Spiti Valley Itinerary from Delhi: Complete 8-Day Travel Guide
Spiti Valley Itinerary from Delhi: Complete 8-Day Travel Guide
Spiti Valley, often called the Middle Land between India and Tibet, is one of the most breath taking high-altitude destinations in the Indian Himalayas. With stark landscapes, ancient monasteries, crystal-clear rivers, and remote villages, Spiti promises an unforgettable adventure. This detailed Spiti Valley itinerary from Delhi is ideal for first-time visitors seeking a well-paced, scenic, and immersive experience.
Overview: Delhi to Spiti Valley Road Trip
- Duration: 8-9 Days
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
Route Options:
- Via Shimla (preferred for acclimatisation)
- Via Manali (shorter but challenging; best mid-summer onwards)
This itinerary follows the Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti circuit, offering gradual altitude gain and better comfort.
Day 1: Delhi to Shimla (Approx. 350 km | 8–9 hrs)
Begin your journey early from Delhi and drive to Shimla, the charming capital of Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights:
- Scenic Himalayan foothills
- Evening stroll on Mall Road
- Overnight stay in Shimla
Day 2: Shimla to Kalpa / Sangla (Approx. 220 km | 7–8 hrs)
Travel along the Sutlej River via Narkanda and Rampur to enter the Kinnaur region.
Highlights:
- Apple orchards and pine forests
- Views of the Kinner Kailash range
- Stay in Kalpa or Sangla village
Day 3: Kalpa / Sangla to Tabo (Approx. 190 km | 6–7 hrs)
The landscape begins to change dramatically as greenery gives way to arid mountains.
Highlights:
- Drive through Pooh and Nako
- Visit Nako Lake (time permitting)
- Reach Tabo and explore the 1,000-year-old Tabo Monastery
- Overnight stay in Tabo
Day 4: Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar (Approx. 60 km | 3–4 hrs)
A short but culturally rich day in Spiti Valley.
Highlights:
- Visit Dhankar Monastery, perched on a cliff
- Optional hike to Dhankar Lake
- Continue to Kaza, the administrative hub of Spiti
- Overnight stay in Kaza
Day 5: Kaza – Key – Kibber – Gette – Langza – Komic – Hikkim (Local Sightseeing)
Explore the iconic high-altitude villages of Spiti.
Highlights:
- Key Monastery – the largest monastery in Spiti
- Kibber Village – once the highest motorable village
- Langza – fossil village with Buddha statue
- Hikkim – home to the world’s highest post office
- Komic – among the highest villages in Asia
- Return to Kaza for overnight stay
Day 6: Kaza to Chandratal Lake (Approx. 100 km | 5–6 hrs)
One of the most scenic days of the journey.
Highlights:
- Drive via Losar and Kunzum Pass
- Short trek to Chandratal Lake
- Overnight stay in camps near Chandratal (weather permitting)
Day 7: Chandratal to Manali (Approx. 130 km | 6–7 hrs)
Cross the dramatic Kunzum Pass and descend into the lush valleys of Manali.
Highlights:
- Water crossings and rugged terrain
- Arrival in Manali by evening
- Relax and explore local cafés
- Overnight stay in Manali
Day 8: Manali to Delhi (Approx. 540 km | Overnight Volvo or 12-14 hrs drive)
Return to Delhi by overnight Volvo bus or a long road journey, marking the end of your Spiti Valley adventure.
Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley
- May–June: Snow-capped views, pleasant weather
- July–September: Open Manali route, vibrant landscapes
- October: Clear skies but colder nights
Winters are extreme and suitable only for experienced travellers.
Travel Tips for Spiti Valley
- Acclimatise properly to avoid altitude sickness
- Carry cash; ATMs are limited
- Mobile connectivity is sparse (BSNL works best)
- Pack warm clothing even in summer
- Obtain Inner Line Permit if required (usually not for Indians)
Why Visit Spiti Valley?
Spiti Valley is not just a destination it’s an experience of raw nature, spiritual calm, and Himalayan solitude. From ancient monasteries to dramatic high-altitude lakes, this journey offers a rare blend of adventure, culture, and peace.
