11 Days Ultimate Spiti Valley Circuit Tour: The Full Loop Itinerary

The Spiti Valley Circuit is more than just a road trip; it is a journey through changing cultures, landscapes, and altitudes. Starting from Chandigarh, this 11-day plan ensures you acclimate properly while seeing the very best of Himachal Pradesh.

Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla (115 km | 3-4 Hours)

Your journey begins with a pickup from Chandigarh. As you leave the plains, the air gets cooler.

  • The Highlight: Spend your evening walking on The Mall Road and The Ridge.

  • Pro Tip: Grab a coffee at a cafe overlooking the valley to soak in the “Queen of Hills” vibe.

Day 2: Shimla Local Sightseeing

Take a day to adjust to the mountain air.

  • Places to visit: Visit the Jakhoo Temple (watch out for the monkeys!), Kufri for panoramic views, and the beautiful Christ Church.

  • Evening: Explore the local Lakkar Bazaar for wooden handicrafts.

Day 3: Shimla to Narkanda (60 km | 2 Hours)

A short but beautiful drive through dense pine forests.

  • The Highlight: Drive up to Hatu Peak, the highest point in the region. The view of the snow-capped inner Himalayas from here is breathtaking.

  • Vibe: Narkanda is famous for its apple orchards and quiet, peaceful atmosphere.

Day 4: Narkanda to Sangla (160 km | 6-7 Hours)

Today you officially enter the Kinnaur District. The roads get narrower and more “thrilling” as you drive alongside the Satluj River.

  • The Highlight: Reaching Sangla Valley, often called one of the most beautiful valleys in the world.

  • Stay: Overnight in Sangla or the nearby village of Rakcham.

Day 5: Sangla to Kalpa (40 km | 2 Hours)

A short drive but packed with views.

  • The Highlight: The view of the Kinner Kailash peaks from your hotel window in Kalpa.

  • Must See: Visit Suicide Point (don’t worry, it’s just a name!) and the ancient Roghi Village to see traditional Kinnauri architecture.

Day 6: Kalpa to Tabo (150 km | 6-7 Hours)

This is the day the landscape changes from green to brown. You are now entering the high-altitude desert.

  • En route: Stop at Gue Village to see the 500-year-old naturally preserved mummy of a monk.

  • Stay: Reach Tabo, known for its 1,000-year-old monastery, often called the “Ajanta of the Himalayas.”

Day 7: Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar (65 km | 3 Hours)

  • The Highlight: A steep climb to Dhankar Monastery, perched precariously on a cliff.

  • Arrival: Reach Kaza, the capital of Spiti. Spend the evening exploring the local Kaza market and trying some Thukpa or Butter Tea.

Day 8: Kaza to Chandratal Lake (100 km | 4-5 Hours)

Time to see the “Moon Lake.” You will cross the mighty Kunzum Pass (14,931 ft).

  • The Experience: Chandratal Lake is a turquoise blue wonder. You will stay in luxury campsites about 2 km from the lake.

  • Note: This is the highest point of your stay. Keep hydrated!

Day 9: Chandratal to Manali (130 km | 6-7 Hours)

Today’s drive is legendary. You will navigate the famous “Chandra River” crossings and the boulders of the Gramphu-Batal road.

  • The Route: You will enter Manali via the Rohtang Pass or the engineering marvel, the Atal Tunnel.

  • Transition: The brown desert disappears as you descend back into the lush green forests of the Kullu Valley.

Day 10: Manali Local Sightseeing

After the rugged Spiti roads, enjoy some comfort in Manali.

  • Places to visit: Hadimba Devi Temple, Vashisht Hot Springs, and the hippie vibes of Old Manali.

  • Evening: Shop for souvenirs on the Manali Mall Road.

Day 11: Manali to Chandigarh Departure (270 km | 8-9 Hours)

Your epic circuit comes to an end. After breakfast, drive back to Chandigarh. We will drop you at the airport or railway station for your journey home.

Why Book This Circuit?

  1. Perfect Acclimatization: By starting from Shimla, you gain altitude slowly, which prevents altitude sickness (AMS).

  2. Best Views: You see everything—from the apple orchards of Kinnaur to the cold desert of Spiti and the forests of Manali.

  3. The Full Experience: You don’t repeat any roads. Every day is a new landscape.