Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Kunzum Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass. This pass is very well known for its rugged terrain combined with breathtaking viewpoints and a strong, sacred aura that fills your heart with peace and spirituality. The Kunzum Pass establishes a connection between Lahaul and Spiti Valley and is at an altitude of 4,551 meters (14,931 feet). It allows the visitors to experience surreal views of the Chandra-Bhaga range while providing an exciting adventure that draws both bikers and trekkers. If you're planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh or Kunzum Pass, this blog is for you to have knowledge about the weather conditions along with the things that one can do here.
Kunzum Pass: Location, Overview and Cultural Significance
The district of Himachal Pradesh hosts Kunzum Pass, which functions as the vital connection between Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Travellers enter the mesmerizing Spiti Valley through this high-altitude pass, where they encounter snow-peaked mountains as well as expansive glacial scenery and immense depth across the valleys. The road leading to Kunzum Pass is known for its challenging terrain, and this makes it a favourite among off-road biking enthusiasts.
Kunzum Pass holds immense religious significance alongside its visually stunning features. At the top of the pass stands the revered Kunzum Devi Temple. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, who is believed to protect travelers from harsh conditions. Most visitors make it a practice to stop here and obtain blessings before moving forward. The pass is a must-visit stop for photographers and adventure lovers since they can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Chandra-Bhaga mountain range from Kunzum Pass.
Suggested Read: How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley- A Complete Travel Guide
How to Reach Kunzum Pass
Reaching Kunzum Pass is an adventure in itself, as the pass is accessible via some of the most scenic and challenging roads in India.
- By Road: The most popular way to reach Kunzum Pass is via Manali. It covers a distance of approximately 122 km. The route passes through Rohtang Pass, Gramphu and Batal and offers a thrilling ride with absolutely stunning views. Alternatively, one can also reach from Kaza, which is about 75 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport. It is located near Kullu and is approximately 250 km from Kunzum Pass. Taxis and buses are easily available to reach Manali or Kaza from the airport.
- By Train: The closest railway station is in Joginder Nagar, which is around 360 km away. From there, one must travel by road via Manali.
- By Public Transport: HRTC buses operate between Manali and Kaza, but the journey highly depends on Kunzum Pass weather conditions. Private taxis and shared cabs are also available.
Suggested Read: Spiti Valley Road Trip - Things You Need to Know
Best Time to Visit Kunzum Pass
Due to the high Kunzum Pass altitude, it remains closed for most of the year due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit Kunzum Pass is:
- Mid-June to September: This is the ideal time to visit Kunzum Pass as the snow begins to melt and the roads become quite accessible. The weather is pleasant and the Kunzum Pass temperature ranges between 5°C to 15°C during the daytime.
- October to May: The pass is closed due to extreme snowfall and freezing Kunzum Pass temperature that drops as low as -20°C. The roads become impassable and this makes the journey impossible.
Before planning your trip, always check the latest Kunzum Pass weather updates to avoid any inconvenience.
Suggested read: Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh
Places to Visit Nearby
Kunzum Pass is surrounded on all sides by breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes and culturally rich villages. From ancient temples to virgin lakes and village countryside, these are the 10 destinations around Kunzum Pass that you absolutely cannot afford to miss including in your travel itinerary.
1. Kunzum Devi Temple
Atop Kunzum Pass is situated the Kunzum Devi Temple, a tiny but very sacred temple of Goddess Durga. It is said that individuals who drive in a parikrama around the temple are blessed with a secure journey. The old temple structure and mystical location contribute to its beauty, and it becomes an oasis of serenity for tourists. Against the grand Chandra-Bhaga mountains, it is a peaceful and spiritual sanctuary in the harsh environment.
2. Chandratal Lake
14 km from Kunzum Pass is Chandratal Lake, one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes of India. Renowned for its turquoise-blue water and ethereal reflections of the mountains that encircle it, the lake is a trekker and photographer's heaven. Trekking from Kunzum Pass to Chandratal is a treat, with breathtaking views, meadows filled with flowers and a starry night sky. Camping near the lake is a magical experience and such a place for nature enthusiasts.
3. Batal
Batal is a tiny village 15 km shy of Kunzum Pass, a key stopover for tourists visiting Chandratal Lake and Spiti Valley. It's renowned for the mythical Chacha-Chachi Dhaba, owned by an old couple who offer warm hospitality and mouth-watering food to travelers. The landscape is ringed by rocky summits, glaciers and the Chandra River in full spate, with breathtaking views. Batal is also used as a trekker and biker base by those who explore the interior of the deep Himalayas.
4. Losar Village
56 km from Kunzum Pass, Losar Village is the initial human settlement of Spiti Valley. The village is situated at an altitude of 4,085 meters and it is one of the highest villages in India. Losar is surrounded by dry but scenic landscapes. Losar gives a glimpse of the ancient Spitian life. Losar is renowned for its mud-brick houses, fluttering prayer flags and the hospitality of the locals. Losar is used by the locals as a transit point to acclimatize before proceeding deeper into Spiti.
5. Key Monastery
Key Monastery, situated at around 78 km from Kunzum Pass, is one of the most iconic Buddhist monasteries in the region. It's located on a hill at an altitude of 4,166 meters, and from where it is located, tourists obtain panoramic views of the Spiti Valley and the Spiti River. It is over 1,000 years old and has ancient Tibetan manuscripts, murals and Buddhist artifacts. The monks residing here lead a traditional life, and tourists can perhaps experience the serene ambience of the monastery, attend prayer sessions or participate in interactions with monks.
6. Dhankar Monastery
Dhankar Monastery is about 95 km from Kunzum Pass and is one of the oldest in Spiti Valley. It is dramatically situated on a hillside facing the meeting point of the River Spiti and River Pin. The more than thousand-year-old monastery is of religious and historical importance. It possesses valuable Buddhist literature, old murals and images of gods. The hike to the Dhankar Lake nearby provides a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the valley.
