Travel into the heart of the Trans-Himalayan cold desert of Spiti Valley on this 4N/5D tour covering Manali, Kaza and Chandratal. Cross the legendary Rohtang Pass* and towering Kunzum Pass, marvel at centuries-old monasteries; visit the world’s highest villages and camp beside the ethereal Chandratal Lake. A perfectly paced itinerary blending culture, altitude, adventure and unmatched Himalayan landscapes for travelers seeking an authentic, offbeat escape.
Trip Info
-
Mid- May- September
-
Manali
-
Available
-
3star
-
Breakfast + Dinner
-
Manali
-
Available
-
Manali
Overview
Designed for travellers seeking scenery, spirituality and adventure, this Manali–Kaza–Chandratal journey follows one of Himachal Pradesh’s most spectacular high-altitude routes. The programme combines Buddhist monasteries, remote villages, cold-desert landscapes, dramatic passes, stargazing and photography. Long road journeys are balanced with carefully selected sightseeing stops and practical overnight arrangements in Manali, Kaza and the designated Chandratal camping zone.
Highlights
- Drive across the iconic Rohtang Pass and Atal Tunnel
- Cross Kunzum Pass at approximately 15,059 ft.
- Visit centuries-old Key Monastery, Spiti's largest Gompa
- Explore Kibber village and its high-altitude wildlife sanctuary
- Witness Dhankar Monastery perched dramatically on a cliff edge
- See the sacred high-altitude Dhankar Lake
- Discover fossils and the giant Buddha statue at Langza
- Visit Hikkim, home to the world's highest post office
- Cross Chicham Bridge, Asia's highest suspension bridge
- Explore Komic, among the world's highest motorable villages
- Wander through the rugged Pin Valley National Park
- Visit Kungri Monastery and the remote Mudh village
- Overnight camping beside the mystical Chandratal Lake
- Watch Chandratal change colour from dawn to dusk
- Experience Manali's Hadimba Temple and Old Manali charm
- Shop for local handicrafts and shawls in Kaza market
- Sample authentic Spitian cuisine — thukpa, momos, butter tea
- Spot Himalayan blue sheep (Bharal) and Ibex en route
- Stargaze under some of India's clearest night skies
- Drive through dramatic moon-like cold-desert landscapes
Itinerary
Explore Spiti Valley’s dramatic cold-desert landscapes, ancient monasteries and highest villages on this scenic 4N/5D journey from Manali through Kaza to Chandratal Lake — a perfect blend of culture, adventure and breathtaking Himalayan wilderness.
Upon arrival at Manali, meet the driver of your pre appointed taxi at agreed arrival point with assistance in transfer to the hotel for check-in and breakfast*. Take little rest and the go for local sightseeing of Manali (Hadimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Old Manali, Vashist Temple and hot springs, and Mall Road) and later in the evening return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Wake early up early for sumptuous breakfast in the morning check out from the hotel. Board your car for full day drive towards Kaza driving through mesmerizing landscapes with spectacular view of the valley via; Rohtang Pass, Atal tunnel, Sissu or Lahul valley, Gramphu, Chhatru, Batal, Kunzum La, Losar etc. Expect rough roads, water crossings and long travel hours. On arrival at Kaza in the evening and go directly to your hotel and check- in for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay.
Wake up to crisp cold air after relaxing sleep and sumptuous breakfast before boarding your car and embarking on a full day excursion to explore the gems of Spiti Valley (Key Monastery, Kibber Village, Pin valley national park, Dhankar monastery & Lake, Kungri monastery, Mudh etc.). With sun setting on the horizon giving a splendid view of the valley return to your hotel at Kaza and explore the local Kaza markets and life style of the local sand return to your hotel for dinner with peaceful and relaxing sleep.
Wake up relaxed after a relaxing sleep and after breakfast in the morning check out from hotel and board your car to drive towards the Chandratal lake with enroute sightseeing of The highest communities in the world- Langza (Buddha statue and fossils), Hikkim (highest post office), Komic and Chicham, the highest suspension bridge in Asia, and continues on to Chandratal via Losar and Kunzum pass and Batal and reach Chandratal before sunset. Take the short walking trail to the lake, enjoy sunset photography and return to the camp before dark, have dinner and stay in an authorized camp.
Rise early to witness the sun illuminate Chandratal’s surrounding peaks before breakfast at camp. After breakfast in the morning at the camp check- out and board your car and embark on the rugged return drive across Batal and Chhatru, crossing back through the Atal Tunnel. Arrive at Manali by late afternoon and later, take your timely Bus to Delhi for your onward travel connections with unforgettable memories.
