Tucked away in the majestic Himalayas, Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass that connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys in Himachal Pradesh, India. Located at an altitude of 3,978 meters, this high mountain pass through Himachal Pradesh is a magnet for travelers seeking thrills and breathtaking landscapes.
From skiing on the pristine snowfields to trekking through rugged terrain, Rohtang Pass offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities.
How To Reach Rohtang Pass from Manali
- Rohtang Pass is located about 51 km from Manali on the Leh-Manali Highway.
- The road to Rohtang Pass is narrow, winding, and often slippery due to snow and ice. It is prone to landslides and traffic jams, especially during peak season.
- It is advisable to hire a local driver or take a bus from Manali to Rohtang Pass.
- To visit Rohtang Pass, you need to obtain a permit from the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) website or office.
- The permit is valid for one day and costs INR 550 for cars and INR 100 for bikes.
- The permit is issued on a first-come-first-serve basis and is limited to 1,300 vehicles per day (800 petrol and 500 diesel).
- The permit can be booked online two days in advance or offline one day in advance.
- The best time to start your journey from Manali to Rohtang Pass is early morning (around 5 am) to avoid traffic and reach before noon.
- The journey takes about 2-3 hours depending on the road conditions and traffic.
- You can stop at some scenic spots along the way, such as Marhi, Gulaba, and Kothi Village.
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Best Time To Visit Rohtang Pass
Climate: Rohtang Pass experiences a cold and harsh climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from -8°C to 25°C, depending on the season.
Snowfall and Accessibility: Heavy snowfall occurs from November to May, leading to the closure of the pass. It is accessible from June to October after the snow melts.
Best Time to Visit: For snow and winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snow scooter riding, visit from June to September. Be prepared for cold weather and carry adequate warm clothes.
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Things To Do In Rohtang Pass Manali
Rohtang Pass is a paradise for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. There are plenty of things to do in Rohtang Pass that will make your trip unforgettable.
Skiing in Rohtang Pass: You can glide over the snow-covered slopes and feel the adrenaline rush. You can rent skis and other equipment from the local vendors or take a skiing course from the instructors. The skiing season lasts from June to September.
Snowboarding in Rohtang Pass: You can ride a snowboard over the snow and perform tricks and stunts. Rent snowboards and other equipment from the local vendors or take a snowboarding course from the instructors. The snowboarding season lasts from June to September.
Paragliding in Rohtang Pass: You can fly in the air like a bird and enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains, valleys and glaciers. Book a paragliding session from the local operators or take a paragliding course from the instructors. The paragliding season lasts from September to October.
Zorbing in Rohtang Pass: Book a zorbing session from the local operators or try it on your own. You can roll down a hill inside a giant transparent ball and feel the gravity and speed. The zorbing season lasts from September to October.
Mountain Biking in Rohtang Pass: Ride a bike on the rough and rocky terrain and test your skills and stamina. You can rent a bike and other equipment from the local vendors or take a mountain biking tour from the guides. The mountain biking season lasts from September to October.
Must Read: Plan your Rohtang Pass Trip with Tripoto
Places to Visit Near Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is not only a destination in itself but also a gateway to some of the most beautiful and remote places in Himachal Pradesh. Here are some of the most popular places that you can visit from Rohtang Pass:
Solang Valley: Solang Valley is a picturesque valley located about 13 km from Rohtang Pass. You can enjoy activities such as paragliding, zorbing, horse riding, cable car ride, etc. at Solang Valley. You can also visit the Solang Ski Resort, which offers skiing facilities during winter.
Beas Kund: Beas Kund is a sacred lake located about 18 km from Rohtang Pass. It is believed to be the source of the Beas River, which originates from here. It is also a popular trekking destination, as it offers a stunning view of the surrounding peaks such as Hanuman Tibba, Shitidhar, Ladakhi.
Rahala Falls: Rahala Falls is a beautiful waterfall located about 16 km from Rohtang Pass. It is formed by the melting glaciers and falls from a height of about 50 meters. It is surrounded by deodar trees, birch trees and wildflowers, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere.
Kothi Village: Kothi Village is a charming village located about 12 km from Rohtang Pass. It is famous for its scenic beauty, traditional architecture and cultural heritage. You can see the old houses, temples and monuments of Kothi Village, which reflect the history and culture of the region.
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Dining Options Near Rohtang Pass
Johnson's Cafe: Situated on the Manali-Rohtang Road, Johnson's Cafe has a cozy and relaxed ambiance, with both indoor and outdoor seating options available.
Approximate Cost for Two: ₹800 to ₹1000.
Must-Try Dishes: Fluffy pancakes, juicy burgers, and rich hot chocolate.
Cafe 1947: Tucked away in Old Manali, Cafe 1947 exudes a charming and rustic vibe with vintage memorabilia and colorful artwork, creating a unique and eclectic atmosphere.
Approximate Cost for Two: ₹1000 to ₹1200 for two people.
Must-Try Dishes: The wood-fired pizzas, creamy pastas, and delectable apple pie.
Casa Bella Vista: Nestled in the Log Huts Area of Old Manali, Casa Bella Vista offers a cozy and intimate dining experience.
Approximate Cost for Two: ₹1200 to ₹1500.
Must-Try Dishes: Authentic Italian cuisine, especially the flavorful tiramisu and aromatic cappuccino.
Cafe Amigos: Located on Mall Road in Manali, Cafe Amigos is known for its vibrant ambiance and delicious Mexican fare.
Approximate Cost for Two: ₹700 to ₹900 for two people.
Must-Try Dishes: The Mexican food here is a hit, particularly the crispy nachos and refreshing mojitos.
Drifter's Cafe: Situated on Hadimba Temple Road in Old Manali, Drifter's Cafe offers a laid-back atmosphere with a touch of Israeli charm.
Approximate Cost for Two: ₹800 to ₹1000.
Must-Try Dishes: Authentic Israeli dishes, such as the flavorful shakshuka and the creamy hummus platter.
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Accomodation Near Rohtang Pass
The Himalayan: Located in Hadimba Road, The Himalayan offers luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the Himalayas. Guests can enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant and it also offers a range of activities, including trekking, mountain biking, and yoga sessions.
Span Resort and Spa: Situated along the banks of the Beas River, Span Resort and Spa offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. The resort features spacious rooms and cottages, each elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities.
Manu Allaya Resort and Spa: Located in the picturesque village of Prini, Manu Allaya Resort and Spa offers luxurious accommodation with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The resort also has a spa offering a range of treatments, as well as indoor and outdoor activities such as yoga, meditation, and nature walks.
The Orchard Greens Resort and Spa: Situated in Log Huts Area, The Orchard Greens Resort and Spa offers comfortable accommodation with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities at the resort, including trekking, river rafting, and bonfire evenings. The resort also has a restaurant serving a range of delicious dishes.
Snow Valley Resorts: Located in the heart of Manali, Snow Valley Resorts offers comfortable accommodation with easy access to the city's main attractions. The resort also has a spa offering a range of treatments, as well as indoor and outdoor activities for guests to enjoy.