Like last year, this will be a dedicated post for Lahaul & Spiti valley road status 2018. I will continue updating the status on opening and closing of the road; along with the road conditions as the year progresses. Apart from the blog post here, I will also start a sticky thread at our Community Forum; where other members of the forum can also shared their updates.
This is a post that I started last year for 2018 and I am no longer updating this. For more recent update and status of the road in 2019, please check and follow this year’s thread at Lahaul & Spiti Valley Road Status 2019
Current Spiti Valley Road Status 2018:
- Shimla to Kaza: OPEN
- Manali to Kaza: OPEN
- Manali to Keylong: OPEN
- Keylong to Kaza: OPEN
- Keylong to Leh: OPEN
Also read:
How to Plan a Trip to Lahaul Spiti – Complete Travel Guide
Update: June 20th
Below is an update on the road condition in Spiti this year.
- Delhi to Chandigarh – It is NH1 and is always in good condition. Travel time can be anywhere from 4 to 6 hours depending upon your speed and breaks.
- Chandigarh to Shimla – Mostly this road is good but for last couple of years, there is road widening work going on this entire stretch and it will take another few years before it gets completed. Road is a mix of good and bad. Earlier it won’t take you more than 3 hours to cover this stretch but the travel time now can be up to 5 hours.
- Shimla to Narkanda – Good smooth road. Travel time of about 2 hours.
- Narkanda to Jeori – Road is mostly good with a few bad patches in between. Travel time of about 3 hours.
- Jeori to Sarahan – The regular road from Jeori to Sarahan is shut down right now due to a broken bridge. This road won’t be functional at least until next year. As of now, there is a 5 kilometers long dirt road built a couple of kilometers after Jeori that you will have to take to get to Sarahan. Travel time on this dirt road is about 60 minutes because it is in extremely bad condition. Once the regular road gets functional, it takes about 30 minutes to reach Sarahan from Jeori. Please note that the entire 12 kilometers climb from Jeori to Sarahan is quite steep and on a narrow road.
- Jeori to Karcham – The road is a mix of average and good; travel time of about 90 minutes to 2 hours.
- Karcham to Chitkul – This road is mostly always broken bad and travel time can be anywhere between 2.5 to 3 hours. As of this year, the road from Karcham to Sangla is good but from Sangla to Chitkul is really bad.
- Karcham to Kalpa – Road is mostly good; travel time can be anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes.
- Kalpa to Nako – This is where the road will turn really bad for the first time in your journey. There are stretches in between where it can turn even really ugly. Distance between Kalpa to Nako is slightly over 100 kilometers but will easily take you about 5 to 6 hours to cover; can take even more.
- Nako to Dhankar – It is a mix of good, bad and ugly. Travel time can be anywhere between 2 to 3 hours depending upon your speed and breaks.
- Dhankar to Pin Valley – The entire section of the road from Attargo bridge to Mudh village is a badly broken road. Distance is only about 35 kilometers but will easily take you about 2 hours to complete.
- Dhankar to Kaza – The road here is mostly average. Travel time of about an hour to 90 minutes.
- Kaza to Kibber / Komik / Chicham – The bridge between Kibber and Chicham is now operational. This entire stretch from Kaza to Kibber, then Chicham is fresh tarmac. After Chicham, this road merges into Kaza Manali highway near Kiato. While going from Manali to Losar, it is recommended that you take this road at least until Kiato rather than traveling on the regular highway.
- Kaza to Losar – The road is in very bad condition; terribly broken.
- Losar to Kunzum Pass – Extremely bad
- Chandratal Road – If you are in a car then this 14 kilometers of stretch will have your heart jumping in to your mouth. Road is extremely narrow at several places and in a terrible state with a few water crossings in between. Please practice caution while driving on it. While going to Chandratal, plan your travel in a way that you travel from Batal to Chandratal after noon. While coming from Chandratal, start early in the morning. This way, you will be able to avoid traffic coming from other direction. This road is barely wide enough for one car and if you ran into a car coming from opposite direction, it will be very tricky to cross.
- Batal to Gramphoo –As always, it is a nightmare of a road. Severely broken and a non-stop series of water crossings. Travel time will be about 4 hours.
- Gramphoo to Manali – The road across Rohtang is a mix of good and bad but the problem is the tourist traffic at the pass. Be prepared to be stuck in traffic jams at several places while climbing down to Manali.
Update: May 20th
Rohtang Pass and the entire stretch between Manali to Kaza is now officially open. Permits to private vehicles to cross the pass over are now being issued. HRTC has also resumed their service from Kullu to Kaza via Manali. There is however snow at several places en route. Rohtang has 10 feet high snow walls at several places and about 2 to 3 feet of snow at the top so please be careful while driving by.
Update: May 17th
Both Rohtang Pass and the entire Manali – Kaza stretch is not yet open for tourists but local traffic is being allowed to ply. Tourist traffic is expected to be allowed in next 2 – 3 days. Below are some pictures of the road clicked yesterday. There is still snow in the valley but nothing on the road. As of now road condition is just about OK. It is still all dirt trail with lose stones but no water crossings or slush as the snow has not yet started melting. Work is still going on to clear the remaining snow.
Update May 10th
The game of Rohtang getting open, closed, open, closed and open again continues. Authorities declared the pass open yesterday and will allow the movement of civilian traffic from today onward. Ever sine it was opened in early April, the mighty pass has been closed and reopened again three times due to late snowfall and unpredictable weather . However, for now only local traffic will be allowed and there is still no word on by when the tourists will be allowed to visit or cross Rohtang top. The road condition at the pass is dangerous right now and even local traffic had to be stopped yesterday due to some cars skidding off the road.
Update: May 9th
Surprise Surprise !! It is the month of May and the spell of late snowfall still continues. Valleys of Lahaul and Spiti and Passes of Rohtang, Kunzum, Sach and Baralacha all received fresh snowfall yesterday. This is definitely bound to delay the opening of all routes including Rohtang Pass, Sach Pass, Manali Leh and Manali Kaza routes. For now, the estimate is that both Manali Leh and Manali Kaza routes will not open until Late May and Rohtang Pass will probably open around 20th; provided that there is no more heavy snowfall. Below is a pic of Kaza after fresh snowfall in Spiti yesterday. There is forecast that more snow is on the way.
Update: May 6th
Rohtang Pass, Kunzum La and Losar – Gramphu stretch has been freed of snow. The road has been declared open for local vehicles as of today. Please note that it is for now open only for local traffic. Locals will start commuting between Manali and Kaza today and only then the true condition of the road will be known. For tourists, it will take at least another week before vehicles are allowed to travel.
Update: April 21st
Winter this year arrived very late at Rohtang and other nearby passes. BRO was able to clear the snow off Rohtang completely and were hopeful that they will be able to reopen Manali Leh highway by April 20th but due to recent spells of snow, they had to shut down Rohtang Pass again. It has been snowing at top of the passing at regular intervals due to which opening of Rohtang, Kunzum Pass, Sach Pass, Manali Leh and Manali Kaza stretch will definitely get delayed. There is no confirmed date yet about opening of all these places.
Even Srinagar Leh highway which was opened several weeks ago was closed again yesterday due to snowfall at Zojila top.
Update: April 6th
Rohtang Pass has been declared open for year 2018. BRO was able to clear snow all the way and restore traffic on the route on Thursday. For now, only light motor vehicles will be allowed to ply between Manali and Keylong from Friday, April 6th. An official announcement of the opening however will only be made on 9th April.
Please note though that for initial days, only the local vehicles are allowed to cross over. Tourists do not get the permit to cross over for initial few days. You must give it at least 7 to 10 days before planning a trip. To be on a safer side, do not plan to cross the pass before 15th April.
BRO is hopeful that if the weather remained the way it is right now; they will be able to restore connectivity on entire Manali Leh highway by 20th April. The road from Manali to Kaza will also be restored by April end; or May first week at latest.
For now, one-way traffic will be allowed towards the pass on a daily basis. This is because the road is not really in best of the condition and is quite narrow at some places. On Friday, traffic will be allowed to ply from Manali side and then on Saturday, vehicles from Lahaul side will be allowed to cross over. BRO will continue to work on the road and stabilize it. Once they have widened it enough for vehicles to cross each other, two way traffic will be allowed.
Update: April 3rd
Rohtang Pass should be all clear of snow this week and in all probability will be declared open for tourists next week. Less than a kilometer of snow is left to clear towards the top which BRO is currently working on removing.
Update: March 31st
Road between Shimla and Kaza is blocked at two places following landslides; about 25 before Nako and between Ribba and spillow. It is expected to be cleared and reopened in next 2 days.
Update: March 29th
Snow clearing at Rohtang Pass continues and it is only the last 14 kilometers towards the top that are left to be cleared now. BRO team working from Kokhsar side has already reached Rohtang top and cleared snow all the way. From Manali side the work has been completed till Rani Nullah.
Unless the weather turns extreme again, it is expected that snow clearing operation at Rohtang will complete by April 10th; post which BRO will test the road conditions. Estimated date of opening of Rohtang Pass right now is April 15th.
Update: March 21st
It rained and snowed all across Himachal on 21st which will further hamper the snow clearing at Rohtang Pass. There is a forecast that rain and snowfall will continue on 22nd as well.
