How to Reach Kaza from Manali by Share Cab or Taxi

Distance About 180 to 200 km

Time 8 to 12 hours

Season Late May to Oct

Altitude Kaza about 3,800 m

Kaza is the main town of Spiti and the base for most of the valley's sights. Reaching it from Manali is one of the most beautiful drives in the Himalaya, but it is also long and the road is seasonal.

Here is how the route works and how to travel it by share cab, bus or private taxi.

The route in summer

The usual route runs from Manali through the Atal Tunnel to Lahaul, then past Sissu, Gramphu and Chhatru to Batal and over the Kunzum Pass to Losar and Kaza. Sources give the distance as roughly 180 to 200 km depending on whether you use the tunnel, and the time ranges from about 8 to 12 hours because of road conditions and stops.

Season. The road usually opens between mid-May and early June, depending on snow clearing at Kunzum Pass, and closes in mid to late October.
Fuel. Fuel is limited. Tandi, before Keylong, is often described as the last fuel pump for a long stretch before Kaza. Fill up there.
Road quality. Parts of the route past Chhatru are rough and can have water crossings.

Your options

HRTC bus. The state bus is the cheapest option. Services are limited and leave early in the morning from the bus stand, and the service usually stops around mid-October. Confirm times at the bus stand.
Share cab or shared van. Shared taxis run on demand in the season. Fares reported in recent years are higher than the bus but far less than a private car, and they vary by season, so confirm the per-seat fare. See how to book a share cab in Manali.
Private taxi. The most flexible but the most expensive. Good for groups.
Self-drive. Possible for experienced riders and drivers. Read our rental checklist.

A mountain road above a river valley in Spiti. Representative image.

The winter route

When the Kunzum road is closed, the way into Spiti is from Shimla through Kinnaur, via Reckong Peo, Nako and Tabo to Kaza. It is a long drive of around 12 to 14 hours or more, and roads can close after snow. See what to expect in winter Spiti.

Staying well on the way

Altitude. Kaza is around 3,800 m and you cross Kunzum Pass at about 4,500 m. Drink water, avoid heavy meals and rest on arrival. Read the AMS guide.
Motion sickness. The road has many bends. Take medicine if you need it.
Cash. ATMs in Spiti are few. Carry enough cash.
Buffer day. Landslides and snow can delay you. Do not plan a tight flight or train the day after.

What to do after you arrive

Visit Langza, the monasteries around Kaza and the villages of Hikkim and Komic. To ask about a seat from Manali, message the Skypath desk on WhatsApp.