Reaching Spiti Valley in winter is very different from reaching it in summer. The famous Manali–Rohtang–Kunzum route closes under snow for the season, which means there is only one reliable way in: the all-weather Shimla–Kinnaur–Spiti road through Kalpa, Chitkul and Tabo.
This guide covers how to reach Spiti Valley in winter — the route, the transport options, and the practical things that catch people out. Road conditions change with snowfall, so always verify the current route status before you travel.
The Winter Route: Shimla → Kinnaur → Spiti
The only reliable winter route into Spiti is Shimla → Narkanda → Kalpa → Chitkul → Tabo → Kaza. This road is kept open year-round because it serves the Kinnaur district and the Indo-Tibetan border, so it is maintained even in deep winter — though stretches can still close temporarily after heavy snow.
Our fixed-departure Winter Spiti Valley package uses exactly this route: an overnight Volvo from Delhi to Shimla, then a 4x4 SUV with snow chains from Shimla through the circuit.
By Road (Volvo + 4x4)
The most common and practical way is an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi to Shimla (about 8–9 hours), then a 4x4 SUV from Shimla into Spiti. The Volvo is comfortable and avoids a very long drive in one go. From Shimla, the drive to Kaza is spread over several days with overnight stops, which also helps with acclimatisation.
A private taxi from Delhi all the way to Spiti is possible but expensive and tiring; the Volvo + 4x4 combination is the standard, sensible choice.
By Air
The nearest winter airport is Chandigarh, about 6–7 hours from Shimla. You can fly into Chandigarh and then take a Volvo or taxi to Shimla to join the circuit. Bhuntar (Kullu–Manali) airport is closer in summer but is not useful in winter since the Manali route is closed.
By Rail
The nearest broad-gauge railway station is Chandigarh. From there, a Volvo or taxi to Shimla is the usual first leg. A narrow-gauge toy train runs from Kalka to Shimla — scenic but slow, and best treated as an experience rather than transport if you are short on time.
Why the Manali Route Is Closed in Winter
The Manali–Rohtang–Kunzum–Kaza road crosses high passes (Rohtang La and Kunzum La) that receive heavy snow. These passes close once snow accumulates — usually by late November or December — and do not reopen until late spring. Do not plan a winter Spiti trip via Manali unless you have confirmed the pass is open, which is rare in deep winter.
What to Know Before You Travel
- Roads can close temporarily after snowfall, even on the Shimla–Kinnaur route. Build in buffer days if travelling independently.
- Carry enough cash — the only ATM in Spiti is in Kaza and it can run dry in winter.
- Most prepaid non-BSNL SIMs do not work inside Spiti. Inform family you may be offline.
- Use a 4x4 with snow chains and an experienced mountain driver — not a bike or a regular sedan.
- Always confirm current road status with our team before departure.
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