Rohtang Pass received about 45 centimeters and Kokhsar about 25 centimeters of fresh snow on 21st March. Other areas in both Lahaul and Pangi valley too received snow.Night temperature at Keylong dipped to -0.9 degrees Celsius and 4.8 degrees at Manali.
Update: March 20th
After the heavy snowfall at Rohtang on 15th March, the snow clearing operation had come to a complete stand still. It has however now been resumed. From Manali side, snow is already cleared until Beas Nala. From Kokhsar, it has already been cleared way ahead of Gramphoo. If the weather doesn’t turn extreme, snow will be all cleared by March end or early April. BRO will then assess the road and declared it for vehicular traffic if they found it safe.
Update March 12th
Efforts are now underway to first open Rohtang Pass and restore connectivity with Lahaul Valley. Teams of BRO are working from both sides of Rohtang Pass to reach the top as early as they can.
At Beas Nallah, thickness of snow is about 10 to 15 feet and is expected to be about 30 feet near Rohtang top. First team of BRO from Manali is clearing snow near Beas Nallah towards Rohtang Pass; while the second team is clearing snow between Koksar and Rohtang Pass. The third team is moving from Darcha towards Baralacha Pass.
Meanwhile, locals from both sides of Rohtang have already started to cross the mighty pass on foot. Like each year, two rescue posts have been established on either side of the pass in case someone gets stuck or faces any trouble. Pedestrians are required to register themselves at both the posts before and after crossing Rohtang Pass.
In all probability, an early opening of both Rohtang Pass and entire Manali Leh stretch is expected. Even the connectivity with Spiti valley will be restored early this year.
Image Source: Tribune India
Update: March 9th
BRO has started the snow clearance operation from Manali and are now working to reach Rohtang top. On the other side in Lahaul valley, snow clearance operation has begun from Sissu and will soon have it completed all the way till Kokhsar. About 7 kilometers of this stretch has already been cleared. As of now, it is expected that Rohtang will open towards early April. After Rohtang, the work will then continue towards opening the Gramphoo – Kaza stretch.
The bus service in Lahaul valley however resumed today after 56 days of complete halt. For the initial part, three buses were started between Keylong – Udaipur, Keylong – Darcha and Keylong – Gufa Hotel.
Update: February 23rd
After the snowfall earlier this month that I posted pics of below, Spiti once again is running dry. There have been no more snowfalls anywhere and whatever little snow is left is melting fast. Passes like Rohtang La, Baralacha La and Kunzum Pass receive 20 to 30 feet of snow each year however this year it is merely 5 to 6 feet of snow towards the top of these passes.
BRO is all set to start the snow clearing operation on Manali Leh highway on 1st March. For the initial phase, snow will be cleared from Rohtang Pass from both Manali and Keylong side.
What this necessarily means is that the connectivity between Manali and Kaza too can be restored early this year; unless there is a major snowfall in March. For now, Manali to Keylong is expected to be cleared by early April and Manali to Kaza by early May.
Sharing a recent pic of Chitkul after it snowed in the valley.
Update: February 14th
It continues to snow all across in Spiti and Lahaul valleys. Looks like weather has finally decided to change. Sharing a few pictures of Kaza after the snowfall yesterday. Road from Shimla to Kaza is open all the way so if you were planning a winter trip to Spiti, now is the time to go.
Update: February 10th
It finally snowed a little at Kaza earlier this week. Sharing a picture that was sent over by a friend who lives in Kaza. Amount of snow wasn’t that great though, it was more of a light snowfall as compared to the usual amount of snow that this regions gets.
Spiti Valley Road Status 2018 Update: February 2nd
Adding an update provided by Shyam Bhai who just returned from Spiti trip.
“Just an update from my side. Went to Spiti on Jan 27th and just came back. Shimla to Kaza road is completely fine with no snow anywhere except a little after Shimla. Spiti is dry. No snow so far.
No major bad stretches. A very small stretch of road between Nako and Chango is in bad shape but nothing to worry.
1. Accommodation is easily available in home stays. You can ask anyone in the main market near bus stand and they will help you out.
2. You might face some problems in the morning with your vehicle because of extreme cold. In that case as well, locals can help you out. In Diesel vehicles, you might need to heat the diesel in the morning.
3. After Powari (near Reckong Peo), there’s no fuel station till Kaza. So carry extra fuel.
4. Get a BSNL sim card. No other network providers are there after Pooh town.
5. Carry enough winter wear. Sometimes temperature might go as low as -27 degrees.
Rest everything is fine. Nothing to worry. Do not expect white Spiti. It’s completely dry as of now, a little bit of snow in the higher areas.”
Spiti Valley Road Status 2018 Update: January 26th
The long dry spell this winter finally broke this week with entire Himachal receiving snow all around. Keylong was coldest in the region with minimum temperature settling at -5.8 degrees C, Kalpa -3 degrees and Manali -0.6 degrees. The thick sheet of snow however is mostly limited in the valleys around Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda and Manali. Spiti valley continues to remain dry still as Kaza did not receive much snow still.
Spiti Valley Road Status 2018 update: January 14th
If you were planning a winter ride to Spiti anytime soon, it would be best to delay it for now. By winter ride I am assuming you would be wanting to chase snow which really is not there in Spiti right now. This year has not seen much snow and Spiti is pretty much all dry. There is no snow in Kaza too right now, though you may find some towards Kibber and Kaumik villages; or towards Kunzum Pass. Shimla to Kaza road is completely open while Manali to Kaza remains closed.
Spiti Valley Road Status 2018 update: January 1st
There has not been much snow so far in the season. While the temperature dipped close to zero degrees in Shimla and Manali, Kaza recorded a temperature of -25 degrees at night at -10 degrees at noon on 1st January. Both Shimla and Manali have so far not seen any snow at all while Kaza has seen very little snow. There was a snowfall on 1st January but it mostly remained limited to hill tops and upper areas. Lower areas experienced almost next to none snow so far this year. It has snowed very little even atop Rohtang and Kunzum.
The road from Shimla to Kaza remains open but if you are chasing snow, you will not find any for now. Manali to Kaza will remains closed at least until May.
Spiti Valley Road Status 2018 update: December 19th
Spells of snow continue all across the Himalayan region. Both Rohtang and Kunzum pass have already been buried deep under snow; rending the entire stretch from Manali to Kaza as closed for vehicles. From Manali side, farthest you can reach is the snow point, not even Rohtang top.
From Shimla side however, road continues to remain open until Kaza; which it does throughout the year except for occasional temporary roadblocks due to snow. It has already snowed heavily at Nako and Kaza and temperature in the valley dips several degrees below zero at night.
If you are planning a trip to Spiti, until late May next year you can only do it from Shimla side. You will reach Kaza and take the same route back to return home. Chandratal too is off the limits.
Spiti Valley Road Status 2018
While the road from Shimla to Kaza remains open throughout the year; the stretch from Manali to Kaza closes sometime by mid October after it starts to snow at Kunzum Pass. Come November and Rohtang Pass too get declared closed. This year however; much to everyone’s surprise, all the passes and roads remains open still with half of the November gone. There have been light spells of snow at both Rohtang and Kunzum; but for now the entire stretch between Manali and Kaza; including the road to Chandratal remains open.
There may not be a lot of snow but there will still be some along with frost and black ice; which makes journeying on this stretch quite dangerous. If you are planning a trip to Spiti valley anytime soon; better do it from Shimla side and return via the same route. Keep the Manali route out of your itineraries for this year.
I hope the information above on was of help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below or at our Community Forum and I will be glad to answer.
302 comments
Hello Sir , We are planning a trip to Spiti via shimla via peo on 10-11th of december , 3 days from now .
But I always took an eye on weather forecast and There was snowfall on 6th dec (last day) and showing snowfall on 10th and 11th of dec .
So, please guide us that should we go there or not ? Roads will be closed or remain open ??
We are planning to get back from there on 13th dec .
plz reply as soon as possible !!
No one can guarantee whether or not the road will remain open but it is highly unlike that it will remain closed for long so early in the season. My advice would be that you proceed as planned
Hello sir we are planning a trip to spiti via shimla around 15 december, so i wanted to know about the weather conditions or is it possible to reach spiti at that time.
Yes you can reach Spiti via Shimla at this time. Weather will be extremely cold so please pack accordingly.
Hello Sir , We are planning a trip to Spiti via shimla via peo on 10-11th of december , 3 days from now .
But I always took an eye on weather forecast and There was snowfall on 6th dec (last day) and showing snowfall on 10th and 11th of dec .
So, please guide us that should we go there or not ? Roads will be closed or remain open ??
We are planning to get back from there on 13th dec .
plz reply as soon as possible !!
No one can guarantee whether or not the road will remain open but it is highly unlike that it will remain closed for long so early in the season. My advice would be that you proceed as planned
Hello sir, its a nice information above. Actually i want to know the todays weather condition and specially the routes in october for bike trip. Can you give me the recent condition information..
It has already started to snow there so the weather is very cold. The route is all open by Manali to Kaza can close anytime now.
Hi Vargis, Great Job here !! Right now in Narkanda planning to Kalpa , Kaza , Kibber, Battal and enter via Manali by 20th – I know the weather can get crazy Rohtang might close – any recent updates on the road especially Rohtang
Hi Arun – It is open but the Manali Kaza road can close any day now.
This is good info. What about the route from Shimla — Nako — Kaza? Is it also getting closed?
