May is the most confusing month for anyone planning a Spiti Valley trip through Kunzum Pass. You will find conflicting information everywhere. Some blogs say the pass opens in May. Others say it stays closed until June.
The truth sits somewhere in the middle, and it changes every year based on snowfall, weather, and how fast BRO clears the road.
Here is the reality: Kunzum Pass in May is not a guaranteed open window. It is a transition period.
The snow is being cleared, the roads are being restored, and access depends on whether you are looking at early May, mid May, or late May. It also depends on which direction you are coming from.
This guide is written from the ground up, based on seasonal patterns, real route conditions, and years of tracking Spiti access. If you are trying to decide whether to book your trip in May or push it to June, this will help you make a much sharper decision.
Most likely not in early May. Possibly by late May, but not guaranteed.
Kunzum Pass sits at 4,551 metres (14,931 feet) on the Manali to Kaza highway. Every winter, it receives several metres of snow and stays closed from roughly November through May.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) begins clearing operations in March or April, but full access for civilian vehicles typically happens between late May and early June.
In 2025, the pass opened on 24 May for 4x4 vehicles only, with full access following about two weeks later.
In 2024, it opened in the first week of June. In 2022, it opened as early as 3 May, which was unusually early. There is no fixed opening date. It changes every single year.
For May 2026, the realistic expectation is that the pass may become accessible for 4x4 vehicles by mid to late May, with full access for all vehicles by late May or the first week of June. This depends heavily on how much snow falls in March and April 2026.
Always verify the latest Spiti Valley road status before finalising your travel dates.
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Kunzum Pass (Kunzum La) connects the Lahaul Valley to the Spiti Valley. It sits on NH505, about 122 km from Manali and 79 km from Kaza. For anyone doing the Spiti circuit from the Manali side, Kunzum Pass is unavoidable. It is the gateway.
The pass also serves as the access point for Chandratal Lake, one of the most popular destinations in the entire Spiti region. The 14 km diversion road to Chandratal branches off near Batal, just below the pass on the Manali side.
At the top of the pass, you will find the small Kunzum Devi Temple, where travellers traditionally stop to seek blessings before continuing on the difficult road ahead. The 360 degree views from the top include the Chandrabhaga range and glimpses of the Bara Shigri Glacier.
As of early 2026, Kunzum Pass is closed due to heavy winter snow. BRO snow clearance operations are expected to begin in March or April 2026.
Based on patterns from the last several years, here is what the data shows.
In 2022, the road opened on 3 May, which was a record early opening.
In 2023, it opened around late May to early June.
In 2024, the opening came in the first week of June.
In 2025, the pass officially opened on 24 May, initially only for 4x4 vehicles.
The Atal Tunnel, which opened in 2020, has been a significant factor. BRO no longer needs to clear Rohtang Pass first, which has shaved roughly two to three weeks off the timeline. This means openings have generally shifted earlier compared to pre-2020 years.
For 2026, a reasonable estimate is that the Manali to Kaza road via Kunzum Pass may open between mid May and early June, depending entirely on winter snowfall and spring weather. This is a projection, not a promise.
Kunzum Pass receives 10 to 20 feet of snow each winter. Clearing this is a massive operation handled by BRO.
The timeline depends on multiple variables: how much snow fell during winter, whether there were late season storms in March or April, how stable the weather is during clearance, and whether avalanche-prone zones between Gramphu and Batal are safe.
No government body announces a fixed annual opening date. The pass opens when it opens. Anyone telling you an exact date months in advance is guessing.
This distinction matters more than most guides acknowledge.
In early May, the Manali to Kunzum Pass stretch is almost always still under snow clearance. BRO teams are working through the Gramphu to Batal section, which passes through the toughest terrain. The pass top itself is still buried.
From the Kaza side, the road to Losar may be open, but beyond Losar towards Kunzum Pass, clearance is still ongoing. Effectively, in early May, Kunzum Pass is closed from both sides for civilian traffic.
