Shimla vs Manali Route to Spiti – Which Is Better for First-Time Travellers?

If you are in the process of planning your first trip to Spiti Valley, you may have asked this question:

“Should I go via Shimla or Manali?”

Both of the routes are beautiful. However, they offer two very different experiences – particularly for someone coming to Spiti for the first time.

The Shimla route is slow, scenic and relatively beginner-friendly. The Manali route is quicker, higher and bumpier.

This blog compares both routes in terms of safety, altitude gain, road condition, travel time, and experience – so you can choose what is best for you.

Spiti Valley Routes – Quick Overview

Spiti can be reached through two main highways:

Spiti via Shimla (Recommended for First-Time Travellers)

Route: Delhi → Shimla → Reckong Peo → Nako → Tabo → Kaza
Gradual ascent, great for acclimatization
Open from May to October
Suitable for self-drivers, families, and first-time visitors
Travel time: Around 2–3 days from Delhi to Kaza

Spiti via Manali (High Altitude, Quick Route)

Route: Delhi → Manali → Atal Tunnel → Kunzum Pass → Kaza
Steep altitude gain — higher risk of altitude sickness
Open only from mid-June to mid-October (snow dependent)
Road conditions are rough between Gramphu and Kaza
Travel time: 10–12 hours from Manali to Kaza (non-stop)

Key Differences – Shimla vs Manali Route

1. Altitude Gain and Acclimatization

Shimla Route:

Slow, gradual climb. You start at approximately 2,000ft (617m) and gradually ascend to about 12,500ft (3810m); taking 3-4 days to do so.

Good for your body to acclimatize and to minimize your chances of developing AMS – Acute Mountain Sickness.

Manali Route:

Steep altitude gain. You go from Manali (~6,700ft/2,040m) to Kunzum Pass (~15,000ft/4,572m) in mere hours!

More headaches, nausea, and fatigue for people as you ascend faster than you may have previously acclimatized to.

2. Road Conditions and Safety

Shimla Side:

The roads are mostly paved up until Kalpa. From Nako and after there are a few rough patches, but nothing a little patience can’t overcome.

It is the safer route for hatchbacks and less experienced drivers.

Manali Side:

After traveling through the Atal Tunnel and Gramphu, the roads will start to be rocky, unpredictable and variable.

The stretch to Kaza will include stream crossings, slush, loose gravel, and other features not suited for a beginner.

Travel Time – Shimla vs Manali Route to Spiti

Via Shimla

It takes about 2 to 3 days to drive to Kaza from Delhi via Shimla.
On the way, you will usually sleep in places like Narkanda, Kalpa, or Nako both for overnight sleeping and for your body to acclimatize to the greater altitude.
While the driving will take longer, it will still be comfortable and you will not need to rest as often.

Via Manali

With the Manali route, if the roads are open and the weather is clear you can be in Kaza in 10 to 12 hours.
But you will be on the road longer and much more rough terrain, with fewer places to rest along the way. As well as more chances of fatigue and altitude sickness.
You would have to start very early in the morning, along very rough roads such as Kunzum Pass and Batal–Gramphu stretch.

If you are not used to long drives, or are not accustomed to high mountains, then the Shimla route gives you time to breathe — literally.

Best Time to Travel on Each Route

Shimla Route

Usually opens up around early May and remains open until October.
Best time to do your summer travel, travelling alone, as well as budget plans.
Much better maintained roads, and much less variability in weather at time of year.

Manali Route

Opens up only after at least mid-June — sometimes later depending on snow.
Open till the start of October.
Not safe to attempt before June especially for the first time or small cars.

If you are going in May or early June, I recommend Shimla.

Scenic Stops – What Will You See on Each Route?

Both routes are beautiful, but they offer different types of experiences.

What you can expect on Shimla Route
Sarahan – peaceful village with views of the mountains
Kalpa – apple orchards and snow capped Kinnaur Kailash
Nako Lake – tranquil mountain lake at 12,000 ft
Tabo Monastery – one of the oldest monasteries in the Himalayas
Dhankar Monastery – atop a cliff and has unreal views

You get a real taste of Kinnaur culture, remote Himalayan villages, and quiet roads on this route.

Highlights on Manali Route

Atal Tunnel – reduces travel time to Lahaul valley
Sissu – lush green valley with waterfalls
Kunzum Pass – breathtaking high altitude and wide views
Chandratal Lake – blue glacial lake (only open July – September)

The Manali route is more raw/ dramatic, but unpredictable terrain is to be expected.

