7‑Day Spiti Valley Itinerary: Manali to Chandratal
📅 Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley
Plan your trip between mid-June and October for open roads over Rohtang & Kunzum. Monsoon (July-August) brings lush scenery and local festivals; late October can be unpredictable with early snowfall.
🛣️ Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Manali → Kaza (210 km)
Cross Rohtang Pass (3,980 m) and drive along the Chandra River. Pass Kunzum Pass (4,551 m), visit Loser Village, arrive at Kaza (≈3,600 m) by late evening.
Day 2: Kaza → Mud (50 km)
Enjoy a short scenic drive—visit Kungri Monastery in Pin Valley (founded 1330).
Day 3: Mud → Lalung via Tabo & Dhankar (95 km)
Tour the nearly 1,000‑year‑old Tabo Monastery and the dramatic cliffside Dhankar Monastery. Stay overnight in a cozy Lalung homestay.
Day 4: Lalung → Komik → Hikkim → Langza (70 km)
Visit Komik (~4,500 m – highest motorable village) and Hikkim (~4,400 m – world’s highest post office). End in Langza with its giant Buddha statue and panoramic views.
Day 5: Langza → Kaza → Key Monastery → Kibber (60 km)
Explore Key Monastery (~4,166 m), then drive to Kibber, entry to the wildlife sanctuary—home to snow leopards & ibex.
Day 6: Kibber → Chandratal (85 km)
Cross Kunzum Pass again and camp at the stunning Chandratal Lake (≈4,300 m), nicknamed "Moon Lake."
Day 7: Chandratal → Manali (120 km)
Descend via Kunzum & Rohtang. Stop at Batal's famous Chacha-Chachi Dhaba before returning to Manali.
❓ FAQ
- Do I need permits?
- Yes—Inner Line Permits are required to cross Rohtang & Kunzum passes.
- How do I avoid altitude sickness?
- Take acclimatization days in Kaza or Mud, stay hydrated, and avoid rapid ascent.
- What vehicle should I use?
- A sturdy 4×4 or SUV is recommended due to rough gravel roads.