Bottom line: Do not plan a Kunzum Pass crossing in early May unless you are fully prepared for the pass to be closed and have an alternative itinerary.
Late May is when the picture changes. In years with favourable weather, BRO completes clearance and allows 4x4 vehicles through. In 2022 and 2025, the pass opened in this window. In 2024, it took until early June.
Even when the pass opens in late May, conditions are rough. The road is freshly cleared, narrow in places, and may have snow walls on both sides.
Water crossings are minimal (glacier melt has not peaked yet), which is actually an advantage. But the road surface can be unpredictable.
Bottom line: Late May offers a realistic window, but only for experienced travellers in suitable vehicles who are comfortable with last-minute uncertainty.
The Kaza side (Kaza to Losar to Kunzum Pass) generally opens earlier. The terrain on this side is drier and less avalanche-prone. In some years, BRO clears this stretch by April itself.
The Manali side (Gramphu to Batal to Kunzum Pass) is significantly harder to clear. It passes through glacier zones, avalanche channels, and receives heavier snowfall. This side is always the bottleneck.
What this means for your May planning: if you are already in Spiti (having entered via the Shimla-Kinnaur route, which is open year round), you may be able to drive from Kaza to Kunzum Pass top before the Manali side is open.
But you would need to return to Kaza the same way, as crossing to Manali would not yet be possible.
In early May, no. In late May, possibly, but only if BRO has completed clearance from both sides and officially restored connectivity. Even then, the first opening is typically restricted to 4x4 vehicles.
If you are planning to enter Spiti from Manali in May, keep your plans flexible. There is a strong chance that the Manali to Kaza road will not be open until the last few days of May or the first week of June.
For a reliable Manali to Kaza crossing in 2026, the safest window is the second week of June onwards.
This is one of the most common questions, and the honest answer is: almost certainly not.
Chandratal Lake sits at about 4,300 metres, accessed via a 14 km diversion road from the Batal-Kunzum stretch.
Even after Kunzum Pass opens, the road to Chandratal takes additional time to clear. The diversion road is narrow, has water crossings, and remains snow-covered longer.
Campsites near Chandratal typically become operational between early and mid June. Before that, there is nowhere to stay near the lake, no food stalls, and limited rescue access.
If Chandratal is a priority for your trip, plan for mid June or later. Attempting it in May is risky and, in most years, simply not possible.
For the latest on Chandratal access, check our guide on Chandratal opening dates and Spiti Valley road conditions.
Open year round since the Atal Tunnel became operational. Well maintained road through the 9 km tunnel. This stretch is smooth and accessible in any vehicle.
This is the most challenging section. In May, it is either still being cleared or freshly opened. Expect loose rocks, narrow dirt trails, and possible snow patches.
No tarmac. Water crossings are present but manageable early in the season. In July and August, these same streams become dangerous torrents.
A steep climb through 15 sharp hairpin turns. Rough, unpaved, and demanding even in peak season.
In May, snow and ice patches are common near the top. This section requires strong driving skills and a suitable vehicle.
Comparatively better than the Manali side. The road is dusty, uneven, and has loose rocks, but it is more stable. In May, this side usually opens before the Manali stretch.
Not recommended at any time of year on this route. The road from Gramphu to Kunzum Pass has no tarmac, features large rocks, deep ruts, and water crossings.
A sedan's low ground clearance will get damaged. In May, with residual snow and slush, the risk is even higher.
An SUV with good ground clearance (Scorpio, XUV700, Fortuner, etc.) can manage the route in peak season from June to September.
In May, an SUV may work during late May after full opening is declared, but it will be a rough ride. Not ideal for May specifically.
The best vehicle choice for May. When the pass initially opens, BRO restricts access to 4x4 vehicles.
A Thar, Fortuner 4x4, or similar vehicle gives you the traction and clearance needed for snow-patched, uneven terrain.
Experienced riders on sturdy bikes (Royal Enfield Himalayan, KTM Adventure, etc.) can cross Kunzum Pass once the road is declared open for all vehicles.
