Over the last few years, I have written several articles on how to plan a trip to Spiti Valley. These articles are spread over numerous pages and shuffling through trying to find the information that you need can actually be quite a task. So I thought to add this one sticky page at the front; more like an index to all the information.
How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley is really a very broad question because there are several aspects to it, and several factors will contribute to how your final plan turns out.
I will break this information as per different aspects of the trip, and provide links to articles where I have detailed the information related to it. Please take a look at the post below and it should answer all your questions about traveling to Ladakh.
If there some a question that wasn’t answered or if you need my advice on your travel plan or itinerary, you can follow me on Instagram and chat with me live there. Or you subscribe to my YouTube channel and ask any questions there.
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Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is a name that creates many pictures in the minds of those who haven’t been there. While some picture lush green hills, mountain rivers, and waterfalls, others think of it as a barren wasteland, a cold desert very similar to Ladakh.
Whatever the picture is, it attracts thousands of tourists every year. A journey to Spiti is an experience that you will cherish for a long time, probably all of your life.
The name “Spiti” means “The Middle Land” which it actually is; because it is in fact the land between Tibet and India. And because of this very reason, it possesses a unique combination of both Indian and Tibetan cultures. A distinct lifestyle derived primarily out of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, gelled so well that it’s hard to tell them apart.
Is Spiti Valley Worth It?
I will start with this because it is one of the most frequently asked questions. A lot of people get confused about whether to visit Ladakh or Spiti Valley and then they think about whether or not Spiti Valley is worth visiting. If I am to answer this in a single sentence, yes Spiti Valley is definitely worth every minute or penny that you spend here.
It is going to be a journey that you will remember for all of your life. This trip will give you a taste of many things in terms of vistas and culture. The slow transformation from lush green hills of Kinnaur to barren brown of Spiti and then again the green of Manali will leave you mesmerized.
The white of snow-covered mountains and the blue of the lakes here are like nowhere else. You will get to see an entirely different part of our country and meet people following a very different culture than yours.
Yes, Spiti Valley is very well worth it and you must visit here. In many ways, it will actually be even better than visiting Ladakh.
When to visit Spiti Valley
This definitely is the first question that comes to mind when you think of planning a trip. Choosing the right time to go in my opinion is of utmost importance; both in terms of convenience and sightseeing.
Spiti valley is open by road for all 12 months. When to go to Spiti will really depend on what your preference is but the majority of the tourism happens in the months from June till September.
This is the time when both the routes from Shimla and Manali remain open. Take a look at the article below for more details on what can you expect in which month; and which would suit you the most.
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Is Spiti Safe?
This is a question that must be addressed and answered before you go visit a new place. In my opinion, a person’s safety is entirely in their own hands and gets driven by the choices they make.
What you should know about Spiti Valley is that the roads here can be really bad, narrow, and sometimes even dangerous to drive on. So a certain amount of driving experience would be required (especially on hills) before you bring your vehicle here.
You definitely do not want this to be your first time when you were behind the wheel in the hills. If it was then I would recommend that you make a short trip to some other hill station and then drive to Spiti.
The local people here are very humble and gentle. The majority of the valley are simple villagers and the crime rate here is next to none.
So as long as you drive sensibly, did not take any unnecessary risks, did not wander alone into the wild on your own, and did not get into arguments with anyone, Spiti Valley is a very safe place to visit.
I would recommend reading through Is Spiti Safe for Tourists for more information and details on this topic.
Permits for Spiti Valley
Permits for Spiti Valley remain to be a topic of confusion really. Take a look at the articles below and these should help clarify any doubts. In a nutshell, as an Indian citizen, you do not need a permit for Spiti Valley. You are free to travel on the circuit any time of the year.
As a foreign national, you will need a permit to travel but it is only for traveling in the area near the Shipki La Pass (between Pooh and Nako). If a foreigner was coming from Manali to Kaza only, they do not need a permit. From the Shimla side, no permit is required for traveling till Reckong Peo but one is needed for going beyond Peo.
Irrespective of whether you are an Indian or a foreigner, you will definitely have to obtain a permit for Rohtang Pass; if you intended to enter the valley from Manali’s side. Go through the posts below please and these should clarify the matter further.
How to Prepare
Once you have decided when to go, next in line comes the question of how to prepare. Spiti Valley is not really a place where you can just pack your bags and go.
You will have to seriously consider every aspect of the trip and pack accordingly. This will include packing the right kind of clothes, getting your vehicle ready, and carrying every essential item that you will need for the trip.
Below is a link to articles where I have provided this information in detail.
- Clothes for Spiti Trip: What to Pack?
- Carrying your Laptop to Spiti
- How to Transport your Motorcycle for Spiti Trip
- Mobile Network in Spiti – Coverage and Data Connectivity
Spiti Valley with Family
Not too long ago, Spiti Valley was considered a place only for the adventurous type and motorcycle enthusiasts. Back then, people were not even aware of the name ‘Spiti Valley’, and the ones who knew of it as a region close to the border and where no one goes.
Much however has changed in recent times. The number of people visiting Spiti now increases with each passing year and the place is slowly getting transformed into a tourist hotspot.
With that being said, the fact cannot be denied that it is still a high altitude desert where the terrain is not only challenging but dangerous too sometimes.
If you are thinking of a Spiti family trip then you would have to seriously prepare for the journey ahead; especially if you were traveling with a child, or elders of your family maybe.
Please take a look at the following post. The first one details preparations and precautions you would need to practice while coming to Spiti with an infant, toddler, or children of any other age.
The second article talks about how to plan a trip to Spiti if you had your parents or other elders of the family accompanying you.
- How to visit Spiti Valley with Family?
- Planning a Spiti Trip with Children?
- How to Travel to Spiti with Senior Citizens?
What to buy in Spiti Valley
Shopping is of course an important part of any trip anywhere; especially if you are traveling with family. Spiti Valley is considered to be a very remote region. But makes no mistake, there is plenty that you can buy to remember your time here.
Local Warm Socks, Sweater, Shawl, Roasted Barle, Dry Cheese, Barle Powder, and Sea Buckthorn Tea are some of the most common items that are bought by tourists.
But the list just does not end here. It is merely the beginning. Please take a look at Shopping in Spiti – What To Buy and Where for more details on these items and several others.
