09 days: Spiti Self Drive Expedition
Itinerary
SightSeeing
Transportation
Support
Meals
Hotel
Highlights
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the towering Himalayas,
the journey to Spiti Valley is like stepping into the verses of the soulful
Himachali folk song, Chamba Kitni Duur. With every curve in the road,
the landscapes unfold stories of rugged terrains, glacial streams, and starry
skies. The serene chants from Key Monastery and the whispers of the Spiti River
echo through the valley, connecting you to its mystic charm. As you wander
through Langza and Komik, the world’s highest villages, it's as if the
mountains hum their age-old secrets, inviting you to be a part of their tale.
This adventure promises not just sights, but moments that resonate with the
heart of the Himalayas.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Chandigarh | The Adventure Begins
- Morning:
Arrive at Chandigarh and meet your expedition leader for a detailed
briefing on the route, safety tips, and itinerary.
- Vehicle
Check: Ensure your SUV or 4x4 is in top condition and stock up on
snacks, water, and essentials.
- Evening:
Rest well at your hotel to prepare for the adventure.
- Stay:
Hotel in Chandigarh.
Day 2: Chandigarh to Narkanda (178 km | 5-6 hours)
- Morning:
Begin your drive towards Narkanda, passing through lush pine forests and
mountain roads.
- Afternoon:
Enjoy a local dhaba lunch and continue driving through scenic apple
orchards.
- Evening:
Arrive in Narkanda, check in, and savor a hearty dinner.
- Highlights:
Mountain roads, apple orchards, and panoramic views.
- Stay:
Hotel in Narkanda.
Day 3: Narkanda to Chitkul (180 km | 7-8 hours)
- Morning:
Depart early and drive along the Sutlej River, heading towards Chitkul,
the last village near the Indo-Tibetan border.
- Afternoon:
Stop for lunch en route and soak in the breathtaking views of Kinnaur
Valley.
- Evening:
Arrive in Chitkul, check into a guesthouse, and explore the village or
relax by the river.
- Highlights:
Sutlej River drive, Chitkul village, "Hindustan ka Aakhri
Dhaba."
- Stay:
Guesthouse in Chitkul.
Day 4: Chitkul to Kalpa (61 km | 3-4 hours)
- Morning:
Drive to Kalpa, admiring views of the Kinnaur Kailash mountain range.
- Afternoon:
Visit Suicide Point and Roghi Village. Explore local culture while
enjoying a traditional lunch.
- Evening:
Check into a hotel and watch the sunset over the Himalayas.
- Highlights:
Kinnaur Kailash views, traditional Kinnauri culture.
- Stay:
Hotel in Kalpa.
Day 5: Kalpa to Kaza (200 km | 8-9 hours)
- Morning:
Begin an early journey to Kaza, witnessing the confluence of Spiti and
Sutlej Rivers.
- Afternoon:
Stop at Nako for lunch and visit Nako Lake. Navigate rugged terrain en
route to Kaza.
- Evening:
Arrive in Kaza, check into your hotel, and rest.
- Highlights:
Nako Lake, Spiti Valley landscape.
- Stay:
Hotel in Kaza.
Day 6: Explore Kaza and Surrounding Villages (50 km round
trip)
- Morning:
Visit Key Monastery and experience its spiritual ambiance.
- Afternoon:
Explore Langza Village (fossils and Buddha statue), Hikkim (world's
highest post office), and Komik (Asia's highest village).
- Evening:
Return to Kaza for dinner and relaxation.
- Highlights:
Key Monastery, Langza fossils, Hikkim post office, Komik village.
- Stay:
Hotel in Kaza.
Day 7: Kaza to Chandratal Lake via Kunzum La (90 km | 4-5
hours)
- Morning:
Drive to Chandratal Lake, crossing the high-altitude Kunzum La Pass. Drive
cautiously on the rough roads.
- Afternoon:
Set up camp near the lake, enjoy lunch, and explore the stunning lake,
known for its color-changing beauty.