7. Hikkim
Located approximately 90 km from Kunzum Pass, Hikkim Village is famous for possessing the world's highest post office at an elevation of 4,440 meters. Tourists tend to send postcards from here as a memory of their journey. The village is thinly populated by Buddhist monks and farmers who have adapted to the harsh conditions of the high-altitude desert. The beautiful landscape, night skies and unique postal experience make Hikkim a unique place to visit.
8. Langza - The Fossil Village
Langza Village, situated about 95 km from Kunzum Pass, is a unique location renowned for its fossil-laden landscape and the imposing Buddha statue that looms over the valley. It is one of the most beautiful villages in Spiti, with stunning views of snow-capped mountains and green meadows. The region was once an ancient seabed, and visitors can see marine fossils in the rocks. Langza is also renowned for its hospitable locals and traditional mud houses and thus a cultural connoisseur's paradise.
9. Pin Valley National Park
Pin Valley National Park lies about 110 km from Kunzum Pass and is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. The park houses the rare snow leopard, Himalayan ibex and red fox. The park provides some of the most breathtaking views of rocky barren hills, deep gorges and green meadows. Trekkers can do the Pin Parvati Pass trek, which links Spiti Valley with Parvati Valley in Kullu. The park's solitude is a gem to discover.
10. Kaza
Kaza, the administrative capital of Spiti Valley, is about 78 km from Kunzum Pass. The biggest town in the area, it is also a base for trekkers who come to Spiti Valley. Kaza is famous for its vibrant bazaars, small cafés and ancient monasteries. The town boasts its modern facilities with the original flavor preserved. Key Monastery, Kibber Village and the high-altitude villages of Hikkim and Langza are close by. Kaza is also a good place to prepare before entering the remote regions of Spiti.
Suggested read: Best Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh
Things to do at Kunzum Pass
1. Experience the Thrill of High Altitude Cycling
Kunzum Pass is a bikers' heaven road, particularly for riders of the Manali-Spiti road trip. The rough road, hairpin bends and the scenery make the experience unforgettable.
2. Trek to Chandratal Lake
The most sought-after treks from Kunzum Pass are the treks to Chandratal Lake. It is a moderate 14-km trek that takes around 6-7 hours and presents you with sights of glaciers, meadows and an untouched alpine landscape.
3. Exploration and Photography of Landscape
The pass offers one-of-a-kind photography, with snow-covered summits, deep gorges and sweeping open spaces. The Kunzum Pass weather, which is in a state of constant change, adds a touch of drama to the scenery, so every photo will vary.
4. Visit Ancient Monasteries in Spiti Valley
From Kunzum Pass, the well-known monasteries of Spiti, such as Key Monastery, Dhankar Monastery and Tabo Monastery, are reachable. These historic Buddhist monasteries provide spiritual peace and insight into Tibetan culture.
Suggested Read: Best things to do in Himachal Pradesh
Tips for Visiting Kunzum Pass
- Since Kunzum Pass is located at a high altitude, travelers should acclimatize in Manali or Kaza before they visit to avoid altitude sickness.
- Even in summer, Kunzum Pass's temperature drops significantly. Layered clothing, gloves and warm jackets are thus essential.
- Due to unpredictable Kunzum Pass weather, always check the road status before traveling.
- There are no petrol pumps near Kunzum Pass, so ensure your vehicle has sufficient fuel.
- Basic amenities are scarce in this region. Keeping extra food and water is advisable.
Suggested Read: An Experience in Spiti - Exploring the Hidden Treasures of India
Besides being a gateway to Spiti Valley, Kunzum Pass is an adventure overall. Thrill-seekers and nature lovers must visit this unmissable destination for its mystical atmosphere and challenging roads set within the breathtaking altitude. Kunzum Pass provides you with an everlasting journey that is appropriate for bikers as well as trekkers and those who wish to indulge in expecting pure Himalayan natural beauty. Plan your visit during the right season, stay prepared for the Kunzum Pass temperature variations and get ready to witness one of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the altitude of Kunzum Pass?
The Kunzum Pass height is 4,551 meters (14,931 feet) above sea level, and this makes it one of the highest motorable passes in the Indian Himalayas. It serves as the gateway between Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
2. What is the best time to visit Kunzum Pass?
The best time to visit Kunzum Pass is, of course, from June to September, when the roads are open and the weather is relatively pleasant. During the rest of the year, heavy snowfall makes the pass inaccessible.
3. How is the weather at Kunzum Pass?
Kunzum Pass weather remains cold throughout the year due to the high Kunzum Pass altitude. During summer, daytime temperatures range between 5°C to 15°C, and nights can be freezing. In winter, the temperature drops well below -20°C and the pass remains covered in snow.
4. What are the road conditions like at Kunzum Pass?
The road leading to Kunzum Pass is rugged and narrow, as well as prone to landslides, and this happens especially during the monsoon season. It is advisable to travel in 4x4 vehicles or motorcycles that are designed for off-roading and check Kunzum Pass weather updates before planning the journey.
5. Are there accommodation options near Kunzum Pass?
There are no hotels at Kunzum Pass, but travellers can find basic accommodations at Batal, Losar and Kaza. Camping near Chandratal Lake is a very popular option for those looking for an adventurous stay.
6. Is Kunzum Pass safe for travelers with altitude sickness?
Due to its high altitude, acute mountain sickness (AMS) might be experienced by some travellers. It is thus advisable to acclimatize in lower-altitude regions like Manali or Kaza, stay hydrated and most importantly, carry necessary medications to prevent any issues that might arise due to the high altitude.
