Spiti & the Lake
A curated 4x4 SUV expedition into Spiti — hidden routes, ancient monasteries, fossil villages, Kunzum La, and the moon-shaped Chandratal Lake.
Step beyond the last motorable road into one of the most remote, raw, and untouched high-altitude deserts of the Indian Himalayas. This is not a typical Himalayan trip — it is a curated SUV 4x4 expedition into Spiti Valley. From the lush valleys of Manali to the stark wilderness of Spiti, the journey unfolds through hidden routes, ancient monasteries, fossil villages, and landscapes shaped by isolation. Cross the mighty Kunzum La Pass (4,590m), witness the sacred Key Monastery, and enter a region where time slows down and life moves with the mountains. No crowds. No commercial routes. Only raw landscapes, local stories, and journeys led by those who call this place home.
- Duration
- 8 Days | 7 Nights (Delhi to Delhi)
- Location
- Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India
- Difficulty
- Easy to Moderate
- Season
- Summer (May–Oct)
- Group
- Maximum 12 people
Journey highlights
- Tirthan Valley & Jibhi: Slow arrival into a hidden Himachal escape of forests, wooden homes, and the flowing Tirthan River.
- Jalori Pass (10,800 ft): A hidden Himalayan pass through dense oak and pine forests — a true offbeat mountain crossing.
- Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan: A sacred wooden temple complex set against a stunning mountain backdrop.
- Sutlej River Canyon Drive: Iconic Himalayan highway carved through deep gorges and towering cliffs.
- Baspa Valley & Chitkul: Reach the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibet border, framed by snow-capped peaks.
- Kalpa & Kinner Kailash Views: Sunset over the sacred Kinner Kailash range standing tall right in front of you.
- Shipki La Frontier (Subject to Permissions): A rare diversion to the Indo-Tibet border — landscapes very few travelers ever see.
- Khab Sangam: The dramatic confluence where the Sutlej and Spiti Rivers meet.
- Nako Village & Lake: A high-altitude village known for its peaceful lake and traditional mud houses.
- Tabo Monastery (1000+ Years Old): One of the oldest functioning monasteries in the Himalayas.
- Dhankar Cliff Village & Optional Dhankar Lake Hike: A monastery village suspended in time above the Spiti River.
- Pin Valley: A quiet, less-explored side of Spiti rooted in deep local traditions.
- Key Monastery: Spiti's largest monastery, perched fortress-like above the valley.
- Kibber, Langza, Hikkim & Komic: Some of the highest inhabited villages on earth — fossil zones, the world's highest post office, and life above 12,500 ft.
- Kunzum La Pass (15,000 ft): One of the highest motorable passes in the region with panoramic snow-clad views.
- Chandratal — The Moon Lake (14,100 ft): Off-road drive to a crescent-shaped high-altitude lake under one of India's clearest night skies.
- Atal Tunnel Crossing: Return through one of the world's longest high-altitude tunnels into the green valleys of Lahaul.
Full itinerary
Overnight Volvo: Delhi/Chandigarh → Aut (Tirthan Valley Entry)
Your journey begins with a premium overnight transfer from Delhi/Chandigarh aboard a Zingbus Maxx/Volvo 9600. As you leave behind the city lights, the roads gradually transition into the Himalayan foothills — winding curves, river valleys, and cooler air setting the tone for the expedition ahead. Instead of the usual Manali drop, your deboarding is planned at Aut Tunnel, allowing a seamless and efficient entry into the quieter Tirthan Valley. Boarding Options: Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate)/Chandigarh. Important Notes: Report 30–45 minutes before departure; seat allocation (front rows preferred) is shared 6–24 hours prior; the drop point will be Aut Tunnel (not Manali). Route 500 km Elevation 709 ft → 3,500 ft Stay Not included. Network works throughout Delhi and the Himalayan foothills on the overnight drive. Download offline maps and content before boarding.
