SPITI CIRCUIT
TOUR DIFFICULTY: High
TOUR TYPE: High Altitude
SUITABLE FOR: 18+
TOTAL DISTANCE: 464km
DURATION: 11D/10N
BASECAMP: Narkhanda(H.P.)
HIGHEST ALTITUDE: 4551m
ACCOMMODATION TYPE: Hotels
MAXIMUM CYCLISTS: 30
Experience the awe-inspiring Kinnaur and Spiti valley during the Apple harvest season and the La Darcha Festival
Zipping through the apple-scented routes of Kinnaur, we arrive just in time to soak in the celebratory pulse of the Ladarcha Festival in Kaza.
Along the way, we ride past sleepy villages draped in prayer flags, wooden temples that whisper ancient lore, and mountain slopes heavy with apples, pears, apricots, and plums. We follow the might Sutlej and the mystical Spiti River as they rush wild and free, tracing our path like a companion in motion.. sometimes roaring beside us, sometimes vanishing into deep gorges.
We taste crisp mountain air and sweeter apples, watch shadows shift across rugged cliffs, and feel the slow unraveling of time as the landscapes transform from pine green to desert brown.
So… come with us on this rugged adventure… one that can only build memories for a lifetime… and experience it up close and personal on the humble cycle.
Adventure Cost:
Date: 14th August - 24th August 2025
Available Addons:
-> Bicycle on Rent
ADVENTURE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive at Narkhanda
Day 2: Narkhanda to Rampur Bushahr(44km)
Day 3: Rampur Bushahr to Wangto(58km)
Day 4: Wangto to Kalpa(48km)
Day 5: Kalpa to Pooh(73km)
Day 6: Pooh to Tabo(98km)
Day 7: Tabo to Kaza(48km)
Day 8: One day Exploration in Kaza
Day 9: Kaza to Losar Khas(59km)
Day 10: Losar Khas to Chandrataal(38km) and vehicle transfer to Manali(110km)
Day 11: Disperse
TOTAL CYCLING DISTANCE: 466km
Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization in Narkanda
Our adventure begins with a pickup from Shimla in a comfortable traveller vehicle, winding through pine-scented roads towards the charming hill town of Narkanda.. a peaceful gem nestled at 8,100 ft in the heart of Himachal.
Upon arrival, check into your stay and take some time to soak in the crisp mountain air. After settling in, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore the quaint surroundings. Stroll through apple orchards, visit the ancient Hatu Mata Temple atop Hatu Peak for panoramic Himalayan views, or take a quiet walk around Tanni Jubbar Lake, a serene spot surrounded by deodar forests. You can also visit the famous Stokes Apple Farm
Post lunch, you’ll be introduced to your cycles for the tour. Our technical team will assist in fittings, adjustments, and handovers. At around 4:00 PM, a trial ride will be scheduled to help you get comfortable with your bike and the terrain.
Stay :
Day 2: Ride from apple town of Narkanda to Rampur Bushahr
Wake up to a crisp mountain morning and gear up for the first leg of your cycling journey. Our cycling adventure starts today.. After a hearty breakfast, we begin our descent from the alpine heights of Narkanda(2708m) towards the historic town of Rampur Bushahr(1005m).
The route today is a beautiful blend of pine forests, terraced fields, and winding roads that reveal spectacular Himalayan views at every turn. As you roll downhill, the landscape gradually shifts from dense woods to apple orchards and finally to the Sutlej river valley.
Upon arrival in Rampur Bushahr, once the capital of the princely Bushahr state, you’ll check into your stay and unwind. In the evening, take a relaxed stroll to explore the Padam Palace from the outside or walk along the river promenade as the golden light dips behind the hills.
Dinner will be served at your stay, and the day ends with a sense of achievement and anticipation for the road ahead.
Stay:
Day 3: Ride from Rampur Bushahr to Wangtu – Along the mighty Sutlej
Today’s ride takes you deeper into the heart of the Sutlej Valley, as you journey from the heritage town of Rampur Bushahr to the rugged landscapes of Wangtu. This stretch offers a dramatic shift in scenery… leaving behind the gentler slopes of Shimla district and entering the raw, untamed terrain of Kinnaur.
The route winds along the mighty and roaring Sutlej River, with cliffs rising on one side and deep gorges plunging on the other. You’ll ride through quiet Himalayan hamlets like Jeori and Chooling, where life moves at a slower pace and the scent of pine and cedar fills the air.
