Hi Vipul – Shimla se Rampur tak sadak achhi hai, uske baad Reckong Peo tak kharab hai, phir Peo se Puh tak bahut zyada kharab, Puh se Nako tak achhi hai and Nako se Kaza tak average hai
Hi Vargis,
We 5 friends are planning a drive from delhi to spiti valley from 10th to 18th. Any advise on the weather condition during this time. Will the roads be blocked or full by tourists?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Abhay – 10th to 18th of which month? If you meant May then no, there will not be a lot of tourists. The road from Manali to Kaza will be closed and you can only do Shimla – Kaza – Shimla.
Hi ,
We are a family,planning a 9-10days trip starting 16th June.We will be covering Kinnaur then stay in Kaza for 2 days and will then finally visit Chandertal on 22nd June.
So wanted to know whether the road from Kaza to Chandertal via Kunzum Pass will be open for cars during that time.
I am totally confused as I really want to visit Chandertal.Please suggest whether we should confirm this trip and go ahead with the bookings.
Hello – Yes all the roads and Chandratal will be open by that time so you can travel as planned.
Hello,I will be doing spiti this year again,but in a self drive car this time.
Wanting to know what are the chances that the road from kaza -chandertaal-batal-keylong will be open around 1st june?
Should i take the risk and move ahead with my plan in that direction or not??
TIA
Nivrith
In all probability it will be open. Chandratal camps will be set up in sometime first week of June. So continue with your plan, start from Shimla though.
Hi ABRAR,
We 2 guys are planning to visit Spiti Valley including Chandratal in the mid of April. Will roads be open via Shimla in the mid of April.
Any idea about the roads – so that we can plan our spiti trip.
Thanks in advance
Ashish – Roads will be open but only until Kaza from where you will have to turn back. Kunzum Pass and Chandratal will remain closed in April, not expected to open until late May or early June as of now.
Sir kya shimla to kaza roads open hai agr hum car se 4may kojate hair
Hanji Bhai .. Shimla to Kaza completely open hai
Hey Vaibhav Here,
We 6 of us are planning to travel in 3 bikes starting from Shimla-chitkul-kalpa-tabo-kibber-key-kaza-chandratal-manali. planning to go 24th june for around 10 days. Advisable?
Hey Vaibhav – Absolutely. All the roads will be open at that time including Kunzum Pass and Chandratal.
Vaibhav… We are 3 frnds whobar planing on 27 June.. so maybe we can club together. If interested, Drop me an WhatsApp msg on 7838908400
hi , i m planing to go kaza via shimla kalpa at end of march 17 on my motorbike.
want to know -roads are open for this route,if yes are suitable for motor bike.
– can i get a hotel or home stay at this time .
– can i get a camping site there . i have backpack for extreme temp.
You can go, shouldn’t be a problem. Road is open until Kaza but is closed beyond that. There are a lot of hotels in Kaza and you can easily find one. If you are interested, I can provide you with number of a guy who runs a hotel in Kaza. For camping, my best advise would be to first reach there if you indeed want to go camping as the weather is extremely cold right now.. If you indeed want to camp, then talk to the locals first, preferably a Dhaba owner and camp somewhere closer to his set up.
Hi! Varghis. This is Sachin, We have planned our trip to kullu, manali, Rohtang pass and beyond Keylong, Baralacha la pass and from keylong to kaza via gramphu chatru. Can u tell me Road conditions from 20th may 2017. We will be going to keylong and beyond till baralacha la pass around 23 rd may 2017. So will be lucky to reach there, and also can we go to kaza in this time. Pls reply me as soon as possible, if any changes need to done i can. Thanks….
It all depends on the weather Sachin. Rohtang usually is open by late May and Kunzum Pass opens up sometime towards early or mid June however there has been a lot of snowfall in the region this year, in fact it was the heaviest in last 5 years so it may cause a bit of delay in opening of the two passes. Rohtang in all probability will be open at that time but Kunzum Pass is doubtful.
Me nd my hubby planning 15 may we go 2 sangla 2 kunjum pass nd chandratall lake .this time open the road ? pls ans me
It is highly doubtful that Kunzum Pass and Chandratal will be open by Mid May. It usually opens towards the end of the May.
We are planning to cover shimla-kaza-chandratal-manali starting 15th may from shimla. Do you think road from kaza to manali will be opened by then?
I highly doubt that Kunzum Pass would be open at that time. There has been a lot of snow this year so it may delay the opening a bit.
hello.. hi..!! we are planning to go to spiti valley this 6th of jan2017.. from manali.. is it recommended also we plan to visit chandratal lake. do suggest if it possible..?
Chandrataal will be closed in January Neeha … You will not be able to reach there and would have to return to Shimla from Kaza
Vargis, I reached Shimla today morning and is planning to take a bus to recongpeo tomorrow and from there to kaza. One week in Spiti and get to delhi via chandigarh. Suggestions, advises, cautions? I really wish you see this before I catch the bus! Thanks
Accommodation can be a bit problematic in Spiti at this time Asif. Have you made any prior arrangements?