What to eat in Spiti Valley
One of the must-do things, when you visit a new place, is to try the local food there. You may or may not like it, and it may or may not agree with your stomach but you must do it nonetheless. After all, traveling is in the end all about being in new places and trying new things.
A mix of Indian and Tibetan Cultures, the local food in Spiti valley looks exotic, smells mouth-watering, and tastes delicious. Please take a look at Local food in Spiti – What to Eat in Spiti for a list of some local dishes that you must try.
Get Your Vehicle Ready
Aside from getting ready yourself, you will also have to make sure that your vehicle too is ready for the arduous journey ahead. Spiti Valley is still a remote area where mechanics are rare to find in some places.
Out here, even a simple breakdown or a flat tire can ruin your trip if you weren’t prepared for it. You should know which vehicle to bring to Spiti, how to get it ready and what spares to bring. The articles below will help answer all these questions in detail.
- How to Prepare your Car for Spiti Trip
- Which is the Best Car for Spiti Trip
- How to Prepare your Motorcycle for Spiti Trip
- Which is the best motorcycle for Spiti Trip?
Time Needed
It will entirely depend on where you were coming from and your mode of travel. But assuming Delhi as a starting point, a total of 9 days is what I will recommend for this journey.
You can, of course, do away with a lesser number of days as well but with 9 days in hand, you will be able to make sure that you did not rush anywhere during the trip, saw everything that was worth seeing, and made the best out of your time.
The itinerary section below breaks down the trip by the number of days and gives you an idea of how you can plan your trip.
Itinerary for Spiti Valley Trip
A well-laid itinerary in my opinion is the most important part of visiting Spiti Valley. Based on the days you have in hand, you must have a carefully drafted plan on where do you want to be on which day.
A Spiti trip is not really a frequent affair so while you visit here, you need to make sure that you make the most out of it and visit as many places as you possibly can. I have written several articles providing examples of different itineraries broken by days; links to which I have provided below.
Depending on how long your trip is going to last, you can pick an itinerary from the ones I have listed in these articles.
- 3 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 4 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 5 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 6 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 7 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 8 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 9 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 10 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 11 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 12 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 13Â Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 14Â Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 15 Days Itinerary for Spiti
- 3 Detailed Plans to Visit Spiti in 6 Days
- A Detailed Itinerary for Visiting Spiti in Winters
- A Detailed Spiti Itinerary from Manali
- Chandratal Itinerary – How to Plan a Trip for 4 – 5 Days?
- 2 Weeks Itinerary for Spiti Trip
- Shimla to Spiti Itinerary: A Detailed Travel Plan
What to See in Spiti Valley
The next piece of information that you should keep handy is a list of places that you would like to see. You have been told that entire Spiti is a tourist destination in itself which is entirely correct.
Every turn of the road here will present you with something new and you will not get tired of clicking your camera for hours. But there must be some places that can be called the prime attraction, correct?
You are right. In the article below, I have listed every place in Spiti Valley that is worth a visit. Depending on the time you have for the trip, you can decide which one (or all of them) you want to cover.
- Tourist Attractions In Spiti & Its Vicinity
- Festivals of Spiti
- Kaza – Sightseeing, Accommodation, and Other Facilities
Where to Stay in Spiti Valley
After what to see comes information related to accommodation. Spiti Valley is getting more popular with each passing year but the fact is that it still remains to be a remote region.
Knowing what your choices of accommodation are and where you can break your journey for the night is of utmost importance. It will also play a crucial part in drafting your final itinerary and deciding on the number of days for the trip.
In the articles below, I have listed some recommended hotels available on the circuit.
- Recommended and Best Hotels in Spiti
- HPPWD Rest House: Locations, Contacts, Charges & How to Book
- Accommodation in Spiti: Recommended Hotels & Guest Houses
- Accommodation at Chandratal – What are the options
- Camping at Chandratal – Best campsites
Monasteries in Spiti Valley that allow Night Stay
A lot of people look forward to staying at a monastery in Spiti Valley. This is a great choice for experiencing something different and local. However, this option is not available at all the monasteries.
In Spiti Valley, there are only 5 monasteries that I know that have this kind of arrangement. Before you decide to stay here though, please know that your stay will be very basic and may feel uncomfortable to you. But if you want do want to give it a try, then you can stay at either of the following monasteries for the night.
- Key monastery near Kaza
- Tabo Monastery
- Dhankar Monastery
- Kungri Monastery, Pin Valley
- Komic Monastery
How to Travel to Spiti Valley
Now since we have all the information we need, let us talk about how to travel to and in Spiti Valley.
In the articles below, I have talked about how to journey on the two roads leading to Spiti Valley; the Manali – Kaza, and Shimla – Kaza routes; and then how to go to areas like Kibber, Pin Valley, and Chandratal after you have arrived in Kaza.
The first article is a very comprehensive road map of the entire Spiti Circuit; then the following articles are detailed explanations of the route.
- Lahaul Spiti Road Map With Distances
- Spiti via Shimla or Manali – Which one is Better?
- Lahaul Spiti Route Guide
- Riding to Spiti on 100CC Motorcycle or Scooter
- Plan a Trip from Delhi to Chandratal Lake?
- Kaza to Komik, Hikkim and Langza
- Kaza to Kibber, Gette & Tashigong
- Trip to Chandratal Lake
- Spiti Trip In Winters
- How to Plan a Trip to Pin Valley, Spiti
Renting a Bike for the Trip
A trip to a place like Spiti Valley is best when done by your own vehicle. This however is not really a choice open to everyone. For one reason or another, a lot of people travel here by other modes of transport as well of which, renting a motorcycle is one of the top ones.
There are several places that you can rent a bike from for the trip like Manali, Shimla, or Kaza itself. However, before you finalize the deal, you must carefully inspect the motorcycle to ensure that it will not give you trouble anywhere.
In the articles below, I have provided information on where you can rent a bike from with some recommended names; and what is it that you should pay heed to before renting a bike.
- Why and When you should rent a Motorcycle for Spiti Trip
- Where to rent a motorcycle in Manali for Spiti Trip?
Cost of Spiti Trip
The budget for the trip is one of the biggest deciding factors. While your overall expense incurred during the trip will completely depend on your own personal spending habits; some idea of the minimum cost will still be beneficial.
