Not every day do you get to see nature in its raw and wild form. Rohtang Pass is one such place. Located in Himachal Pradesh, it’s at an altitude of 3,978 meters (13,050 feet) above sea level and connects the beautiful Kullu Valley to the barren lands of Lahaul and Spiti. What makes Rohtang Pass a must-visit is the changing scenery—snowy mountains, glistening rivers and vast stretches of rough terrain. This high-altitude mountain pass in Himachal Pradesh is famous for adventure activities, views and extreme weather conditions which keep it closed for half the year. If you are planning to visit Manali, the Rohtang Pass Tour will give you an experience that’s a mix of natural beauty and adventure.
What is the Best Time to Visit Rohtang Pass?
The best time to visit Rohtang Pass is from May to October as the roads are open and the weather is good. Snow lovers will love May and June when the Rohtang Pass is still covered in snow. By July the snow starts melting and you get to see lush green valleys and a totally different view.
But avoid the monsoon months of July and August as there is heavy rainfall, landslides and road closures. The September and October months have clear skies and is ideal to plan a Road Trip in Himachal as you can enjoy both the adventure and beauty of the region without any weather interruptions.
When Rohtang Pass Remain Open for Tourists?
The Rohtang Pass is open to tourists from May to October so you can see the landscapes, snow capped peaks and scenic drives. During these months the weather is better and the pass is open for sightseeing, trekking and other outdoor activities. But from November to April Rohtang Pass is closed due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions and is not accessible and not safe for travel. Always check local weather updates and travel advisory before planning your trip to have a safe and enjoyable visit.
How to Reach Rohtang Pass?
You can do the adventure activities after reaching Rohang Pass but your real adventure will start from the road trip itself. It is located 51 km from Manali in Himachal Pradesh. You can opt for any of the options given below to reach Rohtang Pass.
By Road: The most common way to reach Rohtang Pass is by Manali-Leh highway. You can take a taxi or HRTC bus or you can even rent a Toyota Innova which will give you both a sturdy and comfortable ride on the winding roads.
By Bike: Biking is a good option if you are an adventure junkie. Riding through the mountains of Himachal is a thrilling experience. Many bike rental shops in Manali have well-maintained bikes so you can choose one as per your choice.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Joginder Nagar which is located at a distance of 104 km from Manali. From there you can take a taxi or bus to Manali and then continue your journey to Rohtang Pass.
By Air: The nearest airport is in Bhuntar situated near Kullu at a distance of 50 km from Manali. After landing you can take a private vehicle to continue your journey.
Is the Permit Required to Visit Rohtang Pass?
Yes, you will need a permit to visit Rohtang Pass as it is charged to tourists to promote sustainable tourism and to control vehicular traffic. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) monitors this to control congestion and pollution in the area. There are two types of permits one for Rohtang Pass and the other for going beyond Rohtang Pass to places like Lahaul-Spiti or Leh. So, based on your plan you can select the right one.
You can apply online through the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Council’s website. You will need to upload your ID proof, vehicle registration documents and Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. The cost is ₹500 per vehicle and ₹50 as a congestion charge.
Only 1,200 vehicles (400 diesel and 800 petrol) are allowed daily so book in advance and book your permit early. Permits are one day valid and not transferable to another vehicle or date.
What are the Road Conditions of Rohtang Pass?
The road to Rohtang Pass is beautiful and tough. It has narrow stretches, steep climbs and sharp hairpin bends. In summer the roads are clear but can be slippery due to melting snow. In monsoon landslides and muddy patches make the road more risky so be cautious.
Traffic jams are common during peak season, especially in the morning. So it is advisable to start the trip early in the morning to avoid the rush. Hiring a good driver or booking a Luxury Tempo Traveller will help you to navigate the road safely. Despite the challenges, the views are stunning so it is worth all the effort and time.
What Activities Can You Enjoy at Rohtang Pass?
Rohtang Pass has a mix of adventure and relaxation activities that attract visitors from all over the country. Its terrain and high altitude make it perfect for adventure. Here are some things you shouldn’t miss:
Skiing and Snowboarding: Rohtang Pass is a winter wonderland in the snow season, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Equipment is available for rent and local guides can help beginners to enjoy the slopes safely.
Snow Scooter Rides: A snow scooter ride is a high-speed way to explore the icy Rohtang Pass. These are for adventure lovers looking to add some fun to their visit.
Mountain Biking: The rough roads and hairpin bends of the Pass make it a mountain biker’s paradise. Cycling amidst such scenery is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What Are the Nearby Attractions Around Rohtang Pass?
When you are planning an adventure trip in Rohtang Valley, do not miss to add these places nearby to enhance the Himachal tour experience. Here are some must-visit places near Rohtang Pass:
Solang Valley: Just a short drive from Manali, Solang Valley is the adventure hub for paragliding, zorbing and ropeway rides. In winter it becomes a skiing destination so it’s a must-visit for all adventure seekers.
Rahala Waterfalls: Located at a distance of 16 km from Manali, these waterfalls are a sight to behold. Surrounded by dense birch and deodar trees, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic or photography.
Keylong and Lahaul-Spiti Valleys: If you have time and want to go a bit far from the greenery of Kullu, these remote valleys are a different world altogether. Known for their barren landscapes, ancient monasteries and Tibetan culture, they are worth visiting.
What Should You Pack for the Trip?
Rohtang Pass is a must-visit place on your Manali tour. If you are planning a trip to Manali from Delhi by road in the winter season to see snow, you must pack carefully for Rohtang Pass and make your entire journey comfortable. Here’s a quick checklist:
Warm Clothing: It gets cold so carry thermal wear, woollen jackets, gloves and scarves.
Sturdy Shoes: Waterproof, non-slip shoes for walking on snow or rocky terrain.
Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Snow reflects the sun’s rays badly on your eyes and skin. So you should carry Sunglasses that block UV rays and 40+ SPF sunscreen.
Snacks and Water: You can find some food on the route but it would be better to carry snacks and water for this long journey.
First Aid Kit: It is common to have altitude sickness. So pack basic medications, pain relievers, and any prescription drugs you may need.
Conclusion
Rohtang Pass is at the top of the list of destinations for anyone looking for an adventure in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh. You can find everything from adventure activities to scenic views. Planning is important for everyone as one needs to get permits, pack essentials and choose the right transport and here you are good to go. Whether you are going with family or solo, Rohtang Pass has memories to last a lifetime. Start planning now and experience the wonder of this place!
