Friday, June 3, 2022

Electric Bus Services To Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass Located  at an altitude of 13,058 feet,near Manali is one of the most popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Known for its snow-clad peaks, glaciers, and panoramic Himalayan views, the pass attracts thousands of tourists every year. However, heavy diesel vehicle traffic was causing severe air pollution, melting snow faster, and damaging the fragile ecosystem. To address this, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism and HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) introduced Electric Bus Services to Rohtang Pass, making it the first eco-friendly transport system for this region. 
rohtang pass electric_bus 

Why Electric Buses to Rohtang Pass

  • 🌍 Eco-Friendly: Zero tailpipe emissions help preserve glaciers and the Himalayan environment.

  • 🏔 Sustainable Tourism: Balances tourist inflow with environmental conservation.

  • 🚍 Modern Comfort: Spacious seating, smooth ride, and large windows for scenic views.

  • 🔋 Government Initiative: Supported by the Himachal Government under green transport policies.

Route & Accessibility

  • Starting Point: Electric buses start from Manali Bus Stand.

  • Route: Manali → Gulaba → Marhi → Rohtang Pass.

  • Distance: Around 51 km from Manali to Rohtang Pass.

  • Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 – 3 hours depending on weather and road conditions.

Ticket Booking & Fare

  • 🎫 Booking Counters: HRTC ticket counters at Manali.

  • 💻 Online Booking: Available via HRTC Official Website 

Himachal’s electric bus 
 
Bus Rohtang Pass

Travel Tips

  • 🧥 Clothing: Carry heavy woolens, jackets, gloves, and caps even in summer – Rohtang remains chilly.

  • 🥾 Footwear: Waterproof shoes are recommended if you plan to walk on snow.

  • 📸 Photography: Carry a good camera or smartphone – the glaciers, waterfalls, and valleys offer stunning views.

  • Best Time to Visit: May to October (subject to snow clearance).

Benefits of Electric Bus Service

  • ❄️ Reduces vehicular pollution and black carbon deposits on glaciers.

  • 🌱 Helps sustain eco-tourism in Himachal Pradesh.

  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Affordable and accessible for all travelers.

  • ✅ Safe and regulated entry to Rohtang, avoiding traffic chaos.

FAQs

1. Do I need a permit to travel on the electric bus?
No special Rohtang permit is needed if you travel by electric bus. The permit requirement is for private vehicles.

2. How many buses operate daily?
The HRTC runs a limited number of electric buses daily, depending on weather conditions.

3. Can I book electric bus tickets online?
Yes, tickets can be booked via the HRTC website or at the Manali bus stand counters.

4. Is the bus service available in winter?
No, Rohtang remains closed during heavy snowfall (generally November–April).

5. Is food available at Rohtang Pass?
Yes, small eateries and stalls operate seasonally near Rohtang, but it’s better to carry snacks and water.

Conclusion

The Electric Bus Services to Rohtang Pass are not just a convenient mode of transport but also a sustainable initiative to protect the Himalayas. By choosing electric buses, tourists can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Rohtang while contributing to eco-friendly tourism. This initiative ensures that the majestic snow-covered pass remains pristine for generations to come.  

HRTC bus at Keylong: 

HRTC bus at Keylong

 

Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Kullu-Manali & Shimla – The Crown Jewels of Himachal Pradesh

Kullu-Manali : Snowy Peaks, Colonial Charm, and Adventure in the Heart of the Himalayas. 

Himachal Pradesh is home to two of India’s most beloved hill destinations – Kullu-Manali and Shimla. Known for their snow-capped mountains, adventure sports, apple orchards, and charming colonial architecture, these towns attract visitors year-round. Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, or a peaceful retreat, these hill stations offer it all.

Kullu-Manali

 This travel guide will help you plan the perfect itinerary, covering the best attractions, activities, and travel tips.

1. Kullu-Manali – The Adventure Paradise

a) Best Attractions in Kullu-Manali

  • Solang Valley – Known for skiing, paragliding, zorbing, and ropeways.

  • Rohtang Pass – Snow adventures and gateway to Lahaul-Spiti.

  • Beas River – Rafting and riverside camping.

  • Hadimba Temple – A 16th-century wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests.

  • Vashisht Hot Springs – Natural sulfur hot water springs. 

Hadimba Temple

b) Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (March–June) – Pleasant weather for sightseeing.

  • Winter (Dec–Feb) – For snow lovers and winter sports. 

    Kullu-Manali

2. Shimla – The Queen of Hills

a) Best Attractions in Shimla

  • The Ridge & Mall Road – Shopping, cafés, and colonial architecture.

  • Christ Church – The second oldest church in North India.

  • Jakhoo Temple – Dedicated to Lord Hanuman with panoramic views.

  • Kufri – Ski slopes and horse riding.

  • Green Valley – Scenic photography point with pine-covered hills. 

solang valley

b) Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (March–June) – Perfect for pleasant hill station vibes.

  • Winter (Dec–Jan) – Snowfall season and winter festivals.

3. Suggested 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Shimla, evening walk at Mall Road & The Ridge.
Day 2: Shimla sightseeing – Kufri, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church.
Day 3: Travel to Manali via Kullu, river rafting on the way.
Day 4: Manali sightseeing – Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Springs, Old Manali.
Day 5: Excursion to Solang Valley & Rohtang Pass (permit required).
Day 6: Shopping in Manali markets, departure.

4. How to Reach

  • By Air: Nearest airports – Jubbarhatti (Shimla), Bhuntar (Kullu).

  • By Train: Kalka-Shimla toy train for scenic views.

  • By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Delhi & Chandigarh. 

5. Travel Tips

  • Book Rohtang Pass permits in advance.

  • Carry warm clothes year-round – nights can be cold.

  • Avoid heavy travel in monsoon (July–Sept) due to landslides. 

 FAQs on Kullu-Manali

Q1. What is Kullu-Manali famous for?
Kullu-Manali is famous for its scenic landscapes, adventure sports, and honeymoon getaways.

Q2. What is the best time to visit Kullu-Manali?
Summer (March–June) for adventure and sightseeing; Winter (Oct–Feb) for snow activities.

Q3. Is Kullu-Manali good for honeymooners?
Yes, it’s one of India’s top honeymoon destinations with romantic weather, cozy stays, and snow experiences.

Q4. How many days are enough for a Kullu-Manali trip?
4–6 days are ideal to cover major attractions and enjoy adventure sports.

Q5. What are must-try foods in Kullu-Manali?
Local specialties include Siddu, Babru, Dham, and fresh trout fish. 

Conclusion

Whether you are seeking romance, adventure, or relaxation, Kullu-Manali has something for everyone. From the snowy peaks of Rohtang Pass to the spiritual aura of Hidimba Temple and the thrilling adventures in Solang Valley, this Himalayan paradise promises unforgettable memories.

A trip to Kullu-Manali is not just a holiday—it’s an experience of nature, culture, and adventure rolled into one.

Enjoy the GAIA Festival Himachal Pradesh 2025 – Immersive Music & Nature Experience.

 Visit Spiti Valley – India’s First Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve.

Experience the spectacular Rohtang Tunnel (Atal Tunnel) 

  

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