Below is a list of articles that can help you calculate the overall cost you will incur during the trip; and how you can keep it within budget.
- How to Calculate Minimum Budget or Cost of Spiti Trip?
- Calculate Spiti Trip Cost by Motorcycle
- How to Plan a Budget Trip to Chandratal?
- 8 Tips to Make a Budget Trip to Spiti
Public Transport Services in Spiti Valley
Off-late, a lot of people have started to visit Spiti valley using public transport services; either in form of a Bus or shared cabs. If you too are planning a trip here by Public transport, then in the article below you will find information related to bus schedules and shared taxis.
Other Tips
Last but not the least, below are some articles where I have shared some quick tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Most of these tips are based on my own personal experience of Spiti Valley after being there several times.
Read through and I am sure this information can be of help to you.
- How to Handle Acute Mountain Sickness In Spiti
- Top 10 Things NOT to do in Spiti
- Why you should avoid traveling from Manali to Kaza in October
- Is it Safe to Travel to Spiti during Monsoon Season?
- Other Facilities In Spiti
Months to Visit Spiti Valley
Which month you would want to go really depends on your own personal preference. Below is a list of articles explaining Spiti valley month by month. The information I have included in these posts is relevant to that particular month only. Depending on which month you want to go in, click on the link and read through the information.
- Spiti in January
- Spiti in February
- Visiting Spiti in March
- How to Plan Spiti Trip in April
- Spiti in May
- Spiti Trip in June
- Visiting Spiti in July
- Spiti in August
- Spiti in September
- How to Plan Spiti in October
- Spiti in November
- Spiti in December
When does Spiti Valley open for Tourists?
Contrary to common belief, Spiti valley actually remains open for all 12 months of the year. People tend to think that it gets shut down in the winter months but that is not true.
Of the two roads connecting Spiti with the rest of the country, it is only the Manali Kaza highway that gets blocked in winter. The reason behind this is that there are two high altitude passes on this route and both of them are notorious for receiving high amounts of snow each year. Yes, I am referring talking about Rohtang La and Kunzum La.
On the other hand, there is not even a single high altitude pass on the route from Shimla to Kaza. Due to this, it remains open throughout the year.
There could be a temporary block if the weather turned extreme and it snowed too much; but even if that happens, authorities clear the road just as soon as they are able to and restore connectivity.
With that being said, the tourist season in Spiti really starts in the month of May. People visit here in other months as well but the majority of the tourism happens only between May and September. This is the time when all tourist areas are open, and all hotels and guest houses are operational.
Is Spiti Valley Dangerous
If you are asking in terms of people then no, it is not at all dangerous. People here are very humble and simple. But if you are asking in terms of terrain then it will depend on how sensibly you travel.
Roads are bad and narrow in some places but as long as you drive sensibly and slow, there is absolutely nothing to worry about.
But if you take unnecessary risks, drive insensibly, try to be at places where you should not be, or get into altercations with people then you are just making things difficult for yourself.
Spiti Valley is a very safe place to visit but the end result will entirely be in your own hands.
Is Spiti Valley safe for a woman to travel alone?
All that I explained above in this article about safety in Spiti valley applies to a solo woman traveler as well. Plan your itinerary well, chose your hotels wisely, keep your folks informed about your whereabouts, do not get over-friendly with everyone you meet, maintain your distance, do not venture out in remote areas all by yourself and you will be fine.
Do not also tell people that you are all alone. If asked, just tell them that you are with a group but alone just for that very moment. I know girls who have been on the Spiti Circuit alone, both by public transport and motorcycle, and they were able to travel without any problem at all.
Conclusion
I hope the information above on how to plan a trip to Spiti Valley was of help. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below. You can also follow me on Instagram and chat with me live there or subscribe to my YouTube channel and ask a question there.
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Vargis Sir,
All of your reviews are great. You have covered in depth information about the places. Kindly expands the areas covered here (Only kashmir, Leh & Spiti valley). If possible give contact number of a good driver.
You have defined Spellbinding landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture make Lahaul-Spiti a must-visit. Your travel guide is a gateway to adventure and awe-inspiring beauty!
Thank you !!!
Planning to visit Spiti soon, your spiti guide is one of the well informed blog, you have really defined it so minutely, Thanks for this amazing info.
Thank you !!!
Sir… What will be the taxi cost for 5 days spiti trip from manali side and return through same route to manali?
Hi bro
Can I visit to 27th nov 23 to 3rd dec 23 to Spiti trip??
Plz answer I m already packed my luggage for trip solo bike ride.
You will have to go via Shimla Bhai and come back the same way
Hello Vargis,
Just read your article about the iteneraries of all the places and much loved all the details of your step by step guide.
I’m planning for a 9 days Spiti trip by solo. Can you please help me out the details of the planning procedures, cost of staying and tarnsportation and the best time to visit please?
I’ll be much obliged if getting a helpful advise from you.
Hi Mr Vargis, can you please suggest that i am planning to the spiti circuit from Shimla to manali somewhere around 12 jun onwards for around 8-9 days with my family of 04. Can you suggest will it be ok if don’t book accommodation in advance. Will we be able to find it at the spot. What could be pros n cons. Is there any issue of accomodation if we don’t book in advance? Are there good homestay on affordable rates on the route?
Hi Dhirendra – Yes, you will be able to find hotels upon arrivals as well, it should not be a problem.
What be d Surity to reach chandratal or getting d kunzum open in second wk of June?
Would you plz recommend any specific tour operator for spiti circle road trip?
It will be open in June for sure. Take a look at the contact me page. I have provided some numbers there.
Hi … Instagram says you can’t receive messages from new contacts . HD few queries for my Spiti trip .
I just messaged you on Instagram
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I have visited Spiti during Winder ( Feb) 2020 & 2022, It is just heaven on earth. I visited Laznha, Komic, Hakkim, Kaza, Chichum etc., LIfe Time visit.
Can I go Manali from Kaza on my Maruti Brezza on 8 June
Hello Vargis,
We are group of 4 people trying to plan a tour to and from Chandigarh as it’s the nearest airport.
A private tour organizer I had a word with is quoting about 30k per person for 10 days 9 nights trip including innova taxi to and from Chandigarh, stay as well as breakfast and dinner during this time.
