Majestic Himalayas covered with snow, enchanting glaciers, challenging terrains, slithering rivers, and 360 degree panoramic views make Rohtang Pass one of the most scenic locations in Himachal Pradesh. The route from Manali to Rohtang Pass is truly spectacular. Words seem to fail to describe the picturesque route. The distance from Manali to Rohtang Pass is just 50 km. With pristine white snow all around, people sliding down on snow-covered hilly slopes, throwing snowballs at each other, drinking a hot cuppa of coffee or tea, enjoying cheesy Maggi are just a few sights that are commonly seen here. One distinctive feature that makes this place look divine is the extensive snow-covered landscape. Thus, all activities enjoyed in the pass are connected with snow. Located at an altitude of 3900 meters, Rohtang Pass displays a beautiful image even from a faraway distance. Rohtang Pass is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. If you are visiting this place for the first time, you are sure to remember this place picturised in some of the popular Bollywood Blockbusters like Highway, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Jab We Met, and more. Let us check out what this place holds to attract you!
Best Time To Visit Rohtang Pass
Summer season witnesses a heavy influx of tourists in Rohtang Pass. The hotels are in great demand and getting the best accommodation within budget becomes slightly difficult. Thus, it is better to start planning at the earliest and enjoy blissful Rohtang weather. Plan a trip from May to October if you wish to travel in the summer. Bikers can plan a road trip in August when the road conditions are good, and the Rohtang temperature also supports road trips. It is also the best time to enjoy diverse outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, camping, and biking.
History of Rohtang Pass
There are many legends and fables associated with Rohtang Pass. The first fable is about how this place got its name. As per the locals in the area, Rohtang Pass got its name after the gigantic mountain ranges linked with Lahaul and Kullu Valleys. Locals believe Lord Shiva created this pass as the only connection point between the two valleys. People of Kullu firmly believe in the King of Western Tibet, Gyapo Gyasar making this pass. However, the most believable story lies in the name of the place itself. In Ladakhi language, the meaning of the word ‘Rohtang’ is ‘Pile of Corpses.’ Since many people lost their lives trying to cross this pass, the place got its name as ‘Rohtang Pass.’
Places to Visit in Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is located approximately 50 km away from Manali and the road trip to reach this pass is nothing short of a spectacular spectacle of nature. Breathtakingly beautiful, this pass is a spellbinding escapade from the hustle and bustle of Manali Town. Once this pass was used as a trade route by people residing on either side of Pir Panjal ranges, it is the crown jewel of Himachal Pradesh. Today, Manali-Atal tunnel has become the major attraction of this destination. Besides this tunnel, here we bring you the 5 best places to visit in Rohtang Pass. Plan a trip to this magnificent place and enjoy it to your hearts’ content.
1. Solang Valley
The adventure hub of Manali, Solang Valley, is the best place to visit when planning a trip to Rohtang Pass. In winters, this place transforms into a winter wonderland. Various adventure activities can be enjoyed, like skiing, zorbing, paragliding, parasailing, parachuting, horse riding, and more. It is the perfect place to enjoy family picnics and nature walks in the summer. It is approximately 42 km from Rohtang but attracts a lot of visitors.
2. Rahala Waterfall
It is another popular attraction worth visiting. It is a picture-perfect place located 23 km from Rohtang Pass. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts love visiting this place and admire gushing water falling from a height, creating a frothy mist. The road leading to this waterfall provides scenic views with numerous curves and verdant landscapes. It is also the best place for wildlife spotting, bird watching, and hiking.
3. Chandra and Bhaga Rivers
Another must-visit attraction when visiting Rohtang Pass is the confluence of Chandra and Bhaga Rivers. These are gushing glacial rivers that flow rapidly and converge at the Spiti Valley, forming the vast Chenab River. This confluence of rivers creates a panoramic view providing a breathtakingly stunning sight for the onlookers. It is one of the lesser-known attractions but worth visiting.
4. Khoksar Village
It is a quaint and picturesque Himalayan settlement nestled in the valleys of the Himalayas. Considered as one of the coldest places, the village provides scenic views all around. The people residing at this sleepy hamlet are very warm and welcoming. Cosy homestays and dhabas serving piping hot food make the stay comfortable for the visitors. It is undoubtedly one of the undiscovered and unexplored paradises, an integral part of Rohtang Pass tourism. If you are looking for a place that boasts of untouched beauty, serenity and tranquility, and stunning views all around, it is the place to visit.
5. Lahaul and Spiti Valley
It is a nature’s paradise where visitors can drink in the unadulterated beauty of the stunning white landscape. Also referred to as the Himalayan Mountain Desert, it is a mesmerising valley. Plan a day trip to this place, providing a connection with Tibet. Vibrantly coloured monasteries liven up this stark area with its glorious beauty.
