High Passes & Cold Deserts: Jispa, Kaza & Chandrataal Expedition
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Tour Overview
This dramatic high-altitude Himachal journey is crafted for travellers drawn to raw landscapes, vast horizons, and remote Himalayan life. Beginning in Jispa for acclimatisation and river walks, the route climbs into Spiti’s cold desert with immersive days in Kaza before culminating at the ethereal Chandrataal Lake. Carefully paced with altitude awareness, iconic passes, monasteries, and stark beauty, the itinerary reflects Infinite Journeys’ experience-led approach to the high Himalayas.
Tour Plan
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Day 1 – Arrival in Jispa | Riverside Acclimatisation
Arrive in Jispa at approx. 10,500 ft (3,200 m) and check in. The day is kept intentionally light for acclimatisation. Enjoy slow walks along the Bhaga River, meadow views, and quiet mountain air. Evening at leisure to rest and hydrate. Dinner and overnight stay in Jispa. -
Day 2 – Jispa Leisure | Meadows & River Walks
Spend a full day acclimatising in Jispa. Explore nearby meadows, take gentle village walks, and enjoy uninterrupted views of surrounding peaks. Optional short excursions along the river add movement without strain. This unhurried day prepares the body for higher altitudes ahead. Dinner and overnight stay in Jispa. -
Day 3 – Jispa Excursion to Baralacha La | High-Pass Experience
Drive to Baralacha La (75 km | 4–5 hrs round trip), reaching approx. 16,040 ft (4,890 m). Experience glacial landscapes, vast open terrain, and classic high-Himalayan scenery before returning to Jispa by afternoon. Evening free for rest and recovery. Overnight stay in Jispa. -
Day 4 – Jispa to Kaza | Entering the Spiti Cold Desert
Depart Jispa for Kaza (185 km | 7–8 hrs), crossing Kunzum Pass at 14,931 ft (4,551 m). The landscape transforms from green valleys to Spiti’s stark cold desert. Arrive in Kaza at approx. 12,470 ft (3,800 m). Evening at leisure for acclimatisation. Overnight stay in Kaza. -
Day 5 – Kaza Exploration | Monasteries & Villages
Explore Spiti’s cultural heart with visits to Key Monastery and nearby villages such as Kibber or Langza (time and conditions permitting). Experience monastery life, fossil-rich landscapes, and sweeping valley views. Return to Kaza by evening for rest. Overnight stay in Kaza. -
Day 6 – Kaza to Chandrataal | The Moon Lake Journey
Travel from Kaza to Chandrataal (95 km | 5–6 hrs), ascending again via Kunzum Pass. Reach 14,100 ft (4,300 m) and walk to the crescent-shaped lake set against barren peaks. Experience the surreal colours and silence of this iconic destination. Overnight stay in camps near Chandrataal (weather permitting). -
Day 7 – Chandrataal Departure | End of High Himalayan Journey
After breakfast, begin your onward journey via the Manali–Atal Tunnel route (season and road conditions permitting), carrying memories of Spiti’s monasteries, high passes, and the timeless beauty of Chandrataal.