By afternoon, you’ll reach Wangtu(1823m), a small settlement nestled in the Kinnaur hills. Enjoy a relaxed evening, stretch out those legs, and take in the crisp mountain air.. Tomorrow, the terrain gets even more exciting.
Dinner will be served at your stay.
Stay:
Day 4: Ride from Wangtu to Kalpa – Into the Heart of Kinnaur
Today’s ride is one of the most scenic and rewarding sections of the tour, as you pedal from Wangtu to the mystical hamlet of Kalpa(2758m), perched high above the Sutlej River. The route offers a stunning blend of adventure and beauty, with winding mountain roads, pine forests, and sheer cliffs that drop dramatically into the valley below.
As you ride deeper into Kinnaur, the landscape becomes more dramatic lush green valleys give way to rocky mountainsides, and the air gets cooler. You’ll pass through key towns like Karcham, where the Baspa River meets the Sutlej, and Reckong Peo, the district headquarters known for its panoramic views and bustling Tibetan markets.
The final climb to Kalpa is both challenging and unforgettable, with each hairpin bend revealing breathtaking views of the Kinner Kailash range, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a landscape of apple orchards, ancient wooden temples, and majestic peaks glowing pink in the evening light.
Stay:
Day 5: Ride from Kalpa to Pooh – The Changing Face of the Himalayas
Today’s ride from Kalpa to Pooh(2662m) marks a striking transition… not just in landscape, but in the very character of the Himalayas. The route follows the Sutlej for much of the way, with the terrain becoming increasingly arid and rocky. Pine trees give way to dry mountain slopes and wind-carved cliffs. The road is thrilling.. twisting through narrow gorges, crossing high bridges, and revealing dramatic views at every turn.
As you pass through places like Spillo, Akpa, and Khab, you’ll notice the cultural shift too..Buddhist prayer flags flutter across chortens, and the Tibetan influence becomes more visible in the architecture and local faces. You’ll also ride near the confluence of the Sutlej and Spiti Rivers, a powerful and symbolic point on the map.
The final stretch climbs into Pooh, a small but historically significant village perched at around 8,000 ft. Surrounded by terraced fields and arid slopes, Pooh offers a quiet charm with panoramic views of the trans-Himalayan ranges.
Stay:
Day 6: Ride from Pooh to Tabo – Into the Spiti Valley
Today’s ride takes you on a truly spectacular ride as you leave Pooh behind and journey deeper into the high-altitude desert of Spiti Valley, with your destination being the ancient village of Tabo(3280m). This is one of the most unforgettable legs of the tour.. where the landscape turns surreal, the air thinner, and the silence more profound.
Along the way, you’ll cross Khab Bridge, a significant junction where the Spiti River officially welcomes you into its valley. From here, the road climbs steeply through hairpin bends and into ever more remote terrain. You’ll pass tiny, windswept settlements like Nako. The ride continues through dramatic high-altitude plateaus, and by late afternoon, you’ll roll into Tabo, known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” for its ancient 10th-century monastery complex filled with murals, statues, and Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
Stay:
Day 7: Ride from Tabo to Kaza – Monasteries, Moonscapes, and the Heart of Spiti
Today’s ride from Tabo to Kaza(3650m) is short in distance but rich in culture, landscapes, and spiritual heritage. As you leave behind the ancient mud-walled monasteries of Tabo, the Spiti Valley opens up even wider, revealing surreal, lunar-like terrain and scattered whitewashed villages that seem frozen in time.
Along the way, you’ll pass through Dhankar, home to the spectacular Dhankar Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff edge with sweeping views of the Spiti and Pin rivers below.
From Dhankar, the road to Kaza, the sub-divisional headquarters of Spiti, is a gentle ride through open valleys and colourful sedimentary cliffs. You’ll see more prayer flags, chortens, and a growing sense of life returning as you approach civilization again.
By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Kaza, the largest town in Spiti and your base for the next few days. It’s a fascinating blend of old and new—where traditional homes and ancient monasteries sit alongside cozy cafes, bakeries, and local markets.
Stay:
Day 8: Exploring Kaza & Immersing in the Vibrance of La Darcha Festival
Today is a day of cultural immersion and joyful exploration as you spend time in and around Kaza, soaking in both its natural beauty and the vibrant spirit of the La Darcha Festival.. one of the most awaited events in the Spiti Valley.
