During the winter months, many travelers assume that Spiti Valley also gets cut-off due to road closure from heavy snow at Rohtang and Kunzum Pass – this is definitely not true – locals travel, supply reaches Kaza and life goes on, even in the frozen valley.

The secret? The Shimla to Spiti winter route, which remains operational long after Rohtang and Kunzum become unpassable until complete closure of winter hitting the road or not until spring comes back.

In this article we will discuss – how locals travel between Shimla and Spiti in winter, what the route looks like, how safe it is, and what to expect if you plan to spin along in their tire tracks.

Why the Manali Route Closes in Winter

The Manali-Kaza road is shorter in distance, but it passes beside high mountain passes – Rohtang Pass (3,978 m) and Kunzum Pass (4,551 m) – which totally become buried in snow by the end of October.  By November, both passes are closed because of

• Heavy snowfall and ice buildup

• Dangerous avalanches

• Below freezing temperatures that will snow and ice make the road unsafe

• No maintenance of BRO seasonally during peak winter.

This is why we officially see the Manali route close every winter- that it leaves the Shimla route, the only road to Spiti Valley until Manali opens back up in spring.

The Lifeline: An Overview of the Shimla to Spiti Winter Route

The route from Shimla to Kaza runs through the Kinnaur Valley at lower altitudes, making it passable for longer days of the year. 

The following is the route locals follow:

Shimla → Narkanda → Rampur → Reckong Peo → Pooh → Nako → Tabo → Kaza

Distance: Approximately 420–450 km

Travel Time: 2-3 Days depending on weather 

Reason it remains open:

• No high elevation passes like Kunzum or Rohtang

• Regularly cleared by BRO

• Used by locals, supply trucks, and government vehicles 

Even in December and January, this road continues to be used by locals, teachers, army personnel, and supply trucks, but with caution.

How Residents Handle the Winter Journey

Making a journey on this route in winter isn’t simple — but residents are prepared for it.

This is how they deal with the difficult terrain and cold: 

Early Starts: Residents travel during the day to avoid ice on the roads later in the day.

Layered Attire: Thick woollen clothes, thermals and layers, and thick jackets protect against cold temperatures of -15°C.

Dependable Vehicles: Only 4x4s, Boleros trucks and snow-chained vehicles are used.

Awareness of Road Condition: Residents remain informed by police check posts and or drivers coming from the opposite direction.

Essentials: Blankets and food and water are completely packed, in case of getting snowed in on a trip.

For the outsider, it’s a reminder that winter in Spiti is not just about adventure – it is also about survival and community resilience.

Stop-Wise Breakdown of the Winter Route

Let’s identify some of the key stops and conditions along the Shimla–Spiti trip:

1. From Shimla to Narkanda (65km)

Smooth sailing on a nicely maintained highway, surrounded by amazing pine forests, with possible snow after the second half of December. 

2. From Narkanda to Rampur (65 km)

A slow descent. Roads are open year-round as this is an easier section in winter. 

3. From Rampur to Reckong Peo (90 km) 

You’ll drive along the Sutlej River in this section. Some turns may have ice in the shadows; after this, locals typically drive very carefully on these roads. 

4. From Reckong Peo to Pooh (60 km)

Cold winds and roads start to narrow. The possibility of snow increases when you are getting closer to Khab Bridge. 

5. From Pooh to Nako (40km)

Has the best views but will be difficult. Expect snow if you reach the higher turns. Locals also often carry snow chains in the trunk or back of the vehicle. 

6. From Nako to Tabo (65) 

This includes the Malling Nallah — another difficult stretch, but it is maintained by BRO. You will also begin to see snow capped peaks here if you’re lucky. 

7. From Tabo to Kaza (50 km)

The final leg of the trip as you access the heart of Spiti. The stretches of road remain open, but it does get really cold at night in Seeti. 

Most locals, staying over in Nako or Reckong Peo, will complete the overall trip in 2-3 days.( dormitories or lifts to and from places can be arranged). 

December Weather on Route

In December, you can expect:

• Daytime temperatures: 0°-6°C

• Nighttime temperatures: -10° – -20° C

• Snow present from Nako onwards

• Frozen waterfalls and icy bends

• Quiet roads shared with local vehicles and trucks

Despite the tough conditions, views are completely stunning – snow-covered mountains, frozen rivers, and blue skies create the most picturesque winter Spiti.

Tourist Safety on Route

If you plan to use this route like the locals, keep these simple but important safety tips in mind:

• Only use the Shimla route – the Manali route will be closed

• Hire a local driver or 4×4 taxi savvy with driving in winter.

• Pre-book heated stays in Kaza, Tabo, or Nako as many homestays will be closed

• Do not travel after 3 PM due to black ice which could make traveling dangerous

• Only take cash because ATMs may not be working

• Check weather updates on a daily basis before traveling each day to the next town

• Allow a buffer day for snow days and Plan B day trips if snow makes you travel slowly or cancels your plan.

Genuine Local Knowledge: Life Keeps Going in Spiti 

Even as the temperatures plummet below -20 degrees Celsius, the Spiti Valley continues to function. Schools may close, but monasteries are still operational, farmers are taking care of their animals, and supply trucks keep bringing food, fuel, and medication. 

The locals would also tell you that winter travel teaches patience. “The road can close for a day, but it eventually opens up again.” 

This spirit of resilience is what makes winter in Spiti so mesmerizing to experience. 

The Bottom Line

Can you still reach Spiti in winter when the Manali highway shuts down? 

Yes – via a route through Shimla. 

The Shimla-Kaza road route is the only way to access Spiti in the winter months, which is sustained by the locals who have forgotten what it is like to be afraid of the cold, road conditions, snow, and who have learned to travel through the cold winds and shrunk passes. 

For travellers, it is not just a road trip – it is a travel adventure and experience through some of the most rugged yet beautiful winter landscapes in the world. 

Call to Action 

Are you dreaming of seeing Spiti in winter like the locals see it? 

Book a Spiti Winter Tour Package, via Shimla, for a safe and guided journey in and outside snow ready vehicles, staying in heated accommodation and driven by local expert drivers. 

Call Now | Chat on WhatsApp | See Winter Packages Online