Rakesh
No that remains open all year
Heavy snowfall in and around kumzum pass made us return from the ascent while travelling by kaza manali bus. According to the locals, it will be the snow for the next 2 days as well . Currently near pooh having taken the Shimla route. Weather is still rainy.
hello
i have a trip planned to the valley from manali starting september 15th.Whats the current state of the manali-kaza route?
It is in bad shape with rains still beating down but it is open.
Thanks a lot Vargis. The bus service should be on as well for budget travelers like us.
You are welcome brother. And yes, Bus will be available around 15th September.
Hi,
I am planning a Himachal Pradesh trip with family in last week of december. Is it a great idea to visit in december?
If you mean just Himachal then yes you can go. If you mean Spiti then no it is not a good time to go.
Hello Mr. Khan. Hope you are doing well. I would really like to appreciate the amount of effort you are putting in this such an amazing and helpful Blog of yours, I’m sure hundreds of travelers are getting benefited by your knowledge and experiences of Spiti. Really impressive work.
If this is not too much trouble for you, I would really like to get your inputs on my Spiti road trip. I have explored a lot and realized that sometimes too much of exploration & research is also not good because that causes lot of confusions in mind -:)
So, I will ask few very simple questions and would like to get your inputs on the same:
I’m traveling to Himachal in the 1st week of October 2018 and below was my initial plan. Note that we are coming from Pune by Road -:)
The only question I have is – should I go via Manali or Shimla? The primary reason of asking this question is the current condition of roads.
Let me know what you feel. Thanks,
29-Sep-18 Leave Pune 6 AM
30-Sep-18 Reach Dalhousie 5 PM
01-Oct-18 Sightseeing – Dalhousie
02-Oct-18 Leave Dalhousie 8 AM, reach Dharamshala 12 PM
03-Oct-18 Sightseeing – Dharamshala, McLeodGanj
04-Oct-18 Leave Dharamshala 8 AM, reach Manali 3 PM
05-Oct-18 Sightseeing – Manali, Solang
06-Oct-18 Leave Manali 6 AM, reach Chandrataal 2 PM covering Rohtang
7-Oct to 10-Oct Leave Chandrataal 8 AM, reach Kaza 11 AM for Sightseeing – Spiti
Sun – Key Monastery, Komic Village, Gue Mummy
Mon – Dhankar Lake, Dhankar Monasteries
Tue – Kibber Village, Pin Valley
Wed – Tabo, Kunzum Pass, Nako”
11-Oct-18 Leave Kaza 8 AM, reach Kasol 3 PM
12-Oct-18 Leave Kasol 8 AM
13-Oct-18 Reach Pune 8 PM
Hello Mr. Agarwal, Thank you so much for your kind words.
Considering the places you have in your itinerary, Dalhousie and Dharamshala, and the timings of your trip, it would be better that you exclude Shimla and travel only from Manali. It would be easier that way.
Thanks for prompt response. I hope roads from Manali side will be OK and not too bad. FYI, we will be driving a Honda BRV with 6 people. Thanks,
Hello vargis,
I with my 3 friends are planning to visit kullu manali, Shimla, kaza, spiti valley and nearby places in 1st week of Feb. Will it be safe to travel spiti valley at that time? Also,is kinnaur open at that time? And we are planning to visit these places on bike, is that a good choice? Or car will be a safer option?
In Feb, roads will not be operational. Best month to visit is June to Dec.
Hi Vargis,
We’re going to Spiti in second week September. Wanted to specifically ask you about the road condition from Attargo Bridge to Mudh village. How does the road compare to, say, Kaza – Kunzumla road? Many thanks in advance.
Harsh
Hi Harsh – Attargo to Mudh is a complete dirt trail. For the first few kilometers there is tarr on the road but after that, it is broken all the way till Mudh. It is 35 kilometers and took me about an hour and a half to cover in a Mahindra Thar. And to answer you question, the road from Kaza to Kunzum Pass too is in terrible state this year, very bad. From Kaza, take the road towards Kibber, then go to Chicham and then drive down to Kiato just before Losar. This road is all fresh tarmac
Deat Vargis, Wanted to check how difficult is to to cross water crossing in Sep end. We are 4 bikers hence wanted to check with you so that we get prepared well
It won’t be too tough in September end. Water levels usually reduce a bit by that time.
Dear Vargis,
Travelling to Spiti next week. Doing complete circuit from Shimla to Kaza to Manali in a taxi. There was a news of road washed away due to cloudburst yesterday. Will it be a problem?
Please let me know. Thanks.
Datta
Hi Datta – Yes, the Manali – Kaza route is closed as of now, expected to open in a couple of days though.
Dear Vargis,
Understanding the road conditions of Spiti. Would you help me to know if the below plan is good to go, we are 4 bikers riding from Hyderabad and would be doing this circuit. We have good amount of riding experience however need your inputs.
Narkanda to Chitkul
Chitkul to Tabo
Tabo to Pin Valley
Pin Valley to Kaza
In and around Kaza
In and around Kaza
Kibber to Chandratal
Chandratal to Mandi
Mandi to Bir;Dharmashala
Dharmashala to Delhi
In this circuit we will be covering all the places like Dhankar, Demul, Komic, Gye, Langza. etc… focus is to spend more time in Spiti:in around Kaza rather than Sangla or Kalpa hence the above plan and we will start from Narkanda on 16th Sep
Thanks,
Basudev
Hi Basudev – Yes you plan is definitely doable and well laid out. No changed needed.
Thanks for your swift reply ! Appreciate it.
You are welcome !!!
We are planning to travel from Shimla to Spiti valley in the mid of August. What will be the conditional of road as we have 8 days in hand. Is this the right time to visit ?
Roads after Tabo till Manali are bad all the way and since it is monsoon, be prepared to handle rain, slush and nallahs on the way.
Hello Vargis, me and my friends are planning a trip from Manali to Kaza around 18th – 20th September. Can you advise us about the road condition and the permits required? We are planning to come back towards Manali too from Kaza and at the end of September. How many days are advisable to keep for travel?
Hi Roshan – Road conditions between Manali and Kaza are always in terrible condition so keep your expectations at lowest possible in this aspect. You only need to get Rohtang Pass permit to cross over from Manali side.
Thank you for your reply. May i know if the road from Manali and Kaza are open till Mid October too? and how many days should we keep for travel from Manali to Kaza?
Hard to predict but it usually remains open by Mid Oct. Depends entirely on how the weather turns. Manali to Spiti and back can be done in 4 to 5 days exploring most of the places.
Thank you for you swift response, really appreciate it. I will read your blog in more detail for pit stops. Do you live around Spiti? You have detailed information about Sppiti and Ladakh for every month of the year, really helpful for everyone 🙂
Thanks Roshan. I actually live in Delhi but travel to these places often so that’s why the knowledge of the area 🙂
Thanks Vargis for such a informative post.
Can you advise how will be August 1st week for a bike trip in Spiti. Google has mixed reviews about rain. Many says it seldom rains in valley. But forecast show rain all over August.
Hi Vikas – It will not rain in Spiti only but will definitely be raining all along the route, Shimla, Kinnaur, Manali etc. so be prepared for that.
Hi Guys we (2 bikers) are scheduled to start our bike trip as per below schedule to Spiti and sach pass.
But looks there are broken roads near Chhatru , please can advise on road conditions
Day 0 21-Jul-2018 Chandigarh Shimla
Day 1 22-Jul-2018 Shimla Kasol
Day 2 23-Jul-2018 Kasol Chitkul
Day 3 24-Jul-2018 Chitkul Nako
Day 4 25-Jul-2018 Nako Kaza
Day 5 26-Jul-2018 Kaza Kaza
Day 6 27-Jul-2018 Kaza Chandratal
Day 7 28-Jul-2018 Chandratal Keylong
Day 8 29-Jul-2018 Keylong Killar
Day 9 30-Jul-2018 Killar Bairagarh
Day 10 31-Jul-2018 Bairagarh Dalhousie
Day 11 1-Aug-2018 Dalhousie Dharamshala
Day 12 2-Aug-2018 Dharamshala Mandi
Day 13 3-Aug-2018 Mandi Chandigarh
Day 14 4-Aug-2018 Chandigarh Chandigarh
Yes, road near Chhatru and everywhere between Manali to Kaza are broken. Rest of the road condition are as I mentioned in the post above.
Planning for visit to shimla peo Tabo kaza and back from same route, in next week 20 june to 29 जून. I will be traveling solo. So is it safe to visit in this time? Is it good if I prefer to travel by public transport? And one more thing, if I would like to hire a bike from kaza for kibber/komic/tashigang, will it be safe and possible to complete in 1day ?? Please share your suggestions.
Yes to all your questions. Time is good, Ok to travel by public transport and yes, you can rent a bike as well and cover those places in a one day easily.
Can you please suggest me the hotel for stay, with their contact no at Rampur bushhar-reckong peo-and at Kaza, today itself?
I don’t have any recommended hotels at Rampur or Peo but at Kaza, you can stay at Hotel Spiti Valley. It is located right opposite Kaza Monastery. Contact person is Tanzin and his number is 9418927312.
Thank you very much.
You are welcome. Do not stay at Reckonng Peo. Go straight to Kalpa and continue driving up close to HPTDC Hotel Kinner Kailash. There are a lot of hotels in that area and on that road. Ask around for a Hotel Parvati. If that doesn’t work, then you will find plenty of others to chose from.
Is riding from Manali to Kaza a tough plan?