In late May, the road may still be tricky with patches of ice and loose gravel. Solo riders should be especially cautious. This is not a May ride for beginners.
Kunzum Pass sits at nearly 15,000 feet. In May, the pass area still has significant snow cover, even while clearance operations are underway.
Daytime temperatures range from minus 5 to about 10 degrees Celsius, depending on the week and altitude. At night, expect temperatures to drop to minus 10 or minus 15 degrees Celsius. Wind chill at the pass top is severe. Even on a clear, sunny day, the wind cuts through everything.
Surprise snowfall in May is not unheard of, even after clearance has begun. Late season storms can delay the opening or temporarily close a freshly opened road. The weather at this altitude simply does not follow a calendar.
Pack as if you are going into deep winter. Layers, thermals, windproof jacket, gloves, warm cap, sunscreen (UV is intense at this altitude), and quality sunglasses are all non-negotiable.
If both of you are comfortable with rough roads, cold weather, and uncertain plans, late May can work. Be mentally prepared for the pass to be closed, and have a backup plan to explore Spiti via the Shimla-Kinnaur route instead.
Wait until June. Medical facilities near Kunzum are nonexistent. The altitude is demanding, the cold is harsh, and road conditions in May are unpredictable. This is not the month for a family trip through the pass.
June or July is your month. May at Kunzum requires experience with high altitude roads, comfort with uncertainty, and a vehicle that can handle the terrain. If this is your first mountain trip, start with a more predictable window.
Experienced riders can attempt late May if the road has been declared open. Beginners should wait until June when the road is more settled. Carry all essential spares, extra fuel, and ride in a group if possible.
If you are coming from the Manali side, stay in Keylong or Jispa. Both have decent accommodation, and you can check real-time road status before deciding to push towards Batal and Kunzum.
From the Kaza side, stay in Kaza or Losar. If the Kaza to Kunzum stretch is open, you can do a day trip to the pass and return to Kaza. Losar is the last settlement before the pass on the Spiti side.
For flexible planning, reach Kaza via the Shimla-Kinnaur-Nako-Tabo route (open year round), spend a few days exploring Spiti, and check daily whether the Kunzum side has opened.
This is a realistic scenario, so plan for it.
The best alternative is to explore Spiti from the Shimla side. The Shimla to Kinnaur to Kaza road is open throughout the year (weather permitting).
You can see Key Monastery, Kibber, Langza, Komic, Hikkim, Tabo, Dhankar, and Pin Valley without ever crossing Kunzum. This is a full and rewarding Spiti experience on its own.
If you entered from Shimla and Kunzum is not open, simply return via the same route. Kinnaur Valley and the drive along the Sutlej are spectacular in their own right.
Sometimes, if you are already in Kaza and the pass is close to opening, waiting two or three days makes the difference. Check with locals and the district administration for the latest updates.
And if your dates are fixed and Kunzum is closed, accept it gracefully. The mountains do not operate on our schedules. Come back in June or July when the full Spiti circuit is open.
Travel Coffee specialises in flexible Spiti Valley itineraries that account for exactly these situations. If you want a trip plan that adapts to live road conditions, reach out to us.
👉 WhatsApp Travel Coffee to plan your Spiti trip.
Start early from Kaza. Drive to Losar (59 km, about 1.5 hours). Continue from Losar to Kunzum Pass (16 km, about 30 to 45 minutes).
Spend time at the pass, visit the Kunzum Devi Temple, take in the views. Return to Kaza by evening. Total driving is about 5 to 6 hours round trip.
Day 1: Drive from Kaza to Losar.
Explore Losar village, one of the highest settlements in Spiti. Stay overnight.
Day 2: Early morning drive to Kunzum Pass.
Spend time at the top. Return to Losar or continue back to Kaza.
In May, there is no accommodation at Batal or Chandratal. Losar and Kaza are your only realistic overnight options near the pass.
Road conditions in the mountains change fast. Here is how to stay updated.
The Lahaul and Spiti district administration website publishes daily road status updates during the clearance and travel season. This should be your first stop before you leave.
