8-Day Spiti Valley Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide for Mountain Lovers 2025
The Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is an adventure-packed, high-altitude cold desert that attracts bikers, backpackers, and soul-seekers. With barren landscapes, majestic mountains, ancient monasteries, and serene villages, Spiti offers one of the most enriching road trips in India. Here’s a detailed 8-day itinerary that will help you explore Spiti Valley to the fullest, especially if you’re traveling from Manali.
Day 1: Manali to Kaza – Gateway to Spiti Begins
Your journey starts from Manali, a bustling hill station in Himachal. Start early in the morning to cover the 200 km stretch to Kaza, which will take around 8–10 hours due to rough terrains and photography stops. On the way, you will cross iconic points like Rohtang Pass (if open), Gramphu, Chhatru, Batal, and Kunzum La Pass – which is perched at 14,931 ft. The rugged views will leave you speechless. Make a stop at Chandra Tal Lake if you’re coming from the Manali side and it’s open.
By the time you reach Kaza (11,980 ft), you’ll already be surrounded by dry, moon-like terrains and prayer flags fluttering in the cold breeze. Stay the night in Kaza to acclimatize and get a feel of the town. Take it easy as you’re now in high altitude.
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Day 2: Kaza Local Sightseeing – Monasteries and More
Today is for exploring Kaza and nearby attractions. Start your day with a local Tibetan breakfast. First, head to Key Monastery – the largest and most iconic monastery in Spiti perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the valley. Spend some quiet moments soaking in the Buddhist chants.
Next, visit Kibber Village (14,200 ft) – once known as the highest motorable village. From here, you can spot Himalayan Blue Sheep or even a Snow Leopard if you’re lucky. Later, drive to Chicham Bridge, one of Asia’s highest suspension bridges.
In the evening, return to Kaza and visit the local market. You can shop for woollens, Spitian artefacts, and try local dishes like thukpa and momos.
Day 3: Kaza to Hikkim, Komic, and Langza – The High Altitude Trio
Dedicate this day to visiting three of the highest inhabited villages in the world. Start with Hikkim, which has the world’s highest post office. Send a postcard to your loved ones from here. Next, head to Komic – the highest motorable village (15,500 ft). Visit the Tangyud Monastery and interact with the warm-hearted locals.
End your day at Langza, famous for its giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley. Langza is also known for its ancient fossils – you might find one during a nature walk! The views of Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak are stunning.
Spend the night in Langza or return to Kaza.
Day 4: Kaza to Pin Valley – The Hidden Green Wonderland
Leave for Pin Valley National Park, a contrasting green paradise in Spiti. It is home to rare flora and fauna including the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Ibex. The drive from Kaza to Pin Valley (via Attargo Bridge) is around 2 hours.
Explore Mudh Village, the last motorable village in Pin Valley. It’s peaceful, surrounded by mountains and fields, and offers a chance to stay with a local family. Go for short nature walks, visit the riverside, and relax.
This lesser-known side of Spiti will charm you with its raw beauty and simple lifestyle.
Day 5: Kaza to Dhankar – Fort, Monastery & Lake
Start your morning journey towards Dhankar, a historic village perched atop a cliff. Visit the Dhankar Monastery, which offers a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the confluence of Spiti and Pin rivers. You can also explore Dhankar Fort ruins, which whisper stories of the past.
If you’re up for a short trek (around 1.5 hours one way), hike to Dhankar Lake, a high-altitude lake with a pristine view and tranquil setting. It’s moderately challenging but worth the effort.
Spend the night in Dhankar or head back to Kaza.
Day 6: Kaza to Tabo – Ajanta of the Himalayas
Drive to Tabo, located around 50 km from Kaza. Known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas,” Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest functioning Buddhist enclaves (established in 996 AD). The frescoes, paintings, and ancient scriptures here are awe-inspiring.
You can also visit Tabo Caves, located on a nearby hill where monks used to meditate. Spend time walking around the village and meeting monks and local artisans.
Stay overnight in Tabo. Accommodation is easily available in guest houses and home stays.
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Day 7: Tabo to Nako – Lakeside Bliss
Begin early for a scenic drive to Nako, a picturesque village located in Kinnaur district. On the way, you will witness shifting terrains and vibrant monasteries. The route from Tabo to Nako takes around 3–4 hours.
Nako Lake, located in the middle of the village, is a peaceful sight surrounded by willows and poplars. Take a walk around the village and visit the Nako Monastery. It’s a great place to pause and soak in the peace of the mountains.
Stay overnight in Nako to break the journey and relax.
Day 8: Nako to Kalpa / Shimla – The Journey Ends
Your final day of the trip. Depending on your time and destination, you can either head to Kalpa, a charming village with views of the Kinner Kailash range, or drive all the way down towards Shimla. The drive will be long but scenic with apple orchards, winding roads, and rivers accompanying you throughout.
Kalpa is a great place to unwind after a high-altitude trip. You can relax in a café or visit Roghi Village and the suicide point for panoramic views.
Must-Carry Essentials for Spiti Valley Itinerary
- Valid ID proof
- Woollens and thermals
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Power bank and portable oxygen (for high-altitude areas)
- Good trekking shoes
- Water bottles and energy snacks
- Camera and memory cards