Begin your morning with a relaxed walk or ride through Kaza town, visiting landmarks like the Sakya Tangyud Monastery, perched above the town with sweeping valley views. Wander through the local bazaar, where you’ll find traditional Spitian handicrafts, prayer flags, yak wool products, and cheerful interactions with monks, traders, and villagers.
By late morning, dive into the La Darcha Festival, a centuries-old tradition that brings together traders, locals, and tourists from Spiti, Kinnaur, Ladakh, and even Tibet. La Darcha isn’t just an event. It’s a cultural window into Spiti’s soul, celebrating its ancient trade roots and communal harmony.
Spend your evening relaxing at a cozy café or joining locals in the festivities, with the golden light of dusk painting the mountains around Kaza. This day offers a perfect blend of rest, exploration, and cultural richness.. an unforgettable highlight of your journey.
Stay:
Day 9: Ride from Kaza to Losar Khas – Into the Wild, Towards the Passes
Today your ride takes you from the bustling heart of Spiti—Kaza to the quiet, wind-swept village of Losar Khas(4090m), the last major settlement before the mighty Kunzum Pass. This is a day of open landscapes, raw Himalayan wilderness, and peaceful isolation.
As you leave Kaza, the terrain becomes increasingly remote and dramatic. The road hugs the Spiti River, flanked by vast high-altitude deserts, jagged cliffs, and occasional green patches where hardy mountain life clings on. You’ll pass picturesque villages like Kyato, Hansa, and Pangmo, each offering a glimpse into life in one of the harshest yet most beautiful environments on Earth.
The ride is gradual but challenging—thin air, rough terrain, and the rising altitude will keep you alert and in rhythm with the landscape. As you climb higher, vegetation thins out and the silence of the high Himalayas deepens.
By afternoon, you reach Losar Khas, a small but vital village at over 13,000 ft. With traditional mud homes, grazing yaks, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind, Losar offers a peaceful stop before you tackle Kunzum Pass the next day.
Stay:
Day 10: Losar Khas to Batal via Kunzum La – Ride to the Lake of the Moon & Drive to Manali
Today is the grand finale of your cycling journey.. You begin the day early from Losar Khas, ascending steadily toward Kunzum La (4551m), one of the highest motorable passes in Himachal Pradesh. This section is both challenging and awe-inspiring, with rugged switchbacks, glacial streams, and ever-expanding views of the Spiti and Lahaul valleys.
From Kunzum La, you descend till Chandrataal Entry Point. From there you enter and ride another 12km.. till you reach the Parking area. Here, cycles are handed over as the cycling part of the journey ends. Chandrataal lake(4300m), shaped like a crescent moon, sits nestled among high-altitude meadows and snow-capped peaks..its turquoise waters reflecting the heavens above. We depart by Traveller bus and travel towards Manali(2050m) via the Atal Tunnel.
Stay:
Day 11: Departure – Riding Away with Memories for a Lifetime
After ten unforgettable days of adventure, With hearts full and spirits high, it’s time to bid farewell to the mountains and each other.
Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, you’ll be carrying back more than just photographs… you leave with stories etched in your soul, friendships forged on dusty trails, and the quiet power of the Himalayas forever imprinted on your mind.
As you disperse from Manali, take a final look at the mountains that stood witness to your journey… grateful for the challenge, the beauty, and the peace they offered. Until the next ride…
Keep the wheels spinning and the spirit of the Himalayas alive.
EXPERIENCES
1. High-Altitude Cycling Adventure:
- Cycle in the cold desert of the Spiti valley and climb the might Kunzum La(4551m).
- Experience the heavenly view Mt. Kinner Kailash from Kalpa.
- Also witness the confluence of the mighty Sutlej River and the mystical Spiti River.
2. Cultural Exploration:
- Experience the Kinnauri and Spiti culture up, close and personal.
- Attend the famous festival of Spiti Valley.. the Ladarcha Festival.
3. Spiritual Encounters:
Discover sacred sites like the 10th century Tabo Monastary and Tabo Caves, Sakya Monastery at Kaza.
Witness the fusion of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. You will see many chortens, prayer flags and mani walls dotting the landscape.
4. Nature & Wildlife:
Ride along the orchards filled with Apples, Pears, Peaches and Plums… forests lush with pines, spruce, maple and birch in Kinnaur Valley..See the entire landscape transform from lush and thick forests into stark cold deserts of Spiti Valley.