Not tough as long as you have some decent enough riding experience.
Any water crossing in manali to Kaza road
Lots of them
We traveled on this road by car on 6 June 18. It was a nightmare. It is mostly rocky and with lots of waterfalls to cross (“nala”, as they are commonly called). This despite the fact that we have plenty oh experience of hill drkving, including srinagar-kargill-drass-leh-manali circuit. Anyway, better to cross rohtang and stay at Koksar/gramphoo. Start from there to Koksar the early morning next day. It’s a long drive sure to road condition. And yes, mobiles don’t work.
Thank you for adding the information Shilpi
how are road condition from manali to kaza and can we go through swift .Will it be ok to go or do we require any permit for going to kaza from rohtang ,If yes can we get online?
1. Road condition – Bad
2. Doable in Swift – Yes
3. Permit – Rohtang Pass. See article below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/rohtang-pass-permits-details-charges-apply/
Hey vargis,
Is road to chandratal open this weekend?
Hi Mohak – Yes it is
Is Kaza to chandertaal to Manali open on June 14 ??
Yes it is
Vargis bhai, maine sunna hua ha ki manali to rohtang pass tak traffic jam he rahta ha tph hum 3 June ko manali to batal kaise he jaa payenge? hamara booked ha moon lake ki , manali se subah taxi pr he jaa sakte and roz subah jate ha? shared Taxi lene ke liye booked b karna hota kia ?
Gaurav Bhai traffic jam hota hai par itna zyada nahi ke aap Manali se Chandratal ek din mein na pahhunch sakko
Hi Vargis.. me and my husband planning for a 10day tour to Spiti in our automatic Baleno from 9june to 19june..
Please suggest if our car would be good for the tour or not.?
Yess…..gud for the tour
Hi Purvi – Someone just returned from the trip in their Toyota Etios so yes, you can complete the circuit but will have to be extremely careful and good at wheel. The entire stretch between Manali to Kaza is a nightmare for Sedan or hatchback.
Vargis Bhai, I am planning to take some elderly travellers on a road trip to Kinnaur and Spiti on 12 – 14 days trip. We dont plan to drive for more than 3-4 hours a day. Our date 24 Sep – 4 Oct
day 1- reach Shimla and stay at Narkanda
day 2 – drive to Sarahan. Stay there
day 3 – drive to Sangla – stay
day 4 – visit Chitkul and then drive to Sangla and stay there
day 5 – drive to Nako and stay there
day 6 – drive to Tabo and Gui village and then to Kaza. stay at kaza.
day 7 – visit Ki, Kibber, Komik and Hikim. . stay at kaza.
day 8 – drive to Chandrtaal. Visit Lake. Stay at Tent
day 9 – drive to Manali. Stay at Manali
day 10 – return flight from Kullu
Is it doable or too hectic for 50 – 70 years age, who are otherwise healthy with no severe Asthma/BP kind af age related problems. Any precaution is required ?
Will Chandrataal be too cold for night stay in early October ?
Will Kaza – Chandrataal – Manali road be open till 1st week of October ?
Vaibhav Bhai Itinerary is good and yes, doable for elders as well. It is not very hectic. Chandratal and Manaili Kaza route will be open in early October and yes, it will definitely be cold at Chandratral so please pack clothes accordingly.
Thank you Vargis Bhai
You are welcome Bhai !!!
Hi vargis,
We are travelling to kaza from manali on 1st june. I want to know how are the road conditions and how much time it will take to reach kaza from manali.
what is the idle time to leave for kaza?… we are thinking to leave at 9am.
Also is it safe to travel to chandratal as you said that it is 3kms away from car parking area? We are only two people.
Hi Rohan – Sorry for late reply. You must already be on your way by now I guess
Hi Vargis,
Just a little doubt. Keylong to Leh is open as per your Spiti Road Status Blog while it is showing up as Closed as per your Leh Road Status Blog.
Hi Piyush – It is updated now there as well. Route is all open. Thank you for pointing this out brother !!!
Vargis Bhai,.M spiti m 2 din rahugna, pls suggest me, kaha kaha ghumna chahiye?
Bhai Kibber, Komik ki taraf ja sakte ho, Pin Valley ki taraf ja sakte ho. Ye neeche wala article dekh lo.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/kaza-sightseeing-accommodation/
vargis Bhai- Like you said still there is no based camping at chandratal so can we visit over there not for staying just for photography.
Suraj Bhai it should be available in next week or so at max. And yes, you can visit here by making it a day trip.
Thank you So much- Vargis Bhai
Vergis Bro – How are the roads from manali to keylong? I am planning to leave in next 2 days with my wife. Please suggest what precautions to take
Harpreet Bhai the road right now is a mix of bad and average. There is snow near Rohtang top so please be careful around that section. Start a bit late in the day to ensure there is no risk of frost or black ice anywhere.
Thanks Bro
You are welcome Bhai !!!
Is Kumzum pass and chandratal lake road open yet?
Road is open but no camp at Chandratal available yet.
Thanks a lot vargis bhai..
You are welcome Bhai
Vergis Bhai- Abhi or kitna time lgega…Manali to kaza ka route open hone m..
Khul gaya Suraj Bhai
Vargis Bhai- can you please tell me about the route of Manali to kaza, Ek banda mujhe bta raha hai is time jane me bhot risk hai..Road bhot kharab hai. Pls suggest me…Now shoould we go there or wait for it.
Aap kab ja rahe ho Suraj Bhai? Road toh Spiti ke kharab hi rehte hain, kabhi bhi jao. Is waqt jaane mein at least ye fayda hai ke snow melt nahi hua hai, ek baar vo ho gaya toh slush aur water streams aur ban jaayenge.
28 may, from manali, Suggest me if i go 5 o clock in early morning so when will reach to kaza atleast.?
If you started by 5 in the morning then you will easily make it to Kaza by 2-3 PM.
Hello Vargis Bhai,
Is it advisable to use Srinagar route to reach or come back from Leh? Recent valley news suggests otherwise. Last year, Srinagar was the only sore part of my leh journey.
Hello Gaurav Bhai,
Sore part how? I will recommend that you take the Srinagar route to reach leh.
Last time was stopped at multiple points because of Stone Pelting incidents before reaching Srinagar. Curfew was imposed in that region so had to cross Srinagar @1 in night to be safe. No place to stay or halt.
And now the conditions have worsened due to recent Chennai Tourist Death event and others as I have heard in the news. So was wondering if it was advisable to travel through that route?
Bhai From what I heard from the locals there, that death was a very unfortunate incident. Stone pelting was going on and the area was not safe to travel through. Tourists were advised to not go but that certain group still insisted to pass through; because half of their group had already crossed. The driver too was dumb enough to agree and the result was unfortunate. One tourist was hit on the head and succumbed to his injuries. They were not targeting that person. They just tried to squeeze their car through with both civilians and armed forces throwing stones at each other. The deceased got hit by a stone that was not intended for him.
I am not saying that Kashmir is completely safe and there is nothing to worry about. but the golden rule while you travel through Kashmir is that if there is any word of unrest, head back to your hotel and rest there until everything is clear and you will be OK. Do not wander to areas you were not supposed to, do not take chances; avoid any place where a protest is going on and you are free to go.
Hi Vargis,
Kudos for maintaining a really informative and updated blog!
I am planning for a 8-10 days trip to cover the Spiti valley loop (Delhi-Shimla-Kaza-Manali-Delhi) in the last week of June. I will be travelling with my family (Spouse, parents and 2 daughters). Eldest being 64 and youngest being 4 years old. My queries are:
1. Is it advisable to travel with parents and kids? Is there any health issue with old and young age at high altitudes like AMS?
2. Can I do it in Swift petrol? I know it’s not recommended but I don’t have any other option. How likely will I make it through?
3. Can I take my car to Chandrataal? Can I get tents there on the spot or I have to book in advance?
4. How much walking/tracking we have to do see places around? Can we get pony services there?
I have some driving experience in mountains. Last June, I did a 10 days trip to Kedarnath, Tungnath and Badrinath with my family. Roads are excellent on that route except small stretches near Badrinath. There were no major health concerns to anyone except my elder daughter complained pain in her ears due to high altitude and low temperatures.
Mahesh
Hi Mahesh,
1. Yes you can bring your parents and daughters to Spiti. Just make sure that you start from Shimla and take at least 3 days before finally making it to Kaza.
2. Low ground clearance will be a big problem and with 6 people in it, be mentally prepared that your car is bound to hit the ground underneath at several places. There will also be lose stones jumping and hitting the belly of the car. Last weeek of June means melting snow, slush and water crossings as well. If you asked me, I would not bring a Swift to Spiti with 6 people and all the luggage in it.
3. Yes you can but challenges will be same as above
4. No pony services at Chandratral. Lake is about 3 kilometers after the motorable road ends.
Thank you Vargis for your reply and advise. Few more queries:
1. Can I do Delhi-Shimla-Kaza-Shimla-Delhi in my Swift in 8 days from Delhi?
2. Can you suggest any other destination for summer vacations which is less crowded and can be covered in 8 days by self drive from Delhi?
Mahesh
Hi Mahesh,
1. Yes you can do it in 8 days.
2. You can try not going all the way till Spiti. Just cover Kinnaur valley, Narkanda, Sarahan, Kalpa and Chitkul. Not at all crowded and very scenic. Spend a couple of days in Chitkul doing nothing but enjoying the nature around you. You will love the place.