Apart from accommodation, you only need to be careful with the cold … nothing much .. have a safe trip and do share your experience and a few pics once you are back.
Thanks Vargis, I havent. I have my tent and sleeping bag, doesnt seem like a good option though? I have bus ticket only to recongpeo. CanI buy kaza ticket from here or is it available when I reach peo?
My previous detailed post was not posted not sure why 🙁
We are planning for Kaza in 2nd week of Jan 2017 from Shimla-Kaza route, could you please share the road status and if it is actually possible to Visit Kaza in that time?
Shimla to Kaza is open Shan and yes it is possible to travel in Jan. How are you planning to travel btw?
Hi Vargis,
This is one of informative post I have seen while working on my travel plan.Could you help me with the road status between Shimla -Kaza?
I am planning for Kaza from Delhi in 2nd week of Next month. What I understand till now is that Shimla-KAZA is the best route and for now all hotels in KAZA are closed but there are few options to stay. Not sure what will be the condition in next 15 days but temp will be below 8 or less. What you Advice?
Hi Shan – Hotels will mostly remain closed but a few will still be open, shouldn’t be a big deal to find a place to stay. Yes, temperature will be freezing with snow at a lot of stretches so be careful.
Thanks for you reply,
I have made numerous calls to KAZA and Shimla and 50% of the people are saying January is not a good time to visit KAZA as there were no hotels available, no water and , the other 50% are saying condition are not good but once can get taxi to KAZA and accommodations also. What you suggest?
We are 2 people and planning to book a taxi from Shimla.
It will be way too cold that is for sure, road conditions in Spiti are never good be it January or July so that pretty much remains the same. It is good to get a taxi because I will not advise traveling on your own at that time considering all the snow. If you are intrested, i can check with my contact in Kaza if he can arrange your taxi and accommodation. let me know
Hello Vargis I am planning to visit Manali Via Chandigarh by HPRTC Bus on 10th December 2016 and intent to stay in Manali for 3-4 days and enjoy the region and return around 15-16th to Candigarh. I will highly appreciate your guidelines and advises.
Regards.
Pritam
Hello Pritam – Please let me know what help you need.
Hi Vargis,
We are planning to travel manali on 7th December 2016. Does solang valley covered with snow at this time or better to opt for Gulaba at this time .
You will not find any snow at this time except for Rohtang Top. Best would be to postpone your trip until January, this is the time when you will find snow in ample amount and may catch a live snowfall as well.
Hi.
I am Mukund and I am planning to go for a road Trip to spiti valley and from thr to leh by sub in the month of July 2017 from Delhi.
How is the road conditions? Is it safe n OK to drive with SUV?
Please do reply.
Mukund – It is safe to drive in an SUV. Road conditions you can check next year before starting your journey.
Hi Vargis ,
We are planning road trip from Delhi to Kaza thru Shimla from 10 Nov to 15 Nov 2016 . Is it good time to go there. How will be whether and road condition. Also suggest how much time it will take from Shimla to reach Kaza.
Hi Sumit, you can go in November but it is going to be very cold so be prepared. Road conditions in Spiti are never quite good. Shimla to Kaza is a 3 day journey at minimum. How are you traveling? And what is your itinerary?
Hi Sumit, We are 4 friends, doing the same route from Nov. 1 to 6 in a rented Scorpio. If you want to tag along, do let us know.
PS- You can also join us in our vehicle at roughly around 10,000/- per head including stay in rented tents+sleeping bags and basic food (3 times a day). Contact me at 9717911270.
Hi Vargis,
This is Abrar from Mumbai. We have a scheduled trip to Spiti from Manali starting 20th October 2016. Need to know the current status of Rohtang and Kunzum pass (especially, whether Chandrataal would be accessible at this time). In case, they are closed, is there an alternate route to reach Kaza from Manali?
Looking forward to your suggestions.
Hi Abrar – Chandratal is already closed, no option available to stay there anymore. Rohtang and Kunzum are still open and chances are that they will remain open around 20th.
Dear Vargis,
Thanks a ton.
Unfortunately, we won’t be able to make it to the lake then. But we’ll still take the same route towards Kaza.
You can visit the lake but cannot stay there. It is a 14 kilometer diversion from Kunzum Pass top, on an extremely narrow road. So if you wish, you can go to the lake, see it, return to Kunzum and be on your way to Kaza. Be advised though that Spiti has already gotten way too cold so be prepared accordingly. Kunzum Pass is open so far but it can be snowed out any day now. What is your itinerary by the way?
Hi Vargis,
Thankz a ton for your advice.
