Embark on the ultimate Himalayan motorcycle challenge from Manali to the cold desert of Spiti Valley. As of May 1, 2026, the road from Manali to Kaza via Kunzum Pass remains CLOSED due to heavy winter snowfall. BRO snow clearance operations are actively underway from the Kaza side, with the Kaza to Losar stretch now open. The Gramphu to Kunzum Pass section remains heavily snowbound, and Chandratal Lake is currently inaccessible from the Manali side. The road is still likely to open by late May or early June 2026. This 5-day circuit, when open, conquers the treacherous Gramphu-Batal off-road stretch, crosses the 4,551m Kunzum Pass, and explores ancient monasteries in Kaza and Tabo. Designed for solo riders seeking high-altitude adventure, lunar landscapes, and the world's highest post office.
Start extremely early to avoid traffic at Atal Tunnel. Fuel up full tank at Manali petrol pump (last reliable pump until Kaza).
0 km
Cross the engineering marvel Atal Tunnel. At Gramphu, take the sharp right turn onto the dirt track towards Spiti. The road ends here.
40 km
Stop at a roadside dhaba in Chhatru. Prepare for water crossings ahead.
80 km
Iconic stop. Meet the legendary Chacha and Chachi. Eat Rajma Chawal.
95 km
Ride 14km off-road from Batal to the camping ground. Hike last 1km to the lake. Overnight in tents (very cold).
110 km
Ride back to the main road near Batal. Begin ascent to Kunzum Pass.
0 km
Highest point of the trip (4,551m). Circumambulate the Kunzum Mata stupas for safe passage.
30 km
First village of Spiti Valley. Register at the police checkpost. Tea break.
50 km
Check into homestay/hostel. Visit the World's Highest Retail Petrol Pump to refuel.
100 km
Relax at The Himalayan Cafe or Sol Cafe. Try local Seabuckthorn tea.
100 km
Ride on NH505 alongside the Spiti River. Good tarmac roads.
48 km
Visit the 1000-year-old monastery, known as the Ajanta of the Himalayas. See ancient murals.
48 km
Ride up to Dhankar village. Visit the gompa perched precariously on a cliff edge.
80 km
Ride back to Kaza. Evening free for market exploration.
110 km
Ride up to Langza. Photo op with the giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley.
15 km
Visit the World's Highest Post Office. Send a postcard to family.
25 km
Ride to Komic (highest motorable village). Lunch at Spiti Organic Kitchen.
30 km
Visit the iconic Key Gompa. Explore the prayer halls and get a view of the river bends.
45 km
Start before sunrise to cross water streams near Batal before they swell up.
0 km
Quick meal before the non-stop off-road section.
50 km
Navigate the rough Gramphu-Batal stretch again. Careful at Pagala Nallah.
100 km
Rejoin tarmac at Gramphu. Smooth ride through the tunnel.
150 km
End of trip. Celebration dinner at Old Manali.
190 km