Hi Vargis Bhai,
Thanks for being informative, Can u tell me what are the chances about opening the route between kaza to keylong, as I m planning my trip around 1st of june from Delhi.
Hi Manish Bhai – Chances are that it will be all open by then. I am myself traveling back from Kaza to Manali on 2nd.
Okay so , i am going on the circuit on 1st june… Will return via manali route till 6-7th jume, would that route be opened during this date, i mean kunzum pass , rohtang and all? During 6-7-8th jume when i will be returning via that route, if mot i would hv to keep extra days to return via the same Shimla route
It will open in next 2-3 days. Local have already started traveling.
Hi Vargis Bhai,
Any word on Kaza to Manali route? Will it be open by 24th May so that we can visit Chandratal on way back.
On bcmtouring discussion thread I can see that Manali Kaza route status is as Open.
Please confirm.
Saket Bhai – Friend of mine is traveling from Manali to Kaza tomorrow. He is a local. I will confirm after I hear back from him tomorrow.
Thank you very much Vargis Bhai,
Pleae keep me posted,
You are welcome Saket Bhai !!!
Report kia hua ha your friend ka?
Local are allowed. He reached Kaza today. Both Rohtang Pass and Manali – Kaza route should be declared open for tourists in next 2-3 days.
So does this mean that if we travel from Kaza to Manali it is allowed??
I will be travelling back on 24th May. I hope I can travel to Manali from Kaza and enroute visit Chandratal??
Right now they are not letting tourists travel, only local vehicles are allowed but in next 2-3 days, Tourists will be allowed as well. I just posted some pics of the road clicked yesterday.
Hi vargis Bhai
Thanks for guidance, can u tell me about road conditions from narkanda to kalpa, kalpa to kaza & kaza to keylong. As u told me earlier that from narkanda to kaza it will take 18 to 20 hrs, I checked on google map as well it shows 9 to 10 hrs how is it possible & ur page is showing that kaza to keylong roads are still close…..please help me out.
Manish Bhai,
Narkanda to Kalpa – OK
Kalpa to Kaza – Mix of Bad and average
Kaza to Keylong – Mix of Bad and Worse
Google will not consider the road condition that is why it is showing half of the actual time. And yes, Kaza to Keylong as of now is closed still.
Thank u very much vargis bhai…
You are welcome Bhai
Kia aap btta sakte ha ki manali to Batal kon si car par jate ha I mean shared Taxi and manali to batal sidhe direct jati ha non stop ya phir rukta b ha? Like Dhaba
Zyadatar Sumo ya Bolero hi hoti hain and beech mein ek do jagah par ruk kar jaati hain
Vargis Bhai can we do narkanda to kaza circuit in one day & what are road status between kaza to keylong as of now..
Manish Bhai Kaza to Keylong is open but there is no way you can do Narkanda to Kaza in a day. At least 18-20 hours of non-stop driving.
Hi vargis Bhai,
We are 4 people going to leh via spiti valley(Shimla, kaza)route on 1st of June. What are the itinerary for us or what route we can take. We have 12 days to do entire circuit. Please Send reply asap.
Thanks Bhai…..
Manish Bhai how are you traveling and from where?
Thanks vargis Bhai for response immediately Bhai we are traveling from Delhi in car(Scorpio).
For 12 days it will be a bit of a rushed trip but you can travel like this.
1. Delhi to Narkanda
2. Narkanda to Kalpa
3. Kalpa to Kaza (Long drive)
4. Kalpa to Keylong
5. Keylong to Leh
6. Leh (Arrange Permits)
7. Leh to Diskit to Leh
8. Diskit to Pangong to Leh
9. Leh to Kargil
10. Kargil to Srinagar
11. Srinagar to Jammu
12. Jammu to Delhi
Hey Vargis! I wanted to know if I could travel to Kaza (and Chandertal) by bus from the Manali route. I am planning to trip there in the 1st or 2nd week of June.
Hi Aakarsh – Yes there is a daily bus from Manali to Kaza that you can board. Using the same bus, you can get down at Kunzum Pass near Chandratal diversion and hitch hike the last 14 kilometers to the lake; or walk if you are not able to find a ride.
Hi Vargis, Planning a trip to spiti circuit from 9th June(entering from Shimla side) to 17 June. Will chandratal be open by 16th june? Also, Kaza to Manali will be open by then, surely?
Hi Vasu, yes to both. Kaza to Manali route and Chandratal both will be open by June 16th.
Thanks a lot. Can’t wait to visit there
You are welcome !! Have a safe trip
Vasu,
Our group also doing the circuit for the same dates! ( June 9-16)
You can join our schedule if you wish!
June 9 Delhi – Rampur
June 10 Rampur – Chitkul – Sangla
June 11 Sangla Tabo
June 12 Tabo Dhankar Kaza
June 13 Kaza Villages
June 14 Kaza Chandrataal
June 15 Chandrataal Manali Bilaspur
June 16 BIlaspur Delhi
By the I am from Chennai, you can email me at [email protected] if you wish to join!
Now Can We go Kaza & Chandratal via manali…?
Not yet. Tourists are still not allowed.
Ok! but how much time will more take to allowed for tourist.
No idea right now
Kia musibat kar dia mausam ne har jagah Snowfall he snowfall ,
ab hum 3 June ko manali to moon lake kaise jayenge? Humne advamce payment dia hua ha jamiaca’s camp ko 3 June n 4 June night
I agree Gaurav Bhai. Aaj Rohtang dobara khol diya hai locals ke liye. Dekhiye kaisa rehta hain ab, next 3-4 din mein pata chal jaayega. Jamaica agar camp nahi laga paaya toh paisa toh refund ho jaayega uski tension nahi hai
Nahi paise refund ni kar sakte kia date change ho sakte?
Jamaica se baat kar lo aap .. Ho jaayega change I am sure
Kia musibat kr dia mausam ne . Ab toh hamara plan 3 June ki subah Manali to Chandrataal lake Jane ka plan ha we already gave Rs 3000 advance payment to jamaica’s camps, how can we go? Weather always change day by day
I agree Gaurav Bhai. Aaj Rohtang dobara khol diya hai locals ke liye. Dekhiye kaisa rehta hain ab, next 3-4 din mein pata chal jaayega. Jamaica agar camp nahi laga paaya toh paisa toh refund ho jaayega uski tension nahi hai
Vargis Bhai.. Now can we go kaza via manali… actually we have planed to go kaza by rental bike from manali… is it possible to go kaza. right now through rental bike…one more suggestion can you suggest me
from where should i get the bike for manali in affordable price///
Suraj Bhai right now both Rohtang and Kunzum Passes are closed. It wont probably open by late May. For renting bike in Manali, contact Parvez at 9318646559. Give my reference and you will get a good enough motorcycle.
Thanks Bhai ji.
You are welcome Bhai !!!
Vargis,
A quick question, which one would you recommend
Hyundai Creta or Scorpio for 5 members for spiti valley trip!
Definitely a Scorpio Bala Bhai
Hello Sir,
Me and some of my biker buddies are going for Spiti-leh from 26th May to 9th June. We are planning to start from delhi-shimla-spiti circuit-keylong-leh-pangong-leh-kargil-srinagar-delhi in 15 days. Can you guide us if all the routes will be open and motorable during this time (spiti and keylong-leh route)?? Your valuable feedback will be very helpful.
Also your posts were a great help for my solo leh trip last year, thanks a lot and keep up the great work.
Hi Gaurav, Yes the roads will be open by that time so you can travel. And thank you for your kind words, I am glad that the information was of help.
Hello Vargis bhai,
A guy named Sanjeev is saying from Jamaica is saying that Manali kaza route has opened from today
Bikash Bhai it opened only for locals, not for tourists yet.
Hello Vargi, when will kunzum pass open for vehicle?
It will open in next couple of weeks Saurav
Hi, Vargis. Is Altitude Sickness is a matter of concern or can be problem for Manali to kaza road trip?
Hi Aseem – AMS can be a problem for a few people if you go to Kaza from Manali but not at the extreme level. You may feel the symptoms which will be the same like as if you were running a light fever but it will subside in a day.
Hi Vargis, Is Altitude Sickness is a matter of concern or can be a problem for Manali to Kaza road trip OR ITS NOT THAT BIG ISSUE?
Hi Aseem – AMS can be a problem for a few people if you go to Kaza from Manali but not at the extreme level. You may feel the symptoms which will be the same like as if you were running a light fever but it will subside in a day.
How Much time will more take to open Manali kaza way?
Hard to say. It has been snowing at Rohtang and Kunzum both this week as well.
can we go by 25th of May for Kaza via manali…?
Chances as of now are that yes it will be open.
Hi there,
I’m hoping to travel to Spiti valley in the first two weeks of June, but I do not have a car or bike, so I was hoping to use buses.
I saw that you said that the Manali-Kaza route will not open for buses until late June, is there another way for me to do Manali-Kaza if not by my own vehicle or bus. Are there shared-jeeps?
Is it correct that the Shimla-Kaza bus will be running in early June.
Thank you very much!
Hi Alex, It all depends on the weather and the way it is snowing at Rohtang right now, bus service will probably not be available until late Mid to late June. Shared cabs however will be available from Manali so you can definitely use that.
Hi Vargis!
Thanks for this information, very helpful! Do you have some advice on how to get a shared cab, as a solo westerners I don’t want to get ripped off!
