Manali to Spiti Valley—an adventure in itself! The feeling of taking your trip in the beautiful mountain valley of Spiti, India’s last and highest point with motorable roads, is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. You can reach your destination via two routes, Manali and Shimla.
Most people prefer the Manali - Spiti route as it is the shorter one and includes a whole lot of sightseeing as well. You will be able to explore the unmatched beauty of the Himalayan gem with the most amazing Spiti tour packages.
Get ready to immerse in the vibe of the ancient monasteries of Spiti, simply enjoying the surreal views, adventurous treks, and much more. And, how can we forget the water crossings on your Spiti bike trip? It is the best time which you get to have while being on the trip. Also, this 200-kilometer-long route takes around 12 hours being some of the toughest roads you will ever drive on.
Manali to Spiti Valley Distance
The Manali to Spiti distance is around 202 Kilometers and Tabo is further down at a distance of 249 Kilometers from Manali.
Manali to Spiti Valley Route Map
Manali - Solang Valley - Atal Tunnel - Koksar - Batal - Kunzum Pass - Chandrataal - Losar - Kaza - Dhankar - Tabo
How to Reach Spiti Valley from Manali?
As you know, Spiti is approximately 202 Kilometers from Manali, but the Manali to Spiti Valley road conditions in Spiti Valley will make it differ. It takes around 10-12 hours to travel from Manali to Kaza in Spiti.
For those who want to go on a Spiti bike trip, it is crucial to be prepared for rough terrains, water crossings, and much more. Also, riding from Manali to Spiti offers an exclusive adventure like never before. So, make sure you have some prior experience and a well-maintained bike suitable for off-roading.
Direct Route Via Atal Tunnel and Kunzum Pass (1 Day)
Distance: 180 Kilometers
Time: 7-10 Hours
Route: Manali - Atal Tunnel - Gramphu - Batal - Kunzum Pass - Kaza
Best time to Visit: June to Mid-October
Suggested read: Places to Visit in Spiti Valley
How many days does it take to reach Spiti from Manali?
Manali to Spiti Valley has an approximate distance of 200 Kilometers, but you never know how much time will be required to cover this distance. It also depends on the Manali to Spiti Valley road condition, which turns out to be difficult for the travelers.
Usually, it takes 10-12 hors to travel from Manali to Spiti Valley. For those who are planning for the Spiti bike trip, it is important for them to be well prepared for different situations coming up in the whole journey. It is an exhilarating adventure but also requires prior knowledge and experience for the same.
Direct route via Atal Tunnel and Kunzum Pass (1 Day)
- Distance: 180 Kilometers
- Time: 7-10 Hours (also depending on Manali to Spiti Valley road conditions)
- Route: Manali - Atal Tunnel - Gramphu - Batal - Kunzum Pass - Kaza (Spiti Valley)
- Best time: June to Mid-October
Route Via Kinnaur (2 Days)
- Route: Manali - Shimla - Reckong Peo - Nako - Tabo - Kaza (Spiti Valley)
- Best time: Year-round
Best Time for Manali to Spiti Valley Trip
Looking for the best time for the Manali to Spiti Valley trip? So, plan your Manali to Spiti Valley tour between mid-May to October. The route via Manali does not have snow during these months and especially in September, Himachal Pradesh is void of snow as well as rain, so you will not find everything in utmost dryness and muddy conditions.
You will also notice that that water crossings will be at less number. And, make sure that you are not taking this route between November to April, as it has been shut down on account of heavy snowfall and fierce water crossings.
There will be a lot of problems in finding hotels in Spiti as well during this time. So, if you really want to explore the valleys and have a wholesome adventurous trip, then book your trip from June to mid-October and the best time for snow is from December to February.
What is the road condition from Manali to Spiti Valley?
You need to be aware of the road conditions from Manali to Spiti Valley! Choosing the right time for your bike trip is a really important decision to be made before your most awaited Spiti trip! Through May-July, the snow melts down and leads to muddy puddles and water streams which creates a challenging time for you.
And then, from September to October, the road gets repaired by the Border Road Organization and gets much better, but still you will find dry-rock landslides and boulders in your way, which will definitely disturb you. Also, you need to be extra cautious on the way to Losar and Kunzum Pass, as the road gets terrible in this passage, and you will get relief from it while coming from Kunzum to Chandrataal Lake.