Need your inputs on this if these rates are reasonable, if not what costs should I be looking at for the kind of tour we are planning.
It would be good also if you can share any contacts of tour organizers who are experienced in this area and can provide a better deal.
Thanks
I visited Spiti Valley in 2021, It’s so beautiful, I have read your article it’s well written and rightly explained…keep it up.
Thank you Robin
Dear Vargis,
I just returned from a fantsastic road trip to the KInnaur & Spiti valleys. I’d like to thank you for the wealth of information that I could gather about the trip from reading your blogs. I also am a travel blogger & if you wish you can read my blogs at https://ghumakkarindian.com/
Keep travelling & keep writing.
Best wishes,
Lt Col Sudeep Vijai (Retd)
Hello Sudeep Bhai – Just read your blog. Thank you for mentioning me there and for your kind words, I really appreciate it. You may also want to change the category of the post there, it still shows in your bucket list.
I am myself the Son of a retired Army officer. So it felt really great to have someone from the Army like my posts. 🙂
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I like ur article. It is very nice and valuable infermation. We are planing at the end of may from kerala to spiti through shimla.
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Hi Mr. Vargis
We have planned to visit Spiti starting from Shimla on 01.11.2020
Our TOUR ITINERARY:
Day 01, 01.11.2020: Shimla to Saharan, O/N at SAHARAN
Day 02, 02.11.2020: Saharan to Chitkul vai Sangla Chitkul Road, O/N at CHITKUL
Day 03, 03.11.2020: Chitkul to Nako, O/N at NAKO
Day 04, 04.11.2020: Nako to Pin Valley (Mud Village), O/N at MUD VILLAGE
Day 05, 05.11.2020: Pin valley to Kaza, 50 Km, 1.00 hr, Kaza Local Sightseeing: Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang in the second half of the day, O/N at KAZA
Day 06, 06.11.2020: Kaza Local Sightseeing (Hikkim, Komik) — Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit, O/N at KAZA
Day 07, 07.11.2020: Kaza to Tabo via Dhankar, O/N at TABO
Day 08, 08.11.2020: Tabo to Kalpa, O/N at KALPA
Day 09, 09.11.2020: Kalpa to Shimla, O/N at SHIMLA
Day 10, 10.11.2020: Shimla to Delhi and Delhi to Kolkata
We are total in 6 persons (2 families).
Is it okay or some changes are to be need.
Seeking your observation and guidance.
Thanks and regards.
Ashokesh Biswas
Kolkata
see my spiti timelapse video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDNjH7XS7bE
Amazing blog! Amazing content
thank you for sharing knowledge.
valuable information!!!
Thank you !!!
Hi vargis,
I loved Ur article… We are planning to visit the valley by end of April, hope it’s a good time and we would be traveling from Mumbai to Manali… So how to arrange 4 wheeler or is there any public transport available? You also mentioned about the Rohtang ,that we would require a pass whom to contact so that the pass would be ready by the time we reach Manali…. And if we have to rent a car what are the best options… I have been to Manali and Rohtang but we had hotel transport … But for Spiti valley if u can guide us plzz
[…] Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley – A Complete Travel Guide […]
[…] Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley – A Complete Travel Guide […]
Hii vargis bhai..ur vlog just stun me because its reflecting your hardwork and i loved it and its truely helpful..
Brother i want to know can hash is available in kaza and mud village and in recongpeo pls dont mind my question brother because im going with my friend and we want to enjoy it fully for a rememberable journey ..pls reply brother
Bhai it is available everywhere as long as you know who to ask and talk to.
Thnks so much brother for d reply
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Hi Vargis,
Read all your blogs on Spiti and loved the detailed info. Only a true traveler can write such blogs. Huge congratulations to you to have reached this stage in life which many travelers like me just dream about, I have 2 questions for you and would really appreciate if you could help me out-
1) I want to do the complete Spiti circuit and understood from your blogs that the best time to do it is June until September. I have seen the Rohtang pass in movies like “Jab we met” and I noticed that the route of the pass has tall ice/snow walls on both the sides… as if a hill of snow has been cut from middle to make a road. I want to see this particular landscape wherein the vehicle passes from the road with snow walls on both sides. Which week of which month can I see this view of the Rohtang pass? Does this happen when the BRO has just opened the pass in June? So if i start from Shimla on 20th June and reach Rohtang suppose on 30th June (after completing the Spiti circuit),will I still get to see these tall snow walls on Rohtang Pass or will the snow walls melt by then?? Will you in this case suggest to start the Spiti circuit from Manali in the first week of June (here I am assuming that the snow walls will be fresh and intact during the 1st or 2nd week of June). Please clarify me on this. I dont mind starting from either Shimla or Manali…. date of month is also not a constraint… but I really want to see these snow walls on Rohtang road. Please suggest.
2) Like your Spiti blogs, do you also have blogs on Uttrakhand? I want to do Nainital, Almora, Kausoni, Ranikhet, Binsar, Munsiyari, Chopta, Auli and Valley of Flowers. If you have this itiniary/blog, please send me the link. Thanks a lottt in adavance 🙂
Hi my Friend Vargis, You wrote awesome articles and I see your passion in writing and traveling. Very Appreciative:)
I’ve questions : Info : Will reach Chandigarh on 8th and in evening by taxi we will reach kasol (wanted to reach direct till pulga no travel agency is ready to drop why ?).
Questions : Can we travel after 5PM from chandigarh till Kasol for keerganga trek? Ola available and works well ?
Or do you have any suggestions ?
Question : How many days before we have to rent a bike for Spiti with rothanpass permission ? from the rental services (This is very confusing) ?
Question : On 11th October we will start journey from Manali to Spiti for chandratal lake and start return journey on13th morning. Will this work ?
This will be really a great help if you can help me with this informations:)
thank you so much in advance Vargis. You are a travel hero:)
Best wishes from: Laxminarayana
Hi Laxminarayana,
Thank you for your kind words.
1. Yes you can travel overnight to Kasol if you have made arrangemetns for a cab and hotel in Kasol. I do not think Ola will work for this.
2. Let them know 3-4 days in advance so they can arrange your permit for Rohtang as well.
3. Yes, provided that the weather holds. It can snow anytime now and if it did, it will ruin your plans.
Hii vargis bhai..ur vlog just stun me because its reflecting your hardwork and i loved it and its truely helpful..