Secondly, I’m not expecting 3G but do you know which Indian mobile network is best for the Spiti valley (if any at all)? I’m hoping to pick up a SIM card in Dharmashala
Cheers,
Alex
Hi Alex – Shared cabs are available from the bus stand itself. Just keep an eye out for how much other passengers are paying to ensure that you are not paying too much. Shared cabs may charge a bit extra but will not really try to rip you off to be honest.
Only BSNL works in Spiti valley. Take a look at the post below please.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/mobile-network-in-spiti-valley-coverage-data-connectivity/
Great thanks!
Sorry I found that post just after I asked the question. I’ll try and get a BSNL SIM!
Alex
You are welcome !!!
Hello Sir.. I am plannig to visit kaza on 25th 26th May and on 27th May to Manali .. I want to go Kaza – Chandratal – Manali on one day – is that possible ?
I hope the Kaza – Manali road will be open by that time ..
Hello Abir, Yes the Manali Kaza route will be open by May end and yes, you can travel on it in one day.
Good evening Vargis bhai
Is it true that we should increase our tyre pressure beyond the recommended limits to avoid punctures on stonny roads like you get in going towards chandrataal .I will be moving towards chandrataal lake from kaza on 31st morning .I hope the passes are clear by that time as i have to go to kullu the next day.
Hello Bikash Bhai – Not true. Just keep the normal tyre pressure and you will be OK. And yes, the road will probably be open by then
Hi Vargis,
It is very nice initiative by you to provide current status of Spiti Valley roads and it is great help for people like us to plan the trip accordingly.
Currently I am planning to have Spiti valley trip from Manali on 20th May 2018. We are in touch with one of the local tour operator Spiti Holiday Adventure. As per this tour operator guy Manali Kaza will be open by end of 2nd week of May and we can plan Spiti valley including Chandratal in week of 21st May.
However just wanted to check with you is it possible scenario? I mean will the Manali Kaza route will be open for light vehicles like Inova before 20th May?
Thanks in advance.
Hello Prem,
The status right now is changing per the weather. Initially they were certain that the route will open by April end and Chandratal will open by May 10th but the recent spells of snow have changed everything. Rohtang still remains closed and it is still snowing there so best wait until May 10th before you finalize anything.
Hello sir I just want to know is there any roadside assistance helpline in spity kaza…..??
Hi Navi, no there is not.
Vargis bhai ,
Do i need to put anti freeze in thar crde , duster, BRV all three will be goind to kaza and chandrataal inthe last week of may.
Bikash Bhai, No need. Antifreeze is only needed in peak winter, Jan or Feb. You are OK if traveling in May.
Dear Mr. Vargis,
From past few days i am trying to understand how to travel Spiti. Reading your blog is extremely interesting and you have beautifully covered the entire aspect of travelling to Spiti. I am thankful and really appreciated the efforts, time & energy you put in this. It is helping thousands of people like me.
I have few questions, if you could kindly spare some time for same
1. I want to do the entire Spiti Valley Circuit Starting Delhi-Shimla-Spiti-Manali-Delhi. Would it be possible to do this year in may end ? would the kunzum pass open ? any other things to be kept in mind in terms of taking permission and road closure & opening issues?
2. We are just two of us, me & my wife, would it be safe travelling in a couple? Planning to take a bullet 500.
3. Also i used to ride bike like 100-150 kms few years back, not driving bike now, would it be real hard? Although i feel confident i could do it. Need your advice on things to keep in mind ?
I read you detailed spiti itinerary & excited to do it same way. Thank a Ton
Much regards
Siddharth
Hello Mr. Lunkad,
Thank you for your kind words.
1. Chances are that Manali Kaza route will be open by May end so yes, you should be able to complete the circuit.
2. Yes it is absolutely safe as long as you are confident with your own riding skills.
3. I would recommend that you ride it around for a bit before taking your bike to Spiti. Maybe make a short weekend trip and ride up to the hilly region as well. Would be good to get a little practice before riding to to Spiti valley.
Thank You so Much
You are welcome !!!
Hi Vargis,
i am little confused now. In your own words, you say Kaza Manali road is opening in 2nd week of May, here you are saying end of May, in another reply you were saying April end or May first week. I understand you are estimating based on weather condition and snow clearance but as Rohtang pass has officially opened on 9th April, also i was asking Jamaica ( chandratal tent guy) and he was like saying April end kaza Manali route will open for small cars.
so can we zero down on at least week when it will open.
Regards
Ashish Bhai the weather is playing havoc at Rohtang. It did not snow the entire winter and it is snowing now at Rohtang, Kunzum and Baralacha Top. BRO opened Rohtang earlier this month but then had to shut it down after it started to snow again. There had been snowfall even earlier this week. There is really no telling as of now by when the weather would settle. I spoke to my contact in BRO and even they are not sure.
Hi we have decided to do the spiti trip starting from shimla on 22nd may and ending at manali on 30th may.. Is it recommended to pre-book our cab and stay? Or we could easily manage to do it there itself during that period of time? Will we get heavy rush at that period? Also will chandrataal be open by around 29th may this year? Please assist.
1. Shall you book the cab? – YES
2. Heavy Rush – NO
3. Chandratal Open – YES
Thanks for the quick response Vargis bhai. One more thing ..can we get accomodations at reasonable price on spot booking or should we pre book our stay as well?
Rishabh Bhai if you book in advance then you will end up paying more. Just reach your destinateion, find a hotel per your liking and negotiate an on the spot deal. You will easily find several hotels.
Vargis bhai,
Good morning. I am your old shagird.I had travelled to srinagar leh manali last year.This time I have planned to spiti from 28th of may and will be in chandrataal lake on 31st evening.Will there be enough options for rented tent house as we will be needing at least 3 tent houses as we are total of 6 adults and 6 children.Can we book tent houses before ,if so please give the contact no and details of booking the tent on that date.I have heard about jamaica’s from you .Please help.
Hello Bikash Bhai,
Yes there will be plenty of tents available for large groups as well. And you are right, I will recommend staying with Jamaica. Please let him know of you arrival and the dates and he will keep the tents ready. His number is 9418 200183
When will open the Manali Kaza highway?
Mid May is the estimate as of now
Is there permit required for crossing rohtang pass, if we go via manali to Kaza
1) Can we apply online for permit
No there is no permit for going to kaza via manali
Thanks Bhai
Thanks Bro. But i need to ask what is rohtang pass permit? We will go the same way for kaza so why is not required for the same way
Yes there is a permit needed for crossing Rohtang Pass and yes, you can apply for it online as well. Please see the link below for complete details.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/rohtang-pass-permits-details-charges-apply/
Actually i Have decided to go with Rented bike which will hire from manali so the thing is should i required permit for this?
Yes you will need permit for rented motorcycles too. You can talk to the rental agency if they can arrange the permit as well.
Wow! Are you sure? Because its is unbeleivably early for Manali-Kaza route? So is it safe to go to Kaza via bus in May end?
Thank you
Bhai the route may be open for private vehicles but bus service will surely not start until at least after 15th June
Hi Vargis,
We are planning a 9 day trip on 28th April, 2018 onwards from Delhi-Shimla-Kalpa- Kaza- Chandrataal-Manali- Delhi. Will the road after Kaza be open at that time? If yes, how will be the road condition. Also, do we require any permits to travel on this route?
Hi Neha, Shimla to Kaza road will definitely be open and chances of Manali road being open are quite high as well. I cannot guarantee it though, check back on this page around April 20th and I will know for sure by then.
Namaste vargis Bhai,
Thanks for ur useful posts.
Need information about below 2 points-
1) NHPC/NTPC guest houses in kinnaur and lahaul spiti region?
2) ITBP officer’s mess/ guest houses in this region?
Pls name of places about above.
Namaste Amit Bhai – I am sorry but I really do not have information in this aspect.
Hi Vargis,
Is there any BRO team working on Manali to Kaza from both side ( like Rohtang pass). How confident you are on your prediction on Manali Kaza road opening by 15th April’18? will road be ok for car by then?
Thanks
Hello Ashish – I think they should be able to clear the road by the way BRO is confident about it. Rest it all depends on how soon they are able to clear the pass.
Hello Vargis Khan
Boss you are too good with your blogs, thanks for sharing valuable information about the remote areas.
Well i want to know if whether the local buses are plying to Kaza from Shimla/ Reckong Peo.
Last time i went to Spiti in September, I’m planning it for the upcoming week. Can you please let us know if Himachal Roadways are running or not.
And also this time I’m planning to take my wife along with me, so is it safe to travel in buses.
From my perspective i found the people of that area very generous and lovely, there were no problems.
Thanks in advance.
Hello Neeraj,
Thank you for your kind words. Yes, the HRTC buses are operational right now and you will be able to board a Kaza bound bus from Shimla and Peo both.
Thanks a lot Vargis, for these valuable and neutral and unbiased viewpoints and information. Awesome Awesome job…
As Shimla to Kaza road is open now. i have 3 questions
1) Looking at weather condition, forecast and BRO road opening work, do you expect Kaza to Manali road to be open by 30th April?
2) Is Visit to chandratal by car possible now?
3) places like Hatu peak, Kalpa, Sangla, Tabo, Pin Valley are open by car
Vargis bhai, do you live in L & S region, can we catch up while i am visiting this region 🙂
Regards
Thanks a lot for your kind words Ashish Bhai.