Although it is a very narrow road that only allows one car to go at a time, but still slightly smoother than other patches. But, when you reach Kaza, you can prepare for a very smooth journey ahead in Spiti Valley!
And, if you are planning your Manali to Spiti Valley trip from May to August, then be ready for foggy routes, making it very difficult for drivers. So, it is best to travel between September and October to find the best road conditions and clear weather.
Best Itinerary for Manali to Spiti Valley
DAY 0: Delhi to Manali
- Leave from Delhi by evening and reach Manali next morning.
DAY 1: Reach Manali (overnight stay at Manali)
- Reach Manali by morning and check-in to the hotel.
- After having breakfast and some leisure, feel free to explore the local area of Manali according to the place that interests you.
- You can visit the Mall road, Hidimba temple, Old Manali for some good cafes to chill.
- Come back to the hotel by evening.
- Briefing about the next day and sleep overnight
DAY 2: Manali to Kaza (Via Atal Tunnel)
- Start your journey early morning to Kaza.
- Go through the Atal tunnel.
- Then, cross the another high altitude pass and the gateway to the Spiti Valley - Kunzum La.
- You can also visit the highest suspension bridge in Asia - The Chicham Bridge.
DAY 3: Visit Key Monastery, Hikkim, Komic and Langza (Overnight stay at Kaza)
- Visit the Key Monastery, the iconic 1000 year old monastery famous for its learning and for those who are seeking peace and calm.
- Visit some of the highest inhabited regions of the world - Komic, Hikkim and Langza.
DAY 4: Kaza - Chandratal Lake via Kunzum La
- Make you way back to Manali.
- Visit the Chandratal Lake - one last stop to witness the Spitian wonder.
- This beautiful lake is sutated at a height of 14,000 feet.
DAY 5: Start your journey back to Manali
- Commence your way back on the Manali - Kaza road.
- Pass through some of the stunning landscapes.
- Board the bus after taking some rest and reach by next morning.
Suggested read: Lahaul and Spiti Travel Guide
Mode of Transportation for Manali to Spiti Valley
Here are the transportation options that you can opt for for the Manali to Spiti Valley journey.
Road trips hit differently when you are traveling from Manali to Spiti Valley. It is a great choice because Manali to Spiti Valley cabs are easily available and accessible for travelers. While traveling from a four-wheeler, you can even take stopovers at your convenience and enjoy the sightseeing on this Manali to Spiti Valley route.
It will cost you around Rupees 1000 per person if you take a shared Manali to Spiti Valley cabs.
Best cars for the Manali to Spiti Valley trip:
- Mahindra Thar
- Toyota Fortuner
- Force Gurkha
- Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
- Scorpio N
- By Bike
Spiti bike trip is one of the most adventurous things that people crave! It is a great way to explore this route, especially if you are an expert biker.
Even if you don’t have a bike, you can rent a good off-roading bike starting at Rupees 1200 per day. Also, the journey is very difficult and challenging and takes a whole different level of adventure and excitement. Make sure you stay safe at such times with a helmet to protect you from any mishaps or difficult roads.
There are only two buses each day plying between Manali to Spiti Valley. They go via the Rohtang Pass, Kunzum Pass and then to Kaza.
It would cost you around INR 250 but you need to purchase it 1-2 days before your journey. You can then board the bus from the main Manali bus station. Begin your journey at 5 am and reach your destination by approximately 6 pm. But, you need to be aware of the fact that the Manali to Spiti Valley bus takes more time than any other mode of transport that you opt for.
Places to Visit During Manali to Spiti Valley Road Trip
1. Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake - one of the most beautiful Spitian wonders located at an altitude of 14,100 feet above sea level. It is famous for its crystal-blue waters, stunning reflections and a great camping experience near the lake.
- Altitude: 14,100 feet
- Distance from Manali: 140 Kilometers
- Temperature: -5°C to 20°C (varies by season)
2. Kunzum Pass
Kunzum Pass is a high mountain pass in Himachal Pradesh, India. It connects the beautiful Lahaul Valley with the Spiti Valley and is located at an altitude of about 4,590 meters. The pass offers stunning views of snow-covered peaks and is surrounded by peaceful landscapes.
