Morning: Depart Kolkata on an overnight express train, settling in comfortable sleeper berths for the long haul.
Afternoon: The train rolls through West Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, offering glimpses of the Gangetic plains.
Evening: Arrival at Ambala where the private Tata Winger picks up the group and drives straight to Narkanda (≈6 hrs), where you check into the mountain lodge.
Find HotelsMorning: After a hearty breakfast, the Winger departs for Chitkul, the last inhabited village of Himachal Pradesh (≈7 hrs drive).
Afternoon: Stroll through the tranquil village, admire the confluence of the Baspa and Bhaba rivers, and enjoy local Lahauli architecture.
Evening: Relax in the guesthouse, savor traditional Himachali cuisine, and soak in the crisp mountain air.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Chitkul and cross the majestic Pin Parvati Pass, descending into the trans‑Himalayan basin of Nako (≈6 hrs).
Afternoon: Explore the turquoise Nako Lake and the ancient monastery perched on its shore.
Evening: Wander the quiet streets of Nako, photograph the sunset over the lake, and settle in for a peaceful night.
Find HotelsMorning: A short drive brings you to Tabo, often called the "Gateway to Spiti" (≈2 hrs).
Afternoon: Visit the famous **Tabo Monastery**, admire its 900‑year‑old murals, and explore the adjoining ancient stupas.
Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner in the town and experience the high‑altitude serenity.
Find HotelsMorning: Begin the scenic drive toward the stunning high‑altitude Chandratal Lake (≈5 hrs).
Afternoon: Arrive at the lake, take a short trek to the shoreline, and marvel at the moon‑shaped turquoise waters surrounded by snow‑capped peaks.
Evening: Set up camp near the lake, enjoy a bonfire, and watch the stars reflected on the water.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Chandratal and descend into the lush Kullu Valley, reaching Manali by early afternoon (≈6 hrs).
Afternoon: Check into your hotel, then explore the bustling Manali Mall Road**, visit the historic Hadimba Temple, and stroll along the Beas River.
Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, sampling trout and Himachali thali, and enjoy the vibrant night market.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a short trip to the nearby Solang Valley for adventure activities such as paragliding or a gentle hike.
Afternoon: Visit the ancient Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa** and the charming Vashisht Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
Evening: Return to Manali, enjoy a farewell dinner, and reflect on the journey through the Spiti Valley.
Find HotelsMorning: The Tata Winger drives the group back to Ambala (≈10 hrs), allowing time for a brief rest stop.
Afternoon: Board the overnight express train to Kolkata, settling in for the final 24‑26 hour journey.
Evening: The train rolls through the plains, bringing you back to Kolkata by the next day’s morning.
Find HotelsTotal Estimated Cost: INR 133,950
If you wish to extend the adventure, add an extra day in Manali to explore the nearby Rohtang Pass or Kullu Valley, or spend a night camping under the stars at Chandratal. To shorten the trip, you can skip the optional Solang Valley activities and reduce the stay in Manali to a half‑day, allowing you to return to Ambala a day earlier and catch an earlier train back to Kolkata.