If adventure had a front door, Kunzum Pass would be it - standing at 4,500 meters, it is a rugged gateway that takes people to a whole new world of majestic landscapes.
Due to the extreme weather conditions and high Kunzum Pass altitude, Kunzum Pass remains closed for a significant part of the year, usually from November to May, due to heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions. The Kunzum Pass opening date is during summer, typically from June to September, allowing travellers to witness its majestic beauty.
Planning your Spiti tour package via the Manali route would let you enjoy the adventure of Kunzum Pass height which is insane!
- Kunzum Pass opening date 2025: May or early June, depending on snow clearance operations.
- Best time to visit Kunzum Pass: June to September
- Kunzum Pass temperature: 1 Degree Celsius to 12 degrees Celsius
- Things to do at Kunzum Pass: Experience high altitude cycling, photography, visit ancient monasteries.
- Kunzum Pass altitude: 4,551 meters (14,931 feet)
How To Reach Kunzum Pass From Spiti Valley
By Road:
From Manali
- Route: Manali - Rohtang Pass - Gramphu - Batal - Kunzum Pass
- Distance and time: About 122 Kilometers, typically 6-7 hours
- Road conditions: Steep roads, stream crossings, loose stones
- Best time: Mid-June to late October
From Kaza
- Route: Kaza - Losar (Approximately 58 Kilometers) - Kunzum Pass Via NH 505
- Distance and time: Around 75-79 Kilometers total - typically 3 hours
- Road conditions: Dry, rocky path with some unpaved stretches.
- Best time: June to October
By Air
- The nearest airport is the Bhuntar airport, located near Kullu and is approximately 250 Kilometers from the Kunzum Pass. Then, you can take taxis or buses that are easily available to reach Manali or Kaza from the airport.
By Railways
- The closest railway station is in Joginder Nagar, Himachal Pradesh which is around 360 Kilometers away from Kunzum Pass.
Also check out: Spiti summer tour
Best Time to Visit Kunzum Pass
Here’s the best time to visit Kunzum Pass in Spiti, with a simple month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your perfect trip to this stunning Himalayan valley.
- Ideal months: Mid June to Early October
- Why this time: Clear roads, good for trekking, photography and visiting nearby spots like Chandratal Lake.
- Kunzum Pass Opening Date: May/June
June to September (Best time to Visit Kunzum Pass)
- Snow has melted.
- Perfect for road trip to Spiti.
Late July to August (Monsoon Season)
- Risk of landslides on mountain roads.
- Check Kunzum Pass weather and have the road updates.
Late September to Early October (Autumn)
- Fewer crowds.
- Colder nights.
November to May (Winter Season)
- Kunzum Pass remains closed due to heavy snowfall.
- Inaccessible by road.
Suggested read: Lahaul Valley
Places to Visit Near Kunzum Pass
It is more than just a breathtaking mountain pass. This place holds deep cultural significance. Here are some local insights and stories that enrich the experience of visiting this pass.
1. Kunzum Devi Temple
At the top of Kunzum Pass in Spiti Valley, there is a small temple called Kunzum Devi Temple. It is dedicated to Kunzum Mata, the local goddess. People believe that Kunzum Mata watches over travelers and keeps them safe from the dangers of the difficult mountain roads.
Before crossing Kunzum Pass, it is a tradition for travelers to stop at the temple to say a prayer and ask for her blessings. Many drivers and trekkers also leave small gifts like coins, flowers, or prayer flags at the temple to show their respect and thanks.
2. Chandratal Lake
Chandratal lake, located 14 Kilometers from the Kunzum Pass, one of the most stunning places in Spiti Valley! People are keen to witness the beauty of this lake - clear blue waters and ethereal reflections of the mountains that encircle it. You must know that coming to this place is a treat, with the most beautiful views, flowers and much more!
3. Losar Village
Losar is a small, peaceful village located near Kunzum Pass in Spiti Valley. It is one of the highest villages in the area and is known for its beautiful views of the mountains and quiet surroundings. The people of Losar live a simple life, mostly farming and raising animals.
The village is famous for its friendly locals and traditional way of life. If you visit Losar, you can see old Buddhist monasteries, colorful prayer flags, and enjoy the calm, fresh mountain air.
4. Key Monastery
Key Monastery is located 78 Kilometers from the Kunzum Pass, it is one of the oldest monasteries in Spiti that you must witness. It is on a hilltop with altitude of 4,166 meters from where you can have the most stunning views of the valley.
There are so many monks living in this monastery leading a traditional life and perhaps tourists can have a chance to witness such simplicty.
Kunzum Pass is more than just a breathtaking mountain pass. This place holds deep cultural significance. Here are some local insights and stories that enrich the experience of visiting Kunzum Pass, Spiti Valley.
Things To Do At Kunzum Pass
It is a gateway to the beautiful Valley, but here are some of the amazing things to do at Kunzum Pass.
1. Visit Kunzum Mata Temple
At the top of the pass, you get to see a small temple dedicated to Goddess Kunzum Devi. Travelers and locals stop here to offer their prayers for a safe journey ahead. It’s a peaceful place with colorful red flags and the mesmerizing views.
2. Enjoy the Views
Kunzum Pass gives you stunning views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks, rocky mountains, and deep valleys. The fresh air and wide-open skies make it perfect for taking photos or just sitting quietly and enjoying nature.
3. Road Trip Adventure
If you are on a Spiti bike trip, Kunzum Pass is an amazing place to enjoy the most mesmerizing views ever. The road has sharp turns, rough patches, and breathtaking views. The route from Manali to Kaza through Kunzum is one of the most adventurous and scenic in India.
4. Photography
Kunzum Pass is a dream location for photography in Spiti. Whether you're a professional with a DSLR or just using your phone, you’ll find amazing photo opportunities everywhere.
Tips to Visit the Kunzum Pass:
Here are some of the travel tips for visiting Kunzum Pass you must consider while traveling to the Kunzum pass in Spiti Valley. So, don’t miss out on these.
- You should check the weather and road conditions before your trip, because the Kunzum pass is only open from June to September.
- Carry warm jackets and thermal wear due to the low temperatures, like -17 degrees celsius to 17 degrees.
- You should also carry altitude sickness medication along with you.
- Take a good amount of food supplies since you would not find any kind of eateries at this point in time.
- Go in your best sturdy trekking shoes for walking through the rough paths.
- Take your water bottles as it is very important to stay hydrated throughout.
