Assemble at the designated boarding point in Delhi to catch your AC Volvo bus overnight to Manali. Rest up during the journey as the urban landscape gives way to the winding roads and mountain air of the Himalayas.
Begin the winter expedition from Manali and drive towards Rampur through the beautiful valleys of Kullu and along the Sutlej River. Enjoy scenic mountain landscapes, traditional Himachali villages and changing terrain as you approach Rampur. Overnight: Rampur
After breakfast, drive towards the beautiful Sangla Valley. The route follows the Sutlej and Baspa river valleys, offering spectacular mountain scenery. On reaching Sangla, explore the valley and nearby villages if time permits. Places to explore: Sangla village, Baspa River, traditional Himachali architecture and valley viewpoints. Overnight: Sangla
Start early for the high-altitude landscape of Spiti. Drive through Kinnaur towards Nako, crossing rugged mountain terrain and remote settlements. The landscape gradually changes from green Kinnaur to the stark, dramatic Trans-Himalayan terrain of Spiti. Reach Nako by evening and explore the village and Nako Lake, subject to weather and road conditions.
• Overnight: Nako
Drive from Nako towards Kaza with sightseeing stops en route. Visit Gue Monastery, known for its ancient mummy, before continuing towards Dhankar. Explore Dhankar Monastery and enjoy spectacular views over the Spiti Valley. Continue towards Kaza through the dramatic winter landscape. Places to explore: Gue Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, Dhankar village and Spiti Valley viewpoints.
A full day exploring the famous high-altitude villages and landmarks around Kaza. Visit Hikkim, one of the world's highest inhabited villages, followed by Komic and Langza, famous for its Buddha statue, fossils and panoramic Himalayan views. Continue towards Key Monastery and Chicham Bridge, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the valley. Return to Kaza by evening.
• Overnight: Kaza
Begin the return journey towards Kinnaur. Drive through the rugged Spiti and Kinnaur landscapes and cross the Lepcha Pass section, subject to winter road conditions and local permissions. Continue towards Kalpa, enjoying spectacular views of the Kinnaur mountains and the Kinner Kailash range.
• Overnight: Kalpa
After breakfast, drive from Kalpa towards Jibhi. The route takes you through the beautiful valleys of Kinnaur and the lower Himalayas. As you descend, the landscape changes from the cold desert of Spiti/Kinnaur to lush mountain forests. Reach Jibhi and enjoy a relaxed evening around the village.
• Overnight: Jibhi
After breakfast, begin the final drive towards Manali. Enjoy the scenic mountain roads and forests of the Kullu Valley before reaching Manali, marking the end of the Spiti Winter Expedition. Board the overnight Volvo bus bound for Delhi.
You travel from Delhi to Manali and back on overnight Volvo buses. From Manali, the entire mountain route is covered by SUV with our driver at the wheel, so you can sit back and take in the landscapes. Over 8 nights and 9 days, the trip covers roughly 1,150 km on a mix of tarmac and off-road stretches.
The expedition runs from November to March, when Spiti is at its most dramatic. Expect sub-zero temperatures, snow-covered landscapes and icy roads in places. Warm, layered clothing, thermals, gloves and good winter footwear are essential.
The route takes you from the green valleys of Kullu and Kinnaur into the cold desert of Spiti. Key stops include:
Winter in Spiti is unpredictable. Some sections, such as Nako Lake and the Lepcha Pass stretch, depend on weather, road conditions and local permissions. Our team may adjust the route or timings on the ground to keep everyone safe and comfortable.
You don’t need any special training, but this is a high-altitude winter journey with long days on mountain roads. A reasonable level of health is recommended. Travellers with heart or respiratory conditions should check with their doctor before booking. The route climbs gradually from Manali through Kinnaur before reaching Spiti, which helps your body adjust to the altitude.
