Location: Leh Manali Highway, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India
Height: 3978 meters above sea level.
Rohtang Pass is one of the most popular attractions in Manali. Around 51 km from Manali, Rohtang Pass connects Lahaul and Spiti valleys. This high-altitude mountain pass is enveloped by the Pir Panjal Mountain Range of the Himalayas and is known for its matchless natural beauty. It is also known for its strategic importance for the country.
A drive on Rohtang Pass offers wonderful views of surrounding peaks, glaciers, Chandra River, and Lahaul Valley, along with the twin peaks of Geypan. Self-drive on this road is quite challenging due to its meandering curves and thin stretch. Other options are local cab or tourist bus.
Rohtang Pass is open between June and October. During the peak season, the pass is jam-packed; thus, to avoid delay, one must leave quite early. It is quite popular among adventure junkies and features in the list of must-visit places in Manali.
This high-altitude pass receives heavy snowfall between November and March. During this time, the pass remains closed. If you wish to see the beauty, plan the Rohtang Pass trip between May and June and September - October.
Offering many challenging trails with waterfalls, peaks, and glaciers in between, Rohtang Pass is a paradise for trekkers. The Manali-Lahaul pass is among the famous treks, known for Sulfur springs and Bhrigu lake views. Other trek routes are Gulaba to Bhrigu Lake, Batal to Rohtang and Jalori Pass.
As the pass is covered in snow, skiing is the first choice of many travelers. Skiing equipment is available in the shops nearby.
There are many lesser-known routes open for mountain biking around Rohtang Pass. Biking through magnificent vistas will give you that intense adrenaline rush.
Another famous activity at Rohtang Pass is sledge riding. You will ride in a wooden toboggan on the snow and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Rahala waterfall is a famous place near the high-altitude pass, around 16 km from Manali, on the way to Rohtang Pass. The scenery here is breathtaking. Do not forget to click memorable photographs. The popular track ‘Yeh Ishq Haaye’ of the Bollywood blockbuster ‘Jab We Met’ was shot at Rohtang Pass. Other attractions near the pass are Nehru Kund, Kothi, Gulaba, and Marhi.
Please take note that one must seek a permit to visit Rohtang Pass, which can easily be done online. Permits are not issued on Tuesday as the pass is closed for maintenance. Tourists can apply for permits from the current date for the next two days. The National Green Tribunal has ordered 400 diesel vehicles and 800 petrol vehicles to go to Rohtang Pass daily. Vehicles have to pay the Rohtang Pass permit price and Congestion charges, which vary depending on the kind of vehicle, to seek a permit.
Note that the government only provides a limited number of passes each day. So it is best to plan your trip and get your pass as soon as possible.
The nearest airport to Rohtang Pass is in Bhuntar, around 85 km away (2.5 hours or more, depending on the traffic). Manali is 48 km from Bhuntar airport, and Kullu is just 10 km.
You can also reach Manali to Rohtang Pass by car (50 km) or from Kullu (75 km). State transport buses from Kullu or Manali to Rohtang Pass are also available. Private buses also operate on the Leh Manali highway.
For a hassle-free tour, hire a taxi from the airport to Rohtang Pass, but it will be an expensive option.
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