If you’re excited for a thrilling road trip from Chandigarh to Kaza, the route through Shimla offers stunning views, peaceful villages, and a memorable experience. This 7-day itinerary has all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip, including must-see spots and travel tips. Get ready to explore the beauty of Himachal Pradesh in comfort and style, making it a journey to remember.
Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla
Distance: 117KM
Travel Time: 4-5 hours
Route : Chandigarh → Kalka → Solan → Kandaghat → Shimla
Start your adventure by driving from Chandigarh to Shimla, the charming capital of Himachal Pradesh. This route offers scenic views of the foothills of the Himalayas. Upon arriving in Shimla, be sure to take some time to explore:
Mall Road: A lively street filled with shops, cafes, and breathtaking views.
Christ Church: An iconic church with Gothic architecture.
Jakhoo Temple: Perched on Jakhoo Hill, this temple offers panoramic views of Shimla.
Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and guesthouses in Shimla, offering both luxury and budget-friendly options.
Day 2: Shimla to Sangla (Chitkul)
Distance: 244KM
Travel Time: 6-7 hours
Route: Shimla → Narkanda → Rampur → Jeori → Karcham → Sangla
Morning: Scenic Drive Start your journey early from Shimla to Sangla, covering approximately 220 kilometers in about 7-8 hours. Take in the stunning Himalayan landscapes throughout your journey.
Afternoon: Explore Sangla Arrive in Sangla by early afternoon. Check into your accommodation and then head out to visit Kamru Fort, a historic site offering stunning valley views. Next, explore the Baspa River, known for its serene beauty and picturesque setting.
Local Experience Wander through the charming village, taking in the traditional wooden houses and lush apple orchards. Savor local cuisine at a local eatery.
In evening: Depart from Sangla early in the morning for Chitkul, the final inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border. The drive takes about 1.5-2 hours, offering stunning views of the Himalayan landscape.
Visit the Local Temple: Explore the Chitkul Temple, dedicated to the local goddess, and experience its serene setting.
Walk Along the River: Take a leisurely stroll along the Baspa River, enjoying the peaceful environment and breathtaking views.
Discover Traditional Architecture: Wander through the village, known for its traditional wooden houses and stunning natural surroundings.
Relax and enjoy a peaceful evening in the village, reflecting on the day’s scenic journey and exploration. Stay in Iglu Tents.
Day 3: Chitkul to Nako
Distance: 220KM
Travel Time: 3-4 hours
Route: Chitkul → Sangla → Karcham → Pooh → Nako
From Chitkul, head to Kalpa, a picturesque town known for its stunning views of the Kinner Kailash range. Highlights in Kalpa include:
Suicide Point: Experience stunning panoramic views of the valley.
Roghi Village: A quaint village known for its scenic beauty.
Chandika Temple: A local temple with panoramic views.
Kalpa is an ideal place to acclimatize to the altitude and enjoy some relaxing time amidst nature.
After that head for Kalpa to Nako: Travel from Kalpa to Nako, a serene village surrounded by apple orchards and rugged terrain. Key attractions in Nako include:
Nako Lake: A peaceful lake ideal for relaxation.
Nako Monastery: A spiritual site offering insights into local Buddhist culture.
As you enter Spiti Valley, you’ll witness a striking transformation from lush greenery to arid desert.
Tip: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and fuelled up in Reckong Peo, as fuel stations are scarce in remote areas.
Day 4: Nako to Kaza via Tabo & Gue Monastery
Distance: 110KM
Travel Time: 6-7 hours
Route: Nako → Chango → Sumdo → Hurling → Tabo → Dhankar → Kaza
On the forth day, drive from Nako to Tabo, making a stop at Gue Monastery. Gue is known for its naturally preserved 500-year-old mummy of a Buddhist monk, adding a unique touch to your journey.
In Tabo, Visit:
Tabo Monastery: One of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the region, known for its ancient murals and spiritual ambiance. Take Lunch
And then, Drive from Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar Monastery, the capital of Spiti Valley. On the way, visit Dhankar Monastery, perched on a cliff with stunning views of the valley. Once in Kaza, explore:
Key Monastery: A significant monastery offering spiritual insights and panoramic views. 14 km from Kaza Start your day at the Key Monastery, a thousand-year-old spiritual hub with stunning views of the Spiti River. Spend time exploring ancient murals and interact with monks.
Hikkim & Komic: 5 km from Langza Visit Hikkim, home to the highest post office in the world, and end the day at Komic, the world’s highest motorable village, perfect for a scenic sunset.
