6-Day Scenic Road Trip from Delhi to Spiti Valley: Adventure and Culture

Day 1: Delhi to Shimla

Delhi to Shimla, India on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Sita Ram Diwan Chand, Delhi

Famous for its Chole Bhature, this is a great place to fuel up before the long journey to Shimla.
INR150, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Delhi to Shimla

Embark on your 7-8 hour scenic drive, enjoying the changing landscapes from plains to hills.
Cost of fuel approx INR2500, 8h0m

4:30pm

Check-in and refresh at hotel in Shimla

Rest briefly before exploring the local town.
Varies by hotel, 1h

6:00pm

Evening walk on Mall Road, Shimla

Stroll along the vibrant Mall Road, shop local handicrafts and enjoy hill views.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Indian Coffee House, Shimla

Taste authentic Himachali and North Indian dishes in a vintage ambiance.
INR400, 1h

Day 2: Shimla to Kalpa

Shimla to Kalpa, India on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Wake & Bake Cafe, Shimla

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with views of the hills to prepare for the day's road journey.
INR300, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Shimla to Kalpa

Drive approx 6-7 hours through beautiful mountainous terrain to reach Kalpa, known for its apple orchards and views of Kinner Kailash range.
Fuel charges approx INR1500, 7h

3:30pm

Visit Kalpa Village

Explore the traditional village life and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks from the roadside viewpoints.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at local eatery in Kalpa

Sample local Himachali cuisine such as Siddus and trout fish specialties in a cozy setting.
INR350, 1h

Day 3: Kalpa to Tabo

Kalpa to Tabo, India on June 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at the hotel, Kalpa

Enjoy a simple breakfast with local produce to prepare for the journey ahead.
Included in stay, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Kalpa to Tabo

7-8 hour drive passing through picturesque villages of Kinnaur and into Spiti Valley, a high-altitude desert plateau.
Fuel charges approx INR1800, 7h30m

4:00pm

Visit Tabo Monastery

Tour the famous 10th-century monastery known for its ancient murals and spiritual importance. Open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
INR100, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Tabo local guesthouse

Enjoy a simple yet hearty Himachali dinner with fresh mountain ingredients.
INR300, 1h

Day 4: Explore Tabo Valley

Tabo, India on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Start the day with a homely breakfast featuring traditional local flavors.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Dhankar Monastery

Short 1-hour drive to Dhankar, perched dramatically on a cliff. Monastery open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
INR150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Dhankar Village

Sample rustic mountain cuisine in a village setting with views of the Spiti river valley.
INR350, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Tabo village and surroundings

Walk through the quaint village to experience local culture and visit ancient caves nearby.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner with local host family

Enjoy an authentic home-cooked meal and cultural exchange in Tabo.
INR400, 1h30m

Day 5: Tabo to Kaza

Tabo to Kaza, India on June 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Begin with a nutritious breakfast to prepare for travel and exploration.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Tabo to Kaza

45-minute scenic drive to the district headquarters of Spiti Valley known for its bustling market and cultural sites.
Fuel approx INR500, 45m

9:30am

Visit Key Monastery

Explore the largest monastery in Spiti Valley, famous for its museum and panoramic views. Open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
INR150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Losar Restaurant, Kaza

Enjoy Tibetan inspired dishes such as momos and thukpa, a local favourite.
INR350, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Kaza Market and Handicraft Stores

Browse local handicrafts, woollen shawls and souvenirs from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
Depends on purchases, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Himalayan Cafe, Kaza

End your day with a variety of Indian and Tibetan dishes in a lively setting.
INR400, 1h

Day 6: Kaza to Manali

Kaza to Manali, India on June 17, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at hotel, Kaza

Grab a quick breakfast to start the long downhill journey to Manali.
Included, 30m

7:00am

Drive from Kaza to Manali

A long 7-8 hour drive over Rohtang Pass with breathtaking mountain views, leading back to warmer climes.
Fuel approx INR2500, 8h

3:30pm

Check-in and rest at hotel, Manali

Relax after the drive and prepare for onward journeys.
Varies by hotel, 1h

5:00pm

Evening stroll on Mall Road, Manali

Explore the buzzing pedestrian area with shops, cafes and local entertainment.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Drifters’ Cafe, Manali

Enjoy delicious North Indian and continental meals in a casual café with mountain views.
INR450, 1h