Rohtang Pass – A Beautiful Place for Summer to Visit In Himachal Pradesh

Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, India. Here are some details about Rohtang Pass:

1. Location: Rohtang Pass is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,979 meters (13,054 feet) above sea level. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh.
2. Accessibility: Rohtang Pass is located about 51 kilometers (32 miles) from the town of Manali. It is a popular tourist destination and is accessible by road. However, the pass remains closed for a significant part of the year due to heavy snowfall and dangerous weather conditions.
3. Scenic Beauty: Rohtang Pass is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and valleys. It offers stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and lush green meadows. The pass is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
4. Adventure Activities: Rohtang Pass is a hub for adventure enthusiasts. During the summer months when the pass is open, visitors can indulge in various adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and trekking. It is a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts.
5. Climate: The climate at Rohtang Pass is generally cold throughout the year. Winters are extremely harsh with heavy snowfall, and the pass remains closed during this time. Summers are relatively mild and offer pleasant weather for tourists.
6. Permits and Restrictions: In order to visit Rohtang Pass, tourists need to obtain a permit from the Manali administration. The number of vehicles allowed to enter the pass is restricted, and permits are issued on a first-come-first-served basis. It is advisable to check the latest information and guidelines before planning a visit.
7. Environmental Concerns: Rohtang Pass has faced environmental challenges due to a large influx of tourists. In order to protect the fragile ecosystem, the National Green Tribunal has implemented restrictions on the number of vehicles entering the pass each day. The authorities are also promoting eco-friendly practices and discouraging littering.

It’s important to note that the information provided is up to my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. Therefore, it is recommended to check for the latest updates and guidelines from reliable sources before planning a visit to Rohtang Pass.

Rohtang Pass A beautiful mountain pass situated at 13,050ft (3,978m) on the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas around 51km from Manali.

It connects Kullu Valley with Lahaul and Spiti valleys of Himachal Pradesh.

The Word Rohtang has a meaning to it. In Bhoti language it means- RO- Corpse, and Thang- Plain/Field.

This name has been given because people were dying in bad weather trying to cross the pass.

The pass remains open for 6 months that is from May to October.

Rohtang Pass is extremely popular among travelers and tourists because of the spellbinding landscapes.

Rohtang Pass offers several breathtaking viewpoints that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Here are some of the most popular viewpoints at Rohtang Pass:

1. Rohtang Viewpoint: Located near the pass itself, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and valleys. It provides a magnificent sight of the Himalayan range and is a perfect spot to capture the beauty of the region.
2. Beas Nala Viewpoint: Beas Nala is a picturesque spot located on the way to Rohtang Pass. It offers magnificent views of the Beas River as it flows through the valley. The viewpoint is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a serene atmosphere.
3. Marhi Viewpoint: Marhi is a small village situated on the way to Rohtang Pass. It is known for its scenic beauty and serves as a popular pit-stop for tourists. The viewpoint at Marhi offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, covered with thick forests.
4. Gulaba Viewpoint: Gulaba is another beautiful spot on the route to Rohtang Pass. The viewpoint at Gulaba offers mesmerizing views of snow-clad peaks and the lush green meadows. It is an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers.
5. Rahni Nullah Viewpoint: Rahni Nullah is a picturesque valley located on the way to Rohtang Pass. The viewpoint here provides stunning views of the valley, surrounded by towering mountains. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the valley and capture memorable photographs.
6. Sissu Viewpoint: Sissu is a village located in the Lahaul Valley, near Rohtang Pass. The viewpoint at Sissu offers breathtaking views of the Chandra River flowing through the valley, along with snow-capped peaks and lush green landscapes.

Kullu Valley

It separates Kullu Valley with primarily Hindu culture and the arid and barren high altitude Lahaul and Spiti valleys with Buddhist culture.

The high-altitude mountain pass lies between Chenab and Beas basins.

The weather in Rohtang Pass is very unpredictable and changes from time to time.

Also well known for being dangerous because of unpredictable snowstorms and blizzards.

The local people and the shepherds used this road and were one of the oldest and most frequented passes in the region leading from one culture to another.

The Atal Tunnel, also known as the Atal Tunnel at Rohtang, is a highway tunnel located in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, India. It is named after the former Prime Minister of India, Late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The tunnel is designed to provide all-weather connectivity between Manali and Lahaul-Spiti Valley, bypassing the Rohtang Pass.

Here are some key details about the Atal Tunnel:

1. Length and Altitude: The tunnel is approximately 9.02 kilometers long and situated at an altitude of about 3,100 meters (10,171 feet) above sea level.
2. Significance: The tunnel plays a crucial role in providing year-round connectivity to the remote Lahaul-Spiti Valley, which was previously cut off from the rest of the country for nearly six months during winter due to heavy snowfall and the closure of Rohtang Pass.
3. Construction: The construction of the tunnel began in 2010, and it was inaugurated in October 2020. It is considered one of the engineering marvels in the country.
4. Benefits: The Atal Tunnel has reduced the travel distance between Manali and Keylong (Lahaul) by approximately 46 kilometers, and the travel time has been reduced by around 4 to 5 hours. It has also improved accessibility to the region, facilitating economic growth, tourism, and defense preparedness.
5. Safety and Facilities: The tunnel is equipped with modern safety features such as ventilation, firefighting systems, emergency exit tunnels, and CCTV surveillance. It is also wide enough to accommodate two-way traffic and has a roadway designed for all weather conditions.