Here’s the itinerary:
Itinerary:
Day 1: October 18: Depart from Mumbai for Delhi (1635 hrs)
Day 2: October 19: Arrive at Delhi (0930 hrs), board hired car post breakfast– depart for Manali (1200 hrs)
Day 3: October 20: Arrive at at Manali (overnight) – spend rest of the day visiting nearby places – Paragliding in Solang (if possible) – rest overnight in Manali.
Day 4: October 21: Reach Batal (0800 hrs) – have breakfast at Batal Dhaba – visit Chandratal and its upper waters – return to Kunzum and proceed towards Kaza – in case it is dark early, stay overnight in Losar.
Day 5: October 22: Losar – Pangmo – Neked – Kaza.
Day 6: October 23: Kaza – Chicham – Key – Tashigong – Thinam – Langza – Hikkim – Kaza.
Day 7: October 24: Kaza – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Tabo.
Day 8: October 25: Tabo – Gue – Sumdo – Chango.
Day 9: October 26: Chango – Nako – Reckong Peo – Sangla.
Day 10: October 27: Sangla – Chitkul.
Day 11: October 28: Chitkul – Reckong Peo – Kalpa.
Day 12: October 29: Spend the day in Kalpa – Roghi village.
Day 13: October 30: Kalpa – Reckong Peo – Depart for Delhi
Day 14: October 31: Arrive at Delhi (0600 hrs) – Depart for Mumbai (0910hrs)
Hello,
I would like to know if I can reach spiti from Manali in October 16 this year… I am in kasol now, thinking in going to Spiti!
Yes you can. Both Kunzum and Rohtang are open as of now.
Hi vargis, Abhishek here
I am planning to travel from manali to kaza and back in first week of November.By any chance rohtang and kunzum will be open in this week ? I habe done the circuit few times bot not in winters. Optiom from kinnar side is open but wanted to come back from kaza and manali seems to be shorter for that .
Waiting for your reply.
Hi Abhishek – Rohtang may remain open until November but Kunzum would definitely have closed brother.
Hey Vargis its important please reply I am leaving to spiti this saturday
My plan. delhi reckong peo 1st day will leave at night 1 am possible??
and shud I remove the under belly pan of my bike rc390 will it be a problem
also how’s the road conditions after shimla?
Varnit – It will be better if you removed the under belly pan or else it will only get damaged.
Hi Vargis
I am planning to complete the circuit starting from Delhi,chitkul,nako,kaza,channdratal and Manali from Oct 7-15 2016. I have already visit chitkul last year during the same time. this time we want to go beyond.
Will Kunzum la will be open by that time, will be able to cover the chandratal. Will we able to complete the circuit.
If not then at which point we will be able to go and then we will have to return. Will we get any snow in Kaza.
pLease suggest.
Kapil – Kunum pass in all probability will remain open but Chandratal is a lot dicy. The camp sits over there have already started to wrap up and probably will be gone in next week or so so you will have no place to stay over there by Oct mid
Thanks Vargis for prompt response.
One more question, will we get snow at Kunzum pass and rohatang Pass.
How long will it take to reach Manali from Kaza in same day if we leave around 8 O’Clock from Kaza.
Where should we stay in Kaza, we just require neat and clean accomodation with a awesome view 🙂
You may find a little snow towards the top of the peaks Kapil but nothing much. If you started by 8 from Kaza, you will reach Manali between 6-8 PM. Batal Gramphoo stretch is a total nightmare so be careful there. Kaza has plenty of option in terms of hotels so finding one per your taste and budget wouldn’t be a problem. If you want I can give you my contact’s number in Kaza, he runs a hotel there and pretty good fellow. You can talk to him and stay at his hotel.
Hi Arun – Sorry about the late reply brother.
1. October is going to be really cold. Road conditions remain bad in Spiti all around the year anyways. Batal to Gramphoo stretch is a really pain so be extra careful there.
2. Add another day here and break the journey at Nako.
3. No permits needed
4. How are you travelling? Bike or car?
Your itinerary needs to be changed a little too. Are you strictly bound to the timelins or can you throw in a couple days more?
Thanks,
Vargis
Hey Vargis no problem at all.. thanks for the reply and the information about Batal – Gramphoo stretch. I am traveling by car.. It’s a Renault Duster.. I agree about adding a day and breaking the journey at Nako. Infact over the last couple of days there has been a slight change in the plan. I am now planning on doing Delhi – Fagu – Sarahan – Nako – Kaza – Manali – Shimla.
I am willing to make slight changes to the itinerary but I am bound by the number of days unfortunately.
Would still look forward to your suggestions about changes you think will make this plan better.
Look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks !
Arun
Hi Vargis,
It’s great to see you sharing your experience with so many travelers.
I need some advice too.!
I am planning the following trip from October 08th – 16th.
Delhi – Fagu – Rampur – Kalpa – Kaza – Manali – Shimla – Delhi
I’ll be staying at the places mentioned and have kept day’s traveling between each of these places.
I had a few queries in this plan.
