
Is the road to Spiti valley unpaved?
India, asia
137 km
4,556 m
extreme
Year-round
Spiti Valley Road, nestled in the starkly beautiful desert mountain valley of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, India, is legendary. This isn't your average Sunday drive!
Think gravel and rough patches mixed with bits of pavement that don't last long thanks to the shifting soil. You'll be wading through streams from melting glaciers, navigating rocks, sand, and maybe even snow. It's a narrow track that feels unbelievably remote.
The 137 km (85 miles) route runs from Kaza to Gramphoo, and any SUV with good ground clearance is recommended - 2WD or 4x4.
You'll climb to Khardung La, a staggering 4,556 m (14,947 ft) above sea level, making it one of India's highest motorable passes. It’s usually open from May to October.
Prepare for hairpin turns and truly isolated stretches where you won't see another soul for miles. The views of the Chandra Valley are unforgettable!
Road Details
- Country
- India
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 137 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,556 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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