Rohtang Pass has a lot of hairpins and curvy roads making it difficult for travelers and tourists to cross.

It also serves as a gateway to Leh Ladakh and Pangi Valley crossing several other passes like Baralacha la Pass (Manali – Leh Highway).

If you want adventure and an adrenaline rush, traveling to this pass won’t disappoint you.

You are driving through slippery roads, rough weather, and dangerous curvy roads.

Despite the challenging journey, you are greeted by snow-capped mountains, fresh mountain air, enchanting glaciers, and rivers.

The government of India has started building a two-way tunnel of 8.8km that bypasses the Rohtang Pass trek and creates a link to several other routes.

Tourists, trekkers, and adventurers access other parts of Himachal throughout the year making their travel safer.

The best time to visit Rohtang Pass for trekking largely depends on the weather conditions and accessibility. Here are the recommended months to consider for a trek to Rohtang Pass:

1. May to June: This period is considered the ideal time for trekking to Rohtang Pass. During these months, the pass is usually open, and the weather is pleasant with moderate temperatures. The snow starts melting, and the landscapes are lush green, offering beautiful views.
2. September to October: The post-monsoon season in September and October is another good time for trekking to Rohtang Pass. The weather is generally clear, and the landscapes are still vibrant with greenery. However, it’s essential to check the pass’s accessibility as it can close earlier in October due to snowfall.

It’s important to note that Rohtang Pass experiences heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions during the winter months (November to April). The pass is usually closed during this period due to safety concerns, making it inaccessible for trekking.

Before planning your trek, it is recommended to check the current weather conditions and the pass’s accessibility. Local authorities or tourism offices in Manali can provide up-to-date information regarding the opening and closing of the pass.

Short  itinerary for visiting Rohtang Pass:

Day 1: Arrival in Manali

• Arrive in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, either by road or air.
• Spend the day exploring the town of Manali, visit the Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, and Mall Road.
• Acclimatize to the altitude and weather conditions.

Day 2: Local Sightseeing in Manali

• Explore the nearby attractions of Manali, such as Solang Valley, Vashisht Hot Springs, and Jogini Waterfall.
• Engage in adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, or river rafting, depending on the season.

Day 3: Excursion to Rohtang Pass

• Start early in the morning for the excursion to Rohtang Pass.
• Enjoy the scenic drive to Rohtang Pass, which is approximately 51 kilometers from Manali.
• Spend time at Rohtang Pass, taking in the panoramic views, playing in the snow (if it’s available), and capturing photographs.
• Return to Manali in the evening.

Note: Due to environmental concerns, there might be a limit on the number of vehicles allowed to visit Rohtang Pass each day. It’s advisable to check and obtain any necessary permits in advance.

Day 4: Explore Old Manali and Local Culture

• Visit the Old Manali area, known for its quaint charm and distinct culture.
• Explore the local markets, cafes, and restaurants.
• Engage in activities like visiting the Manali Club House, enjoying a nature walk along the Beas River, or visiting the Manali Gompa.

Day 5: Departure

• Depart from Manali, either continuing your journey to other destinations in Himachal Pradesh or heading back to your hometown.

How to reach Rohtang Pass for trekking, you can follow these steps:

1. Choose the Starting Point: Determine the starting point for your trek to Rohtang Pass. The most common starting points are Manali and Solang Valley.
2. Reach Manali: If you’re not already in Manali, you can reach there by road or air. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, which is approximately 50 kilometers away from Manali. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Manali. If you prefer to travel by road, Manali is well-connected with various cities in North India, and you can reach there by bus or private vehicle.
3. Acclimatize: Spend a day or two in Manali to acclimatize to the altitude and weather conditions, especially if you are coming from lower elevations.
4. Obtain Permits: Rohtang Pass is subject to permits due to environmental concerns, and you’ll need to obtain a permit from the Manali District Administration or the SDM Office. These permits can be obtained online or offline. Make sure to check the latest guidelines and procedures for obtaining the permits, as they may vary.
5. Hire a Guide: It’s recommended to hire a local guide or join a trekking group to ensure safety and to navigate the trail effectively. They will also assist you with the necessary logistics and provide valuable information about the region.
6. Start the Trek: Begin your trek from the designated starting point. The most common route for the Rohtang Pass trek is from Manali to Marhi, which is approximately 35 kilometers. From Marhi, you can continue your trek to Rohtang Pass, which is around 16 kilometers further. The duration of the trek depends on your pace and fitness level.
7. Accommodation: There are limited accommodation options along the trekking route. You can find basic guesthouses or tented camps in Marhi or nearby villages. It’s advisable to carry your own camping gear if you plan to camp along the route.
8. Safety Precautions: Take necessary safety precautions while trekking, such as carrying sufficient water, food, warm clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Check the weather conditions before starting the trek and be prepared for sudden changes in weather. It’s also important to be aware of altitude sickness and its symptoms. If you experience severe symptoms, descend to lower elevations immediately.

Remember to respect the environment, follow local guidelines, and leave no trace behind. Additionally, it’s recommended to check with local authorities or tour operators for any updated information or restrictions regarding the Rohtang Pass trek, as conditions and regulations may change.