1. How would the road conditions be in October ? Any particular stretches to be careful with ?
2. Can Kalpa to Kaza be done in 1 day or should i add another day here and break at Nako ?
3. Any permits needed for this trip for any stretch ?
4. Any other valuable tip you could share for the trip ?
Thanks in advance.!
Arun
Hi thanks for all the usefull info, me n my partner were planing on going to spiti vally from manali on the 24 september with local buses and back, do you think its to late?
No it is not. You can take the trip on 24th
Do you think a Jetta can make those trip?
I wouldn’t really take a Jetta to Spiti if I were you
Hi Mayank – No, I just spoke to Jamaica and one another camp site owner this morning and all the camps will be gone by Sep end. Also the fact that it snowed early this year, Kunzum and Rohtang both were covered with snow earlier this week so there will be no accommodation at Chandratal in October. Take a look at this post.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/snowfall-in-ladakh-in-september-year/
Jamaica is already preparing to wrap up his camps in next couple of weeks.
Dear Vargis
Thanks for such an informative blog, its really helpful to read through your posts & the questions as well answers they invoke. Many questions get answered without having to ask, thanks again.
I’m writing to you because I’m planning a trip like this
Delhi-Manali
Manali-Batal-Chandratal
Batal-Kunzum-Kaza
Kaza-Kibber-Kaza
Kaza-Pin-Kaza
Kaza-Tabo-Nako-Kalpa
Kalpa-Sangla-Chitkul
Sangla-Narkanda
Narhanda-Delhi
I have earmarked about 12 days to complete this.
1-Is it viable
2-I’ll be driving an SUV therefore ground clearance & terrain seems to be no prob, but as per your road status info & after watching a couple of videos it appears that the rohtang batal stretch is pretty perilous, (please comment)
3- which roads or terrains are going to be really difficult to manage on the route I’ve indicated above
4-could you suggest a detailed itinerary please
5- Anything else you’d like to share
Hello Molty – Thanks for your kind words brother.
1. Yes it is doable.
2. Yes the batal stretch is quite a challenge so you will have to be extremely careful.
3. Entire Spiti is bad roads brother but Batal stretch is the winner. Once you cross that, rest would all be a walk in the park. The Karchham to Chitkul stretch is quite challenging as well at several places.
4. Your itinerary looks good. I couldnt have planned it better myself to be honest.
Which car are you driving? And any reason why you want to do it from Manali rather than Shimla? I am asking because if you go from Manali, you will have to obtain Rohtang permits first which can be a time consuming process. To reach Chandrataal, you will have to start as early as you can from Manali but in order to obtain the permits, you will have to wait until at last 10-11 AM for SDM office to open.
Hi Vargis
Planning to do the complete circuit in my i20, i.e. going in from shimla side and return from manali.
Do you think it will be possible to cover kunzum and rohtang with i20’s ground clearance?
planning to start from delhi next week.
Kunzum and Rohtang aren’t the ones you should be worrying about Ashish. It is actually the Batal-Gramphoo stretch and with an I20, be ready to have the belly of your car hitting the rocks underneath, specially at the water crossings. I wouldn’t say that people haven’t done it, because it is doable. My friends have done it in both I20 and Honda city as well but you got to be extremely careful brother and even then, your car will kiss the ground at several places.
hai khan,
i am manoj kumar from hyderabad, planning a trip from manali to chandratal via batal( liketo go to kunzum pass as well) on 15/09/2016…we are five members. planning to stay at chandratal for a night..can you pls guide us or help about the road conditions from manali to batal….can we get a local taxis to get to cahndratal……..and camping tents ……..pls advise me the best sources available from manali to chandratal…thanks
Hello sir ,
M planning a trip to spiti valley in my bullet.
My plan is o follow this route
Palampur – Manali – Chandertal Lake – Kaza – Kalpa ( If possible ) – Rampur / Karsog – Mandi / Palampur
I have 2 more extra days.Suggest me
The best places to Visit. Best places to stays.
Any special tips. Off Road in my route. Puncture shops status & petrol pumps ?
Thank you !
Hello Uday – Kaza to Kalpa will be way too long a ride. Since you have 2 more days in hand, please add Nako and Chitkul, something like this.
Palampur – Manali – Chandertal Lake – Kaza – Nako – Chitkul – Rampur / Karsog – Mandi / Palampur
Not much to see in Kalpa so you can skip that.
Take a look at the list of articles at the link below that I have posted on Spiti, should answer all your other questions.
http://roadragas.com/index.php?threads/lahaul-spiti-travel-guide.160/
Dear Virgis, Namaskar ji,
Please kindly answer to my questions if you have what to say:
1. What you recomend for 9 people to stay at night near Kunzum Pass or Chandra Taal Lake? Any e-mail adress or contact for advance booking?
2. What mobile company is working there better (calling and data) in case of emergency and communicate with family? I remember my Vodafone is not working in Spiti Valley.
