Kunzum Pass is your high road to adventure, connecting Lahaul and Spiti valleys at an altitude of 4,551 metres. With 15 thrilling hairpin bends, it offers an adrenaline rush amidst the snow peaks and valleys. The temple of goddess Kunzum Devi stands guard here, blessing the travellers. It is a haven for bikers, trekkers, and photographers seeking extraordinary sights and thrilling experiences.
Discover the stunning Kunzum Pass where you can enjoy breathtaking views and thrilling adventures amidst the beautiful Himalayas with Spiti Valley Packages.
Kunzum Pass is nestled in the high altitudes of the Indian Himalayas. It serves as a significant gateway between the Lahaul and Spiti valleys in Himachal Pradesh. At an elevation of 4,551 metres above sea level, it is one of India's highest motorable roads. The pass offers an unparalleled journey through the Himalayas, presenting breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks and rugged landscapes. You can also witness the enchanting Bara Shigri Glacier here, which is the second-longest glacier in the world and the largest in Himachal Pradesh.
This majestic pass offers bikers the thrill of high-altitude riding, and it is also a spiritual haven for believers. The Kunzum Devi temple is situated here which provides travellers with a serene place to seek blessings for a safe journey. Moreover, the surrounding area is adorned with vibrant prayer flags, adding to the mystical aura of this picturesque location. Kunzum Pass also serves as a starting point for the trek to the mesmerizing Chandratal Lake, making it a hub for trekkers. The pass's historical and cultural significance, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Himachal.
Highlights
• Navigate the thrilling hairpin turns of Kunzum Pass in Spiti Valley for an adrenaline-pumping drive.
• Visit the Kunzum Devi Temple to seek blessings for a safe journey through the Pass.
• Capture the majestic beauty of Bara Shigri Glacier, the second-longest glacier in the world.
• Marvel at the panoramic views of Chandrabhaga Range and Spiti Valley from the pass.
• Trek from Kunzum Pass to the serene Chandratal Lake, a journey through stunning landscapes.
How To Reach
By Air
The nearest domestic airport to Kunzum Pass is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is well-connected with Delhi, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other major cities. It is approximately 156.9 kilometres away from Kunzum Pass. From the airport, you can hire taxis or take a bus to reach Manali and then proceed to Kunzum Pass. The journey from Bhuntar Airport to Manali takes around an hour. From Manali, you can cover the remaining 107-kilometre journey to Kunzum Pass in 5 to 6 hours.
By Train
The Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Kunzum Pass. This narrow-gauge station is located around 271.1 kilometres from Kunzum Pass. From the station, you can take a bus or taxi to Manali. Upon reaching Manali, you can then continue your journey on the road to the pass. The total time for the entire journey is around 7 to 8 hours.
By Road
The journey to Kunzum Pass is most commonly undertaken by road. The pass is approximately 107.6 kilometres from Manali. You can opt for HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) buses or hire private taxis from Manali. The road trip takes about 5 to 6 hours, winding through picturesque valleys and high-altitude terrains. This route is only open from June to October and remains closed in winters and monsoons due to heavy snowfall and rainfall.
Alternatively, you can also visit Kunzum Pass from Kaza in Spiti Valley. The distance between Kaza and the pass is 75.4 kilometres. From Kaza, you will have to first travel 59 kilometres to Losar, which takes 1.5 hours. From Losar, you will have to drive uphill for 16.4 kilometres to get to Kunzum Pass, which will take approximately 30 minutes.
Best Time To Visit
Kunzum Pass is a high-altitude pass that is accessible primarily between June and September. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes any time you visit.
Best Season
The best time to visit Kunzum Pass is from mid-June to September when the pass remains open for visitors. It is closed for the rest of the year, including the rainy month of August and during winter (from October to April).
Best Day
You can visit Kunzum Pass all through the week during the months when it remains open.
Best Time of the Day
It is best to set out early in the day to visit the pass, owing to the mountainous terrain and sharp hairpin bends. With clear skies, you can enjoy clear views of the Bara-Shigri Glacier and surrounding mountains from the Pass during this time.
Other Essential Information
Tips for Visiting Kunzum Pass
1. Check weather and road conditions before your trip, as the pass is open only from June to September.
2. Pack warm clothes with jackets and thermal wear due to the varying temperatures from -17°C to 17°C.
3. Prepare for no mobile connectivity and share your itinerary with someone beforehand.
4. Carry altitude sickness medication, as this medical issue is common in this area.
5. Opt for an SUV for a comfortable journey if you are driving, considering the rugged terrain.
6. Stock up on food supplies since there are no eateries at Kunzum Pass.
7. Wear sturdy trekking shoes for walking on the rough paths.
8. Remember to carry water bottles, as it is important to stay hydrated at high altitudes.
Enjoy a Scenic Drive to Kunzum Pass
Your journey to Kunzum Pass itself is an adventure. On your way to the pass, you will get a chance to navigate through the winding roads amidst majestic Himalayan peaks. The route presents fifteen hairpin bends, testing your driving skills while offering panoramic views. At each turn, you can witness breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains and valleys. Remember to stop and soak in the beauty of nature’s artwork. This drive is also great for capturing the grandeur and beauty of the Himalayas.
Pay Homage at Kunzum Devi Temple
On your visit to the Kunzum Pass, make sure to stop by the Kunzum Devi Temple. Situated at the top of the pass, this sacred site is dedicated to Goddess Kunzum. Take the time to circle the temple in your vehicle, which is believed to bring safety and blessings to your journey. You can also see colourful prayer flags around the temple. As they flutter in the wind, they create a serene and spiritual atmosphere. On your visit, take a moment to enjoy the tranquillity of the temple and offer your prayers here.
Trek to the Chandratal Lake
Just 21.3 kilometres from Kunzum Pass, lies the enchanting Chandratal Lake which is also known as the 'Moon Lake'. During your visit to Kunzum Pass, set out on this trek to discover a stunning high-altitude lake nestled amidst the mountains. The trek route offers spectacular views of the landscape and its changing terrains. Upon reaching, you can set up camp near the lake under a starlit sky to enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Capture the Beauty of Kunzum Through Photography
Kunzum Pass is a haven for photographers. From the pass, you get an eye-catching view of the Bara-Shigri Glacier, which ranks as the second-longest glacier in the world. Here, you can soak in panoramic views of the rugged terrains of the Spiti Valley and the contrasting serene waters of the Spiti River as well. On a clear day, you can also see the snowclad peaks of the Chandrabhaga ranges from the Pass. The landscape is a blend of raw beauty and tranquillity, offering numerous spots for capturing the perfect shot.
Experience Mountain Biking on High Altitude Roads
For adventure enthusiasts, mountain biking at Kunzum Pass offers an adrenaline-pumping experience. You can indulge in a unique challenge to bike at an altitude of over 4,500 metres, on one of India's highest motorable passes. The rugged terrain, sharp bends, and breathtaking landscapes provide an unparalleled biking experience. Feel the thrill as you navigate through one of the most scenic routes in the Himalayas, making it a ride to remember.
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