Which bicycle for the Spiti Circuit route?

Hi everyone,

I recently learned about the Spiti Circuit (Chandigarh > Shimla > Kinnaur > Spiti > Manali > Chandigarh), and I’d like to ride it on a bicycle rather than drive it.

Route reference: https://raachotrekkers.com/spiti-valley-tour-package/

The route covers a wide mix of conditions:

1. Terrain and roads: smooth tarmac, broken and patchy sections, gravel, loose rock, and stream crossings
2. Elevation: long, sustained climbs and high passes
3. Weather: the Kinnaur-Spiti stretch lies in a rain shadow, so it’s cold, dry and windy, while the lower and outer sections get substantial rain

Given these conditions, which type of bicycle would you recommend? I’m weighing a gravel bike, a hardtail MTB, and a touring/expedition bike. I’d also appreciate advice on:

1. Tyre width and tread
2. Gearing for steep, high-altitude climbs
3. Brakes (disc vs. rim) for long descents
4. Frame and luggage setup for bikepacking

If you’ve done this circuit or similar Himalayan routes, I’d love to hear what worked and what you’d change.

Thanks in advance!

• This topic was modified 53 minutes ago by pawanranta.
• This topic was modified 51 minutes ago by pawanranta.