The Border Roads Organisation shares progress on snow clearance through official channels and local media. Several experienced Himachal travel bloggers also maintain annual road status pages for the Manali to Kaza route, updated frequently during the opening season.
Once you are in Keylong, Kaza, or Manali, local drivers and hotel owners are your best real-time source. They know the road better than anyone.
Travel Coffee also tracks Spiti road conditions through the season and shares updates with travellers planning trips with us. Reach out for the latest before you book.
👉 WhatsApp us today to know the current Kunzum Pass status.
For clothing, carry thermals (top and bottom), fleece layers, a heavy windproof and waterproof jacket, warm gloves, a woollen or fleece cap, thick socks, and sturdy trekking shoes with good grip.
Sun protection is critical at this altitude. Pack sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher), UV-blocking sunglasses, and a wide cap or hat. At 15,000 feet, UV exposure is severe even on cloudy days.
For medicines, bring a basic first aid kit, paracetamol, medication for nausea and altitude sickness (consult your doctor about Diamox before the trip), and any personal prescriptions you rely on.
Vehicle essentials include a spare tyre, puncture kit, tow rope, extra fuel (there are no petrol pumps between Manali and Kaza on this route), jump cables, and basic tools.
Carry enough snacks, dry food, and water for at least 24 hours. If you get stranded due to a sudden road closure, you need to be self-sufficient.
And keep in mind that mobile networks do not work at Kunzum Pass or Chandratal. BSNL has the widest coverage in Spiti Valley, but even that cuts out in several stretches. Always inform someone of your route and expected return time before heading out.
This is one of the biggest decisions travellers struggle with, so here is a straight comparison.
In May, Kunzum Pass access is uncertain and depends entirely on BRO clearance. In June, the pass is usually open and the road has been in use for a couple of weeks. Chandratal is almost certainly closed in May, while it becomes accessible from mid June in most years.
Road conditions in May are rough, freshly cleared, and possibly patchy with snow. By June, the roads are still rough (they always are on this route), but more settled and predictable.
Dhabas at Batal are typically closed or barely operational in May, whereas by June they are up and running. The daily HRTC bus between Manali and Kaza starts running in June, not May.
In terms of crowds, May is nearly empty. June sees a moderate influx that picks up through the month. Weather in May is very cold with a real chance of snowfall, while June is cold but more stable.
If you are an experienced, flexible traveller who is happy with a Spiti trip from the Shimla side and treats Kunzum as a bonus, May works well. You get snow-dusted peaks, deserted roads, and a quieter valley.
But if you want the full Spiti circuit (Delhi to Shimla to Kinnaur to Kaza to Kunzum to Manali to Delhi), plan for the second week of June at the earliest. That circuit requires Kunzum Pass to be fully open, and it reliably is only from mid June.
Yes, but only with the right expectations.
Kunzum Pass in May is not a sure thing. It is a gamble. Some years the road opens by mid May. Some years it takes until June. You cannot know in advance.
If you are the kind of traveller who finds excitement in uncertainty, who is equipped with the right vehicle and the right gear, and who has a flexible itinerary that works even if the pass stays closed, May can be a brilliant time.
The landscape is dramatic with lingering snow. The valley is peaceful. The tourism rush has not started. There is a certain magic in seeing Spiti before the season officially begins.
But if you need a guaranteed crossing, a Chandratal visit, and a complete Spiti circuit, wait until June.
Kunzum Pass rewards the patient and the prepared. May is a month of possibility, not certainty. The right approach is to plan with flexibility, travel with the right vehicle, carry the right gear, and accept that the mountains have their own schedule.
If you want help building a Spiti plan that works in May, June, or any month, Travel Coffee is here. We do not sell fixed packages and hope for the best. We build itineraries around real conditions, real routes, and what is actually open.
Message us for current road guidance, a custom Spiti itinerary, or just honest advice on whether your dates make sense.
The pass will open when it opens. The question is whether you are ready for it.
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