Inclusion/Exclusion
Cost Includes
- Accommodation (Hotel & camp on double occupancy)
- Meals as per scheduled buffet (Breakfast + Dinner)
- Pick up at Manali Volvo Bus stand
- Drop at Manali Volvo Bus stand
- Sightseeing by private vehicle (Hatchback)
- Transport for sightseeing as per itinerary
- Driver’s allowance + Vehicle charges + Toll Tax + Parking etc.
Cost Excludes
- Any Air/Bus/railway ticket
- Any entry ticket for monument
- Vehicle for additional sightseeing other than mentioned in the itinerary will be charged extra.
- Any travel insurance.
- Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances (strikes), etc. (to be borne by the client, which is directly payable on the spot).
- Any adventure activity.
- Camera fee (Still and Video)
- Any item of personal nature such as food, drinks, Laundry, Telephone calls, Mineral Water etc.
- Any tipping/portage/carriage
- Anything not specified in cost included.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
AMS occurs due to rapid ascent above 2,500 meters where oxygen levels drop. Prevent it by drinking 3–4 liters of water daily, avoiding alcohol and physical overexertion on Day 1, ascending gradually, and carrying doctor-prescribed acetazolamide (Diamox).
It is fast-paced because you cross Kunzum Pass (4,590 m) on Day 2. Spending Day 1 resting in Manali (2,050 m) aids initial adjustment, but staying well-hydrated and monitoring oxygen saturation with a portable pulse oximeter is vital.
The road is smooth tarmac through the Atal Tunnel to Gramphu. From Gramphu to Batal and Chandratal, the terrain consists of rough riverbeds, loose gravel, boulder fields, and unbridged water crossings requiring high-ground-clearance vehicles.
Low ground clearance vehicles risk getting stuck or tearing underbody sumps on the Gramphu–Batal and Chandratal stretches. Sturdy SUVs (Innova, Scorpio, 4x4 Bolero/Thar) or commercial Tempo Travellers handled by seasoned Himalayan drivers are standard.
The route typically opens in late May or early June after snow clearance on Kunzum Pass, and closes by mid-October with the onset of autumn blizzards. Peak travel operates from mid-June to September.
Indian travelers do not need Inner Line Permits for the Manali–Kaza–Chandratal route; only Green/Rohtang/Atal Tunnel vehicle access permits apply. Foreign nationals need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) only if traveling via the Kinnaur border route near Khab/Sumdo.
Daytime temperatures in Kaza range from 15°C to 22°C with strong UV sunlight. Night temperatures drop sharply between 2°C and 8°C in Kaza, and can plunge below freezing (-2°C to 2°C) at Chandratal.
Daytime temperatures in Kaza range from 15°C to 22°C with strong UV sunlight. Night temperatures drop sharply between 2°C and 8°C in Kaza, and can plunge below freezing (-2°C to 2°C) at Chandratal.
Dress in breathable layers: thermal base layers, fleece jackets, wind-and-waterproof outer shells, woolen caps, UV sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+), and sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support.
No. To protect the fragile Ramsar wetland ecosystem, the forest department mandates that vehicles park at the designated lot roughly 1 to 1.5 km away, requiring a gentle 20–30 minute walk to the lake shore.
Chandratal camps offer Swiss tents with attached or dry chemical toilets, running water in buckets, and basic solar electricity for a few hours in the evening. Running hot water is supplied in buckets on request.
Digital connectivity is intermittent. While some shops and hotels in Kaza accept UPI or cards during good weather, cash is essential. Carry sufficient Indian Rupees withdrawn in Manali.
Only postpaid and prepaid connections on BSNL and Jio work reliably in Kaza and larger villages. Airtel has limited coverage in Kaza. There is zero mobile connectivity at Batal and Chandratal.
Always walk around stupas and prayer wheels in a clockwise direction. Remove your shoes before entering shrine rooms, do not touch sacred murals or butter lamps, avoid pointing your feet at altars, and dress modestly.
Yes. Pure vegetarian North Indian meals (dal, rice, seasonal vegetables, roti) are standard across all hotels and Chandratal camps. Simple Jain food (without onion and garlic) can be arranged with advance notice.
Kaza has a Regional Community Health Centre equipped with doctors and emergency oxygen cylinders. However, for severe trauma or advanced medical evacuation, patients must be transferred back to Manali, Kullu, or Shimla.
Avoid untreated tap water due to high mineral content and glacial runoff. Drink boiled water, filtered water from hotels, or mineral water, and carry a reusable water bottle with an integrated filter.
The Spiti Valley geological formation contains millions-of-years-old marine ammonoid fossils (locally called Chaudas). While local children offer them for sale, it is ecologically ethical to leave them undisturbed in their natural geological beds.
