Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters (13,050 feet) in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, is one of the most famous and scenic mountain passes in India. Connecting Manali to the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys, it is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

This guide will provide you with detailed information on Rohtang Pass, including the permit process, timings, entry details, the best time to visit, and activities to enjoy while you’re there.

Rohtang Pass Permit

  • Permit Requirement: Yes, a special permit is required for Rohtang Pass due to traffic and environmental regulations.
  • Permit Fee: ₹500 per vehicle + additional congestion charges (₹50 for cars, ₹100 for SUVs).
  • How to Apply: You can apply online via the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) website or offline at the SDM Office in Manali.
  • Note: Only 1,200 vehicles (800 petrol and 400 diesel) are allowed per day, so it’s crucial to get your permit early as they are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

Rohtang Pass Timings

DayOpening TimeClosing Time
Monday6:00 AM5:00 PM
Tuesday6:00 AM5:00 PM
Wednesday6:00 AM5:00 PM
Thursday6:00 AM5:00 PM
Friday6:00 AM5:00 PM
Saturday6:00 AM5:00 PM
Sunday6:00 AM5:00 PM

Visit Duration: 3-5 hours (depending on weather conditions and traffic)

Opening and Closing Timings Each Year

Rohtang Pass typically opens by May/June (depending on snow clearance) and closes by October/November due to heavy snowfall. The exact dates may vary slightly based on weather conditions and government directives, so it’s recommended to check the official HPTDC website or local authorities before planning your trip.

Rohtang Pass Entry Fee

  • Entry Fee: There is no direct entry fee for visiting Rohtang Pass, but you must pay for the permit and congestion charges (as mentioned above).
  • Parking Charges: May vary depending on the area, usually between ₹30-₹50 per vehicle.

Rohtang Pass Location

  • Address: Rohtang Pass, NH 3, Manali-Leh Highway, Himachal Pradesh, India
  • Distance from Manali: 51 km
  • Coordinates: 32.366°N, 77.244°E
  • Elevation: 3,978 meters (13,050 feet)

How to Reach Rohtang La Pass

  1. By Air:
    • The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, located about 50 km from Manali. From there, you can take a taxi to Manali, and then drive to Rohtang Pass.
  2. By Train:
    • The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, around 165 km from Manali. From Joginder Nagar, you can hire a taxi or board a bus to reach Manali and then continue to Rohtang Pass.
  3. By Road:
    • By Private Vehicle: You can drive from Manali to Rohtang Pass by your own car or bike, but make sure to obtain the required permits.
    • By Taxi: Local taxis are available in Manali that offer Rohtang Pass tours. You can hire private or shared taxis.
    • By Public Bus: The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates buses from Manali to Rohtang Pass during the summer season. You can book tickets at the bus station or online.

Overview of Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass offers panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and valleys. It is known for connecting the lush Kullu Valley with the arid and remote Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. Visitors can enjoy a variety of snow-based activities and scenic landscapes. It is also the gateway to the Leh-Ladakh region, attracting both adventure travelers and photographers.

Best Time to Visit Rohtang Pass

  • Best Time: The best time to visit Rohtang Pass is from May to October. The weather is pleasant, and the roads are open.
  • Monsoon Season (July-August): It is not recommended to visit Rohtang during monsoons due to heavy rainfall, which can lead to landslides and road blockages.
  • Winter Months (November-April): Rohtang Pass is closed during winter due to heavy snowfall and remains inaccessible during this time.

Things to Do at Rohtang Pass

  1. Snow Adventure Sports: Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snow scooter rides are some of the popular activities available at Rohtang Pass.
  2. Trekking: Trekking to nearby destinations like Beas Kund and Bhrigu Lake offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.
  3. Mountain Biking: Mountain biking on the rugged terrains of Rohtang Pass is an exciting adventure for thrill-seekers.
  4. Photography: Rohtang is a paradise for photographers, offering panoramic views of snow-covered mountains and valleys.
  5. Visit Lahaul and Spiti: From Rohtang Pass, you can continue your journey to explore the remote Lahaul and Spiti Valleys.

Importance of Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass holds both historical and strategic importance. It has been a key route for traders, shepherds, and soldiers for centuries. More recently, Rohtang has become a critical tourist destination, contributing to the local economy of Manali and beyond. Its opening in summer provides essential connectivity to the Lahaul-Spiti region, which remains cut off for several months due to snow.

Rohtang Pass History & Backstory

The name “Rohtang” translates to “pile of corpses” in the local language, referring to the number of people who perished while trying to cross the pass in ancient times. The pass has been a historical trade route connecting Kullu with Lahaul-Spiti and further into Tibet. With the advent of modern roads, it has become a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Atal Tunnel Near Rohtang Pass

The Atal Tunnel, which opened in 2020, has been a game-changer for connectivity in the region. The 9.02 km-long tunnel provides year-round access between Manali and Lahaul-Spiti, bypassing Rohtang Pass. This tunnel has significantly reduced travel time and improved access, especially during the winter months when Rohtang is closed.

Interesting Facts about Rohtang Pass

  1. Gateway to Leh-Ladakh: Rohtang Pass is part of the famous Manali-Leh Highway and a key route for travelers heading to Leh-Ladakh.
  2. Limited Vehicle Entry: Due to environmental concerns, only 1,200 vehicles are allowed per day.
  3. Atal Tunnel: The Atal Tunnel bypasses Rohtang and allows travel even during winter.
  4. Year-round Snow: Rohtang is one of the few places in India where you can experience snow even in summer.

FAQs about Rohtang Pass

  1. Is a permit required to visit Rohtang Pass?
    • Yes, a special permit is required.
  2. When does Rohtang Pass open and close every year?
    • It opens around May/June and closes by October/November.
  3. What activities are available at Rohtang Pass?
    • Activities include skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and trekking.
  4. How far is Rohtang Pass from Manali?
    • Rohtang Pass is 51 km from Manali.
  5. Is the Atal Tunnel part of Rohtang Pass?
    • No, the Atal Tunnel bypasses Rohtang and offers year-round connectivity to Lahaul-Spiti.
  6. Can I drive my own car to Rohtang Pass?
    • Yes, but you will need a permit, and only limited vehicles are allowed.
  7. When is the best time to visit Rohtang Pass?
    • The best time is from May to October.
  8. What is the altitude of Rohtang Pass?
    • Rohtang Pass is situated at an altitude of 3,978 meters (13,050 feet).
  9. Can I visit Rohtang Pass during winter?
    • No, Rohtang Pass is closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.
  10. Are there hotels near Rohtang Pass?
  • Most accommodations are available in Manali, as the pass itself is not suited for long stays.