1. No. I am assuming that they will still push it until May.
2. No it is not.
2. Yes, Hatu peak, Kalpa, Sangla, Tabo, Pin Valley are all open right now for a visit by car.
Ashish Bhai I live in Delhi 🙂 I just travel around a lot and hence the knowledge of these areas.
Thanks for reply vargis bhai.
Is there any update on road opening further to kaza towards Manali?
will 7th May’18 be safe to plan a trip to kaza from Manali?
Ashish Bhai Rohtang Pass is expected to open by April 15 and Manali Kaza route sometime around May 15th. I would suggest that you delay your plan by a couple of weeks to be on a safer side.
Dear Vargis,
FOA well done for your great job…it’s really helps a lot for many travelers, Actually we are planning for spiti vally in mid of april and i want to go via manali instead of shimla ,because of we want to experience as full of white snow..can you suggest me. which one is better for me for snow riding.
Dear Suraj,
Thank you for your kind words. You cannot go via Manali in April because the roads will remain closed. You will have to plan via Shimla only.
Thanks for reply. Got it!.. But my concern, can we get find snow in april at lahual spiti.
It will be tough to find any snow this year in April.
Can you suggest me the place where i get fine the snow in april, & tell me the road condition from shimla to spiti valley.
Road condition will be a mix of average and bad. You may find some snow towards Kunzum top.
Helo bro..!!
I want to plan a road trip in end of may from my hometown to shimla- kaza-leh-kargil- srinagar and back to hometown. How many days it will be take. And hundai creta or suzuki s-cross will be fine for traveling?
Hi Abhishek – From Shimla to Srinagar via Kaza and Leh will be a minimum of 2 weeks at the last. And yes, both Creta and S-Cross will be fine for the trip.
Hi Vargis, We Are planning a trip to Spiti track from June 2-12.. So going by the itenerary we are expected to reach Chandratal by June 10 or 11.. Will the campsites be open at that time? If not, what are the alternatives we can have about staying there.
Hi Vasu – Yes the camp sites will definitely be available around June 10-11
Thanks Vargis, What about May last week? Will it be accessible that time?
Cannot confirm that right now Vasu. Will depend on how the snow clearing work progresses in April and May.
Cool.. Will keep a look out here, Thanks.
Thanks brother
Hello Vargis,
Thank you for providing updates and helping everyone out here.
I am planning from Shimla to Manali via Rampur,Nako and Kaza in second week of March. Is it possible to complete this stretch? Is the road accessible from Kaza to Manali?
Appreciate your response.
Hello Geetesh – You cannot do Kaza to Manali in March. That road will not open until late May.
Hello Sir,
First of all thank you for the updates and the beautiful pictures.
Secondly I need some guidance regarding my spiti adventure which I’m planning from 18th march to 28th march 2018.Why march? Because this is the only alternative I have as of now because I’m totally occupied by my CA FINAL classes and won’t be able to make it in the later part of the year.
Would it be worth it to visit this part of India at this time via public transport? If yes, can you please guide me with eternity for the month of March as I won’t be able to cover the entire leg I.e chandratal lake and other passes due to road blockage.
Additional information – I’m a 20 year old Delhi based student and would be having a budget around 11k.
Thankyou.
itinerary *
Hello Chirag Bhai – If you are traveling by Public transport than please take a look at the post below. It should be able to answer most of your queries but let me know if you have any further questions.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/travel-spiti-valley-by-bus-taxi-services/
Hi Mr. Vargis
2 of us r planning to go to kaza via shimla kalpa, is it advisable to take automatic honda city will it reach till kaza cos my innova is nt in a gd shape
Hello Mr. Singh – Due to its low GC, I will not recommend driving to Spiti in a City. If you do then you will run a risk of the underbelly of your car hitting the ground at several places; or the lose stones hitting it. Worse part will be negotiating the water crossings.
I Vergis,
I have completed manali spiti shimla circuit this year in September though it was a reverse root bt honestly speaking i enjoyed a lot driving in that terrain nd I did it only in 4 days from delhi. Now I am again planning to visit spiti on 1st March from shimla, I just want to confirm if I there any possibility of snow in that region since one of my friend is very eager to see snow.
Thanks
Aamir
Hi Aamir – You may find some snow in Kaza if you are lucky. If not then take a drive towards Kunzum Pass via Losar and go as far as you can. You will definitely find some snow in that direction. Overall, snowfall this year had been very less and Spiti is mostly dry.
Can you please update the current weather, road and snow status of spiti.
It is dry once again. Weather is cold still but no more snowfalls after the last one. Whatever little snow is available are the leftovers from last week.
Hi we plan to do chandigarh shimla kaza manali chandigarh circuit by june 13 – 18
5 nights 6 days does the roads will be open?
and is it okay to go with tempo traveller or a sef drive scorpio?
Yes the roads will be open by then. If you have some decent enough experience at driving and know how to handle tough mountain roads then opt for a self drive scorpio. If you do not have an experienced driver in the group, then hire a tempo traveler.
Thanks for the update
we have extended our plan to 8 days to explore the complete places
from June 8 to June 16
I am planning to hire a 4wd scorpio from myles
and i do have enough experience to handle terrain since i have been to all terrain and some bad roads in south india and i am from chennai!
I do know it will be very toughest but I want to experience the drive rather than sitting back 😉
Scorpio will be good for the trip. It can definitely take the beating. Real challenging part will be between Kaza and Manali; the notorious Batal-Gramphoo stretch. Start from Shimla though and return via Manali so you do not have to go through the hassle of obtaining Rohtang Permits.
Thanks for your lightning reply
ofcourse as suggested by all
we plan to take shimla – sangla – nako – kaza – chandratal – rohtang – manali
shall we prebook the hotels or else we can find the cheaper accommodation than pre book?
since I am the only one who can drive, that wouldn’t be any problem right,? Since i have been to several places (say 6 days 1700kms ) with only myself in driver place!
No need to prebook, you will just end up paying more. Just reach your destination, find a hotel per your liking and negotiate an on the spot deal. You have 8 days from Shimla to Manali, correct?
7 days from shimla to manali
7th day we have to be in sundernagar or mandi
so that 8th day we will catch flight in chandigarh!
and kudos to your blog much more informative than anyone!
Travel in the following manner then.
1. Shimla to Chitkul (start early, bit of a long drive)
2. Chitkul to Kalpa ( 5-6 hours)
3. Kalpa to Nako (7-8 hours)
4. Nako to Kaza (5-6 hours)
5. Kaza to Kibber / Komik / Langa / Hikkim to Kaza (Day long drive to the areas near Kaza)
6. Kaza to Chandratal ( 5-6 hours)
7. Chandratal to Sundernagar (8-9 hours)
Do not stay at Mandi, go straight to Sundernagar. Go all the way towards the end and there is a hotel called Comfort Inn near the bus stand. Stay there. There is a 2 adjoining rooms option they have that you can get for Rs. 1500. I know this hotel because I just stayed there last night while returning from a trip.
And thank you for your kind words. I am glad that the information posted was of help.
At Chandratal, look for a site called “Jamaica’s camps” and stay there. Give my reference and he will take good care of you at a discounted price. I know the guy, very good host. You will have a great time at his camp site.
Thanks for the detailed itenary
Since the flights cost is way too much we plan to catch bus in chandigarh by 16th night to delhi and fly to chennai does it sounds good?
I have already booked in jamaica camp will tell him about your reference too!
I have been searching for the duration of the travel between these places but you gave me what i want exactly! thanks for your information!
You are welcome and yes, catching a bus is fine.
Hi Vargis…we are planning a trip to Spiti from 19 Feb for 6 days. Is it completely safe on the road or there is a risk on roads of skiding cars? Would snow chains prevent skiding of cars? Please reply soon
It all depends on how good the person driving the car is. Most of the snow is around Nako and Kaza though, rest of the route is clear. Snow chains can be helpful to prevent the car from skidding.
Will khunjum pass be open in late Oct?
Depends on the weather. If it start to snow late than it may remain open. Otherwise it usually closes by early October
Hi Vargis,
We are planning a lahaul spiti trip in 2nd week of May’18. The plan is to do Delhi-Simla-Sangla-Chitkul-Kaza and back via Simla to Delhi. I believe Simla Kaza route will be accessible during that time.
We’d love to return via Manali though I am not sure by when the Kaza-Manali route will be open. Do you have any thoughts? We can push the travel to May 3rd week if need be to do the Simla-Kaza-Manali circuit.
In case Manali cannot be done, do you think we will be able to see good amount of snow near Kunzum pass?
Thanks
Vicky
Hi Vicky – As far as snow goes, there has been very little in the region this year (entire SPiti is deprived of snow even right now) and that too will be long gone by May so do not really keep your hopes high in this aspect. Since there is no snow, even the Manali Kaza route may open early this year so push your plan towards last week of May and you will be able to cover Manali route as well. Whatever little snow you will find will either be at Kunzum top or Rohtang top.
Thanks Vargis.
I need to be back in Mumbai on 20/May, so the best I can do is begin my trip on 17/May. I think I will have to take my chances in 3rd week May to see if Kaza-Manali opens up. Here’s what my itinerary looks like.