3.Is it possible to get permit to visit Spiti Valley for us online? Planning to go there through Kalpa.
Vitalii Ji – Namaskar.
1. Please take a look at the following post, this is the one I highly recommend.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/camping-chandra-taal/
2. No mobile coverage at Chandrataal so neither of the networks work.
3. No permits required to visit Spiti valley for Indians so you do not have to worry about that.
Please let me know if I can be of any further help.
3. Our group is not indian
Sorry for the incorrect assumption. There is no online facility available to obtain permits for Spiti valley. I would advice that you do the trip the other way round, start from Manali and exit at Shimla. You will not need permits for Spiti valley at all that way, just the ones for Rohtang Pass. Please take a look at the following post for more information,
https://vargiskhan.com/log/need-permits-for-spiti-valley/
Hello Mr.Khan..
We’re planning to drive to Manali on the 15th of August.. And leave for Kaza on the next day.. Could you help us with the road conditions.. Also.. Is Manali to Kada doable in a day?
Hi Prathik, Manali to Rohtang and then till Gramphoo is good but you will come across a lot of slush around Rohtang top. Gramphoo is Batal is a nightmare. Batal to Losar is mostly dirt road and Losar to Kaza is a mix of good, bad and OK.
Yes you can do Manali to Kaza in a day but it will be a long ride so start as early as you can, possibly by first light of the day, from Manali
Hi.
Virgis .
I am chanchal .We will plan for shimla kaza nako tabo kibber chitkul kunzum pass on 16/10/2016 to 25/10/2016.. The road will be open this time???
Thanks.
Chanchal Mallick
9748837525
Hi Chanchal – October end will be dicy. It will remain open from Shimla to Kaza but Kunzum Pass and Rohtang may get closed.
Hi, vargis i am planning from 1st oct to 9th oct entering from shimla exit from manali,starting delhi, kaza to manali will remain open till 7th oct ??, i visited so many sites and asking so many bloggers just to make sure, and chandra tal lake jamaica is not camping at that time but Parasol said yes it will be availble till 15th oct , should i trust parasol
Hi Mayank – No, I just spoke to Jamaica and one another camp site owner this morning and all the camps will be gone by Sep end. Also the fact that it snowed early this year, Kunzum and Rohtang both were covered with snow earlier this week so there will be no accommodation at Chandratal in October. Take a look at this post.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/snowfall-in-ladakh-in-september-year/
Hi Vargis,
As suggested, we have changed tour plan as below, request you to have look and suggest change if any.
16 Sept Mumbai
17 Sept Kaka to Fagu
18 Sept Rampur Bushahr
19 Sept Kalpa
20 Sept Nako
21 and 22 Sept Kaza
23 Sept Chandrataal lake (Losar, Kumzum pass etc)
24 Sept Manali
25 Sept Extra day( May be at Kasol)
26 Sept Kalka
27 train to Mumbai from kalka
Thanks in advance!
Br,
Nishant
Hi Nishant – Plan looks good except that do not stay in Rampur, stretch a bit more until Sarahan and halt there. It is only 35 kms further from Rampur so wont take long but a better place to stay
Thanks a lot for your valuable feedback, will surely stay at Sarahan.
Hi Vargis,
Thanks for your reply.
We have changed plan accordingly.
Br,
Nishant
You are welcome Nishant
Hi Vargis,
We are planning to visit L and S valley from 14 Oct. Please suggest.
Trip Plan as below. Vehicle : Force traveller 12 seater
14 Oct Dalhousie
15 Oct Dalhousie
16 Oct Palampur
17 Oct Chandrataal Lake.
18 Oct Kaza
19 Oct Kaza
20 Oct Kalpa
21 Oct Narkanda
22 Oct Shimla
23 Oct Extra Day
24 Shimla to Kalka to Mumbai by train.
Br,
Nishant
Hi Nishant – You may have to change it a little and use your rest days for travel as well. Palamput to Chandrataal on the day will be very difficult. Same is the case with Kaza to Kalpa and even Kalpa to Narkanda will b a very long drive.
Shank – Then I suggest that you complete the circuit as planned brother … If you have a local driver then you are OK
Thanks bro… Since I had always been a solo traveller until some time back never really bothered about routes or safety so much but with family things are little different now… one last question… Will there be enough vehicle movements in both manali- kaza and shimla-kaza routes? Just in case of vehicle problem or some backup option. Thanks again!
I understand your concern brother … things are always a little different when you have your family with you.
And yes, there is plenty of vehicle movement on the entire circuit.
Just keep in mind though that your phones will stop working somewhere near Nako and wont come back to life until near Rohtang top. But since you will have a local driver with you, his phone will be working
Hi Vargis,
I have planned to do Chandigarh-Shimla-kalpa-tabo-kaza-manali from july 15 to 26. I’m doing this trip with my family. Now in the last moment after hearing about the landslide near Solan last week, rain and flash floods we are very much concerned about the travel. We have done all the required arrangements for travel and booked everything, now in a complete dilema since we need to travel with family. Should we worry so much or just take it easy and go for the travel?
