The Rohtang Tunnel, officially named the Atal Tunnel is not just a road — it’s a symbol of human determination and engineering brilliance. Officially inaugurated in October 2020, this remarkable structure connects Manali in Kullu Valley with Keylong in Lahaul Valley,it is the world’s longest highway tunnel at 10,000 ft transforming travel and tourism across Himachal Pradesh forever.
Named after India’s former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, this tunnel has redefined connectivity to the high-altitude deserts of Lahaul-Spiti and Zanskar, making it a must-visit destination for travelers, bikers, and adventure lovers alike.
History & Significance
The idea for a tunnel under Rohtang Pass was first proposed in the early 1980s to provide year-round access to Lahaul and Spiti, regions often cut off from the rest of India due to heavy snowfall.
Construction began in 2010, led by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and completed after a decade of challenging Himalayan work conditions. In 2020, the dream became reality when the Atal Tunnel was inaugurated — the world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet.
Beyond its strategic military importance, the tunnel has become a lifeline for locals and a marvel for travelers exploring Himachal’s northern frontiers.
Location & Engineering Marvel
Located in the Pir Panjal Range, the Atal Tunnel stretches for 9.02 kilometers (5.6 miles) at an altitude of 10,171 feet (3,048 meters). It connects South Portal (Manali side) near Dhundi to North Portal (Lahaul side) near Sissu.
What makes the tunnel so extraordinary is not just its altitude, but its design:
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Two-lane road with a width of 10.5 meters
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Fire-resistant, temperature-controlled environment
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Advanced ventilation, CCTV, and emergency escape systems
Reduces travel distance between Manali and Keylong by 46 km and time by nearly 4 hours
Accessibility & How to Reach
From Manali
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Distance: ~24 km from Manali town
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Route: Manali → Palchan → Solang Valley → Dhundi → Atal Tunnel South Portal
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Time: Around 45 minutes by car
You can easily rent a taxi, bike, or join a guided tour from Manali. The drive to the South Portal is scenic, passing through pine forests and the popular Solang Valley.
Nearest Transport Hubs
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By Air: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), 60 km away
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By Rail: Joginder Nagar (165 km) or Chandigarh (310 km)
By Road: Regular buses and private taxis connect Manali with Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla
Atal Tunnel Tourism Highlights
While it’s primarily a transportation marvel, Atal Tunnel has quickly become a top tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh, thanks to the dramatic change in scenery on either side of the tunnel.
South Portal (Manali Side)
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Lush greenery, waterfalls, and pine forests
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Nearby attractions: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Beas Kund Trek, and Kothi Village
North Portal (Lahaul Side)
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A sudden transformation into the cold desert of Lahaul Valley
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Visit Sissu Waterfall, Gondhla Fort, and Keylong Monastery
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Ideal for landscape photography and offbeat adventure
💡 Tip: The North Portal viewpoint is perfect for panoramic shots of the Chandra River, snow peaks, and the contrasting terrain of Lahaul.
Things to Do Around Atal Tunnel
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Scenic Drives: Combine Atal Tunnel with a day trip to Sissu, Gondhla, or even Jispa.
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Photography: Capture the engineering contrast between lush Manali and barren Lahaul.
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Adventure Sports: Try paragliding or ATV rides at Solang Valley before entering the tunnel.
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Winter Travel: Experience snow-covered landscapes on both sides from December to February.
Cultural Exploration: Interact with locals in Lahaul’s villages to experience traditional Himachali life.
Best Time to Visit
The Atal Tunnel is open year-round, making it one of the most accessible Himalayan marvels.
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Summer (May–September): Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and road trips.
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Winter (November–February): Snow blankets both portals, creating a fairy-tale setting.
Monsoon (July–August): Be cautious of landslides between Manali and Solang.
Suggested 1-Day Itinerary: Atal Tunnel & Sissu
Morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Drive from Manali
Start from Manali, stopping briefly at Solang Valley for paragliding or cable car rides. Continue to Atal Tunnel South Portal — enjoy the scenic alpine views en route.
Late Morning (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM): Through the Tunnel
Drive through the 9 km stretch — a surreal experience as you transition from green valleys to the cold desert beyond. Stop briefly at the North Portal viewpoint for photos.
Noon (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM): Explore Sissu
Head to Sissu Village, just 5 km beyond the tunnel. Visit Sissu Lake, Waterfall, and enjoy a local lunch by the river.
Afternoon (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Return via Solang
Drive back to Manali, taking time for evening tea or Maggi at a Solang dhaba, with snow peaks fading into dusk.
Tips for Travelers
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Carry woolens even in summer — the Lahaul side can get chilly.
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Check weather forecasts before your drive.
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Fuel up in Manali — no petrol pumps beyond Solang.
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Photography drones are allowed but must follow local regulations.
Avoid littering — the region is eco-sensitive.
Nearby Attractions
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Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft) – 15 km ahead of the South Portal
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Sissu Waterfall – 5 km from North Portal
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Keylong – 40 km from the tunnel
Spiti Valley – Beyond Lahaul for extended road trips
Conclusion
The Atal Tunnel isn’t just a shortcut — it’s a revolution in Himalayan travel. It has made Lahaul-Spiti accessible throughout the year, connected remote communities, and opened doors for adventure and tourism like never before.
Whether you’re a road-tripper chasing new horizons or a traveler yearning to witness human ingenuity blending with mountain beauty, Atal Tunnel deserves a place on your bucket list. Combine it with visits to Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, or Spiti Valley for a complete Himachal experience that celebrates both nature and innovation.
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