Rohtang Pass:Best Time, Permits, How to reach, Things to do, Tips

Discovering Rohtang Pass: Location and Significance

Rohtang Pass, located at an impressive altitude of 3,978 meters (13,050 feet), is a high-altitude pass connecting the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys in Himachal Pradesh.

Situated on the Leh-Manali Highway, it is approximately 51 kilometers from Manali, making it a convenient road trip for tourists visiting Manali.

This Himalayan mountain pass is not only a gateway to the remote regions of Lahaul, Spiti, and Leh but also a hotspot for tourism due to its scenic drives adventurous offerings.

The pass derives its name from the Tibetan words “Ro” (ground) and “Tang” (pile of corpses), reflecting its challenging terrain as one of the dangerous roads in Himachal.

Best Time to Visit Rohtang

Timing your visit to Rohtang is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. The best time to visit Rohtang is from May to October, when the pass is open for tourists.

During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and manageable temperatures, making it ideal for adventure activities and sightseeing.

Rohtang in Winter vs Summer

Summer months (May to June) offer pleasant temperature, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, perfect for photography and outdoor activities.

Winter (November to April) brings heavy snowfall, making the pass inaccessible due to closure. However, if you’re wondering, “Is Rohtang Pass open in winter ?” the answer is no, as snow blocks the roads, but nearby Solang Valley offers snow activities during this time.

Best time to visit for Snow

Late May to early June is ideal for those seeking snow adventure in without extreme cold, as patches of snow linger from the winter season.

Always check if the Pass is open for tourists by visiting official Himachal Pradesh tourism website (https://rohtangpermits.nic.in/) or local authorities, as weather conditions can affect its opening times.

Opening and Closing Timings

Rohtang Pass is generally open from May to November, depending on weather conditions. Below are the day-wise timings:

Note : Earlier, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) would close the Manali-Rohtang highway every Tuesday for maintenance work, restricting all vehicles from going beyond Gulaba.

However, due to increasing requests from tourism stakeholders and reduced traffic on the route after the opening of the Atal Tunnel, the district administration has now decided to keep the highway open on Tuesdays as well.

How to Reach Rohtang from Manali

Manali to Rohtang Pass is a popular route for tourists, and the journey itself is a scenic delight. Here’s how you can reach Rohtang Pass:

By Road

The most common way to travel is by hiring a taxi or driving your own vehicle from Manali. The road trip takes about 2-3 hours, covering 51 kilometers of winding roads with stunning scenic views.

Via Atal Tunnel

The recently constructed Atal Tunnel, a marvel of modern engineering, offers an alternative route to Lahaul, reducing travel time. However, for those specifically visiting Rohtang, the traditional Manali route remains the primary choice.

A comparison shows that while the tunnel is faster for reaching Lahaul but Rohtang Pass offers unparalleled scenic beauty and adventure.

Public transport options are limited, so private vehicles or guided tours are recommended for a hassle-free experience.

Rohtang Permit: What You Need to Know

To manage tourist influx and protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, a Rohtang permit is mandatory for vehicles traveling beyond Gulaba checkpoint towards Rohtang Pass.

Here’s a quick guide on how to get a Rohtang Pass permit online:

1. Visit the official Himachal Pradesh tourism portal or the Rohtang permit websitehttps://rohtangpermits.nic.in/.
2. Fill in details such as vehicle number, driver information, and travel date.
3. Pay the permit fee (approximately INR 500-600 per vehicle, subject to change).
4. Download and carry a printed or digital copy of the permit.

Permits are issued for specific dates and are limited daily, so apply well in advance, especially during peak season.

Things to Do at Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Here are the top activities to make your trip unforgettable:

• Snow Activities: During May and June, indulge in snow adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding and sledding. These adventure activities are perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

• Photography: Capture the stunning photography spots, including glacier views, snow-covered peaks and the winding Leh-Manali Highway.

• Trekking: For those interested in trekking, short trekking routes offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Kullu Valley.

• Adventure Sports: Try paragliding or zorbing in nearby Solang Valley, a popular extension of Rohtang Pass.

• Sightseeing: Enjoy sightseeing with stops at waterfalls, meadows and panoramic viewpoints along the route.

Altitude Sickness Precautions

Traveling to a high-altitude pass like Rohtang can pose risks of altitude sickness. Here are some precautions to ensure a safe trip:

• Acclimatize in Manali for 1-2 days before heading to Rohtang.

• Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals before the ascent.

• Carry medications (after consulting a doctor) and portable oxygen cans.

• Dress in layers to combat fluctuating weather conditions.

• Avoid overexertion and take breaks during activities.

Travel Tips for First-Timers

To make your adventure seamless, keep these travel tips in mind:

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic congestion and secure parking.

• Carry warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop suddenly.

• Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen, as facilities at the pass are limited.

• Check Rohtang weather updates before leaving Manali.

• Book accommodations in Manali well in advance, as Manali peaks during season.

Nearby Attractions

While Rohtang Pass is highlight of tourism in Himachal Pradesh, nearby attractions like Solang Valley and Atal Tunnel complement the experience.

Solang Valley, is ideal for adventure sports and snow activities during winter when Rohtang Pass is closed. The Atal Tunnel, on the other hand, offers a quicker route to Lahaul but lacks the raw, adventurous charm of Rohtang.

Conclusion: Why Rohtang Should Be on Your Travel List

Rohtang Pass is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that combines the thrill of a Himalayan adventure with the serenity of nature.

Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, chasing snow activities, or capturing photography, this high-altitude pass promises memories that last a lifetime.

Plan your trip with and get ready to explore one of India’s most iconic mountain passes.