Due to rapid travel between towns and water scarcity in cold desert regions, laundry is impractical on this circuit. Travelers should pack sufficient fresh base layers for the entire 5 days.
Power outages are common across high-altitude mountain networks. Mid-range and luxury properties utilize silent generator sets or solar inverter arrays during fixed morning and evening hours. Always carry charged high-capacity power banks.
Children over 6 years and active seniors in sound cardiovascular health can undertake the journey, provided they consult a physician prior to departure, acclimatize properly, and maintain a relaxed travel pace.
T&C
Payment & Confirmation terms
- The desired/demanded service/tour could be booked by paying 60% of the quoted price for the service/tour/holiday/vacation.
- The client/customer/traveler/passenger has to pay 80% (60% + 20%) of the total quoted price after 07 days of doing the booking of the service/tour/holiday/vacation for the final confirmation.
- The client/customer/traveler/passenger should pay the remaining balance payment of 20% before the scheduled departure from the client/customer/traveler/passenger’s country of origin or upon the scheduled arrival at the airport/railway station/hotel in India or the decided city of arrival or accommodation of stay but surely and definitely before the start of the service/tour/holiday/vacation.
NOTE: A written communication has to be done with the company with all the details about the tour and the details of payments transferred to the company’s accounts.
Cancelation/refund policy
- Cancelation Before 120- 90 days of the scheduled service/tour/journey/holiday/vacation 5% + bank charges will be charged of the total quoted from the payment made.
- Cancelation Before 90- 61 days of the scheduled service/tour/journey/holiday/vacation 10% + bank charges will be charged of the total quoted from the payment made.
- Cancelation Before 60- 31 days of the scheduled service/tour/journey/holiday/vacation 20% + bank charges will be charged with the total quoted from the payment made.
- Cancelation Before 30- 15 days of the scheduled service/tour/journey/holiday/vacation 40% + bank charges will be charged with the total quoted from the payment made.
- Cancelation Before 14- 07 days of the scheduled service/tour/journey/holiday/vacation 80% + bank charges will be charged with the total quoted from the payment made.
- Cancelation Before 06- 02 of the scheduled service/tour/journey/holiday/vacation 95% + bank charges will be charged with the total quoted from the payment made.
- Cancelation Before 01day/24hrs of the scheduled service/tour/journey/holiday/vacation 100% will be charged of the total quoted from the payment made.
* For other cancelation/amendment policies check https://yatrisansaar.in/payment-cancellation-policy/
Terms & condition
- Any tour plan/itinerary published on the website is only a suggested holiday travel outline and in case of your confirmed booking, if any price change happens then the same will be communicated to you on the shared contact details. Only after written confirmation, we will proceed further with the booked tour/service.
- The price mentioned is dynamic and is subject to change without any prior notification.
- It is mandatory for you to carry a government-approved identity card (Passport/Driving License/Aadhar/Voter ID or any other Govt. ID card) during the entire tour for verification purposes as and when required.
- It is also necessary to carry the age proof of traveling Kids below 05 years old as children above 05 years will be considered as adults.
- A railway ticket is required for traveling children above 4 years and a flight ticket is required for traveling children above 2 years.
- An infant ticket is also required for children below 2 years.
- If any place mentioned in sightseeing remains closed during your planned visit to that place due to any reason, then the YATRISANSAAR official/representative will suggest and arrange for an alternate place of interest as per the time and place availability and you are requested to cooperate with YATRISANSAAR official/representative in this regard.
- Only a booking voucher for the booked tour will be issued at the time of booking.
- A Booking Confirmation voucher for the booked tour will be issued after seven working days from the date of booking.
- Service voucher for the booked tour/service will be issued before 2 days/48 hrs. from the date and time of service/departure of the guest.
- Alternate arrangements will be made for any disruption caused due to any circumstances (strikes, protests, natural calamities, sickness, mechanical malfunction, etc.) beyond our control and the cost is to be borne by the travelers or service users.
- The travelers/service user is advised to strictly follow the travel plan and instructions of the YATRISANSAAR representative as there will be no refund in case any services are not used / availed.
- Medical arrangements will be made in case any kind of sickness is reported by any of the travelers/service users during the tour/service and the cost of medical facilities has to be borne by the travelers or service users.
- The travelers or the service users have to go through the periodical guidelines issued by the YATRISANSAAR during the tour/service through personal communication, and announcements and the travelers or service users have to abide by and not intervene in the working.
- The decision of YATRISANSAAR and their official/representative will be final in terms of any problem arising at any point in time and affecting the smooth execution of the tour.