Brother i want to know can hash is available in kaza and mud village pls dont mind my question brother because im going with my friend and we want to enjoy it
Bhai it is available everywhere as long as you know who to ask and talk to.
Hi Vargis,
Excellent blog, I have read almost all of your posts regarding spiti valley trip and it has been really helpful so far. I am planning to visit spiti starting from Shimla ending at Manali on 25th sep to 2nd of October 2019. Can you please suggest me is it good season to visit and will I face any road closures including rohtang pass?
Thank you in advance for your help!
Hi Nikhil – Your timings are OK. Rohtang won’t close that early.
Hello can you recommend any tour operators who have fixed departures to spiti
I do not know anyone who has fixed departures. Sorry.
Dear Vargis Bhai,
We are planning to travel to Spiti from 30th September to 8th October from Shimla side. Understanding will be cold but have a few questions.
1. We are travelling by own vehicle from Shimla side. Would we be able to cover Chandratal or would it get closed by then? Or would you recommend from the other side?
2. By when does Spiti start to shut down in October?
3. Any other general precautions ?
Regards,
Amit
Hi Amit Bhai
1. Yes.
2. The Manali Kaza route and Chandratal remains open in first half of October.
3. See this post please.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/plan-trip-spiti-in-october/
An adventurer you are Vargis and very well info blog, so Kudos to you.. I’m planning a trip from Delhi – Shimla – Spiti – Manali – Delhi from 13 Sep because the way from Manali will be closed in October and I want to see green lush + Chandra Taal Lake.
QUERY : I’m travelling via Activa 125cc with a pillion, Is it possible at this time of the year?
INFO : I’ve done Dharamkot, Lansdowne, Nanital, Rishikesh, Shimla, and itty bitty on my Activa 125.
PS : If my scooty get’s stalled the pillion will push it till needed
Thanks Kashif. You can do this trip but it would very tough with a Pillion rider.
Hi.. any recommendations for travel agents who do fixed departures. I’m a solo traveller and will be happy to join a group
Hi Vargis,
Great post, really helpful.
Just one query, will there be many muddy patches/water crossings on the way to Spiti via Shimla?
I am planning for a bike trip. Just wanted to check on this since will be using footwear accordingly. What do you suggest?
Regards,
Robbie
Hi Robbie – There are a couple of crossings between Shimla andd Kaza but mmost are between Kaza andd Manali.
Thanks!
Do you suggest gumboots or waterproof shoes?
Waterproof shoes will be better
Thanks!
You are welcome !!!
Hi Varrgis, first of all thank you so much for your inputs. That has really helped.
I am planning to visit Spiti in June end to July. Need your advise for the points below.
1. Dates? (June 21-30) OR (July 5-13) ?? Which one?
2. I plan to take a zoomcar. Is it a good option? As that will give me independence to explore that area, I am inclined to take a self-driven rental car.
3. Can we find a good stay option on-the-spot there?
Hi Sapan,
1. Both are pretty much the same, not much difference. Try in June though, you will be able to avoid monsoon.
2. Yes
3. Yes
Thank you. One last question.
Hi, I have a good amount of driving experience, have driven 3 hrs at a stretch also. But have no experience in hilly area. Is it okay to drive there on my own?
Yes you should be OK. Just go slow and be careful.
Is Rohtang pass open now? I wanted to cover the complete SPiti circuite from shimla->kalpa->rohtangapass -> manali -> shimla!
No it will probably open by June 1st week
whether BSNL prepaid bought from outside Himachal Pradesh will work in spiti circuit?
Yes it will
Hi Vargis,
I am planning to visit Spiti with my wife starting 2nd June from Shimla. Below is my tentative plan.
Day1: Shimla to Sangla
Day2: Sangla to Chitkul
Day3: Chitkul to Nako
Day4: Nako to Mud covering Gue
Day5: Mud to Kaza covering key, kibber
Day6: Kaza -komic,langza, hikkim
Day7: Chandrataal (if open)/ stay in kaza
Day8: Manali
Does the plan look reasonable? Also am planning to rent a cab. Is it okay to travel in smaller cab as SUVs are expensive.
Hi Amit – Yes your itinerary is fine and yes, it is OK to rent a smaller car as well.
Hi Vargis bro, We 4 friends are planning a trip to Sangla-Chitkul and Spiti. How abt takng a taxi from Shimla or Narkanda to Sangla-Chitkul-Kalpa-Peo then catch bus to Kaza. From Kaza again hiring a taxi to visit all d places arnd ther including Chandratal thn retn to Kaza and take direct bus to Manali. will it be expensive?
Hi Rakesh – It will not be expensive but you will not save too much either. The cost will more or less come out to be the same if you hired a cab for the entire trip.
Hi sir,
Can vehicle( with driver) be hired at shimla for spiti circuit? If yes, from where?
What would be approx charges for 10 days vehicle, which vehicle is best ?
If you know any good driver , please give details . Thanks
sir.
thanks for such good information for spiti valley.
each every point is cover in your post.
thanks once again
Thanks for taking the time to drop a note Ritesh
Any comments on availability of camps or homestays?
Are they available all the time or prior booking is required?
Hi,
I am planning to tour lahaul spiti from 11 Jun to 15 Jun, if any group or individual is planning a tour in this period then we can form a group to visit lahaul spiti
Hello VARGIS,
I must say that what I have found here in your blog is by far the best one will come across in the digital medium.
I am from Mangalore and I am at initial stages of planning a 9/10 days trip to cover Spiti circuit . Starting point may probably be Delhi and ending via Manali and Chandigarh.
I have previously covered whole of Sikkim with my wife, mom and dad. Through a Travel agency last year.
And before that I and my wife have been to Ladakh too.
This year since I am planning for Spiti , Probably in July or September,with my family , should I take the help of online travel agency again ? Because I have no idea about how to book a taxi for 10 days from Shimla. The online package is costly (28k per head), but sometimes I feel they will take care of everything na..
Don’t know what to do . Do suggest.
Hi Virgis Bhai…Very useful informations, thanks.
We are planning to go to spiti in 1-2 week of June. Just wanted to know, if it is possible to reach chitkul starting from shimla in 7-8 hours time? As we are thinking of leaving shimla early at 9:00 AM.
