Kunzum Pass in Himachal Pradesh: All You Need To Know!

Have you ever wanted to drive on one of the highest roads in India? There’s a place in Himachal Pradesh called Kunzum Pass where you can do exactly that. This amazing mountain pass is super high up – 4,551 metres above sea level. That’s like being on top of a really, really tall mountain where the air is thin and everything looks different. The mountains are bare, the sky is so blue it hurts your eyes, and there are hardly any people around. This TripzyGo guide will tell you everything you need to know to visit this incredible place.

Why Should You Visit Kunzum Pass?

The height Kunzum Pass trek is 4,551 metres, and when you stand there, you can see mountains everywhere. Snow-covered peaks, deep valleys, and colourful prayer flags dancing in the wind. It’s like nature’s own movie playing right in front of you. The best part is that you can see the Bara Shigri Glacier from here. It’s a huge river of ice that’s been there for thousands of years. Kunzum Pass is the main road that connects two valleys – Lahaul and Spiti. So when you cross this pass, you’re not just going over a mountain. You’re going from one world to another. The scenery changes completely once you cross over.

Most people don’t know about Kunzum Pass yet, which means you won’t find crowds of tourists. You can actually enjoy the quiet and peace of being high up in the mountains without people pushing and shoving to take selfies.

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How to Reach Kunzum Pass

Covering the Kunzum Pass Distance takes time and patience, but it’s worth every minute. You can travel from either Manali or Kaza. Most people go through the Manali route, in which Kunzum Pass is 122 kilometres from Manali. You have to drive through Rohtang Pass first, then keep going through the Lahaul Valley. It takes about 5-6 hours, but you’ll want to stop many times to take photos. Another route is from Kaza. If you’re coming from Spiti Valley, it’s 79 kilometres from Kaza. This route is shorter but just as beautiful.

All the roads to the Kunzum Pass are taken care of by the army, and they’re pretty tough. Also, they’re narrow and have lots of curves. During the rainy season, there might be rocks falling or roads getting blocked. Drive slowly and be careful. Also, make sure your car has enough petrol before you start. There are very few petrol pumps in these mountains. So, carry extra water, snacks, and warm clothes. You don’t want to get stuck without these things.

Best Time to Visit Kunzum Pass

Timing is super important when planning your trip. You can’t just go anytime you want.

1. Summer (June to August): This is the best time for Kunzum travel. The pass opens in late May or early June when the snow melts. During the day, it’s nice and pleasant – around 5°C to 15°C. But at night, it gets really cold. This is perfect for people visiting for the first time.
2. Late Summer (September to October): This is when Kunzum Pass looks its absolute best. The weather is good, the sky is clear, and you get amazing views. The air is super clean, which is great for taking photos. But it starts getting very cold, especially in the morning and evening.
3. Rainy Season (July to August): You can visit during this time, but be ready for surprises. The weather can change quickly, and roads might get blocked. If you plan to go during this time, don’t make fixed plans.
4. Winter (November to May): Don’t even think about going during winter. The pass is completely closed because of heavy snow. It’s too dangerous and impossible to reach.

Things To Do in Kunzum Pass

Here’s what you can do when you visit Kunzum Pass:

Visit the Small Temple

There’s a tiny temple at the top dedicated to a local goddess. People walk around it three times before continuing their journey. The temple is small, but the views from there are huge.

Take Amazing Photos

Kunzum Pass is perfect for taking pictures. The mountains, prayer flags, and temple make great photos. The best time for photos is early morning or late afternoon when the light is golden.

Trek to Chandratal Lake

This is a 14-kilometre walk that takes about 6-7 hours. It’s not too difficult, and you’ll see glaciers and beautiful meadows. The lake at the end is worth all the walking.

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What to Pack for Kunzum Pass

Since you’re going to such a high place, you need to pack smart.

1. Clothes: Even in summer, it gets very cold in Kunzum Pass, so pack a good jacket that blocks wind, a warm hat, and gloves. Don’t forget sunglasses as the sun is very strong up there.
2. Shoes: Wear strong, comfortable shoes. The ground is rocky and uneven. If you want to trek to the lake, bring proper trekking shoes.
3. Medicine: Bring basic medicines and anything you normally take. High places can give you headaches, so bring medicine for that too. Carry lots of water as you need to drink more at high altitudes.
4. Other Stuff: Bring extra batteries for your camera and phone. Cold weather makes batteries die faster. Pack enough snacks and water because there are no shops at Kunzum Pass.

Important Travel Tips

Here are some tips to make your Kunzum Pass trip safe and fun:

1. High Altitude Problems: At 4,551 metres, some people feel sick headaches, feel like throwing up, or get dizzy. Take your time, don’t rush, and listen to your body. If you feel really bad, you need to go down to a lower place.
2. Weather Changes Fast: Mountain weather is crazy. It can be sunny one minute and snowy the next. Always carry extra warm clothes, even if it looks nice outside.
3. Vehicle: Make sure your car is in good shape before you go. Check everything – brakes, tires, engine. Carry basic tools and a spare tire. These roads are tough on cars.
4. No Phone Signal: Your phone probably won’t work in many places. Download maps that work without the internet and tell someone your plans before you leave.

Other Places To Visit Nearby

Since you’re going all the way to Kunzum Pass, you might want to see these places too:

1. Chandratal Lake: The road to this beautiful lake starts about 8 kilometres from Kunzum Pass. It’s definitely worth the extra effort.
2. Spiti Valley: Keep going to see amazing villages like Kaza, Tabo, and Key Monastery. Each place has old monasteries and friendly people.
3. Rohtang Pass: On your way from Manali, you’ll cross this pass too. It’s another beautiful high mountain pass worth stopping at.

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Plan Your Kunzum Pass Trip with TripzyGo

Kunzum Pass is not just any mountain pass. It’s a place where you feel like you’re on top of the world. Standing there at 4,551 metres, breathing the thin air, and seeing views that go on forever, it’s something you’ll never forget. The drive might be long and tiring, but once you get there, you’ll understand why it’s so special. It’s perfect for people who love mountains, adventure, and seeing things that most people never get to see. Just remember to check if the roads are open before you go, pack warm clothes, and be respectful of the mountains. 

Ready to visit one of India’s highest roads? Check out our Himachal tour packages and let TripzyGo help you plan your perfect mountain adventure to Kunzum Pass.