Day 1
Arrival in Shimla
Arrive in Shimla by car. Check into your hotel and freshen up. Shimla, fondly known as the "Queen of Hills," serves as the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and relaxed ambiance. During your leisure time, take the opportunity to explore the nearby attractions at your own pace, such as the Mall, the Ridge, and other captivating spots. Spend a comfortable overnight stay, cherishing the beauty of Shimla's landscapes and the tranquility it offers.
Day 2
Shimla to Kalpa (Drive 240 Kms/8 Hrs approx)
Travel from Shimla to Kalpa, taking in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh countryside along the way enroute visit Narkanda. Upon reaching Kalpa, settle into your hotel accommodation. Take the time to explore the enchanting town of Kalpa and its captivating surroundings. Your overnight stay will be in Kalpa, allowing you to fully embrace the charm of the area.
Day 3
Kalpa - Excursion to Sangla and Chitkul (Drive 70 Kms/ 3 hrs approx)
Depart for Sangla early in the morning. Upon reaching Sangla, you'll be greeted by the tranquility of the place. This quaint town is renowned for its natural beauty and is aptly nicknamed the "Baspa Valley" due to the Baspa River that gracefully flows through it. Stroll through the charming streets, lined with traditional wooden houses, and get a taste of the local way of life. Then head to the picturesque village of Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border. Return to Kalpa and spend the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Kalpa.
Day 4
Kalpa - Nako - Tabo - Dhankar (Drive 200 Kms/ 7 hrs approx)
On the way, make a small stop at Nako – a scenic hamlet – known for its namesake lake. Later, continue driving towards Gyu village, which has a 550-year-old mummy, and then head out to the town of Tabo. Positioned on the banks of the Spiti River, this lush town is like an oasis in the middle of the barren land of the Lahaul and Spiti district. The highlight of this place is the 10th century Tabo Monastery, built by the revered Tibetan Buddhist, Rinchen Zangpo. Nearby, the Tabo Caves, known as "phukpas," hold immense significance as meditation chambers used by devoted monks. Step inside these secluded caves, and you'll feel the aura of tranquility and spiritual energy that has permeated these sacred spaces for generations. Then head to Dhankar for today halt. Evening venture towards Dhankar Monastery, perched dramatically on a craggy cliff. The panoramic views from this ancient site are simply breathtaking, offering a sense of serenity amidst the rugged landscape. As you explore the monastery, discover its historical importance as a former capital of Spiti and its role in preserving ancient Buddhist scriptures.
Day 5
Explore Kaza and Surrounding villages
After having breakfast set out on an excursion to Langza and Komik. Langza, a small village in the heart of Spiti Valley, is known for the fossil reserves of marine creatures. These fossils date back to millions of years when the whole region was submerged under the Tethys Sea. Komik is one of the highest villages in Asia. It has only a few houses, and the major highlight of this place is its monastery. If you want, you can also drive to the small Hikkim village. It may look like any other establishment in the area, but what distinguishes it from the rest is the fact that it has the highest post office in the world. While here, you can send some postcards to your family, telling them about this amazing Spiti self-drive adventure trip. After lunch, pay a visit to Ki Monastery – the biggest Buddhist learning center in the Spiti Valley. Originally built in the 11th century, the gompa was once home to about 350 lamas. Also, visit Kibber, famed as the highest village in the world.
Day 6
Kaza - Chandratal (Drive 100 Kms/ 3 hrs approx)
Relish a hearty meal in the morning, and later head to Chandratal. Often referred to as The Moon Lake, Chandratal derived its name from its crescent shape. Positioned at a height of over 14000 feet above sea level, this pristine lake looks even more charming in the backdrop of high mountain peaks. Spend your day admiring the beauty of the lake, and later move to the campsite to rest for the night.
Day 7
Chandartal - Manali via Rohtang Pass (Drive 140 kms/ 4 hrs approx)
Depart from Chandartal and drive towards Manali, Cross the scenic Rohtang Pass and enjoy panoramic views. Arrive in Manali and check into your hotel. In the evening, explore popular shopping zones like Mall Road and IBEX Market, where you can find an array of shops offering clothing, accessories, and local products. Take leisurely strolls, shop to your heart's content, and immerse yourselves in the charming ambiance. After a fulfilling day, return to your hotel for a delectable dinner. Relax and unwind, falling into a peaceful sleep, recharged and ready for the adventures that await you in Manali. Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 8
Explore Manali
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast, energizing yourselves for a day of exploration in Manali. Visit the famous Hadimba Devi Temple, renowned for its unique architecture and serene surroundings. Experience the spiritual ambiance of Vashisht Village and Temple, and rejuvenate yourselves with a dip in the natural hot water springs of Vashisht.
Next, head to Van Vihar, a beautiful park offering tranquil nature walks amidst tall deodar trees. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Manali Market, where you can indulge in shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Discover the charm of The Mall, known for its lively atmosphere, and explore the vibrant Tibetan Monastery, showcasing the rich culture and art of Buddhism.
Day 9
Departure
Check out from your hotel in Manali. If time permits, you can do some last-minute sightseeing or shopping. Drive back to your destination or onward journey.
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