Is june 8th to 16th good time to complete shimla – Spiti – Chandratal – Manali – Chandigarh?
Hi Piyush – Shimla to Chitkul will be about 8-9 hours and yes June is a good time
Dear Vargis Bhai, Thank for writing a great article about the hidden of Himachal. It is enriching us. Thanks a lot. We are planning to go Spiti & Lahaul on 25.0819 to 03.09.2019. Any suggestion please inform me.
Thanks Kaustav. It is a good time to go. Just keep a check on the weather before you go.
Thanks a lot. I will be touch with you for your kind information.
You are welcome !!!
This April is good time for spiti?
It is but you can only travel via Shimla.
Hi Vargis,
Nice article, I’m planning to go Spiti via Shimla from 07 June 2019. Do you think if it is the right time? Also, the trip is for 10D/8N. Do you think it will be too exhausting considering I’m from south India?
Hi Rahgav – Yes June is a good time. How are you traveling from South India though?
I have not seen this great documentation for million dollor softwares anywhere. Keep up the good work 🙂
Thank you Abhishek !!!
Awesome yaar!! So much efforts in ur blog. Keep traveling and guiding us. Thanks a ton!!
Thanks for taking the time to drop a note Bhushan.
Hi Vargis,
Your information did helped me alot during my Manali-Leh trip last year so Thanks a ton for guiding.
Next year we are planning a round trip Chandigarh-Spiti-Leh-Srinagar-Chandigarh so i have an unusual doubt as no one or very few have done this route.
While going to Leh from Manali one has to acquire ILP to produce in Rohtang pass and further checkpoints as well. If a person doesnt have the Rohtang stamp on ILP then he will be interrogated in Koksar as to why you missed and all ?
So my doubt is, As we dont need any ILP to do Spiti circuit, if i exit from Gramphoo and directly show up in Koksar then will they allow me to do further route ?
And even if i apply for ILP online and get it before going to Spiti, i would still miss Rohtang pass’s stamp on it and then i will be questioned in Koksar.
Please help me on this as there is no/minimal information on this.
Waiting for your response.
Thanks
No you do not need Rohtang permit if you are coming from Spiti. Just keep a receipt of the hotel or anything handy and in case they stop you at Kokhsar, just produce the receipt to prove that you are coming from Spiti and not Manali.
Wo Mr khan
Thank for writing a great article about the spiti valley, you have given the complete details about the hidden himachal , keep posting ……
Hello Mr. Katoch, Thank you so much for your kind words. I am glad that the information posted was of help.
Hi Vargis,
Your articles have been really helpful for us to plan our this year’s trip, which is to Spiti. I would like to thank you for that.
We are leaving for Manali on 17Aug and start our Spiti trip from Manali on 18Aug. Eventhough I visited your Road Condition page and forum, however was not able to find any latest info on the same.
So please let me know on how the roads and weather are in the area, if u have any updated info on the same.
Thanks.
The roads between Manali and Kaza is badly damaged Vinod, rest of the route is a mix of good and average. In fact the Manali Kaza route was closed for 2-3 days last week due to landslides.
Thanks Vargis for the reply. It looks like, it will be a gamble.Will come back and let you know how it goes. Regards.
I just confirmed with my contact at Kaza and the roads are all open. Between Manali and Kaza however is in terrible conditions brother.
How are the roads now?
Mix of good bad and ugly
Hi Vargis, thanks for the update bro. We completed the trip. There was rain in those region on 17.08.2018 and due to a landslide we were stuck some 10kms before Chatru for 7hrs. Had to spend the night in Prem Dhaba at Chatru because before Batal a tempo was stuck in the road due to slush. Also, Manali-Leh highway was completely slushy.
However, from the next day onwards there was no delay as the weather was fine and the roads dried up. Chatru to Losar is still in bad condition, lots of water streams and rocks. Losar to Kaza is good and on our return we came from Chicham side, which was very good road till Kyoto. Then again from Kyoto to Gramphoo, its bad. Lots of water streams though, Chandratal Road is in very bad condition.
The slush was gone on the way back, Rohtang was very foggy and visibility was very low. So I guess the mantra is, if it is rainy slow down the schedule and make the journeys in the morning when the water stream will have less force 🙂
Hi Vinod Bhai – Welcome back. I am glad that your trip went well and thank you for the updates on road conditions brother. Do share some pictures if possible.
Hi Bro,
We are planning to visit spiti valley next week.
Aug 15th to 26th. Shimla -> Spiti Valley -> Manali.
But we heard that roads to spiti valley is closed because of landslides.
When it will open and is it safe to travel on these days?
Hi Shylesh, Yes the Manali Kaza road got closed earlier this week due to heavy rainfall. It is expected to reopen in next day or two so you should be OK to ride. Just be prepared for rain, waterproof everything and keep a couple of days as buffer.
Harlo Vargis. i am mr tow and glad that i found ur page. I am interested in a 8days trip to spiti valley and hope taht u can help recommend someone who are experience in photography to help me in planning my trip. i am a landscapes photographer and eventhou i enjoyed the itinerary proposed but i am wondering if it is possible to be in certain places during sunset and sunrise just to get the best light for the landscapes and also some astrophotography in specific location for best composition. i really need an experience guide with photography knowledge to help me and advise my trip. thanks
Hello Mr. Tow – I wish I could be of help in this aspect but I really do not know anyone who could be your guide in terms of photography.
Found your blog and Spiti series just at the right time. 🙂 Thank you for writing these posts. Super helpful and a treat to read.
Thank you Rama
Must say really enjoying your blog… Great detailed posts…
Thank you !!!
Wow !!! The blog is a perfect answer to all the faqs regaeding the spiti valley road trip.
Thanks Aabhas. I am glad that the information posted was of help.
What an amazing piece of information.I usually read but never comment on blogs, but the first time I’m commenting on your blog..,seriously that’s amazing piece of content.., cheers.