Stay: Overnight Luxury Transfer (Zingbus Maxx / Volvo 9600)
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
Arrival at Aut → Transfer to Jibhi (Tirthan Valley) | Leisure Day.
Upon early morning arrival at Aut Tunnel, our vehicle will be waiting to receive you. From here, you'll be transferred towards the serene village of Jibhi, nestled deep within Tirthan Valley — a hidden Himalayan escape surrounded by forests, wooden homes, and flowing rivers. After check-in, the rest of the day is completely yours — no fixed schedule, no rush. Self-exploration ideas include a walk along the Tirthan River, a visit to Jibhi Waterfall, exploring forest cafés and hidden trails, and slow village walks. This day is intentionally unstructured — allowing you to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature before higher altitudes. Route 35 km | 1.5–2 hrs Drive Elevation 3,500 ft → 5,500 ft Stay Hotel/Homestay in Jibhi. Jio and Airtel postpaid signal available at the overnight location. WiFi at most stays.
Stay: Hotel/Homestay in Jibhi
Meals: Dinner
A Journey Across Changing Worlds: Jalori Pass, Bhimakali & Baspa Valley
Today is one of the most diverse and visually rich drives of the entire journey — moving from dense forest landscapes into the raw, dramatic terrain of Kinnaur. Begin with a climb towards Jalori Pass (10,800 ft), surrounded by thick oak and pine forests. Descend towards Sarahan, home to the sacred Bhimakali Temple — one of the most important temples in Himachal Pradesh. Continue towards Rampur Bushahr, a historic town that once served as a major stop on the Indo-Tibet trade route, then follow the powerful Sutlej River cutting through deep gorges and towering cliffs. At Karcham, leave the main highway and enter the breathtaking Baspa Valley — wide open valleys, wooden houses, green meadows, and snow-covered peaks. Pass through Sangla and Rakcham village to finally reach Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibet border. Route Jibhi → Jalori Pass → Sarahan → Rampur → Sangla → Chitkul, 260 km | 10–11 hrs Elevation 5,500 ft → 11,320 ft Stay Hotel/Homestay in Chitkul. Network drops at the high pass — expect silence above 4,500m for a few hours. Jio and Airtel postpaid signal returns once you descend to the valley. WiFi available at your stay.
Stay: Hotel/Homestay in Chitkul
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Waking at the Edge: From Chitkul to the Kinner Kailash Views of Kalpa.
Wake up in Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibet border — where the air feels lighter, the silence deeper, and the mountains closer than ever. Begin the morning with a slow walk along the Baspa River, watching the first light hit the peaks. After breakfast, journey back through the breathtaking Baspa Valley. Passing through Rakcham and Sangla, descend to Karcham before climbing up towards Kalpa. By evening, arrive in Kalpa, known for its uninterrupted views of the sacred Kinner Kailash range standing tall right in front of you. This day is slower, calmer — allowing you to absorb the mountains rather than rush through them. Route Chitkul → Rakcham → Sangla → Karcham → Kalpa, 120 km | 4–5 hrs Elevation 11,320 ft → 9,711 ft Stay Hotel in Kalpa. Jio and Airtel postpaid signal available at the overnight location. WiFi at most stays.
Stay: Hotel in Kalpa
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Beyond the Border: From Kalpa to Shipki La and Into the Heart of Spiti.
Today is an experience into one of the most restricted and rarely explored Himalayan routes. Drive from Kalpa towards Reckong Peo, the administrative hub of Kinnaur, before descending into the dramatic Sutlej Valley. Reach Khab Sangam — where the Sutlej and Spiti rivers meet — and the landscape begins to shift from green Kinnaur to the stark, raw terrain of Spiti. Take a rare diversion towards Shipki La Pass, a high-altitude Indo-Tibet border route (subject to permissions). After spending time at the frontier, retrace your steps back and continue towards Nako, a high-altitude village known for its peaceful lake and traditional mud houses. Further ahead, reach Tabo, home to one of the oldest functioning monasteries in the Himalayas — over 1,000 years old. By evening, arrive at Dhankar, a stunning monastery village perched high above the Spiti River. Route Kalpa → Reckong Peo → Khab → Shipki La → Nako → Tabo → Dhankar, 220 km | 7–8 hrs Elevation 9,711 ft → ~13,500 ft → 12,700 ft Stay Hotel/Homestay in Dhankar. Jio and Airtel postpaid signal available. Most stays have WiFi.
