Delhi to Spiti Valley: Routes, Places & Travel Tips

The journey from Delhi to Spiti Valley takes you through some of the most stunning mountain views in the Indian Himalayas. This cold desert valley sits very high up in Himachal Pradesh and shows you dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a way of living that feels totally different from noisy cities.

Many travellers choose a Spiti Valley tour package because it simplifies everything, especially when you visit these far-away mountain regions for the first time. Spiti is one of those rare places where nature stays untouched and you can feel genuine peace away from tourist crowds.

This blog gives you complete information about travelling from Delhi to Spiti Valley. You will learn about different routes available, various transport options, which spots you absolutely must visit, and helpful tips that will make planning your trip much easier. Sort out your Spiti adventure now and get ready for an incredible mountain experience that you will never forget.

How to Reach Spiti Valley from Delhi

When you plan your trip to Spiti Valley from Delhi, the main question is how you will actually reach there. Let's check out the different ways to get to Spiti from Delhi and what each choice gives you.

By Road

Two main routes connect Delhi to Spiti Valley by road. One goes through Manali, the other through Shimla. Picking the right route matters because it completely changes your travel experience. The distance varies depending on which way you go.

Via Shimla, you're looking at roughly 730 to 750 kilometres. Via Manali, the distance sits around 720 kilometres. You can drive yourself, book a taxi, or catch a bus for this road journey.

Spiti Valley Route via Manali

• Route: Delhi > Manali > Rohtang Pass > Gramphu > Kunzum Pass > Kaza/Tabo

• Distance: 720 km

• Duration: 20 to 24 hours

• Best months: June to October (The route closes in winter.Therefore, Winter Spiti trip via Manali aren't possible as Rohtang Pass remains blocked by snow)

• Road conditions: Manali to Lahaul has decent roads. Things get tougher after Rohtang Pass with narrow paths and rough patches.

• Permits: You don't need permits anymore since most people use the Atal Tunnel route now. Still, carry your ID copies just in case.

Spiti Valley Route via Shimla

• Route: Delhi > Narkanda > Reckong Peo/Kalpa/Sangla > Nako > Tabo > Kaza

• Distance: 740 km

• Duration: 24 to 28 hours

• Best months: May to June

• Road conditions: This route stays safer and more reliable. Takes longer, but roads remain mostly smooth with some challenging bits mixed in. Good choice for first-timers.

• Permits: Indian citizens don't need any permits. Foreign visitors need permission to cross Reckong Peo.

Many travellers book a Spiti Valley tour package that includes transport and accommodation, which removes the stress of planning these routes yourself.

By Train

No trains go directly to Spiti Valley. You'll need to catch a train from Delhi to either Shimla or Chandigarh, which are the nearest major railway stations. From either station, continue by taxi or bus. This combination of train and road travel gives you gorgeous views along the way.

• Nearest stations: Shimla and Chandigarh

• Delhi to Shimla station: 277 to 278 km

• Delhi to Chandigarh station: 244 km

By Air

Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar is the closest airport to Spiti, sitting roughly 240 kilometres away. From there, grab a bus or hire a cab to continue.

Flight options here stay limited though. Chandigarh International Airport offers better connectivity with regular flights. From Chandigarh, you'll travel the rest by road to reach Spiti.

Places to Visit in Spiti Valley

Once you reach Spiti after your journey from Delhi to Spiti Valley, these incredible places await your exploration. Here are five must-visit spots that capture Spiti's magic.

1. Key Monastery

This thousand-year-old monastery sits on top of a hill in a very dramatic way. The white walls look beautiful against the brown mountains behind them.

Inside, you can see old paintings, rare ancient books, and monks doing their daily prayers. The calm peaceful feeling and wide valley views from here make it truly unforgettable.

2. Chandratal Lake

Often called Moon Lake, this high-altitude water body shines bright blue against barren mountains. The lake sits at over 14,000 feet. Camping beside it under star-filled skies becomes a highlight for most travellers visiting Spiti.

3. Kaza

Kaza serves as Spiti's main town and base for exploring surrounding villages. Small markets, basic cafes, and guesthouses line the streets. You can stock supplies, meet other travellers, and plan day trips from here to nearby monasteries and villages.

4. Dhankar Monastery

This ancient monastery hangs on the edge of a cliff and looks like it could fall down at any second. The spot gives you incredible views of the Spiti and Pin rivers joining together far below.

A short walk from the monastery takes you up to Dhankar Lake which sits peaceful and blue among the mountains. The monastery also has rooms where monks live and old paintings on the walls that are hundreds of years old.

5. Pin Valley National Park

This protected area becomes your best bet for spotting rare Himalayan wildlife. Snow leopards, ibex, and Himalayan wolves live here. The valley stays green compared to Spiti's barren landscape, with streams flowing through it during summer months.

Essential Tips for Travelling to Spiti Valley from Delhi

Going from Delhi to Spiti Valley requires good preparation because you will reach very high altitudes and visit far-away areas. Here are important tips that will help make your journey smooth and safe.

• Check road conditions before you leave - Roads get closed during winter months and after heavy rainfall. Always check the current road situation before you start your Delhi to Spiti Valley trip.

• Take lots of cash with you - ATMs almost never work properly in Spiti Valley. The last ATM that works reliably sits in Kaza town. Take out plenty of money when you stop in Manali or Shimla before going higher into the mountains.

• Bring warm clothes even in summer - Temperatures fall very quickly at night even when days feel warm. Wearing layers of clothing helps you stay comfortable when the weather keeps changing during the day.

• Keep medicines for altitude sickness - Going from Delhi's low altitude to Spiti's heights can cause headaches and nausea. Carry Diamox or similar medication after consulting your doctor.

• Fill fuel tanks regularly - Petrol pumps appear rarely. Fill up whenever you spot one. Kaza has the main fuel station in Spiti Valley.

• Book accommodation ahead during peak season - June to September sees maximum tourists. Guesthouses and homestays fill up fast. Book your stays beforehand, especially in popular spots like Kaza and Tabo.

• Avoid winter months if inexperienced - Winter Spiti Valley experiences extreme cold with temperatures dropping to -30°C and most routes becoming inaccessible. Only experienced travellers with proper preparation should attempt winter visits.

Travelling from Delhi to Spiti Valley shows you landscapes and experiences that you cannot find in most other places. The rough mountain roads, high passes, and tiny remote villages create an adventure you will remember for years.

Spiti gives you a very different view of India where ancient customs still exist in tough mountain conditions and nature stays mostly wild. You can take the Manali route or go through Shimla, but either way the journey feels just as special as arriving there.

The old monasteries, clear blue lakes, and kind local people make all the effort worth it. Start planning your trip now and see why so many travellers want to visit Spiti Valley again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions:-

1. How do I get to Spiti Valley from Delhi?

Spiti Valley can be accessed by road to Delhi, through two paths, one of which is via Manali and the other via Shimla. You can also take a train or a flight up to Chandigarh or Shimla and then the remaining part of the journey can be made by car or bus.

2. Is 2 days enough for Spiti Valley?

No, 2 days are not enough. You need at least 6 to 7 days to explore Spiti properly and adjust to the high altitude.

3. Which month is best for Spiti Valley?

The best months to visit Spiti Valley are from June to October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the roads remain open.

4. How far is Spiti from Manali?

Spiti is around 200 km from Manali. It takes about 8 to 10 hours by road, depending on the route and weather conditions.