Travelers often stop here to visit the small temple dedicated to Goddess Kunzum Devi, believed to protect those who cross the pass. It’s a favorite spot for adventure lovers and road trip enthusiasts.
- Altitude: 14,931 feet
- Distance from Manali: 122 Kilometers
- Temperature: -10°C to 15°C (varies by season)
3. Pin Valley National Park
Pin Valley National Park is a magical place hidden in the cold mountains of Himachal Pradesh. It lies in the Spiti Valley and is full of rocky hills, snowy peaks, and clear blue skies. The weather here is cold for most of the year, and the land looks like a desert covered in snow. This park is special because it is home to rare animals like the snow leopard and the Himalayan ibex, which are very hard to see in other places. You can also spot colorful birds flying high in the sky.
- Altitude: 3,500 - 6,632 meters
- Distance from Kaza: 32 Kilometers
- Temperature: -20°C to 20°C (varies by season)
4. Dhankar Monastery
Dhankar Monastery - one of the best places to visit during the Manali to Spiti Valley trip. It is one of those monasteries in Spiti Valley that offers breathtaking views of the Spiti river.
Monks live here and spend their days in prayer and meditation, adding to the calm and spiritual vibe. Because it is less crowded, Dhankar is perfect for those who want to experience peace, nature, and a touch of history in one beautiful place.
- Altitude: 12,774 feet
- Distance from Kaza: 32 Kilometers
5. Kibber Village
Kibber Village is a small and beautiful village in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the highest villages in the world that is connected by a road. The village is surrounded by tall mountains and wide open lands, making it look like a picture from a postcard.
- Altitude: 14,010 feet
- Distance from Kaza: 20 Kilometers
- Temperature: -5 and 2°C (Varies by season)
6. Key Monastery
Key Monastery is a beautiful and important monastery in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. It is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the valley below. The monastery is over 1,000 years old and is one of the largest in the region. It is home to many monks who practice Buddhism and teach its teachings.
- Altitude: 14,000 feet (approx.)
- Distance from Kaza: 14.3 Kilometers
7. Tabo Monastery
Tabo Monastery is one of the must visit places during Manali to Spiti Valley trip. It is the place where you get to understand Buddhist heritage and culture.
This ancient monastery, also known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas”, and is also celebrated for the exquisite murals. These murals cover the walls of the nine temples located in the Tabo monastery.
- Altitude: 10,010 feet
- Distance from Kaza: 48 Kilometers
8. Dhankar Lake
Dhankar Lake is a quiet and beautiful lake near Dhankar Monastery in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. It is located high up in the mountains and can be reached by a short trek from the monastery. The lake is surrounded by rocky hills and has clear blue water that reflects the sky. It is a peaceful spot where you can sit, relax, and enjoy nature. Because it is not very crowded, Dhankar Lake feels calm and special, like a hidden treasure in the mountains.
- Altitude: 13,580 feet
- Distance from Kaza: 32.8 Kilometers
9. Nako Village
Nako Village is a small and peaceful village in Himachal Pradesh, near the border of Tibet. It is surrounded by tall mountains and has a calm and quiet feel.
The main attraction of the village is the beautiful Nako Lake, which looks like a mirror with mountains all around it. The houses in the village are made of mud and stone, and the people live a simple life. Nako is also known for its old monastery and lovely walking paths. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains.
- Altitude: 12,014 feet
- Distance from Kaza: 110 Kilometers
Tips for Driving on the Manali to Spiti Valley Route
Prepare Vehicle: Use a 4x4, check tires, and carry spare fuel and water.
Drive Cautiously: Watch for potholes, sharp turns, and changing weather.
Acclimatize: Take breaks, drink water, and avoid rushing.
Essential Supplies: Pack food, first aid kit, and power bank.
Know the Route: Be prepared for tough roads, especially Rohtang and Kunzum Pass.
Emergency Prep: travel in groups.
Schedule: Start early and plan overnight stops.
Respect the Environment: Follow eco-friendly practices and local customs.
Suggested read: Spiti Valley solo trip
