- Highest pass
- Kunzum La (4,500 m+)
- Difficulty
- Hard in parts
- Time
- 7–10 days (loop)
- Hub
- Kaza
- Best season
- Jun – Oct
- Activity
- Off-road · Moto
Spiti off-road at a glance
Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is a high-altitude desert usually driven as a loop: Shimla through Kinnaur to Kaza, then over Kunzum La (above 4,500 m) and down to Manali through the Atal Tunnel, or the reverse. The roughest sections are around Batal and Chhatru on the Manali side, with rocky tracks and snowmelt water crossings. The full loop is typically open from around June to October.
The circuit
Going in via Shimla and Kinnaur lets you gain altitude slowly and is open for more of the year. The Manali side over Kunzum La is shorter but higher and rougher, and opens only once the snow is cleared, usually in early summer.
Chandratal lake is a short detour near Kunzum La and a favourite overnight stop.
Water crossings and road conditions
Snowmelt streams (nallahs) are lowest early in the morning and strongest in the afternoon. Walk a crossing first if in doubt, and keep vehicles spaced so one can help another.
Landslides can close roads for hours in Kinnaur. Build buffer days into the plan.
Fuel, network and safety
Fuel stops are few; Kaza is the main one. Fill up whenever you can. Mobile network is limited to a few towns, so expect long stretches with no signal.
In a convoy, a live group map over Bluetooth shows who is last in line, and SOS can reach nearby phones even with no network.
Check before you go. Permits, access rules, camping regulations and trail conditions change. Confirm the current situation with the local forest department or administration, check the weather, and read recent condition reports before you set out.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to drive to Spiti?
Roughly June to October, when both the Kinnaur and Kunzum La routes are usually open. The Kinnaur side stays open for longer.
Do I need a 4x4 for Spiti?
Many people drive it in regular SUVs and on motorcycles, but ground clearance helps, especially on the Manali side around Batal.
Is there mobile network in Spiti?
Only in and around a few towns such as Kaza. Expect long stretches with no network.
Last updated 2026-10-17.