Thanks Uday
Dear Vargis,
Hope you are well! At the outset, thank you so much for creating such informative and exhaustive blogs on travel. I have been an ardent follower, and had planned my Ladakh trip, last year based on your itinerary suggestions – it was awesome. This year, my peeps and I are planning a trip to Spiti tentatively from 3rd to 12th August. All of us are from Delhi and would require to resume office from 13th August. May I request you to share a feasible itinerary, if possible? I understand, you have a busy schedule, but would love to hear from you! Best, Srirupa
Hi Srirupa – Thank you for your kind words and I am glad that the information posted was of help. Before I suggest an itinerary, can you please let me know how will you be traveling? You own car?
Hi Varghis – We usually take the overnight bus to Manali and from there onward, we hire a car.
Thanks again.
Do you just want to cover Spiti valley? I mean reach Kaza via Manali and then come back the same way? I am asking because I would recommend completing the entire circuit since you are hiring a private cab and have 9 days for it. Also, hiring a taxi from Manali will also be costlier. Do it from Shimla. Rent a taxi from Shimla and then finish the journey at Manali.
We would love to cover the whole circuit if you are suggesting that 9 days will be enough to do that! Would you be kind enough to give me some idea about how our itinerary should be? I understand I’m taking a lot of your time but really appreciate your gesture! Thank you so much
Hi Srirupa – For 9 days, you can travel like this.
1. Delhi to Shimla / Narkanda
2. Shimla / Narkanda to Chitkul
3. Chitkul to Kalpa
4. Kalpa to Nako / Tabo
5. Nako / Tabo to Mud Village, Pin Valley
6. Mud to Kaza
7. Kaza to Chandratal
8. Chandratal to Manali
9. Manali to Delhi
Hello Vargis, we intend to travel from 28th Jun’18 to 6th Jul’18. Starting from Rohtak (Haryana) to Spiti Valley & returning to Rohtak. Can you pls suggest an itinerary? We do have one but I would need your expert advice. I am an Indian National. TIA Sewa Singh
How will you be traveling Sewa? By your own vehicle, cars or bikes? Also, Let me know what your itinerary is and I can suggest if a change is required.
HI Vargis, I will be travelling by Royal Enfield Bullet. There will be one more biker and one car. Our tentative itinerary is as below:
28th Jun’18 – Rohtak to Rampur
29th Jun’18 – Rampur to Raksham / Chitkul
30th Jun’18 – Chitkul – Kalpa
1st Jul’18 – Kalpa – Kaza
2nd Jul’18 – Kaza (sight seeing)
3rd Jul’18 – Kaza to Chandratal
4th Jul’18 – Chandratal to Mandi / Manali
5th Jul’18 – Mandi / Manali to Rohtak
We can extend the trip by a day or two, say return to Rohtak on 6th or 7th Jul’18
Hope this information enables you to provide your expert advice. Thanks
Hi Sewa,
If you can extend by 2 days then incorporate a visit to Pin Valley as well. From Kalpa, go to Nako and stay there for the night. From Nako, go to Pin Valley and stay at Mud Village. From Mud Village then, go to Kaza the next day. Rest of your itinerary looks great.
Which car is going to be traveling with you?
Hi Vargis, thanks for your inputs. Much appreciated. Hyundai Santa fe is going with us. Where are you based? Pls share your contact details (if you feel like) on my email [email protected]
Hi Sewa – I am based out of Delhi, just dropped you an email on the mentioned address.
Please be careful on the Chandratal stretch. That road is extremely bad and very narrow, barely wide enough for one car.
Hi Vargis, thanks for connecting. We will be careful on the Chandratal stretch. We appreciate your inputs. You are doing a great job. Let me know if you are ever in Australia. Rgds Sewa Singh
Thanks Sewa. I will surely connect with you if I am ever in Australia.
At Chandratal, stay with Jamaica’s camps, greatly recommended. You can contact him at 9418200183 to book. In case you are not able to reach, just drop a message on watsapp and he will call back.
At Kaza, you can stay at Hotel Spiti Valley right opposite Kaza Monastery. Contact person is Tanzin and his number is 9418927312.
Thanks for sharing these contact details. It will be quite handy. Can I mention your name? And yes look forward to your visit to Australia anytime. Rgds
Yes absolutely. Give my reference and they both will take great care of you. Let me know if I can be of any other help.
Sure Vargis. Will do.
Do let me know how your trip went brother after you return.
Sure brother..
Hi Vargis, we finished our trip yesterday and can’t thank you enough for your valuable inputs. Our itinerary was like this:
Day 1 – Shimla
Day 2 – Sangla Valley
Day 3 – Chitkul (went upto Rani Kund, couldn’t go to Dumti because of heavy flow in the nullah on the way. Camped next to the river)
Day 4 – Nako
Day 5 – Mudh (Pin Valley)
Day 6 – Kaza (visited Langza, Hikkim and Komic). I would recommend staying in Langza, Hikkim or Komic rather than Kaza
Day 7 – Chandratal (pitched our own tent)
Day 8 – Shamsi (near Kullu)
Day 9 – Back home in Rohtak (487 kms ride)
Ride from Kaza to Chandratal was not that bad but Chandratal to Rohtang was hell of a ride…loved every bit of it…real adventure…tougher than the Manali Leh route…did get a chance to view the mummy in Gue village…overall a different experience than the Ladakh trips that I had in the past…
Hi Sewa – I am glad your trip went well and thank you for dropping a note. Do share some pics if possible specially of your trek at Chitkul. Even I have not covered that part.
sir i am planning a trip to spiti valley on sept 9. we are 1 couple and a small child abt 1 yr old. i want to hire a taxi from shimla and have a total to 7 to 8 days and return back to shimla.does the weather ia gd from shimla to spiti.and temp also.kindly provide me the itinary and also sugest hotels and stay point.kindly add stay at chitkul also.
Hi Deepak – Please take a look at the itineraries for 7 and 8 days at the links below. Let me know if you have any other questions.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/spiti-valley-in-7-days/
https://vargiskhan.com/log/how-to-visit-spiti-valley-in-8-days/
Is it possible to plan a trip for 3 -4 days for SPITI? If yes then how ?
See the itinerary section in the post above.