Hi Shan – The situation will kind of remain the same until the monsoon gets over. Spiti is a land of terrible roads, water crossings and landslided so unless you can postpone your trip until September, I would say that you proceed as planned.
Thanks Vargis for the inputs, we have no option… We either need to do this as planned or cancel it completely. We have already rescheduled the flights and hotel bookings twice… I went through the road condition status you had posted earlier. Shimla to Kaza is better than Manali to kaza? Or both or similar? If Shimla to kaza is better then we will do only this side and not do a circuit. If both are equally risky then we would think of sticking around the tourist areas around Shimla and Manali. Thanks again for you valuable inputs
Shimla to Kaza is a little less risky because because you will not be crossing any high altitude passes and will not be travelling on the Batal-Gramphoo stretch. May I ask, how are you guys travelling? And who is driving?
We have hired a local driver through a travel company based in Manali, he said we will be traveling by innova
Hi Mr. Khan,
This is Raya. We are planning to go to HP in september. 11th we will reach at Kalka, but we are in confusion whether to go towards kinnaur upto kalpa via shimla or go towards chandratal, upto kaza via manali route.
Can you please help me out? Which side will be better to visit? We have a very short time in hand, on 17th we have to back in kalka. Whether Kunzum pass will be opened on that time? Thanks for the info in advance.
It is actually equally scenic and hard to pick one side but since you will be in Kalka, I will suggest that you go from Shimla side. Kunzum Pass will most probably be open at that time
Hello Mr. KHAN
Memail and my friends have obtained the permit to travel through rohtang towards kaza and we were wondering whether the roads via the manali – kunzum – kaza is safe for travel.. We are 5 people in an innova… is it too risky or is it manageable. . We are starting get from kasol at around 10 am.. so please let us know where can we stay for the night.. We want to reach kaza by 8…but I have heard the journey is very slow and risky so parents are very very worried… so what’s the exact condition of the roads… also where can we halt at night… not travelling too much??
Road are quite Ok to travel but I do not think you will be able to reach Kaza if you are starting at 10 from Kasol, I doubt that you will even reach Chandrataal. A better choice would be to stay at Manali and start the next day. If you cannot do that, then try to make it until Batal or Chandrataal
Hello thank you for the swift response Mr khan… ya we know we would not be able to reach the whole length from kasol to kaza… so anywhere where we can stay in between.. are there camp sites operating anywhere… what if we cannot reach batal or chandratal. .. can we stay anywhere earlier
The only places where you can stay after you have crossed Rohtang is a chadar tent at Gramphoo. It is not exactly a camp site but right where you would leave the Manali leh highway and turn towards Spiti, there is a Dhaba that also has night stay arrangement. You can stay there. Another option would be to continue to Keylong and backtrack a little the next day.
I have plans to visit Shimla-Sangla-Kaza-Nako-Manali, this route in October end. Will the roads be open at that time of the year? Will I get to see snow somewhere?
Depends on the snow but Kunzum pass will most probably be closed at that time meaning that you can reach Kaza from Shimla but will have to return via the same route. If Kunzum pass is closed, then yes you will get to see snow near Kunzum. If it isn’t closed, you can return via Manali and catch some snow at Rohtang top.
Hello,
I was planning a trip around the Himalayan park through Spiti valley to Manali at the end of August, but my plans have changed and now I am thinking about going there at the end of September. I would like to know what kind of weather is there end of September – begginning of October. Will it rain or snow and what is the condition of roads in Spiti region in general? When approximately can the passes Kunzum and Rohtang be closed?
I was there last year at the beginnig of the season in May-June and the weather was great.
Weather in Sep end or Oct begin would be cold, no rain or snow and roads are always bad in Spiti
I am planning to go on this track again in july 1st week.n this time i want to do camping in all locations like chitkul,kalpa,kaza,pinvalley,nako,losar,chandartal..can u give me suggestion for the spots??
My contact no. Is 9996438666..thanx
Take a look at this article
https://vargiskhan.com/log/where-can-you-camp-in-spiti/
Is there any place in between Kaza and Manali, where I can stay? I mean i will start on bike from Manali – Rohtang pass on Day 1 and then on Day 2 i will head to and reach Kaza? Because same day to Kaza looks hectic.
You should do Manali to Chandrataal and Chandrataal to Kaza
Hello sir… Me n my husband are planning for Kaza… Is it feasible via manali route … Till manali by car n from manali by bike…kindly suggest us feasible route..
Hello Svena – Yes you can rent motorcycles from Manali and travel to Kaza and back.
