Winter is a different Spiti: snow on the roads, frozen water, empty villages and clear skies. The three deep-winter months are not the same, and the way you travel matters more than the month.
Spiti in winter by month
Snow decides what is possible each year, so treat the edges of each month as flexible.
| Month | What it is like | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| December | Cold with snow on the high roads; late December is our top-selling window | Late-December dates, first winter trip |
| January | Peak snow month, deepest cold | Snow, frozen scenery |
| February | Peak snow month, still very cold | Snow, fewer people than late December |
| October, November, March | Lighter snow and milder days | A first taste of winter, easier driving |
How cold does Spiti get?
Temperatures can drop as low as -40°C. Hotels are heated or have room heaters, but you still need thermals, an insulated jacket, insulated waterproof gloves, merino socks and an insulated bottle so the water does not freeze.
Which roads are open in winter?
The road from Shimla through Kinnaur to Kaza is the winter route. Kunzum Pass and the road to Manali are closed by snow, so Chandratal and the Atal Tunnel exit are not part of a winter trip. In heavy snow or after a landslide even the Kinnaur road can close, and the captain changes the plan instead of pushing through. Pin Valley is dropped in those conditions.
How the winter trip runs
Our winter Spiti 4x4 expedition is 8 nights and 9 days from Delhi to Delhi, from ₹32,999 per person plus 5% GST. You take an overnight Volvo to Shimla, then go by 4x4 SUV through Narkanda, Kalpa, Tabo and Kaza, with breakfast and dinner at the hotels and snow-chain support.
Questions
Is Spiti open in December?
Yes, from the Shimla and Kinnaur side. Kunzum Pass and the Manali road are closed by snow.
Is January a good time to visit Spiti?
It is a peak snow month, so yes if you want deep snow, and only with warm clothing and a 4x4.
How cold is Spiti in February?
Very cold. Temperatures can drop as low as -40°C, and hotels are heated or have heaters.
Can I drive to Spiti in winter?
Self-drive is available on demand on the Shimla and Kinnaur side, but winter roads are icy and close in heavy snow, so we recommend a 4x4 and snow chains.
Does the winter trip go to Chandratal?
No. The road to Chandratal and Kunzum Pass is closed by snow in winter.
Is the winter trip suitable for first-timers?
It is rated challenging. Cold and altitude are the main demands, and the group travels in 4x4 vehicles with experienced drivers. Check with us about your health and clothing before you book.
