Spiti Circuit with Chandratal Trip

About the Trip

The Spiti Circuit with Chandratal Lake is an extraordinary Himalayan road trip from Chandigarh to Chandigarh, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, remote villages, and high-altitude adventure. Travelling via Shimla, the journey begins with scenic drives through pine-covered hills and gradually unfolds into the stunning beauty of Sangla Valley, Chitkul, and Kalpa, where lush apple orchards, traditional wooden villages, and panoramic views of the majestic Kinnaur Kailash Range create unforgettable moments.

Following the rugged road alongside the Sutlej River, the landscape dramatically transforms into the stark, moon-like terrain of Spiti Valley. The iconic Pin Valley, ancient monasteries of Tabo, Dhankar, and Key, and the charming village of Kaza await exploration. The highlight of the journey is the camping experience at the ethereal Chandratal Lake, a crescent-shaped alpine lake at an altitude of 4,300 meters, surrounded by jagged peaks and pristine wilderness.

The return leg traverses the thrilling Rohtang Pass and the lush Kullu Valley, providing a dramatic contrast to the barren high-altitude landscapes. This trip is ideal for those who seek adventure, solitude, and an intimate connection with the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

Chandigarh to Shimla (120 km | ~4 hrs)

Arrive in Chandigarh and depart for Shimla. Check in to the hotel. Evening stroll on Mall Road and explore the colonial charm of the hill station.

Shimla to Sangla Valley (200 km | ~7 hrs)

Drive through Rampur and Nathpa along the Sutlej River. Descend into the Baspa Valley and reach the beautiful Sangla Valley. Overnight stay at Sangla.

Sangla – Chitkul – Kalpa (50 km | ~2 hrs + sightseeing)

Morning visit to Chitkul — the last inhabited village on the Indo-China border. Afternoon drive to Kalpa with stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash Range. Overnight in Kalpa.

Kalpa to Tabo (165 km | ~6 hrs)

Drive along the Spiti River to Tabo — home to the oldest Buddhist monastery in the Himalayas (996 AD). Explore the ancient murals and mud stupas.

Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar & Pin Valley (80 km | ~4 hrs)

Visit the cliff-perched Dhankar Monastery and its stunning lake. Explore the Pin Valley National Park — home to snow leopards and ibex. Reach Kaza by evening.

Kaza Local Sightseeing – Key Monastery, Kibber, Hikkim

Visit Key Monastery — the largest in Spiti Valley. Drive to Kibber village and then to Hikkim to post a letter from the world's highest post office. Optional hike to Komic.

Kaza to Chandratal Lake (80 km | ~4 hrs)

Drive to the enchanting Chandratal Lake (4,300m). Set up camp beside the crescent-shaped lake. Evening walk around the lake as the sky turns orange and violet.

Chandratal to Manali (120 km | ~5 hrs)

Early morning sunrise at Chandratal. Drive over Rohtang Pass (3,978m) and descend into the lush green Kullu Valley. Reach Manali by evening.

Manali Local Sightseeing & Leisure

Visit Hadimba Devi Temple, Old Manali, Vashisht Hot Springs, and Solang Valley. Evening leisure time. Dinner and overnight stay in Manali.

D10

Manali to Chandigarh (310 km | ~8 hrs)

Drive back to Chandigarh through the scenic Kullu and Mandi valleys. Drop at Chandigarh Railway Station / Airport. End of trip.

Inclusions

✓ Accommodation (hotels/camps as per itinerary)
✓ Daily breakfast and dinner
✓ Private cab (Innova Crysta/Ertiga/Tempo Traveller)
✓ Driver allowances, tolls, and fuel charges
✓ Inner Line Permits wherever required
✓ 1 night camping at Chandratal Lake
✓ Experienced local guide at major sights
✓ GST & all applicable taxes

Exclusions

✕ Airfare / train tickets to and from Chandigarh
✕ Lunch and personal expenses
✕ Entry fees to monuments / National Parks
✕ Adventure activities (paragliding, river rafting etc.)
✕ Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
✕ Porter / mule charges
✕ Any expenses due to natural calamities or roadblocks
✕ Tips and gratuities

Things to Carry

High-altitude trips require careful packing. Here's what you should bring:

Clothing & Gear

✓ Warm thermals and base layers
✓ Heavy fleece jacket or down jacket
✓ Waterproof outer shell / rain jacket
✓ Trekking pants and quick-dry clothes
✓ Sturdy trekking / hiking shoes
✓ Woollen socks and gloves
✓ Beanie / warm cap and sunhat

Essentials

✓ Sunscreen SPF 50+ and UV sunglasses
✓ Personal first aid kit & medicines
✓ Altitude sickness tablets (Diamox)
✓ Reusable water bottle and dry snacks
✓ Headlamp / torch with extra batteries
✓ Power bank and camera
✓ Government-issued photo ID (mandatory)

This is a road trip, not a trek, so the difficulty level is moderate. However, due to high altitude (up to 4,587m), participants should be in good health and have no serious cardiac or respiratory conditions. We recommend acclimatizing before the trip.

Yes, this trip is suitable for first-timers who are reasonably fit. No prior trekking or adventure experience is required. Our experienced driver and guide will ensure your safety throughout the journey.

The best time is between mid-June and early October. Roads open after the snow melts in June and close again before November snowfall. July-August sees occasional rain but lush green valleys. September-October offers crystal clear skies and excellent visibility.

Cancellations made 30+ days before departure: Full refund. 15-30 days: 50% refund. Less than 15 days: No refund. We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.

Mobile connectivity is very limited in Spiti Valley. BSNL has the best coverage with limited 2G in some areas. We strongly recommend informing your family before you enter Spiti as you may be unreachable for 3-4 days. This digital detox is part of the Spiti experience!