Rohtang Pass – Snow Paradise and Gateway to Spiti Valley

Perched high in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, Rohtang Pass is a dream come true for snow lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and mountain travelers. Located about 51 km from Manali in Himachal Pradesh, this scenic pass offers mesmerizing views of glaciers, peaks, and winding valleys — making it one of the most breathtaking drives in India.

A natural gateway between Kullu Valley and Lahaul-Spiti, Rohtang is where lush green hills give way to the stark beauty of the high Himalayas. The pass isn’t just a tourist hotspot — it’s a symbol of nature’s power and beauty, attracting thousands of visitors every summer.

History & Significance

The word Rohtang roughly translates to “pile of corpses” — a name rooted in the region’s treacherous weather and difficult terrain that once claimed many lives during old trade journeys. Today, however, Rohtang Pass is a symbol of accessibility and adventure.

For centuries, it served as a crucial route connecting Kullu, Lahaul, and Spiti Valleys, as well as trade between India and Tibet. Modern infrastructure has transformed travel here, most notably with the construction of the Atal Tunnel, which now provides all-weather connectivity to Lahaul even when Rohtang is snowed in.

Rohtang has become more than just a crossing — it’s a destination where travelers can experience the Himalayas in their rawest form.

Location, Climate & Landscape

Rohtang Pass sits at an altitude of 3,978 meters (13,050 feet), forming a natural boundary between the lush Kullu Valley and the barren Lahaul-Spiti region.

The journey from Manali to Rohtang is a visual feast — from pine forests and waterfalls to snowy ridges and glacial streams. On clear days, you can see the Chandrabhaga and Pir Panjal ranges, and even distant peaks of Spiti Valley.

The climate is typically alpine — chilly even in summer, freezing in winter. Snow often lingers here well into May, turning the region into a snowy playground.

How to Reach Rohtang Pass

By Road

Rohtang is easily accessible from Manali, around 51 km away. Taxis, shared jeeps, or self-driven cars can take you up the winding mountain road, but you’ll need an official permit.

Route: Manali → Palchan → Kothi → Gulaba → Marhi → Rohtang Top
Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours (depending on traffic and weather)
Best Season: May to October (the pass remains closed in winter due to heavy snow)

By Air

The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), about 100 km from Rohtang. From there, taxis or buses can take you to Manali.

By Rail

The closest railway station is Joginder Nagar, around 165 km away, or Chandigarh, which is better connected to major Indian cities.

Permits & Entry Rules

Because Rohtang is an eco-sensitive zone, permits are mandatory for most vehicles traveling beyond Gulaba. These are issued daily and can be booked online through the Himachal Tourism portal.

Permit Fee: ₹550 + congestion charges (subject to change)
Documents Required: Vehicle registration, pollution certificate, and ID proof
Tip: Book permits in advance — daily limits apply, especially during peak season.

Alternatively, you can explore Atal Tunnel year-round, which bypasses Rohtang and connects Manali to Lahaul Valley even during winter.

Things to Do at Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass offers a variety of experiences for travelers of all kinds:

Snow Adventures: Try skiing, snowboarding, or snow-scooter rides during summer months.
Sightseeing: Enjoy 360° panoramic views of glaciers, rivers, and Himalayan peaks.
Photography: Capture dramatic landscapes, from snowfields to rugged cliffs.
Trekking: Short treks to Beas Kund, Rahala Falls, or Gulaba Meadows.
Cultural Insight: Visit nearby villages like Marhi or Kothi to experience local Himachali hospitality.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (May–October): The most popular time to visit. The snow melts gradually, but adventure activities remain open.
Monsoon (July–August): Expect landslides and heavy rainfall — travel only if weather permits.
Winter (November–April): The pass closes due to snowfall, but you can still access Atal Tunnel for Lahaul Valley exploration.

1-Day Rohtang Pass Itinerary

Early Morning (5:30 AM – 8:00 AM): Journey to the Snow Point

Start early from Manali to beat the traffic and enjoy clear skies.
Drive through Palchan and Kothi Village, soaking in pine forests and Beas River views.
Stop at Gulaba View Point for tea and the first panoramic glimpse of the Himalayas.
Capture the sunrise — perfect lighting for photography.

💡 Tip: Carry your pre-booked Rohtang Pass permit and start early, as entry is restricted after a certain time.

Morning (8:30 AM – 11:30 AM): Snow Adventures at Rohtang

Arrive at Rohtang Top (13,050 ft) — enjoy snow even during summer months!
Try snow biking, skiing, or sled rides with local guides.
Enjoy hot Maggi or momos from snow cafés — an experience in itself.
Take panoramic shots of Pir Panjal and Spiti mountain ranges.

Midday (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM): Scenic Drive & Lunch Stop

Begin your descent toward Marhi — a scenic stop for rest and lunch.
Enjoy local Himachali dishes like siddu, momos, or Rajma Chawal at roadside dhabas.
Optional detour: Visit the Atal Tunnel (only 15 km away) and emerge into the dry Lahaul landscape — an amazing contrast in geography.

Optional: Visit the Atal Tunnel North Portal — it’s only a short drive away and offers a striking contrast between the green Kullu side and the cold desert Lahaul side.

Afternoon (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Solang Valley Adventure

On your way back, stop at Solang Valley for paragliding, ziplining, or ropeway rides.
The valley offers sweeping views of glaciers and snow peaks — perfect for your social media reels and travel vlogs.

Evening (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM): Return to Manali

Drive back to Manali as the sun dips behind the peaks.
End the day with a cozy dinner in Old Manali — try local trout fish or Tibetan thukpa.
Relax and relive the memories of your snow-filled adventure!

Travel Tips

Carry warm clothes, gloves, and sunglasses — even in summer.
Book your Rohtang permit at least a day before your trip.
Keep cash handy — ATMs are scarce beyond Manali.
Drive carefully and follow traffic regulations.
Help preserve the environment — avoid littering and respect the fragile ecosystem.

Top Photography Spots

Gulaba View Point – Ideal for sunrise shots
Rohtang Top – 360° snow panoramas
Atal Tunnel North Portal – Unique mountain contrast
Solang Valley – Paragliding and adventure views
Kothi Bridge – Beas River flowing beneath dramatic cliffs

Conclusion

Rohtang Pass isn’t just a travel stop — it’s a gateway to the Himalayas’ soul. From the thrill of snow adventures to the serenity of mountain landscapes, every turn here tells a story of nature’s grandeur.

With improved roads and the Atal Tunnel ensuring better access, Rohtang remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Himachal Pradesh. Whether you’re seeking adventure, photography, or simply a breath of pure mountain air, Rohtang Pass promises memories that last a lifetime.

Electric Bus Services To Rohtang Pass: