The road journey from Kaza (Spiti Valley) to Manali is one of the most dramatic and challenging drives in India. Although the distance is around 200 km, poor road conditions, river crossings, and high mountain passes mean the journey usually takes 8–10 hours.
For a long time, Rohtang Pass was the only way to enter Manali. Today, with the opening of the Atal Tunnel, travelers finally have a faster and safer alternative route—but only after reaching Gramphu.
This guide explains all alternative routes from Kaza to Manali, when to use them, and which one is best for you.
The Common Route: Kaza to Gramphu (Unavoidable Section)
Before choosing an alternative route, it’s important to understand that Kaza to Gramphu is the same for everyone.
Kaza → Rangrik → Losar → Kunzum Pass (4590m) → Batal → Chhatru → Gramphu
- Distance: ~150 km
- Road condition: Extremely rough, river crossings, loose stones
- Kunzum Pass height: 4,590 meters
⚠️ This stretch is seasonal and usually open only from mid-June to mid-October.
Once you reach Gramphu, the road splits—and this is where your route choice begins.
Route 1: The “Atal Tunnel” Route (The New Standard)
The Route: Gramphu → Khoksar → Atal Tunnel (North Portal) → Solang Valley → Manali
Why take this route?
This is the best alternative route from Kaza to Manali and the most preferred option today.
Distance (from Gramphu): ~45 km
Time: ~1.5 hours
Advantages
- Avoids Rohtang Pass completely
- Smooth, well-paved road
- No Rohtang permit required
- Saves 2–3 hours of travel time
- Open for most of the year
Disadvantages
- Misses the classic Rohtang Pass views
✅ Recommended for: Families, tired drivers, first-time Spiti travelers, small cars
Route 2: The “Rohtang Pass” Route (The Old Alternate)
Gramphu → Rohtang Pass (Top) → Marhi → Gulaba → Manali
Why take this route?
This is the traditional route and is chosen mainly for snow views and adventure.
Distance (from Gramphu): ~65 km
Time: ~3.5–4 hours
Advantages
- Stunning high-altitude views
- Snow walls in early season
- Classic Manali–Leh highway experience
Disadvantages
- Steep climbs and sharp hairpins
- Fog and weather changes
- Permit / green tax rules can change frequently
- Slower and more tiring
⚠️ Not recommended for inexperienced drivers or bad weather days.
Route 3: The “Shimla” Loop (The Emergency Alternate)
If Kunzum Pass is closed, there is NO direct route from Kaza to Manali.
The only alternative is a long detour via Kinnaur and Shimla:
Kaza → Tabo → Nako → Reckong Peo → Rampur → Shimla → Bilaspur → Mandi → Manali
- Distance: ~650 km
- Time: Minimum 2 days
🚨 This is an emergency or winter-only option, not a regular alternative.
Which Is the Best Alternative Route from Kaza to Manali?
| Route Name | Path | Distance (from Gramphu) | Difficulty |
| Via Atal Tunnel | Gramphu → Tunnel → Solang | ~45 km | Easy (Paved) |
| Via Rohtang Pass | Gramphu → Rohtang Top → Marhi | ~65 km | Hard (Steep/Curves) |
| Via Shimla | Kaza → Kinnaur → Shimla | ~650 km | Extreme (Endurance) |
Important Travel Tips for Kaza to Manali Road
- Fuel up in Kaza – no petrol pumps till Manali
- Start early (5 AM) – water crossings worsen after noon
- Carry essentials – food, water, spare tyre, tools
- Check Kunzum & weather status before leaving
- Avoid night driving on this route
Conclusion
If you’re searching “what is the alternative route from Kaza to Manali?”, the answer is clear:
👉 After Gramphu, the Atal Tunnel route is the best and safest alternative, while the Rohtang Pass route remains a scenic but challenging option.
Your choice should depend on weather, vehicle type, and travel fatigue—not just distance.
FAQs: Kaza to Manali Alternative Routes
1. What is the best alternative route from Kaza to Manali?
The best alternative route is via Atal Tunnel after reaching Gramphu. It is faster, safer, and avoids the steep Rohtang Pass.
2. Is there more than one route from Kaza to Manali?
From Kaza to Gramphu, there is only one road. After Gramphu, you can either go via Atal Tunnel or via Rohtang Pass.
3. Which route is faster from Kaza to Manali?
The Atal Tunnel route is the fastest and saves 2–3 hours compared to the Rohtang Pass route.
4. Do I need a permit to go from Kaza to Manali?
Generally, no permit is required if you use the Atal Tunnel route. For the Rohtang Pass route, permit or green tax rules may apply and can change frequently.
5. Is the Rohtang Pass route still open after the Atal Tunnel?
Yes, Rohtang Pass is still open during the season, but most travelers prefer the Atal Tunnel due to better road conditions.
6. Which route is better for small cars or hatchbacks?
The Atal Tunnel route is better for small cars as it avoids steep climbs and bad road patches near Rohtang.
7. Can beginners drive from Kaza to Manali?
The stretch between Kaza and Gramphu is very challenging. Beginners should attempt this drive only in good weather and preferably in a high-ground-clearance vehicle.
8. When is the Kaza to Manali road open?
The road usually opens by mid-June and closes by mid-October, depending on snowfall and weather conditions.
9. Are there petrol pumps between Kaza and Manali?
No. There are no petrol pumps between Kaza and Manali. Travelers must fill fuel in Kaza before starting.
10. Is night driving safe on the Kaza–Manali route?
No. Night driving is not recommended due to water crossings, lack of lighting, and sudden weather changes.
11. What happens if Kunzum Pass is closed?
If Kunzum Pass is closed, there is no direct route from Kaza to Manali. The only option is the long detour via Kinnaur and Shimla.
12. Which route offers better scenery: Atal Tunnel or Rohtang Pass?
The Rohtang Pass route offers better scenery and snow views, while the Atal Tunnel route focuses on speed and safety.
13. How long does it take to travel from Kaza to Manali by road?
Travel time ranges from 8 to 10 hours, depending on weather, road conditions, and the route chosen after Gramphu.
14. Is Atal Tunnel open throughout the year?
The Atal Tunnel remains open most of the year, even when Rohtang Pass is closed, subject to weather conditions.
15. Which route do locals prefer from Gramphu to Manali?
Most locals and taxi drivers prefer the Atal Tunnel route for reliability and reduced travel time.