Yes, but the roads require careful driving.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer and early autumn are best.

Only foreign nationals need an Inner Line Permit.

Kinnaur

Bus Driving

Kaithlighat to Kinnaur

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Kaithlighat to Kinnaur covers approximately 230 km. You will travel via NH 5, passing through Shimla, Narkanda, and Rampur. The drive takes about 8 to 9 hours. Kinnaur is known for its rugged terrain, apple orchards, and unique culture. The road is part of the famous Hindustan-Tibet highway, offering breathtaking views of the Sutlej river.

Total Distance: 230 km driving distance, 140 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi taking 8 hours via NH 5.

Cheapest Way

HRTC bus via Shimla, costing around 750 INR.

Compare Kaithlighat to Kinnaur Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	10 hours	8 hours
Avg Price	600-900 INR	5000-7500 INR
Operator	HRTC	Private Taxi
Route	Kaithlighat to Shimla, then bus to Reckong Peo.	NH 5 via Narkanda and Rampur.
Tip	Buses to Kinnaur are limited; check schedules in advance.	The road is narrow and prone to landslides; drive carefully.

Travel Tips

Permits
Foreign nationals may need an Inner Line Permit to visit certain areas.
Road Safety
NH 5 is a challenging road; hire an experienced local driver.
Packing
Carry heavy woolens as temperatures drop significantly at night.
Health
Be aware of altitude sickness; stay hydrated and acclimatize.
Connectivity
Mobile network is limited; carry offline maps.

Safety Tips

Landslide Zones
Be extremely cautious in landslide-prone areas like Pooh and Reckong Peo.
Driving Skills
Only experienced mountain drivers should attempt this route.
Emergency Help
Keep contact numbers for local administration and police.
Fuel
Refuel at every opportunity, as petrol pumps are far apart.