Stay: Hotel/Homestay in Dhankar
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Through Time and Hidden Valleys: Dhankar, Tabo, and the Untouched Pin Valley.
Begin your morning at Dhankar, a village suspended in time — dramatically perched above the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers. Visit the ancient Dhankar Monastery, once the capital of the Spiti kingdom. For those interested, a short hike leads to Dhankar Lake, a high-altitude lake overlooking endless mountain ranges. Continue towards Tabo, where mud structures blend seamlessly with the landscape, preserving centuries of history within their walls. After Tabo, drive towards Attargo and turn into the hidden Pin Valley — quieter, less explored, and deeply rooted in local traditions. Pass through villages like Gulling and Kungri, where life moves slowly, untouched by tourism. By evening, arrive in Kaza, the main hub of Spiti. Route Dhankar → Tabo → Attargo → Pin Valley → Kaza, 120 km | 5–6 hrs Elevation 12,700 ft → 12,500 ft Stay Hotel in Kaza. Jio and Airtel postpaid signal available. Most stays have WiFi.
Stay: Hotel in Kaza
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Life Above 12,500 ft: Monasteries, Fossil Villages & High-Altitude Living.
Today takes you into the highest inhabited regions of the valley—where life exists in its purest and most resilient form. Begin with a visit to the iconic Key Monastery, the largest monastery in Spiti, perched dramatically on a hilltop overlooking the entire valley. Drive towards Kibber Village, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. Continue to Langza, famous for its massive Buddha statue and fossil-rich slopes—this region was once underwater millions of years ago. Next, head to Hikkim, home to the world's highest post office, where you can send postcards from one of the most remote corners of the world. An optional drive takes you to Komic, one of the highest motorable villages on Earth. By evening, return to Kaza. Route Kaza → Key → Kibber → Langza → Hikkim → (Komic Optional) → Kaza, 5–6 hrs Elevation 12,500 ft → 15,000 ft → 12,500 ft Stay Hotel in Kaza. Jio and Airtel postpaid signal available. Most stays have WiFi.
Stay: Hotel in Kaza
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
The Final Ascent: Kunzum Pass to Chandratal & Descent to Manali.
Leave Kaza and drive towards Losar, the last village of Spiti on this route. As you move further, the terrain becomes more rugged and remote. Climb Kunzum Pass (15,000 ft)—one of the highest motorable passes in the region, offering breathtaking panoramic views of snow-clad peaks. After crossing Kunzum La, take a narrow off-road track towards Chandratal—pure adventure with dirt trails, river crossings, and untouched terrain. Spend time at Chandratal Lake, the crescent-shaped Moon Lake, with sunset and stargazing under one of the clearest skies in India. Begin the descent the next morning through Batal and Gramphu, reconnecting with the Manali highway and crossing the iconic Atal Tunnel. By evening, arrive in Manali and board your overnight Laxmi Holidays Volvo 9600 back to Delhi/Chandigarh. Route Kaza → Losar → Kunzum → Chandratal → Batal → Atal Tunnel → Manali → Overnight Volvo, ~220 km Elevation 12,500 ft → 15,000 ft → 14,100 ft → 7,009 ft Stay Camping in Chandratal | Overnight Volvo to Delhi/Chandigarh. Network works throughout Delhi and the Himalayan foothills on the overnight drive. Download offline maps and content before boarding.
Stay: Camping in Chandratal + Overnight Volvo Transfer
Meals: Breakfast
Pricing and planning
₹63,000
Inclusions
- 7 nights' accommodation in premium homestays, camps & hotels (double/twin sharing only).
