How to Reach Spiti Valley in 2024: Routes, Tips, and More

Explore the best ways of how to reach Spiti Valley in 2024. Our guide offers detailed information on routes, travel tips, and everything you need for a hassle-free trip to this breathtaking destination.

So basically there are two routes from where you can reach Spiti. We have mentioned both routes below.

Shimla to Kaza

Route: Shimla – Narkanda – Rampur – Jeori – Sarahan – Reckong Peo – Kalpa – Pooh – Nako – Sumdo – Tabo – Dhankar – Kaza.
Distance: Approximately 415 km
Travel Time: 1-2 days depending on stops

Manali to Kaza

Route: Manali – Rohtang Pass – Gramphu – Batal – Kunzum Pass – Losar – Kaza.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: 1-2 days depending on stops

How to reach Spiti using different ways of transport

1. Bus

HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) buses operate regularly from Shimla and Manali to Kaza. Private buses and shared taxis are also available. Below are the HRTC bus timings from Shimla to Kaza and Manali to Kaza.

2. Personal Vehicle

One of the most convenient and cost effective options to reach Spiti is by your own vehicle. The advantages being like you can change your itinerary as per your needs, make stops as many as you like to, no need to carry the luggage here and there, and the most important one it will save you money. But before travelling to Spiti with your own vehicle, keep in mind that you have that required experience to drive a car in hilly terrains because at some points there is no road or like totally offroad. So, if you are comfortable driving in this kind of terrain then only it is preferable to choose this option.

Important Notes:

Have a proper checkup or service of your car before leaving.
Always carry extra fuel with you as there are a few petrol pumps on these routes.
Always check the road conditions before planning a trip.

3. Taxi

Another one of the most convenient and most comfortable ways of going to Spiti. You can easily hire a taxi if you have a good budget and want to enjoy Spiti without any worries like parking, damage to the car, driving in this terrain.

So, if you have chosen the Manali-Kaza route then the taxi options are easily available at Manali once you reach Manali. And if you want to know how you can reach Manali then you can read this

5 different ways to reach from Chandigarh to Manali by bus, taxi, plane etc.

Or if you have chosen the Shimla-Kaza route then you can easily get a taxi from Shimla. And if you want to know how to reach Shimla then you can get read this

3 ways to reach from Chandigarh To Shimla

4. Train

Nearest Railway Stations:

Kalka Railway Station: 350 km from Shimla, connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
Chandigarh Railway Station: 350 km from Shimla, well-connected to major Indian cities.

From the railway stations, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Shimla/Manali and then continue your journey to Spiti Valley by road.

5. Air

Nearest Airports:

Bhuntar Airport (Kullu): 245 km from Manali. Limited flights and connectivity.
Chandigarh International Airport: 350 km from Shimla. Better connectivity with major cities.

From the airports, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Shimla/Manali and then continue your journey to Spiti Valley by road.

Important Tips:

Always check the weather conditions of Spiti Valley and the road conditions of the route you are following.
The Shimla-Kaza route is open throughout the year and the Manali-Kaza route opens during summer season only for a few months. So, if you are traveling through Manali-Kaza route please check the road and weather conditions because in this route there are some high altitude passes, on which the snow can fall at any time which makes the roads tough for driving.
If driving by your own car then always carry extra fuel because of shortage of petrol pumps, carry an extra tire, and if you are traveling in winters then it is recommended to go with a 4by4 car and carry chains, which can be used for tires in case of black ice on roads.
One can also experience altitude sickness due to low oxygen in Spiti Valley. So, it is recommended to acclimate your body for one or two days in Kaza (Spiti), then explore Spiti. It is very rare if you choose the Shimla-Kaza route but in the Manali-Kaza route where there is sudden change in altitude you may experience this. So, if you have any breathing related problems like asthma, always consult with your doctor first before planning a trip.
In the peak season, like summers, there is a heavy rush of tourists in Spiti Valley, so book your hotel or homestay in advance in order to avoid any inconvenience.
If possible make your stay in a homestay instead of a hotel. There is a home like experience, home like food which will make your overall staying experience more memorable.