- Evening:
Relax with a bonfire under a star-studded sky.
- Highlights:
Kunzum La Pass, Chandratal Lake, stargazing.
- Stay:
Campsite near Chandratal Lake.
Day 8: Chandratal to Manali via Rohtang Pass (130 km |
6-7 hours)
- Morning:
Depart for Manali after breakfast, crossing the challenging Rohtang Pass.
- Afternoon:
Arrive in Manali, check into your hotel, and unwind. Explore Mall Road or
visit the serene Hadimba Temple.
- Evening:
Celebrate the end of your adventure with a group dinner.
- Highlights:
Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Mall Road.
- Stay:
Hotel in Manali.
Day 9: Manali to Chandigarh (290 km | 8-9 hours)
- Morning:
Drive back to Chandigarh, reflecting on your memorable journey.
- Afternoon:
Lunch en route and continue the scenic return drive.
- Evening:
Arrive in Chandigarh, hand over vehicles, and bid farewell to fellow
adventurers.
- Highlights:
Scenic drive, camaraderie with fellow travelers.
- Stay:
End of the expedition; depart for home.
Know Before Going for 09 days: Spiti Self Drive Expedition
Must Know
.1. Travel Preparation
- Vehicle
Readiness: Ensure your SUV or 4x4 vehicle is in excellent condition
for navigating rugged terrains.
- Essential
Documents: Carry valid ID, permits (if required), and a copy of your
insurance.
- Medical
Kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with altitude sickness medicines and
any personal prescriptions.
2. Clothing and Gear
- Layered
Clothing: The weather can vary drastically; carry thermal layers,
windproof jackets, and comfortable trekking shoes.
- Accessories:
Sunglasses, gloves, woolen caps, and sunscreen are a must to combat the
sun and cold winds.
3. Food and Water
- Snacks:
Keep dry snacks, energy bars, and instant food for remote areas.
- Hydration:
Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, especially at higher
altitudes.
4. Altitude Awareness
- Acclimatization:
Allow your body time to adjust to the altitude. Avoid exertion on the
first day.
- Symptoms:
Look out for headaches, nausea, or dizziness, and descend if symptoms
worsen.
5. Connectivity and Navigation
- Offline
Maps: Mobile networks are unreliable. Download offline maps or carry a
physical map of the region.
- Power
Backup: Carry a fully charged power bank and extra batteries for your
devices.
6. Local Customs and Etiquette
- Respect
Monasteries: Dress modestly and follow the rules in monasteries and
temples.
- Interact
Kindly: Be polite and respectful when engaging with locals.
7. Environment and Safety
- Leave
No Trace: Avoid littering and carry back all waste.
- Driving
Caution: Drive carefully on narrow, steep roads, especially during
landslide-prone stretches.
8. Timing and Seasons
- Best
Time to Visit: Plan your trip between May and October for safer roads
and milder weather.
- Weather
Updates: Check road conditions and weather forecasts before starting
daily drives.
Inclusions
Accommodation
2. Meals
3. Transportation
4. Expert Support
Driver Services: Experienced, polite, and knowledgeable driver throughout the trip.
Trip Marshal: A dedicated leader to guide and manage the expedition.
24/7 Assistance: Human support available at all times for any emergencies or queries.
5. Convenience and Safety
Exclusions
Adventure Activities
- Activities:
Costs for activities like trekking, paragliding, zorbing, or any other
adventure activities will be extra.
Fuel for Self-Driven Vehicle
- Fuel:
If you are driving your own vehicle, fuel costs are not included.
Personal Expenses
- Shopping:
Any personal purchases, souvenirs, or additional snacks will be at your
own expense.
- Tips:
Gratuities for drivers, guides, or hotel staff are not included.
Entry Fees
- Monument
& Tourist Attractions: Entry tickets for places like monasteries,
temples, and other tourist spots are not covered in the package.