The Great Himalayan Discovery (Spiti, Kaza, and Tabo)

Day 01Arrive Delhi

Arrival in Delhi by international flight. After a traditional Indian-style ‘Swagat’ (Welcome) by an Exceptional Escapes representative, you’ll be assisted at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight Stay – Hotel in Delhi

Day 02Delhi – Chail (355 kms / 9 hrs)

After an early breakfast, drive to the serene hill town of Chail, once the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala. Known for its dense pine and deodar forests, majestic mountain views, and tranquil atmosphere, Chail is a perfect Himalayan retreat far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is also famous for having the world’s highest cricket ground and the historic Chail Palace.
Highlights: Scenic mountain drive, peaceful Himalayan retreat, pine-clad forests.
Overnight Stay – Camp in Chail.

Day 03Chail – Sangla (219 kms / 8 hrs)

After breakfast, proceed towards Sangla, nestled deep in the breathtaking Baspa Valley of Kinnaur. The drive offers enchanting views of apple orchards, alpine forests, and the Baspa River gushing alongside. On arrival, check in at the picturesque Banjara Camp, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness.
Highlights: Himalayan river valley views, lush orchards, serene pine forests.
Overnight Stay – Camp in Sangla.

Day 04Sangla – Excursion to Chitkul (20 kms / 1 hr each way)

Today, take a short and scenic drive to Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border. At 3,450 meters, Chitkul is a charming hamlet dotted with traditional wooden houses, ancient temples, and offering mesmerizing views of snow-clad peaks. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch while soaking in the raw natural beauty and unique Indo-Tibetan culture of the region.
Highlights: Last Indian village on the border, snow-capped peaks, authentic Kinnauri culture.
Overnight Stay – Camp in Sangla.

Day 05Sangla – Sangla Meadows Trek

After breakfast, embark on a trek to Sangla Meadows (Kanda Meadows), surrounded by green pastures and offering breathtaking vistas of the Kinner Kailash range. The trail passes through pine forests and open fields with opportunities to spot Himalayan flora and fauna. At the glacier point, marvel at the icy formations. Later, you may indulge in optional adventure activities such as paragliding, angling, or nature walks. In the evening, unwind around a warm bonfire under the starry skies.
Highlights: Trekking through alpine meadows, glacier views, optional adventure sports, evening bonfire.
Overnight Stay – Camp in Sangla.

Day 06Sangla – Tabo (182 kms / 7 hrs)

Post breakfast, drive towards Tabo, a serene Himalayan village in Spiti Valley. En route, stop at Nako Village, famous for its crystal-clear Nako Lake and ancient monasteries. The drive offers dramatic transitions from lush green valleys to the stark beauty of the Himalayan desert landscapes, making it one of the most scenic journeys in Himachal.
Highlights: High-altitude desert landscapes, visit to Nako Lake, entry into mystical Spiti.
Overnight Stay – Banjara Retreat, Tabo.

Day 07Tabo – Monastery & Pin Valley Excursion

This morning, visit the 1,006-year-old Tabo Monastery, often called the Ajanta of the Himalayas. Adorned with ancient murals, frescoes, and stucco sculptures, it is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in the world and is on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list.
After lunch, drive into the remote and rugged Pin Valley National Park, home to rare wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, and colorful medicinal plants. The valley, with its dramatic gorges and monasteries, offers an unmatched spiritual and natural experience.
Highlights: Ancient Tabo Monastery, Buddhist art & culture, exploration of Pin Valley’s unique ecosystem.
Overnight Stay – Banjara Retreat, Tabo.

Day 08Tabo – Kaza (47 kms / 2 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Kaza, the headquarters of Spiti Valley. On the way, visit the iconic Ki Monastery, a 1,000-year-old Tibetan monastery perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Spiti River valley. Also visit the remote villages of Gete and Kibber, among the highest motorable villages in the world, known for their traditional stone houses and breathtaking vistas. Enjoy interacting with locals and experiencing their unique lifestyle. Continue to Kaza and check in at your retreat.
Highlights: Monastic life at Ki Monastery, traditional Tibetan culture, highest villages in the world, spectacular Himalayan views.
Overnight Stay – Banjara Retreat, Kaza.

Day 09Kaza – Manali (201 kms / ~10 Hrs)

After an early breakfast, embark on a spectacular drive from Kaza to Manali, traversing some of the most dramatic Himalayan landscapes. The journey takes you across two of the region’s legendary high-altitude passes:

• Kunzum Pass (4,551 m): Offering breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The pass is also home to the small Kunzum Mata Temple, where travelers traditionally stop to seek blessings for a safe journey.
• Rohtang Pass (3,978 m): Known as the “gateway to Lahaul and Spiti,” Rohtang is famous for its snowfields, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain scenery.

This drive is a feast for the eyes as the stark, barren beauty of Spiti gradually gives way to the lush green valleys, apple orchards, and pine forests of Kullu-Manali.
Highlights: Crossing two iconic Himalayan passes, contrasting landscapes, and stunning photography opportunities.
Overnight Stay – Hotel Naggar Castle, Manali.

Day 10Manali Sightseeing

After breakfast, spend the day exploring the charm and cultural treasures of Manali:

• Hadimba Devi Temple: A unique 16th-century wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, set amidst towering cedar forests.
• Manu Temple: Dedicated to Sage Manu, said to be the creator of human civilization as per Hindu mythology.
• Tibetan Monasteries: Offering a glimpse into Tibetan art, culture, and spirituality.
• Nehru Kund: A natural spring named after Jawaharlal Nehru, with crystal-clear water believed to have medicinal properties.
• Local Markets: Stroll through Mall Road, lined with shops selling handicrafts, woollens, souvenirs, and Himachali specialties.

Optional: Visit the Vashisht Hot Springs, renowned for their healing properties.
Highlights: Blend of spirituality, history, nature, and local shopping.
Overnight Stay – Hotel in Manali.

Day 11Manali–Chandigarh (285 kms / ~7 Hrs)

Post breakfast, drive from the Himalayan foothills down to Chandigarh, India’s first planned city designed by the legendary French architect Le Corbusier. The transition from mountain passes to fertile plains is as scenic as it is fascinating.
On arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. If time permits, you may explore:

• Rock Garden: An artistic wonder created from recycled materials.
• Sukhna Lake: A serene spot for an evening stroll or boating.
• Sector 17 Plaza: Bustling with shops and eateries.

Highlights: Experience the architectural elegance and modern planning of Chandigarh.
Overnight Stay – Hotel in Chandigarh.

Day 12Chandigarh – Delhi – Departure (250 kms / ~5 Hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Delhi. On arrival, you will be transferred to the International Airport to board your flight back home.
Tour Concludes with sweet memories of your Himalayan adventure, high-altitude passes, hill station charm, and spiritual discoveries.