Hi, I am alfas. I am planning to do spiti circuit in coming two months, this time i wish to do in groups. anybody who are planning to do spiti who are looking for travel mate are welcome
Alfas – Post a thread at community forum at the link below and annyone interested can join you.
http://roadragas.com/index.php?forums/travel-partners.20/
Hi Vargis,
Planning to travel from manali to Kaza tomorrow, taxi driver is saying there’s a landslide in spiti. Please let me know of that’s a correct information. Thanks in advance
Hi Neha. Yes, there is a roadblock after Batal as of now. Expected to open day after tomorrow, Monday.
hii …can we go by fortuner automatic transmission….are the roads safe …we are planning on 20 th june
Yes you can but it will depend on how good the person sitting at the wheel is.
Hello Sir,
Can’t thank you enough for all the effort that you put into writing these articles. The information that you provide in your articles, makes it convenient for all the travelers like us to travel a remote region like spiti valley.
Now, We will be travelling in July 1st week and here’s our itinerary for the Shimla – spiti – Manali circuit —
Day 1: Shimla – Kalpa
Day 2: Kalpa – Nako
Day 3: Nako – Kaza
Day 4: Kaza – Komic/Hikkim/Langza
Day 5: Kaza – Key/Kibber
Day 6: Kaza – Chicham – Chandratal
Day 7: Chandratal – Manali
We have excluded places like Chitkul and Mudh village as we are short on time. Do you find the itinerary ok?
We are a group of 5 friends from Bangladesh and we are willing to hire a car/SUV for the trip.
Could you please tell us how much would it cost to hire a standard car for our above-mentioned itinerary for 7 days?
and also what about the permits required? do we need to obtain it beforehand in delhi? or can we just collect the permit from Shimla like others? is that a time-consuming process?
Thanks a lot. Hope to hear from you soon.
Hello Atin,
Just one change needed in the itinerary. You do not need 2 days for Kibber and Langza / Hikkim. All this can be done in a single day. Do this in one day and use the day saved to cover Pin Valley as well.
In terms of arranging the permits and taxi for your trip, please talk to Jamaica @ 9418200183. Give my reference and he will take care of the arrangements for you.
Are the roads safe to travel around mid june?
Roads are always bad in Spiti valley but yes, June is better than traveling in July or August when its raining there.
Dear Mr Vargis Khan,
I m Harish Sharma in Delhi pls advice which date open Manali to leh Highway ASAP
[…] Open for Year 2018 Manali Leh Highway Opens for 2018 How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh… How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley… Manali Kaza Road Opens – HRTC Bus Service… Chandratal Lake in June – The Frozen […]
Sure..
Near chandigarh – siswa jungle lodge
Near Narkanda – Krish Rauni resort
Chitkul – samaa resort
Tabo – Namesay homestay
Kaza – Sakya Abode (I tried calling the hptdc hotel there too and they to my surprise also said that we have not done it in the past but will be ok with it )
Chandratal – Jamaica camp
Still need to do booking on Manali route but didn’t do it as we are planning to cover as much ground as we can and halt at mandi/Sundarnagar
All the above listed hotels were very accomodating to my request.
In Losar (though we are not staying their because by the time we chose to stay the place was booked) , the nomads cottage was also very open to our request .
Hope this helps
Hello sir
I have been following your writeups for quite some time now and am an admirer of the efforts you are putting in to help people in planning their Leh and Spiti travel . I have a question though. We are planning to do Spiti circuit in June and are planning to take our dog along with us. We will be consulting his vet on precautions we need to take on the same however wanted to check if yoj know someone who has done this circuit with their pet and if yes then what all places would you suggest as good pet friendly accommodation on this circuit Delhi to Shimla to Kaza to Manali to delhi
Hello Himanshu – I wish I could help you with this question but I really do not have an answer. I don’t know anyone who has done the circuit with their pet dog.
Hey Himanshu,
Could you find anything which would accomodate your pet dog? Asking as I am also planning the same thing. Please share details if you have found something.
Thanks
Sunipa
Hello Sunipa.. to my pleasant surprise, I have been able to.find accomodation on the complete Spiti circuit and have gotten the booking done. Most of the places I called were accomodating to my request to allow pet with us. The only place I found issue in was finding a place in chandigarh area that allows pet in property, but eventually found it too.. let me know what your travel itinary looks like and I will tell you accomodations I have found accordingly.. when are you travelling thoigh, if yours is post June 10 then I can share my experiences at those places too
Thanks Himanshu Bhai. Can you let me know the hotels you called? I would like to add that information on a different post to help others.
Hi Vargis,
Really appreciate your effort in providing such good information. Just wanted to know if there’s any expected date when the Manali Kaza route will open. I’m planning a trip from Delhi to Spiti valley between May 12-19 and would like to return via Manali. Assuming the route opens by then, what all permits would I need? I’ll be hiring a cab from Delhi
Thanks in advance
Hi Srujan, It will most probably not be open by your date of travel. Rohtang Pass is expected to open by 16th and after that they will start working at Kunzum..
sorry I mean to say 3000-4000 Feet and not Meter
My another question is I am 35 year old and have undergone Angioplasty 1 year back. Is it ok to visit Spiti or will be there any risk of Acute Mountain Sickness?
Please note that I have done the trekking to places which are around 3000-4000 M above sea level after treatment.
I do not really feel qualified to answer that Saket Bhai. Best consult a doctor before going and get a professional opinion.
Hi Vargis Bhai,
I am planning to visit Spiti Valley starting from Shimla around 20th May and then to do complete circuit to get down from Manali side. I will be planning to visit Chandratal Lake on 24th or 25th May and then go to Manali.
I will be taking local vehicle on rent.
My 1st question will be is Chandratal Lake open by 24th or 25th May?
and 2nd question will be is Kaza – Manali route open by 26th or 27th May?
Thank you very much for providing details.
Saket Bhai – Its really hard to predict right now the way the weather at Rohtang has turned in last one month. Rohtang La is still not open and Kunzum will come after. Manali Kaza in all probability will be open by May end so if possible, try delaying your trip by a couple of weeks.
[…] How to Plan Your Trip to Prashar Lake? How to Make your Car look Stupid –… How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley… How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh… How to Plan a Visit to Spiti Valley… How to Plan a Trip […]
Hello Vargis,
Very good article. Thank you
I have few queries that we are planning to go Spiti on 30th June. Is it good time to visit Spiti. Also is it rainy season in Himachal(Kullu, MANALI)?
Hi Som, 30th June is a good time to go. It starts to rain sometime towards 2nd half of July.