5/17/2018 Delhi- Narkanda
5/18/2018 Narkanda – Chitkul. Stay at Chitkul for the night
5/19/2018 Chitkul-Nako. Stay the night at Nako/Tabo
5/20/2018 Nako/Tabo – Kaza. Visit pin valley en route
5/21/2018 Kaza and around. Stay the night at Kaza
5/22/2018 Kaza-Manali. Night stay at Manali
5/23/2018 Manali-Delhi
In case Kaza-Manali does not open, I plan to do Kaza-Rampur on 22/May and Simla-Delhi on 23rd.
Some questions if you could answer
1. For 19th can you you suggest which out of Nako and Tabo is a better place to stay?
2. What all should we cover around Kaza on 21st?
3. Where all should I prebook hotels? I believe it should be Kaza and Chitkul only.
Thanks
Vicky
Hi Vicky – Nako is a better place to stay. You can travel towards Kibber, Komik, Langza and Hikkim near Kaza and also cover Kye Monastery. No need to book hotels in advance, you will just end up paying more. Reach you destination and negotiate an on-the-spot deal.
Thanks Virgis. If Kunzum and Rohtang are indeed accessible during my May trip, do you think Chandrataal will also be accessible?
I heard you can drive upto chandrataal with only 500mts to walk. Is this correct?
Thanks
Vicky
Yes, if Kunzum Pass is open then you can definitely go to Chandratal as well. The road ends approximately 2 kilometers before the lake.
as May ’18 (15th to 25th May) will be start of season, do you suggest i should not book hotel in advance and rather negotiate an on-spot-deal with hotel? I will be travelling with family. Will on-spot-deal be significantly cheaper en route chail to kaza to Manali?
Yes, on the spot deals will definitely be cheaper. If you book in advance, you will just end up paying more.
Rohtang to kaza will be open during February or March?
No it will not be. At earliest this road will open sometime by late May.
just an update from my side. Went to Spiti on Jan 27th and just came back. Shimla to Kaza road is completely fine with no snow anywhere except a little after Shimla. Spiti is dry. No snow so far.
Thank you for the update Shyam Bhai. Added it to the article. Any really bad stretches?
no major bad stretches. A very small stretch of road between Nako and Chango is in bad shape but nothing to worry.
Thanks Shyam Bhai. Can you please suggest some tips in terms of accommodation on the circuit in Feb for other people’s information? Did you face any problems?
1. Accommodation is easily available in home stays. You can ask anyone in the main market near bus stand and they will help you out.
2. You might face some problems in the morning with your vehicle because of extreme cold. In that case as well, locals can help you out. In Diesel vehicles, you might need to heat the diesel in the morning.
3. After Powari (near Reckong Peo), there’s no fuel station till kaza. So carry extra fuel.
4. Get a BSNL sim card. No other network providers are there after Pooh town.
5. Carry enough winter wear. Sometimes temperature might go as low as -27 degrees.
Rest everything is fine. Nothing to worry. Do not expect white Spiti. It’s completely dry as of now, a little bit of snow in the higher areas.
Thanks Shyam Bhai, added this to the main article. I appreciate your help.
Wm the roads open now from shimla to kaza, as it’s snowing heavily I’ve seen in newspapers.
I am planning to kaza by bike tomarrow which I’ll be riding from narkanda to kaza and back. Do you think the snow or black ice will be a challlenge from 26-31jan 2018. Please response if you have any idea avout that.
Yes it finally snowed in the region, around Shimla and Narkanda specially. The road from Shimla to Kaza is however still. Just ride carefully and start a bit late in the day, after sun is up to reduce the risk of black ice.
Hello Sir,
We are planning a trip during February 17 to 23 2018. Will the roads be functionable & could you suggest some expeditions happening during similar timeframe?
Regards,
Vedanga B
Hello Vedanga, It depends on the weather but chances are that yes the Shimla to Kaza road will be open at that time. I am myself heading to Spiti a week before your dates of travel. About expeditions, once you reach Kaza, you can ask around for guides about trekking towards Kibber / Komik or any other open trail. Once again, this will all depend on the weather and amount of snow present at that time.
Hi, you’re doing a great job keeping the road status updated.
I am planning to go to Kaza from Shimla side on Jan 26th. Are shared taxis / buses available from Rampur or Reckong peo to Kaza?
Hello – There is no bus service to Kaza in peak winters due to all the snow. You may be able to find a shared cab though if the weather allows.
We are doing a road trip from Mumbai to Leh Kaza Round trip entering from Srinagar and coming out from Shimla. We will be starting on 3rd June from Mumbai and would be reaching Sarchu / Keylong around 12th / 13th june. Will the road be open at that time for Kaza from Keylong crossing Chandrataal. Please guide us. Moreover we will be using all 2WD vehicles. Will it be necessary to take snow chains for the rear tires.
Hello Subrata – Yes the roads will be all open around your dates of travel. Snow chains will not be required at all but a good ground clearance vehicle is must.
Hi Vargis,
We are planning a Leh – Kaza trip and we have around 16-17 days in our disposal excluding the days of our travel Ex Mumbai to Srinagar and Shimla to Mumbai. Request you to prepare a itinerary for our travel if you can. We are having 6 cars and all are Compact SUV / SUV’s like Ecosport / Creta / Duster / Endeavor. Our planned departure EX Mumbai is 3rd June.We will have maximum 3 persons per car.
Thanks,
Subrata
Hello Subrata – Are you just planning Ladakh and Spiti or do you want to go towards Zanskar as well? Let me know and I can suggest an itinerary accordingly.
Yes Vargis, We are planning for Zanskar even. Please send us a suitable itinerary covering Zankar, Leh, Siachen, Khardungla, Pangong, Demchok, Hanle, Tso Moriri, Keylong, Chandratal, Kaza Tabo Nako Shimla. Planning to hit Srinagar by 5th / 6th June and we have around 16-17 days in this region.
Eagerly waiting for your reply.
Thanks,
Subrata
Hey Subrata – You cannot go to Siachen, that is off limits. For rest, you can travel in the following manner.
6 – Srinagar to Kargil
7 – Kargil to Padum
8 – Padum to Kargil
9 – Kargil to Leh
10 – Leh, arrange permits
11 – Leh to Diskit (Nubra)
12 – Diskit to Pangong via Agham Shyok road
13 – Pangong to Hanle
14 – Hanle to Demchok to Hanle
15 – Hanle to Tso Moriri
16 – Tso Moriri to Pang
17 – Pang to Jispa / Keylong
18 – Keylong to Chandratal
19 – Chandratal to Kaza
20 – Kaza to Nako
21 – Nako to Kalpa
22 – Kalpa to Shimla
Thanks Vargis,
Can we do kargil – Leh via Batalik or the normal route is fine. Which one do you think will be better in terms of scenic beauty and environment.
Secondly can we do Siachen Glacier from Diskit / Turtuk – Stay at Turtuk and go to OP Baba Shrine next day near Siachin Glacier. Is is possible to do it in one day from Siachin to Pangong or we need to stay at Panamik /Sasoma / Sumur and next day to Pangong..
Rest route is looking fine.
Thanks once more
Subrata
Kargil – Leh via Lamayuru is better. You cannot go to Batalik route without obtaining inner line permit from Leh.
You cannot go to Siachen Glacier. That is off limits. Farthest you can go on this road is until Warshi Village.
Hi
We are planning to come Shimla on 31st December, 17.
Could we find taxi once we have reached over there for 5 days Shimla-Kaza-Shimla plan?
We are extremely needed for your advice and any contact if available.
Br, Shibli Nomani
Hello Shibli – Sorry for the late response. I guess you would already have been in Shimla by now.
Hi we are planning spiti in coming twi days already we came at delhi . Is road opened. And can alto k10 good condition could manage
Waiting for ur suggedtions
There is not much snow anywhere on the route right now and the road is open from Shimla to Kaza throughout so yes, you can plan trip. Alto will be a problem in terms of low GC so you will have to be extremely careful and good at the wheel.
Hello Vargis,
First of all thanks for helping with the road status which is of immense help to people like me! really appreciate!
I am planning a trip from Manali sometime in May 2018. What are the conditions around that time and any suggested date to be in Manali for this trip?
Also if you could help with some operator from whom I could hire a vehicle for this round trip – Manlai-Kaza-Manali?
Best regards,
Jayesh Dighe
Hello Jayesh – Manali to Kaza road open sometime in early June. This year it opened around June 10th so best would be to plan it sometime after 2nd week of June.
Road conditions in initial few days are always horrible. The entire stretch between Manali to Kaza is anyways a nightmare but for initial few days it is at its worst.
Best not to hire a vehicle in advance, you will just end up paying more. Go to Manali taxi stand, negotiate the best price you can get and book on the spot.
Hi Vargis! We are planning to leave on December 26 from mumbai? Any idea about road conditions? and do have chances to get entry in spiti!!!
Hi Prathamesh – You can reach Spiti via Shimla, road is currently open and will be open around your date of travel
Hi Vargis! We are planning to leave on December 1 from Delhi? Any idea what would be the status then?
Hi Shivangi – Shimla to Kaza road will be open but Manali Kaza stretch is already closed.
Hi Vargis, should we expect snow in Spiti around first week of December?
Hi Mayank – It snowed in Kaza last week so yes, chances are that you may find some snow there. December 1st week is more of luck, it starts to snow regularly towards the end of the month.
I am planning to undertake Shimla-Kaza-Manali route early June 2018. Based on past experience would the route be open at this time? Any specific call out.
Yes it should be open by that time.