The road stretched ahead, winding through the mighty Himalayas, as our journey from Manali to Spiti Valley continued. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs, and the excitement of the adventure ahead kept us going. Today, I, Ranjan, take you through the breathtaking landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti, uncovering the raw beauty and hidden gems of Himachal Pradesh.

Rohtang Pass – The Gateway to the Himalayas

The day began with a thrilling ascent to Rohtang Pass, one of the most famous high-altitude mountain passes in India. As we maneuvered through the winding roads, we were greeted by snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and the occasional thrill of mist rolling in. The pass, sitting at an altitude of 13,050 feet, is the first major milestone on this epic road trip, offering a panoramic view that words can barely describe.

But crossing Rohtang is no easy feat. The road, often unpredictable due to landslides and weather conditions, demands cautious driving. Pro tip: Start early in the morning to avoid heavy tourist traffic and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the pass without the rush.

Keylong – The Heart of Lahaul Valley

As we descended from Rohtang, the landscape transformed dramatically. We entered Keylong, the administrative center of Lahaul Valley. Unlike the lush greenery of Manali, Keylong is drier, with rugged mountains dominating the horizon. Here, we took a break, refueled, and indulged in some delicious local Himachali cuisine. Don’t miss trying Siddu, a steamed bread stuffed with walnuts and served with ghee—it’s a local delicacy that will keep you energized for the journey ahead.

Chandra Valley – A Paradise for Nature Lovers

Driving along the Chandra River, we found ourselves surrounded by landscapes straight out of a postcard. The towering peaks, the turquoise waters of the river, and the sheer silence of the valley made it one of the most peaceful stretches of the trip. We took our time, stopping at scenic spots to capture some cinematic shots, soaking in the serenity of the untouched beauty around us.

For photographers, this stretch is an absolute dream. The contrast of barren mountains against the blue sky, coupled with the ever-changing light, makes for some incredible captures. If you love astrophotography, consider staying overnight in the valley to witness a sky filled with a million stars.

Travel Tips for the Road

• Road Conditions: Be prepared for rough patches, especially after Rohtang Pass. The roads are narrow, winding, and at times, unpredictable.
• Pit Stops: Keylong is the best place to restock on essentials, as there are limited facilities beyond this point.
• Fuel Up: There are few fuel stations, so always keep your tank full whenever you get the chance.
• Clothing: Weather in the mountains can be extreme—carry warm layers, even if traveling in summer.
• Permits: If you’re traveling beyond Keylong towards Spiti, check for required permits in advance.

Final Thoughts – A Journey to Remember

As we wrapped up Day 3 of our adventure, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience. The untouched beauty of the Himalayas, the thrill of navigating the high-altitude roads, and the warmth of the locals made this journey truly special.

Stay tuned for more as we venture deeper into Spiti Valley, uncovering hidden monasteries, ancient villages, and some of the most mesmerizing landscapes on Earth.

📸 Don’t forget to check out my vlog for cinematic shots and travel insights! If you enjoyed this journey, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to keep the adventure going. 🔔 See you in the next episode of our Himalayan road trip!