Spiti Valley is one of India's last great Himalayan road adventures — a cold desert of ancient monasteries, fossil villages, and passes above 4,000 metres. Most travellers complete the classic circuit entering via Shimla-Kinnaur and exiting through Manali, which aids gradual altitude acclimatization.
Classic circuit route
Delhi/Chandigarh → Shimla → Narkanda → Rampur → Reckong Peo → Kalpa → Nako → Tabo → Kaza → Key Monastery → Hikkim → Langza → Komic → Chandratal (seasonal) → Kunzum Pass → Batal → Manali.
- Minimum 7–8 days recommended for the full circuit.
- Add 2 buffer days for pass closures or AMS recovery.
- Foreign nationals need Inner Line Permit for Kinnaur-Spiti stretch.
Permits & paperwork
- Indian nationals: No ILP; carry valid photo ID.
- Foreign nationals: ILP at Reckong Peo, Shimla DC office, or Kaza.
- Rohtang/Atal side: Check online permit rules if exiting via Manali in peak season.
Fuel, connectivity & health
Fuel up at Reckong Peo and Kaza — options are sparse between Nako and Losar. BSNL works best in Kaza; expect no signal at Kunzum and Chandratal. Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and consider Diamox after medical advice for passes above 14,000 ft.