- Meals: Daily breakfast (from Day 2) and dinner (from Day 1) — pure vegetarian, authentic local cuisine.
- Private SUV (4x4 / Premium SUV — depending on weather) for the entire journey, covering all routes, transfers & sightseeing.
- Round-trip Volvo Transfers included — Delhi/Chandigarh to Aut/Manali side by Zingbus Maxx / Volvo 9600, and return Manali to Delhi/Chandigarh by Laxmi Holidays / Volvo 9600.
- Volvo Details: Economy – Volvo 9400 / Scania | Premium – Volvo 9600 Luxury Coach. Outbound Delhi boarding is arranged with Zingbus, and the return Volvo from Manali is arranged with Laxmi Holidays. Front section seating (first 5 rows) for enhanced comfort.
- Experienced Driver-cum-Local Guide with deep local knowledge.
- All permits included: Inner-line, border, restricted/protected area permits.
- 24/7 on-ground support & coordination throughout the expedition.
- High-altitude safety planning & backup support.
Exclusions
- Extra Stay beyond the planned itinerary.
- Flights / airfare to and from the destination.
- Lunch & additional meals not mentioned in inclusions.
- Any rentals (bike, jeep, cab) if taken separately.
- Fuel charges (for rented vehicles).
- Damages / fines / penalties (vehicle or personal).
- Personal Expenses: optional tours, beverages, insurance, laundry, phone services.
- Extra guide fees, camera/video usage charges, and tips.
- Activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Unforeseen expenses due to roadblocks, weather conditions, or natural disruptions.
- Medical expenses/emergency costs.
- Volvo Responsibility Clause: Guests must report on time at ISBT Kashmiri Gate. No refunds for missed buses.
- GST @ 5% as applicable per Government of India regulations (charged additionally on the base package).
Questions before you book
Will I have mobile network and WiFi during the trip?
Most stays on this route have WiFi. Very remote high-altitude camps may not — your guide will inform you. All major Indian networks (Jio, Airtel, BSNL) work across Himachal Pradesh and the Himalayan valleys on this route. Network drops are normal on high passes and remote stretches between towns. BSNL often has the best reach in the most remote sections. Download offline maps before entering high-altitude areas.
Who is this trip best suited for?
Spiti & Chandratal Overland is ideal for travelers looking for an easy to moderate Himalayan journey through Spiti Valley. It works especially well for guests who value slower travel, local access, and curated 4x4 expedition support over rushed sightseeing.
How long is the journey and what is the trip style?
This experience runs for 8 Days | 7 Nights (Delhi to Delhi). It is planned as a curated small-group SUV expedition with a maximum group size of 12, so the pace stays personal and manageable on the ground.
What kind of stay can I expect?
Accommodation is a mix of premium homestays, hotels, and a camping night at Chandratal—character-rich stays well-aligned with each region rather than generic tourist stopovers.
Are meals included during the trip?
Pure vegetarian meals are included: daily breakfast (from Day 2) and dinner (from Day 1), featuring authentic local Himachali and Spitian cuisine.
What kind of weather should I prepare for?
Expect temperatures of 10–25°C during the day in Kaza and valley villages, dropping to 5–10°C at night. High-altitude stops like Kunzum La and Chandratal can be much colder, especially with wind exposure. Even in summer, warm layering is essential throughout the trip.
Is the Shipki La frontier visit guaranteed?
The Shipki La diversion is subject to permissions, weather, and ground conditions. Our team plans the route to attempt it whenever feasible, but safety and clearances always take precedence.
Can I choose a private departure or customize this itinerary?
Yes. If you want a private journey, a luxury upgrade, or route-level customization, contact the team via the booking support section. We can often tailor pace, stays, and logistics based on group size and travel style.
When are the upcoming departures available?
Departures run on fixed seasonal dates with limited spots per group. Reach out via WhatsApp or the contact page for the latest confirmed dates and current availability.