What First-Time Travellers Usually Prefer

If this is your first time:

You will appreciate the cultural warmth and gradual nature of travel on the Shimla route.

The Manali side provides better opportunities for return once you are acclimatized and composed on sorting out mountain roads.

A lot of people enter via Shimla and exit via Lahaul so enjoy the best of both worlds.

Quick Recap – Shimla Route vs Manali Route (For First-Timers)

Still confused? Let’s simplify it further. Here’s how both routes compare side by side:

Shimla Route – Why It Works

Gradual altitude gain → Less chance of AMS (altitude sickness)
Safer roads → Good for hatchbacks and first-time drivers
Early season access → Open from May
Culturally rich → Villages, monasteries, and local food
Ideal for solo travellers, couples, and budget backpackers

Manali Route – Why It’s Risky for Beginners

Rapid altitude gain → High risk of headaches, nausea, breathlessness
Off-road terrain → Not easy for hatchbacks or first-time riders
Limited stops for overnight stays
Weather can delay opening of Kunzum Pass
Better suited for experienced travellers, bikers, or return journey

Ideal Itinerary for First-Time Travellers (Via Shimla – 8 to 10 Days)

If you want a smooth first experience in Spiti, this itinerary is your best bet:

Day 1: Delhi to Shimla or Narkanda (overnight stay)
Day 2: Drive to Kalpa (beautiful views + apple orchards)
Day 3: Kalpa to Nako (visit Nako Lake and Giu Mummy)
Day 4: Nako to Tabo (explore old monastery, peaceful vibes)
Day 5: Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar (amazing cliff-side monastery)
Day 6: Explore Langza, Hikkim, Komic (high-altitude villages)
Day 7: Visit Key Monastery, Kibber, and Chicham Bridge
Day 8–9: Return via same route OR exit via Manali (if open)
Day 10: Reach Delhi

This plan gives you enough time to rest, adjust, and truly enjoy the journey.

Bonus Tip – Take the Spiti Circuit for the Full Experience

The commonly chosen route to explore the Spiti region is entering via Shimla and exiting via Manali. Here are reasons this is the best Spiti circuit for first-timers:

You acclimatize at an easier pace starting from the Shimla side.

By the time you hit the Manali side, you will be more acclimatized.

You can experience Kinnaur and Lahaul areas.

You can visit Chandratal Lake and Atal Tunnel on your return.

It is the best mix of culture, scenery, and adventure.

If the roads are open, this route is the best way to cover Spiti Valley trip in a complete loop.

FAQs – Shimla vs Manali Route for Spiti (First-Time Travellers)

Which route is recommended as the safest for first-time travellers, Shimla or Manali?

The Shimla route is safer. It allows for gradual altitude increase, better road conditions and more stops along the way.

Is the Manali to Spiti route open in June?

After mid-June for sure depending on how fast Kunzum Pass clears of snow. It is not advisable to try before mid-June

Can this trip be done from Manali in 3-4 days?

Technically, yes. However this should not be attempted for first-timers. Sudden changes in altitude can make you feel ill, plus the roads are bumpy.

Which route is better for bikers?
If you’re new to biking in the Himalayas, we would suggest that you take the Shimla route. The Manali route is harsh and dangerous for a new rider.

Can I drive through Spiti via Shimla in my hatchback?

Yes, countless travellers do it every season. The roads are manageable given that you drive safely. Avoid the Manali side in small cars.

Final Verdict – Shimla Route Is Best for First-Time Spiti Travellers

If this is your first time going to Spiti, there’s no question – you want to take the Shimla route.

Here’s why:

It’s safer, it has more consistent road conditions

The highest point on the Shimla route is almost 1,000 m lower than Manali, so your body has more time to acclimatize

Shrine, village, monasteries, local culture – you’ve got more stuff to enjoy along the way

It’s open longer starting in May

You can still exit via Manali side later if you want that one big adventure

Overall for first-timers, Shimla route has a good mix of where you will feel comfortable and beautiful but it still is real!

Want Help Planning Your First Spiti Trip?

Our team custom-builds all of our Spiti itineraries for first-time travellers that match the group size, seasonality, where you want to stay and your budget.

We take care of everything from recommendations on routes, hotel booking for you, cab options, and weather updates to make sure to make your Spiti trip safe, picturesque and an adventure you will never forget.

So, contact us now and we will design your Spiti trip the right way.

Also read: Delhi to Spiti Valley Road Trip in August: Best Route, Stops & Budget Guide