Travel guides

Winter Spiti: How to Visit Spiti in Snow, and What to Expect

In winter, Spiti becomes a different world: snow on the villages, frozen rivers and waterfalls, near-empty roads, and a chance of seeing the elusive snow leopard. It's also bitterly cold, with temperatures falling to around −25°C, and only one road stays open. A winter Spiti trip is rewarding, but it needs the right timing, vehicle, clothing and expectations. It's part of our Spiti travel guide.

3 min read·Facts last checked 27 October 2026·Himachal Cab Expert trip desk

Part of our Spiti travel guide

Snow-covered mountain ridge above a small village in winter

When is winter Spiti?

Roughly December to March. Kunzum pass is closed from about mid-October to June, so the only way in is from Shimla through Kinnaur, along the NH5 and the Spiti road. Snow and ice can still close this road for a day or more after storms, especially around landslide-prone stretches. January and February are the coldest and snowiest months; March brings longer days with snow still around.

What it's like

Cold: daytime often below freezing in the shade; nights around −15°C to −25°C.
Frozen: rivers and waterfalls freeze; water pipes freeze too, so running water is scarce.
Quiet: few travellers, and many hotels, cafés and homestays close.
Beautiful: villages, monasteries and Key and Dhankar under snow, with clear blue skies.
Remote: power cuts and limited network are common.

Snow leopards

Winter is the best season to look for snow leopards around Kibber and other high villages, when the cats follow their prey, blue sheep and ibex, to lower slopes. Local spotters and guides lead multi-day tracking trips with telescopes. Sightings are never guaranteed, but they're more likely in winter than at any other time. Ethical operators keep a respectful distance and don't bait animals.

A typical winter route

Build in at least one spare day for road closures. Our Spiti winter package follows this plan with a suitable vehicle and stays that remain open in winter.

Day 1: Shimla or Chandigarh to Sarahan or Rampur.
Day 2: to Kalpa or Reckong Peo.
Day 3: to Nako or Tabo.
Day 4: to Kaza.
Days 5–6: Key, Kibber, Langza and Dhankar as conditions allow.
Days 7–8: return the same way, through Kinnaur.

Vehicle and driver

A 4x4 or a high-clearance SUV with snow chains, driven by someone experienced on winter Spiti roads, is essential. Black ice is common in the mornings and on shaded stretches. Fuel is limited beyond Reckong Peo, so plan refills. Don't attempt winter Spiti in a small car or with an inexperienced driver.

What to pack

Altitude still applies in winter: acclimatise on the way up, and descend if symptoms become severe.

Thermal base layers, fleece, and a heavy down jacket.
Insulated waterproof boots, wool socks and warm gloves with liners.
Woollen cap, balaclava or neck warmer.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: snow glare is intense.
A hot-water bottle, lip balm, moisturiser and any personal medicines.

Frequently asked questions

Can we visit Spiti in winter?+

Yes, from Shimla through Kinnaur, the only open road. It's very cold, and you need a suitable vehicle and driver.

How cold is Spiti in winter?+

Nights often fall to −15°C to −25°C, and days stay below freezing in the shade.

Is the Manali to Spiti road open in winter?+

No. Kunzum pass is closed from about mid-October to June.

Can I see a snow leopard in Spiti?+

Possibly, in winter around Kibber with local spotters. Sightings aren't guaranteed.

Are hotels open in Spiti in winter?+

A few in Kaza and some homestays stay open; many close. Book in advance.

Is winter Spiti safe?+

With an experienced driver, a 4x4 or SUV with chains, warm gear and spare days, yes. Roads can close without warning.

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