Complete Shimla Spiti Loop (Shimla to Kaza to Shimla)
Shimla - Kaza - Shimla
Tour Overview
The Complete Shimla Spiti Loop is a compact yet comprehensive journey designed for travelers who want to experience the magic of Spiti Valley but need to return to Shimla. This circuit is a favorite among those who prefer a well-rounded itinerary without the hassle of one-way drop charges.
Starting from the colonial charm of Shimla, the route takes you through the rugged Kinnaur Valley, following the Sutlej River. You will cross treacherous mountain passes, witness the dramatic transition from green valleys to the barren cold desert of Spiti, and visit ancient monasteries. The loop is ideal for a week-long getaway, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Tour Highlights
- Complete loop circuit starting and ending in Shimla.
- Scenic drive through the Kinnaur Valley along the Sutlej River.
- Visit the ancient Tabo Monastery and the cliff-hanging Dhankar Monastery.
- Explore the highest villages of the world: Komic, Hikkim, and Langza.
- Visit the iconic Key Monastery and try to spot local wildlife.
- Experience the raw, barren beauty of the Spiti cold desert.
- Drive through the thrilling Malling Nalla stretch.
Day-wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Shimla
Arrive in Shimla and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the Mall Road, Ridge, and Christ Church. Evening briefing with the tour coordinator. Overnight stay in Shimla.
Day 2: Shimla to Kalpa (220 km / 8-9 hours)
Early morning departure towards Kinnaur. Drive via Narkanda and Rampur along the Sutlej River. Enter the Kinnaur Valley and reach Kalpa by evening. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Kinner Kailash range. Overnight stay in Kalpa.
Day 3: Kalpa to Tabo via Nako (160 km / 7-8 hours)
Today, we cross the famous Malling Nalla and drive through the stark landscapes of Nako. Enter the Spiti Valley. Upon arrival in Tabo, visit the 1000-year-old Tabo Monastery. Overnight stay in Tabo.
Day 4: Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar (50 km / 2-3 hours)
A short and scenic drive today. Visit the Dhankar Monastery perched on a cliff. Continue along the Spiti River to reach Kaza. Rest of the day is free to acclimatize and explore the local market. Overnight stay in Kaza.
Day 5: Kaza Sightseeing (Langza, Hikkim, Komic, Key)
Full day excursion around Kaza. Visit Langza (fossil village), Hikkim (highest post office), and Komic (highest motorable village). In the afternoon, visit the iconic Key Monastery. Overnight stay in Kaza.
Day 6: Kaza to Kalpa (200 km / 8-9 hours)
Start early for the return journey. We retrace our route back through Tabo and Nako to reach Kalpa/Reckong Peo. This is a long driving day with stunning views. Overnight stay in Kalpa.
Day 7: Kalpa to Shimla (220 km / 8-9 hours)
After breakfast, drive back to Shimla via the same route. The tour concludes upon arrival in Shimla. Drop at Shimla bus stand or railway station for your onward journey.
What’s Included
- 6 Nights accommodation in hotels/homestays on twin sharing basis.
- Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
- Comfortable 4×4 SUV (or Royal Enfield if you chose a bike tour).
- Experienced local driver (for SUV) or Road Captain (for bikes).
- All fuel, tolls, and parking charges.
- Sightseeing as per the itinerary.
What’s Not Included
- Travel to and from Shimla.
- Lunch and other meals not mentioned in inclusions.
- Entry fees to monasteries and monuments.
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, shopping).
- Travel insurance and medical expenses.
- Any extra costs due to road closures or natural calamities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this Shimla to Shimla loop different from the Manali route?
This loop is perfect for those who want to return to Shimla for their onward journey (like catching a flight or train from Chandigarh/Delhi). It covers the best of Kinnaur and Spiti but avoids the unpredictable Rohtang Pass and Gramphu road, making it slightly more reliable in terms of road conditions.
Is the mobile network available throughout the loop?
You will get good network till Kalpa/Reckong Peo. After that, in the Spiti Valley (Nako, Tabo, Kaza), the network is very limited (only BSNL/Jio works in patches). Kaza has some Wi-Fi connectivity in hotels.
What kind of vehicles are used for this tour?
You can choose between a 4x4 SUV (like Mahindra Thar/Force Gurkha) or a motorcycle (Royal Enfield Himalayan). Both are perfect for the rugged terrains of Spiti. We provide the vehicle and an experienced local driver.
Do we need Inner Line Permits for this route?
Indians do not need any permits for the Shimla-Kaza loop. However, if you plan to visit some restricted areas near the Tibet border (like some parts of Pin Valley or beyond), we will arrange the permits for you.
Will we get to see snow on this tour?
If you travel in early June or late September/October, you might find snow at higher passes like Kunzum La. However, the main Shimla-Kaza road is generally clear of snow during the summer and early autumn months.
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