- YATRISANSAAR reserves all the rights to amend/change the tour plan/itinerary due to any unavoidable circumstances (natural calamities/strikes/cancelation/delay in flight/train/mechanical malfunction/insurgency) beyond their control before/during/after the tour/service.
- The travelers/service users are requested to take care of their belongings and not leave them unattended.
- Management of YATRISANSAAR, their official/representative is not accountable for any theft/damage to the belongings/luggage before/during/after the tour/service.
- Operation of the proposed tour in a group is subject to a minimum number of travelers booked.
- The travelers/service users are advised to clarify any booked tour/service from YATRISANSAAR before and after the booking to avoid any kind of misunderstanding arising due to any confusion.
- Any other term & condition may be applied and communicated by YATRISANSAAR at any point in time.
- The request for any change (name/dare/service/no. of pax) in the booking done previously will be considered as a new booking and the confirmation for the same will be subject to availability.
- Please note that any booking done with YATRISANSAAR is non-transferable and any change will attract cancelation charges as applicable.
- Any operational measures not met due to any reason/condition/circumstances, YATRISANSAAR reserves all the right to amend/cancel the booked tour/service.
- Any change made by us is minor but in certain conditions/circumstances, we also have to make exceptional changes. Any change made is determined as exceptional where it is required to change the destinations/date of departure in the proposed tour and in that case, YATRISANSAAR will contact you and inform you about the changes as soon as possible ask for your best opinion and extend the following solution to you:
- Accept the changes made and move forward with the booked tour/service.
- Cancelation the booked tour/service and get back the payment made to YATRISANSAAR as per the policy. However, no refund will be made for any booking not made by YATRISANSAAR for you to avail of the booked tour/service such as; Pre/post accommodation/any kind of tickets/excursions/taxi/guide, etc.
Force- Majeure
‘Force Majeure’ means any event in which YATRISANSAAR, the supplier, or any other third party supplier who even after with all due care can not foresee or avoid any condition which may include road blockage/diversion, rail services disruption/diversion, any natural calamities (earthquake, landslide, fire, flood), war, riot, civil unrest, any terrorist activity, industrial strike/dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, bad weather condition, any kind of illness or any other event beyond the control of the YATRISANSAAR, YATRISANSAAR does not hold any liability or responsibility to pay any kind of refund or compensation where our prompt response and performance is affected as per our agreement or even you otherwise suffer/face any damage/loss due to ‘Force Majeure’.
Hotels
- The categories of rooms booked at the accommodation property are off-base categories unless it is mentioned otherwise.
- The final confirmation about the hotel mentioned in the tour plan/service is subject to availability and it will be confirmed at the time of final booking or else the accommodation will be provided in the similar category of another available hotel.
- The request for connecting/proximate/adjacent rooms is subject to availability and may attract extra charges if the connecting/proximate/adjacent room is of a higher category.
- Allocation of rooms (Twin sharing/Double bed) is the sole decision of the hotel.
- The time of check-in and check-out is fixed of the hotel is fixed as per the guidelines and policy of hotel management.
- Meals will be served as per the booked plan and duration of stay. The hotel will not serve Breakfast on the day of arrival and will also not serve dinner on the day of check-out.
- Extra fixed bed is subject to availability and only rollway bed/mattress will be provided for any extra child/adult.
- Early check-in and late check-out is subject to availability and may incur extra charges.
- Any extra service/item (Bar/restaurant/spa) consumed/used at the hotel during the stay has to be settled directly by the guest/client/user unless mentioned otherwise.
- All the rights are reserved by the hotel to claim for any damage incurred by the guest/client/user during their stay.
- Only three persons will be accommodated in a room with an extra rollaway bed/mattress unless booked otherwise or the category of room is specified.
- Child will be accommodated in the room with parents only with no extra rollaway bed/mattress. Extra rollaway beds/mattresses may attract extra charges.
Transport
- All arrival/departure transfer assistance as per the decided point of arrival and departure.
- All sightseeing and transfers between the destinations will be provided by YATRISANSAAR as per the schedule.
- In case of group tour booking, you might have to wait for a little time at the airport/railway station till the entire guest’s arrival is confirmed.
- The appointed transport will not be at the personal disposal and it will be provided as per the schedule and the travel plan.
- Any extra use of the transport not mentioned in the itinerary is subject to the availability of the transport and may attract extra charges which have to be borne by the traveler/guest/user.
Notes
- Above listed price is conditional to availability of the service at the time of booking
- Cancellation charges as per company policy.
- Refund for any booked air/railway ticket as per service provider policy.
*T&C applied