Svena..manali to batal 100kms run is worst..last year it took us 7 hours to cover these 100 kms..dts the biggest hurdle .dts it..so be careful..tc
Hi
We have planned for Manali-kaza-kalpa-sangala-shimla by end of June, due to unavoidable reasons we will have to postpone it by 1 month. It will be during peak monsoons now, since I will be travelling with family wanted to know can I still do Manali to kaza and get back to Manali same way without difficulties? I reallly want to see the monasteries there.
Yes you can do it with no problem except for rain and a lot of slush on the roads, a lot of water crossings on gramphoo to batal stretch
Hello Mr. Khan, I am planning a trip to Kaza. We have decided upon two possible routes –
A) Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla – Sarahan – Chitkul – Tabo – Kaza – Tabo – Chitkul – Shimla – Chandigarh – Delhi
B) Delhi – Manali (via AC Volvo) – Kaza – Tabo – Chitkul – Shimla – Chandigarh – Delhi.
Kindly help me with the possible loopholes in these two plans, and which of these two will be appropriate for us, as we are a family of 4 men and 2 women. Will it be possible to reach Kaza from Manali within a day during mid-October? Also, if our duration of journey from Delhi and back to Delhi is of 8 days, then which route is more feasible?
Mr. Ghosh – For 8 days, a better itinerary would b like this,
1. Narkanda
2. Sarahan
3. Chitkul
4. Nako
5. Kaza
6. Chandrataal
7. Manali
8. Delhi
Hi varghis, I am planning manali-kaza on bike this week. I’m short on day. Can you tell me the at what time I have to reach kaza to finr a place to stay after a day long ride from manali. Is it even possible to ride in one day to kaza?
Hi Abhinav – Very difficult to ride from Manali to Kaza in a day, will be an extremely long journey and I doubt you will reach Kaza before dark. You will have to Leave Manali at about 4-5 in the morning, take as few breaks as possible and then you can hope to reach Kaza the same day.
Hi vargis we are to go to spiti via chandigarh to kaza & kunzum required any permit
Hi Sunita – No permits required
Hi Vargis. We are planning to visit Spiti Valley this weekend around 10th June from Manali side. Is the Kunzum pass open? Thanks for your help.
Hi Ankit – Yes the Pass is open now.
Thanks a lot for the prompt response. We would be traveling from Manali side in a rented Innova cab. Do we need any pass/permits from SDM office. We plan to go till Tabo and take the same route back.
Yes you will need to obtain permits from SDM office.
Thanks Mr. Khan for responding. Thought the journey could get riskier once the monsoon sets in. What do you think?
Mr. Joshi – Spiti is in a rain shadow area so no monsoon, no rains there. The only chance of rainfall is in Shimla and Manali, not in Spiti
Hi, anyone travelling or interested in travelling through spiti valley circuit within a week 10 days. I’ll prefer it on motorcycles. My starting place will be chandigarh. you may contact me @ 9988298359
I hav plans to go but in lat July Mr. Joshi, not immediately
I am also goin on 7 or 8th july again
I am planning around 11 June from manali to spiti is the road clear and open
Travelling by Honda city
Thanks
Road is open I wouldn’t really drive on this route in a Honda City
Did u finally travel by your car or not @aprajita ?!?! As i will be traveling to kaza by a honda city
Aish – Click on the contact me link above to drop me an email and I will respond with the phone number.
Sent you the email twice. Can you please let me know the phone number?
Hi Mr. Vargis, CAn you please share the contact number?
For some reason I didn’t get your mail Aish. The number is 09418200183, name of the person is Jamaica, just tell him my name and he will know.
Thanks Mr Vargis for all the detailed information shared by you as well as for sharing the contact number.
Dear Vergis … IS the road to Leh via Spiti through Kunzum pass is open… starting from Delhi on 5th june morning in Inova
Hi Gautam – Yes the road is now open
Thanks… Will keep you updated about my trip…
Definitely brother …. would love to hear and see some picturs
hi vargis,
we are planning to travel on 4th june 2016. any idea if narkanda to khab road is open?
Hi Digvijay – It is open brother
Hi, wanted to check how many days it would require from Shimla and join Manali Leh road at Khoksar
4 days minimum
Hi Vargis,
Thanks for the this vital information..
I am planning from Shimla to Manali covering the spiti valley circuit starting 15th June 2016 by solo bike riding.
Can you help me in getting clarified of the below points:
1. Permits for Indian National or may be for the motor cycle of HP or non-HP, if any
2. Will complete route be opened that includes Kunzum la and Rohtang la
3. Frequency of atms, petrol bunks, mechanic availability, airtel cellphone network?
Thanks,
Mohit Jain
Hi Mohit,
1. No permits required for Lahaul and Spiti.
2. Rohtang is already open, Kunzum will open in another 4-5 days.
3. I suggest you take a link at the link below, will provide all the information you need to prepare for the trip.
http://roadragas.com/index.php?threads/lahaul-spiti-travel-guide.160/
Thanks,
Vargis
Hello Vargis Khan, my son Mantek Singh, alongwith his 6 friends, all this year pass out Engineers from Thapar University, Patiala, celebrating their passout, are on their way to lahaul spiti adventure tour on 2 bikes and 1 car…..