Things to do in Rohtang Pass
When visiting Rohtang Pass, loads of adventure-based, spine-chilling, adrenaline-thumping activities are waiting for you to enjoy. Some activities are meant for experts, while many are perfect for beginners. Thus, depending on the degree of risk, go for these activities.
1. Trekking
It is the best and most amazing activity that will provide you an opportunity to admire looking at lovely glaciers, splendid views, snow-covered mountains, challenging trails, and more.Trekking across the snow-covered pass is a surreal experience that is sure to stay in your memories forever. The trek routes worth exploring are Gulaba to Bhrigu Lake, Batal to Rohtang, Manali-Lahauli Pass, and Rohtang and Jalori Pass. Get the best trekking experience!
2. Mountain Biking
If you love biking across challenging terrain, go mountain biking across this stunning driving path, taking you through the magnificent pass. Enjoy the scenic views while maneuvering your bike through tough roads. Besides amazing views, you also get to enjoy a feeling of adventure at its best.
3. Skiing and Tyre Drop
Rohtang Pass is a skier’s paradise. It is one of the favourite activities of people visiting this place. There is no need to carry equipment to enjoy this activity as there are several shops right before Rohtang Pass, renting skiing equipment.
4. Sledge Rides
When you are in Rohtang Pass, you need to enjoy sledding. Ride in a wooden toboggan and enjoy the thrill when you slide on the snowy slopes at a fast speed. Experience child-like joy and excitement with this activity.
5. Photography
With gorgeous views all around, vying for your attention, capture this phenomenal beauty around you in your camera. It is the perfect place for photography enthusiasts to capture this unbelievable beauty and cherish these moments forever.
6. Snow Scooter Riding
Ride a pillion with your partner or get your partner on board to race your scooter on the snowy land. It is the coolest activity that you can enjoy here. Experience unmatchable thrill and a competitive spirit you never knew you had with this adventure activity.
7. Paragliding
When in Rohtang Pass, paragliding is an activity that should not be missed in any case. Flying over the snow-capped mountains is a surreal experience. The feel of cool and fresh air caressing your face will keep you refreshed.
8. Permit For Rohtang Pass
Visiting Rohtang Pass requires a special permit. Apply for a pass-through at the official website of Himachal Tourism. The pass is available online and is valid for the next 24 hours. The Government limits the number of passes issued every day. Thus, it is better to plan a trip at the earliest and get the passes. Documents required to get the pass are identity-proof, vehicle registration number with registration date, and a pollution check certificate for the vehicle.
How to Reach Rohtang Pass
The pride of Himachal Pradesh, Rohtang Pass is well-connected with other places close to Manali and other cities in India. Diverse modes of transportation can be used to reach here. Here’s a detailed list of how you can reach Rohtang Pass through Air, Railways or road depending on your budget and time.
- Nearest Major City. Chandigarh
- Nearest Airport. Bhuntar Airport, Kullu
- Nearest Railhead. Joginder Nagar
- Distance from Chandigarh. 365.4 Km via NH205
By Air
The Kullu airport or Bhuntar airport serves all domestic flights. From hereon, you can take a taxi or a cab to reach Rohtang Pass. Traveling to Kullu is easy as the airport has regular to and fro flight services from all major cities of India.
- Distance from Bhuntar Airport. 104 Km
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Rohtang Pass
By Rail
Joginder Nagar is the nearest rail head to reach Rohtang Pass. The railway station connects the Rohtang Pass to the rest of India via frequent rail services. After deboarding the train, you can consider taking a private taxi or bus to reach your destination.
- Distance from Joginder Nagar Railway Station. 103 Km
By Road
Rohtang Pass is well connected with other cities and states of India through well maintained national and state highways. The place also enjoys good bus connectivity. You can also consider visiting Rohtang Pass by your own vehicle if you are adept at driving on hairpin bends and challenging terrains.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Rohtang Pass?
Ques 1. Why is Rohtang Pass so popular?
Ans 1. Rohtang Pass is popular for its irresistible scenic beauty. Snow-covered peaks, glacial rivers, deep valleys, and passes make this place a popular tourist destination in India. Moreover, it is also a hub of adventure-based activities.
Ques 2. Is permission required to visit Rohtang Pass?
Ans 2. Yes, it is mandatory to take permission when planning a visit to Rohtang Pass. This permission needs to be taken from the official website of Himachal Tourism Department.
Ques 3. Which outdoor activities can be enjoyed in Rohtang Pass?
Ans 3. Rohtang Pass is the best place to enjoy outdoor activities like paragliding, sledge rides, snow scooter, photography, and more.
Ques 4. Which is the nearest city to Rohtang Pass?
Ans 4. Manali is the nearest city, another popular tourist destination to Rohtang Pass. It is hardly 50 km away.
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