Also visit the ethereal and enchanting Chandrataal Lake.
5. Bonfire and Starry Nights:
Cozy bonfire(fireless) evenings filled with fun, storytelling and bonding.
Star-gazing in remote villages of Pooh and Losar.
6. Photography & Panoramic Views:
Capture snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, rivers, and monasteries that you will see along the way. The ever-changing landscape of the route is worth recording over the period of tour.
7. Comfortable Travel & Support:
Back-up bus support for non-cycling transfers. Accommodation in charming hotels with breathtaking views
8. Group Bonding & Shared Journey:
Ride with like-minded cyclists from diverse places. Shared passion, endurance, and camaraderie
9. Kinnauri and Spiti Way of Life:
Learn more about the unique way of life of the people in Kinnuar and Spiti.
🧘 Personal Transformation
Pushing physical and mental limits at high altitude.
Connecting deeply with nature and self in moments of solitude
Finding peace in Spiti’s silence and spiritual aura
Leaving behind modern chaos for inner calm and clarity
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
To reach Narkanda, your gateway into Kinnaur-Spiti and the starting point of our cycling tour, here are the main options. Narkanda is a small town in Himachal Pradesh located at an altitude of about 2,700 m (8,900 ft), 60 km from Shimla on the NH-5
By Road (Most Common & Convenient)
1. From Shimla (60 km / ~2 hours)
- Easiest and most direct route
- Route: Shimla → Kufri → Theog → Matiana → Narkanda
2. From Delhi (410–450 km / 10–12 hours)
- Option 1: Delhi → Chandigarh → Shimla → Narkanda
- Option 2: Delhi → Kalka → Solan → Theog → Narkanda
Bus Option:
- HRTC and private Volvo/Deluxe buses go to Shimla from Delhi/Chandigarh.
- From Shimla, take a local/shared taxi or HRTC bus to Narkanda.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station
- From Delhi to Kalka: Take Shatabdi or Himalayan Queen (5 hrs approx.)
- From Kalka, take the toy train (5 hrs) or taxi to Shimla (2.5–3 hrs)
- Then proceed by road from Shimla to Narkanda
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti) – ~80 km from Narkanda
- Limited flights (mostly from Delhi)
- Better Option: Chandigarh Airport (170–180 km from Shimla)
- Well connected to major cities
- Then drive or take a bus to Shimla → Narkanda
Country Roads team will arrange one bus that starts from Chandigarh. It will carry participants from Chandigarh and any place along the route towards Narkhanda. The details of this bus will be shared in whatsapp group..
- Cycling Shorts
- Dry Fit T-Shirts
- Helmet
- Sport shoes for
- Cycling
- Floaters/Slippers at
- campsite
- 1 liter Water Bottle
- Riding Gloves
- Windcheater Jackets
- Sunscreen
- Clothes to change post ride
- Warm clothes for the night
- Toiletries
- Medicines as per personal need
- Aadhar Card, Passport and 2 Passport size photographs
INCLUSIONS:
- Full Vehicle Support throughout the trip
- Accomodation in Hotels and Homestays
- One local Guide and one Mechanic
- 2 Cycling Marshals to lead and trail the group
- All Veg Meals from Lunch on Day 1 to Breakfast on Day 11
- Energy Drinks/Juices/Fruits/Bottled Water during ride
- All Permits and SDF
- Tour Photographs
- Mountain Bikes(Available on Rent)
- Helmets
- Flights and Cabs
- Personal Clothing and Equipment
- Any Medical cost incurred by you, or costs associated with a medical incident, such as evacuation from the mountains or hospitalization
- Optional Trips of Excursions
- Tips for Local Staff and Guides
- Any additional expense caused due to any reason beyond the control of Country Roads Cycling Tours like bad weather, road blockage etc.
- Items not specified in “Inclusions”
BICYCLE ON RENT
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OFFERS
Early Bird Offers :
Booking before August : Rs. Off
Group Booking Offers :
Group Booking of 5 and above : Rs. off for each Cyclist
Group Booking of 10 and above : Rs. off for each Cyclist
Group Booking of 15 and above : Rs. off for each Cyclist
Referral Offers :
get Rs. off on each Referral for upto 5 Cyclists
get Rs. off on each Referral for more than 5 Cyclists