Left from Patiala on 24th Morning.
Day 1 – Patiala to Narkanda
Day 2 – Narkanda to Sangla
Day 3 – Sangla to Chtkul to Kalpa
Day 4 – Kalpa to Tabo
Day 5 – Tabo to Kaza
Day 6 – That is Today, they will cover areas around Kaza – Langza, Ki Monastry, Kibber and reach Losar by evening. Reports are that Kumzum Pass is closed for 2 days. The B.R.O. Authorities say, if whether remains good, Kumzum pass shall open on monday. The status of the road between Batal and Rohtang is also not in a good shape. If all goes well they will reach Manali by tuesday or else have to come back the way they came…. Lets see what happens. These guys are hard core Mountain Riders, God, show them the path……… I request all of you to pray for their safe and successful journey
Hello Dr. Bhogal,
Kunzum Pass in indeed closed still and will open sometime mid next week, that is the update I have as of now. I am quit sure that all of them are having lots of fun and will be home and sound soon.
Khan saheb 6th June I want to travel from Gushaini to Recongpeo and onward to Kaza-Losar- Gramphoo via Kunzum pass. I need HRTC bus from Gushaini to Recongpeo on 6th June. 2. From Gramphoo I want to travel to LEH on 15th. Can I get transport from Gramphoo. I am 64 and travelling alone on Back pack. Name Mahesh Desai Tel 9967291541. Starting from Mumbai tomorrow 28th.May. Thanks for info in advance.
Mr. Desai – Yes you can get transport, either a shared taxi or a bus. There is a dhaba right at the point where road towards spiti and Manali Leh highway merge. Just wait at that dhaba for the bus to arrive from Rohtang.
Planning to travel to spiti around 5th of june via Manali.
Is it possible. we will take taxi from Manali.
Yes, it is possible
Thanks 🙂
please tell us current status of the roads. And expected date to get open ( Manali to Kaza).
Thanks in advance.
It is expected to open next week Pranit
Hi Mr Vargis, Thanks for the information! I am planning to travel from Delhi –> Sangla–> Kaza–> Chandrataal –> Rohtang –> Manali and starting my travel on 4-June via Kinnuar Valley. I am expecting to use Kaza – Manali road by 9-June. What are the chances that the road will be opened around 9-June? Also please let me know whether Chandrataal trek route is opened for this year?
Also please let us know what all permits are required to travel to Spiti Valley and from where we can obtain those permits.
Hello Aish,
Kunzum Pass will open sometime next week, by 1st or 2nd June. Chandrataal will open a few days later though. No passes are required for Spiti valley.
Hi Mr Vargis, Thanks for the info again! Please keep us posted in this forum once the Manali –> Kaza road is opened. Also please give me some idea about Chadrataal Trek whether its possible to trek during 2nd week of June.
I will update as soon as the road is open Aish ….. I will let you know about the trek after the pass is open, If interested, I know a guys in Spiti who runs a camping site at Chandrataal. Let me know and I will guys his number, you can talk to him about your trek and accommodation at Chandrataal in 2nd week of June, even if the road doesnt open.
Yes please share the number of the person who can offer accommodation and advise on chandrataal trek. Thanks again!
Pranit – I’d like to share a ride to Kaza on 5th or 6th June if the road is open. I’m staying at the Drifter’s Inn. Let me know if you’d like to connect.
I m planning to go leh via spiti from Chandigarh.also wants to cover nubra, pang so & another lake I think name tasomri. Kargil. In Tucson. Suggest me that how to plan my trip. In minimum days. 7 to 8 days.
You cannot do both Spiti and Leh in 7 to 8 days Vikas. You will have to pick one and for this time frame, I suggest you visit Spiti. Ladakh would need more than a week.
We’ll start from manali on 26th for kinnaur… will be returning throughout Kunzum pass on 31st or 1st…. will that be open by then…
As of now, the update is that it will be open but not yet confirmed
planning to go chandratal via manali..
We’ll leave from manali ob=n 27th of may.
what are the chances of the road not to be blocked
Very high chances, it is scheduled to be declared open around 30th or 31st May as of now.
Planning to travel to spiti around 5th of june , will it be possible to go via Manali ?
As of now the road is closed but should open next week sometime
Planning for Baralacha Pass and Surya Taal from Keylong on June 1st. Will route be accessible on the date?
Estimate is that the road will open in May end so chances are that yes it will be open
Hey, any idea if manali to kaza road is open? Planning to travel on 25th may 2016
It is expected to open in last week of May as of now Madhuri
I am starting from Delhi on 1st May and probably I will be crossing Kunzum La on 7th or 8th May. Do you see Kunzum being open by that time?
1st May? Or did you mean 1st June? If 1st June then yes, chances are that it will be open