Planning an epic Himalayan road trip? The Shimla to Spiti Valley route via Kinnaur and Chitkul is one of the most scenic and adventurous journeys in India.
From lush green valleys to cold desert landscapes, this 6-day Spiti trip gives you the perfect mix of adventure, culture, monasteries, and raw mountain beauty.
Why Choose Shimla to Spiti Route?
The Shimla route is ideal because:
- Gradual altitude gain (less chance of AMS)
- Covers Kinnaur + Chitkul + Spiti in one trip
- Better road conditions compared to Manali route (initial stretch)
This route lets you experience the transformation from forests to barren mountains — something Spiti is famous for.
6 Days Shimla to Spiti Itinerary
Day 1: Shimla to Sangla / Chitkul
Start your journey from Shimla and drive through the iconic Hindustan-Tibet Highway.
Reach Sangla Valley and continue to Chitkul.
Highlights:
- Baspa River views
- Apple orchards
- Peaceful Himalayan villages
Day 2: Chitkul to Kalpa
Drive towards Kalpa, famous for views of the Kinner Kailash range.
Highlights:
- Khab Sangam (Satluj + Spiti River confluence)
- Scenic cliff roads
- Snow-capped peaks
Day 3: Kalpa to Tabo (Enter Spiti Valley)
Today you officially enter Spiti Valley.
Stop at Nako before reaching Tabo.
Highlights:
- Nako Lake
- Ancient Tabo Monastery (1000+ years old)
Day 4: Tabo → Dhankar → Kaza
Drive to Kaza via Dhankar.
Highlights:
- Dhankar Monastery
- Optional Dhankar Lake trek
- Entry into main Spiti hub
Day 5: Kaza Sightseeing
Explore high-altitude villages around Kaza.
Highlights:
- Key Monastery
- Langza
- Hikkim
- Komic
Day 6: Return via Manali / Kinnaur
Exit via:
- Kunzum Pass
- Atal Tunnel
OR return via the same Kinnaur route.
Top Places Covered
- Chitkul (Last Village of India)
- Kalpa (Kinner Kailash views)
- Tabo Monastery
- Dhankar Monastery
- Kaza (Spiti hub)
- Key Monastery
- Langza, Hikkim & Komic
Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley
- May to October: Best for road trips
- June–September: Ideal weather & accessibility
- Winter: Only for extreme travelers
Spiti Trip Budget (Per Person)
A 6-day Spiti trip typically costs:
- Budget: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000
- Mid-range: ₹18,000 – ₹30,000
- Premium: ₹30,000+
Costs vary based on:
- Transport (self-drive vs package)
- Accommodation
- Season
A well-planned itinerary helps cover major spots efficiently without overspending.
Things to Know Before You Go
- No network in most areas (only BSNL/Jio works sometimes)
- Carry cash (ATMs limited)
- Start early each day
- Acclimatization is important
Travel planning in Uttarakhand/Himalayan regions often requires balancing time, distance, and terrain for a smooth experience.
Why Book a Spiti Tour Package?
Spiti is remote and challenging. A curated trip helps with:
- Local drivers experienced in mountain roads
- Pre-booked stays
- Proper itinerary planning
- Safety in high-altitude conditions
