Rohtang Pass: A Land of Snow-capped Mountains & Alpine Meadows

Embark on A Trip To Experience The Thrill of Rohtang Pass!

The Rohtang Pass in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, is a prominent tourist destination 52 km from Manali Bus Stand, 43 km from Solang Valley, and 16.5 km from Marhi. It is located at an elevation of 4111 meters (13,400 feet) on the Manali-Leh Highway (NH-21). The Pass offers a beautiful sight of glaciers, peaks, and the Chandra River flowing down in the Lahaul valley. It is the perfect place to experience snow in the summer season and is also famous for adventure sports in Himachal state. 

The Pass offered a spectacular panoramic mountain view. It is an ancient trading route that connects the inhabitants on both sides of the Pir Panjal. The armies and the BRO (Border Road Organization) are always awake and prepared to confront the challenge. Rohtang Pass is a popular destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers.

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Story Behind the Name Rohtang Pass 

The Rohtang Pass has many legends and fables associated with it. One of the legends says that the Pass is named after the mountain ranges connecting the Lahaul and Kullu valleys, which Lord Shiva built as the only contact point.Locals have complete faith in the King Gyapo Gyasar of Western Tibet; he made this Pass according to locals.

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Best Time To Visit 

(May to November)

Rohtang Pass is a popular destination due to its strategic location and breathtaking views of nature. The Geypan peaks have seen looming large on the Pass, and it once acted as a historic trade route between the people on either side of the Pir Panjal range. The Pass is accessible only for three months (July-September), which is significant for people coming from the Lahaul Valley. It is the period when they take staple crops and potatoes to the market in Kullu. The Rohtang Pass usually opens on June 1, the gateway to Pangi and Leh Valley. The snow-covered mountains are ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to go skiing or snow scooter riding. Still, the bottlenecked roads can be unforgiving and unsuitable for novice drivers. The Pass remains closed during Winter. In the Winter, the mountains at the Rohtang Pass are completely covered in snow, making access impossible. During summer (mid-June to October), regular buses ply between Manali-Keylong, Udaipur, Spiti, and Leh. 

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Permit For Rohtang Pass

It's important to note that you'll need a permit to enter the region while travelling from Manali to Rohtang Pass. This area is protected, so tickets have required for all visitors. You can easily apply for the Rohtang Pass Permit online if planning a trip to the site. You'll need a permit that can be applied online through the Himachal Tourism website. The key is valid for 24 hours and allows you to go to and fro. Remember to use it beforehand because each day's a limited quota. 

Documents Needed For Permit

1. Valid ID Proof

2. Pollution Certificate

3. Vehicle Registration

Whether in Rohtang Pass

Weather in Rohtang Pass varies according to the seasons. The information for various reasons is given below.

1. In Summer

Summer lasts from March to July, and temperatures range between a maximum of 24 degrees and a minimum of 14 degrees. 

2. In Monsoons

Monsoons occur from July to September, which also marks the start of trekking season in the region. 

3. In Winter

Winter lasts from October to February, with temperatures peaking at a maximum of 2 degrees and plummeting to minus-degree temperatures.

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Top things to do

Rohtang Pass is truly a breathtaking destination showcasing nature's sheer power and beauty. In addition to exploring the rugged terrain on foot, plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities are available for adventure seekers. The most popular spot at the Pass is Rohtang snow point, which offers many thrilling experiences. From exhilarating snow sports to heart-racing mountain biking, this stunning location will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. The list of top things to do here is given below.

1. Heliskiing

2. Paragliding

3. Snow scooter Driving

4. Photography

5. Mountain Biking

6. Trekking

Best Places to visit

Rohtang Pass offers a breathtakingly beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. The Manali-Atal tunnel is a major attraction, but there are also other wonderful places to visit in Rohtang Pass. So, plan a trip to this spectacular place and enjoy the stunning views and natural wonders that await you. Here are The best places are given below.

1. Solang Valley

Manali is known as the adventure hub of Solang Valley and offers a wide range of activities, from skiing and zorbing to paragliding and more. It's the perfect place to enjoy family picnics and nature walks in the summer. In the Winter, Manali turns into a winter wonderland, attracting visitors from all over. Although it's about 42 km from Rohtang, it's worth the visit.

2. Rahala Waterfall

Add that Rahala Waterfall to your favourite list of places to visit when in the Rohtang Pass. It's a beautiful spot and is perfect for nature lovers. Explore the road leading to the waterfall and view the lush green landscape. Also, spot some wildlife or birds along the way here.

3. Chandra and Bhaga River 

Another place to visit while visiting Rohtang Pass is the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers. These glacial rivers flow fast and join the Spiti Valley, forming the mighty Chenab River. This confluence of rivers creates a picturesque view that provides a breathtakingly fantastic sight to the onlookers. 

4. Lahul and Spiti Valley

Also known as the Himalayan Mountain Desert, it is a mesmerizing valley. It is a nature's paradise where visitors can enjoy the pure beauty of the stunning white landscape. Brightly coloured monasteries bring this quaint region to life with their splendid beauty. 

5. Khoksar Village

It is a quaint and picturesque Himalayan township situated in the valleys of the Himalayas. This village offers beautiful views and is considered one of the coldest places. The people living in this sleepy township are welcoming. 

Best Stays in Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass has the pleasure of providing a stay at some fantastic accommodations. Each stay offers a unique experience and top-notch amenities that will make your trip unforgettable. From breathtaking views to cosy interiors, they have all needy amenities. The highly recommended resorts are the following.

1. Highland Park 

2. The Orchards Green

3. Golden Tulip

4. Snow Valley Resorts

How to reach

It has essential to take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. To reach Rohtang Pass from Manali, you have three options: rail, road, or bike.

1. By Road

Travelling along NH 21 from Manali to Rohtang Pass, the scenery has breathtaking. However, if anyone plans this journey, do so with an expert driver or, better yet, hire a taxi. 

2. By Rail

If you prefer to take the rail route, you can reach Joginder Nagar railhead, which is 104 km away from Manali. Hire a taxi or take a state transport bus to Rohtang Pass from there. The journey usually takes about 2 hours. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike in Manali and ride to Rohtang Pass. It's a spectacular experience, but take necessary precautions and follow traffic rules. Remember that a Rohtang Pass permit is mandatory for travelling beyond Rohtang. The permit fee is INR 500 + INR 50 per vehicle.