A road trip to Spiti Valley is on every traveler's bucket list and the reason is that Spiti, with its desert mountains, snow-covered valleys, and lush green meadows remains one of the most beautiful destinations that our country has to offer. Nestled between India and Tibet, the word Spiti itself translates to “the middle land.” In recent times, the valley has gotten an abundance of tourists seeking the place for the serenity it provides as well as the adventure that the wicked terrains of Spiti provide you. In this Spiti valley road trip, we make sure that you get to make the most out of the experience and witness the mesmerizing Spiti Valley in all its glory as well as indulge in the thrill that the impassable roads of Spiti have to offer. Spiti Valley acts as a bridge between two distinct cultures and is the horizon on which people from these diverse cultures come together to build the foundation that Spiti itself stands upon. The valley is known for its century-old monasteries and the rich Buddhist influence that is still prevalent in every village today.
The people of Spiti believe in leading simple lives. It wasn’t until only five or six years ago that they even had electricity and since water is scarce in the cold desert that is Spiti, life can be tough. But the resilience with which people live their lives is not only commendable but also inspiring. Spending even a few days amidst the locals, interacting with them, and witnessing Spiti through their eyes is enough to make you fall in love with the land of Lamas.
Day 1- Delhi to Manali | Overnight Journey
- The group will assemble at the pick-up point by 7:00 PM (tentative).
- We'll meet the team captains and a small tour briefing session will be conducted.
- After which, we’ll head out on an overnight journey to Manali.
Note: The pickup point would be Majnu Ka Tila (tentative).
Day 2- Manali Arrival | Day at Leisure
- We will reach Manali early in the morning.
- Post-check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure. Travelers can indulge in cafe hopping, shopping etc.
- Dinner will be served in the evening followed by an overnight stay in Manali.
Day 3- Manali to Kaza (200 Kilometers)
- After early morning breakfast, we will head out to Kaza via the Atal Tunnel.
- En-route, we’ll be traversing through the iconic Kunzum Pass that offers amazing views of the Himalayas.
- We will reach the headquarters of Spiti, Kaza by late evening and check in to our designated stays.
- Dinner will be served in the evening followed by an overnight stay in Kaza.
Day 4- Spiti Sightseeing Day 1 (Pin valley, Tabo, Dhankar)
- Post breakfast, we will head out for a sightseeing tour where we'll visit the Kungri Monastery in Pin Valley followed by a visit to the thousand-year-old Tabo Monastery where we'll pay a brief visit.
- Lastly, we'll visit the Dhankar Monastery which is nestled at an altitude of 12,774 ft offering a spectacular view of the village whose landscape resembles craters of the Moon.
- We will also visit Dhankar Fort and spend some time there.
- In the evening, we'll head back to our designated stay. Dinner followed by an overnight stay in Kaza.
Day 5- Spiti Sightseeing Day 2 (Hikkim, Komic, Langza, Key Monastery)
- Post breakfast, we’ll head out to visit the Key Monastery locally known as Key Gompa followed by a visit to the highest post office in the world, Hikkim.
- Afterward, we’ll move towards Komic village which is one of the highest villages in the world connected by a motorable road.
- Last but not least, we will visit the land of fossils, Langza, and visit the Buddha statue that sits on top of a hill overlooking the village.
- Finally, we’ll head back to Kaza where we will have dinner and spend the night.
Day 6- Kaza to Chandratal via Chicham Bridge (90 Kilometers)
- Post-breakfast, we will head out to visit the pristine Chandratal which is a crescent-shaped lake mimicking the moon.
- En route, we will be traversing the iconic Kunzum Pass and make a brief stop at Chicham Bridge which is Asia’s highest suspension bridge.
- Upon arrival at our designated campsites, we'll check in and then head towards the Chandratal lake to spend some leisure time by the lakeside.
- Dinner will be served in the evening followed by an overnight stay in the campsites.
Note : If due to bad weather the roads to Chandratal stay closed, our alternate stay for the day will be arranged in Batal/Manali/Kaza.
Day 7- Chandratal to Manali (125 Kilometers)
- After early morning breakfast, we'll check out of our campsites and start our return journey to Manali via the Atal Tunnel.
- On the way, we will be making a brief stop at Chacha Chachi Ka Dhaba.
- Upon our arrival in Manali, we'll spend the rest of the day at leisure.
- In the evening, we will board the bus for an overnight drive to Delhi.
Note : Freshen-up arrangements will be provided if only time permits.
Day 8- Delhi Arrival | Tour Ends
- The group will reach Delhi and part ways with fond memories.
- End of Tour.
What is included in the tour
Transportation in Tempo Traveler from Manali to Manali.
AC Volvo Bus from Delhi to Manali and return.
Accommodations on sharing basis as per itinerary.
Meal Plan: MAP Plan (Total 10 Meals - 1 Meal on Day 2 (D) + 2 Meals on Day 3 (B+D) + 2 Meals on Day 4 (B+D) + 2 Meals on Day 5 (B+D) + 2 Meals on Day 6 (B+D) + 1 Meal on Day 7 (B))
The Trip Leader will be present at all times during the tour.
*Travel Insurance
Mechanical Support
All permits Required
First Aid Kits
Oxygen Cylinders
Oximeter
What is NOT included in the tour
5% GST
Early check-in at the hotel.
Any additional expenses of personal nature.