Return to Kaza & Shopping: Wrap up your trip by visiting local markets in Kaza for Tibetan souvenirs and enjoying a dinner at a local cafe.
And Once you arrive, check into your hotel or homestay and relax for the night. You can take a walk through the serene forest trails or enjoy a quiet evening by the bonfire.
Day 5: Next day Visit Other Places in Kaza And Back to Kalpa (Reo-kong Peo)
Distance: 210KM
Travel Time: 8 hours
Route: Kaza → Tabo → Nako → Pooh → Kalpa
Kibber Village: 6 km from Key Monastery Visit Kibber, one of the highest villages in the world. Stroll around and enjoy its traditional houses, breathtaking vistas, and a chance to spot rare wildlife like the snow leopard.
Langza Village: Just 16 km from Kaza, this charming spot is famous for its towering Buddha statue and fossil-rich landscapes.
Dhankar Monastery: 33 km from Kaza Explore the Dhankar Monastery, perched on a cliff with awe-inspiring views of the Spiti and Pin Rivers.
Pin Valley National Park: 20 km from Dhankar Visit Pin Valley, a lush sanctuary home to rare wildlife like the snow leopard. and After Lunch back to Kalpa for Night Stay.
Day 6: Kalpa to Narkanda
Distance: 160KM
Travel Time: Approx. 5 to 6 hours
Route: Kalpa → Reckong Peo → Rampur → Narkanda
Morning: (Depart from Kalpa) Start your journey from Kalpa early in the morning to take full advantage of the daylight. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Kinnaur Kailash Range as you descend from Kalpa, passing through Reckong Peo.
Reckong Peo: This bustling town is the district headquarters of Kinnaur. You can stop here for a quick break or to fuel up if needed.
Afternoon: (Through Rampur) Continue your drive towards Rampur, a historic town by the
Sutlej River. The scenic route is dotted with apple orchards and quaint villages. If time permits, you can stop for lunch here and explore Padam
Palace, a stunning piece of Himachali architecture.
Lunch Tip: Rampur has several small restaurants offering Himachali and North Indian cuisines.
Evening: (Arrival in Narkanda) Reach Narkanda by late afternoon or evening. Nestled at an altitude of 2,700 meters, Narkanda is a peaceful hill station surrounded by dense forests and apple orchards. It is also famous for its winter skiing.
Day 7: (Last day of the tour): Narkanda to Chandigarh
Distance: 160KM
Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours (varies based on traffic and road conditions)
Route: Narkanda → Shimla → Solan → Chandigarh
The final day of your Chandigarh to Kaza road trip brings you back from the serene hill station of Narkanda to the bustling city of Chandigarh. This 180 km journey offers one last opportunity to enjoy the lush landscapes of Himachal Pradesh before bidding farewell to the mountains.
Morning: (Departure from Narkanda) After breakfast, start your drive from Narkanda around 8 AM. The journey begins with a descent through winding roads, offering stunning views of pine forests and apple orchards. The cool mountain air is perfect for one last morning in the hills before heading back to the plains.
Optional Stop: Hatu Peak (If Time Permits) If you didn’t visit on the previous day, consider an early morning drive up to Hatu Peak, One of the area’s highest points, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The ancient Hatu Mata Temple at the top is a peaceful place to spend a few moments before you begin your journey.
After lunch, continue on the highway, and you’ll find yourself descending further into the plains. The roads gradually straighten out as you approach the bustling city of Chandigarh, marking the end of your adventure through the mountains.
You should reach Chandigarh by late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic. Use this time to unwind or do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Chandigarh if you still have the energy.
Why Choose Black Taxi India for Your Chandigarh to Kaza Trip?
Choosing Black Taxi India ensures a comfortable and hassle-free journey from Chandigarh to Kaza.
Here’s why:
Luxury Vehicles: Travel in high-end vehicles like the Innova Crysta, designed for rugged terrains.
Experienced Drivers: Our drivers are experts in navigating challenging routes and ensuring your safety.
Customizable Itineraries: Tailor your trip to suit your preferences and explore at your own pace.
Comfort & Convenience: Enjoy spacious, well-maintained vehicles equipped with modern amenities.
Hassle-Free Service: We handle all the details, including permits and route planning.
Affordable Pricing: Transparent and competitive rates with no hidden charges.
24/7 Support: Our customer service team is here to help you anytime, day or night.
Contact Black Taxi India to Book Your Trip Today:
Phone: +91 9855556554
Email: info@blacktaxi.in
Website: blacktaxi.in
Address: Black Taxi India, SCO-47, Sector-71, Chandigarh (160071)
See you in the snow!