Additional accommodation/food costs incurred due to any travel delay.
Any lunch and other meals not mentioned in Package Inclusions.
Any Airfare / Rail fare other than what is mentioned in “Inclusions” or any type of transportation.
Parking and monument entry fees during sightseeing.
Additional Costs due to Flight Cancellations, Landslides, Roadblocks, and other natural calamities.
Any other services not specified above in inclusions.
Rucksack:
You must pick a good quality backpack with a comfortable fit and straps that won’t give you shoulder pain. You can check out your nearest Decathlon store for a good trekking backpack.
Day Bag / Day Pack:
When you head towards the summit, you are required to carry only a few necessary items and for that, you need a day backpack as you will leave your bigger one on the campsite.
Hiking Shoes :
Durable footwear designed for rugged terrains.
Floaters or Sandals:
Although the entire trek requires a good quality shoe, you still need to let your feet breathe to avoid chafing and blisters. When you are at the camp, a good pair of sandals and floaters will help you to move freely.
Tees / Tshirts:
You must keep at least three pairs of quick dry tees so that you can wash them in between stops for proper hygiene.
Poncho:
A poncho is an evolved form of a raincoat that provides coverage to your body as well as your bag and ensures total water protection from rain.
Quick Dry Towel:
A quick dry towel will help in maintaining proper hygiene. It must dry quickly because the wet fabric will only increase the chance of bacterial growth.
Sanitizer:
Essential for maintaining cleanliness while trekking.
Sun Cap / Hat:
A lightweight sun cap with side flaps is perfect to keep your head cool and avoid sunburns on a sunny day.
Sunscreen SPF 40+:
To avoid sunburns and chafing, you need to put on sunscreen as well as cold cream.
Water Bottle (Re-usable):
Hydration is extremely important when it comes to trekking. Carrying a water bottle that you can refill with Himalayan water is a must.
Personal Toileteries:
A bag with all your essentials including napkins, toothpaste, sanitizers, paper soap, etc should be carried in a ziplock bag.
Personal Medication / First Aid:
A few cuts and bruises are almost inevitable when you are on a trek so carrying a medical kit with bandages, Dettol, etc is necessary.
Sun Glasses / Reading Glasses:
Photochromatic glasses are specs that are designed to transform into anti-glare shades depending upon exposure to the sun. They are good when it comes to eye protection but one can also opt for clip-on glasses etc.
Charger:
To keep your electronic devices powered during the trip.
Power Bank:
Ensures your devices stay charged when there are no outlets.
Personal Documents & ID's:
Identification proofs like Aadhar Card, Drivers License.
Laundry Bag (Waterproof):
In case your clothes get wet or your garments don’t dry, you can carry them in polythene. However, make sure that all the plastic that you are carrying into the woods leaves with you. Don’t litter in the mountains.
Track Pants:
A good pair of track pants made of polyester will let your skin breathe. They’re lightweight, dry easily, and comfortable to walk around in. You can easily avoid chafing and rashes by investing in a good pair of track pants.
Trekking Shoes:
A good trekking shoe is comfortable, provides ankle support, and has a good grip as well. They shouldn’t be chunky, instead, they should be lightweight and sturdy.
Cotton Socks:
Cotton socks are extremely comfortable to move around in and are lightweight as well which is why you can always count on a good pair of cotton socks while trekking. However, keep in mind to change them and avoid wearing them when they are wet.
Woolen Socks:
A good pair of woolen socks, especially merino, are comfortable, limit odors and provide adequate insulation from the cold so you can wear them at night.
Woolen Gloves:
Insulated gloves help in maintaining proper body heat in your hands and also provide a better grasp on trekking poles.
Main Jacket:
It’s emphasized that you need to carry proper layers so you can avoid getting cold which is why you need to carry a heavy jacket that you can put on over your other clothes.
Woolen Cap:
A woolen cap will help prevent cold when you ascend to high altitude. You can also cover your ears to avoid any pain and discomfort you might face in them when going at high altitudes.
Hoodie:
A versatile layering option for various temperatures.
Scarf / Balaclava:
Along with sun rays and chilly winds, you also get hit by dirt and grime during treks which is why it's important to carry a scarf or balaclava so you can cover your face when needed.
Head Lamp:
You can’t rely on moonlight when you are in the mountains. A torch or even a headlamp with a fresh pair of batteries is always a good idea to bring along.
Trekking Pole:
The trekking pole assists in more than one way. It saves energy while also providing stability and helps you to maintain proper balance.
Camera:
This should be obvious. To make sure that you get to capture all the great moments from your trek. Make sure that you have enough storage and some extra batteries as well.
Riding Gear:
If your trip involves biking or motorcycling.
Moisturiser & Cold Cream:
To avoid sunburns and chafing, you need to put on sunscreen as well as cold cream.
Lip Balm:
Your lips can become chapped due to the harsh cold winds so it's important to keep them moisturized.
Sanitary Pads:
Essential for feminine hygiene.
Insect Repellent:
Guards against pesky bugs and insects.
Cash:
Emergency funds for unexpected situations.
Thermals:
Thermal is a piece of garment that helps in keeping your body warm in cold temperatures. It is a necessary item that you need when going on a high-altitude trek.
Snacks / Dryfruits / Energy Bar:
Provides quick energy on the go.
Positive Attitude:
