Article Published On - 17-07-2025
Rohtang Pass is quite famous for its fame among Ladakh travellers. However, the unstable avalanche and extreme climate conditions make it scary. However, it has created an adventurer’s trip to Ladakh astonishing. The highest mountain pass in the world is 3978m above sea level. Rohtang is only 51 km away from Manali. It’s part of the famous Pir Panjal Range in the majestic Himalayas and is among the popular Kullu spots.
If you’re considering travel to the scenic valleys close to Kullu and Manali, Rohtang Pass must be on the list of things to do. The renowned Vistas Point is widely known for its stunning natural beauty and is considered among the area’s top tourist attractions. It is only 50 kilometres from the town’s main entrance and can be easily reached on the highway. One of the most notable features of Rohtang La is that it’s among the most elevated passes within the Himalayas. At 3978m above sea level, the pass has breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas that you will likely see on your way to the ocean.
While your vehicle is descending on the Manali-Keylong highway towards Rohtang, LA, you will witness a significant transformation in your surroundings. The fantastic landscape will leave them in awe. Indeed, the hypnotic splendour of the drive and the pass is stunning, and it’s included in numerous Bollywood blockbusters in genres from Jab We Met to Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani. Discover this incredible destination by taking our unique Manali Tour Schedules.
Rohtang La offers one of the top choices for people who wish to escape the bustle and hustle of life and be cosy in a cup of tea while enjoying the stunning naturalises. While your vehicle ascends the mountain, the temperature will get colder, and you’ll be unable to resist the incrediblearea’s beauty and chilling cold. Blue skies with clear blue skies, sparkling snow-covered mountains with sprawling scenery – can you withstand such outstanding natural beauty? The stunning and extraordinary Rohtang La pass must be witnessed and believed.
The ideal time to go to Rohtang la Pass is from September 2nd until the second week of October. At this time, the passes open following monsoons and are closed after they are closed for winter. You are advised to schedule your journey during this time because summer, which runs from May to June, has a flurry of visitors in the region. It becomes pretty challenging to get a permit to traverse the pass. In addition, there are lengthy traffic lines in Manali, Rohtang, and Gulaba.
In light of increased tourism travel, prices for hotel rooms and restaurants have also been created for months. If you are planning your trip between September and October, you might be able to find cheaper rates. During the rest of the season, Rohtang Pass is closed in winter because of the snowfall. Through the monsoon seasons between July and August, the weather can be too miserable for any activities or excursions. We recommend scheduling your trip in October or September so you will maximize the enjoyment of your travel experience.
Numerous myths and stories relate to how the past came to be named in this manner. Someme is derived from the magnificent mountains in the Himalayan ranges, which act as a bridge between Kullu and Lahaand. But some argue that because this pass is the sole access point between valleys, it could have been created by gods or Gods.
The people of Kullu consider that Lord Shiva made the pass, and those living who live in Lahaul consider the pass was created by Gyapo Gyasar, the Western Tibetan king, made the pass. The most popular account about how the pass got its name can be determined from the name. In Ladakhi, the word means “pile of corpses. The pass was given its name due to the vast number of victims who were killed trying to traverse the pass.
The closest airport is 101.4 kilometres from Rohtang the Pass in Bhuntar. The journey will take approximately three and a half hours to four hours to get to the pass from this point. The great thing is that Kullu and Mana, li are within a short distance of the airport. Manali is just 50km from Bhuntar, and land is also close – only 10 kilometres away. So, locating an official state-run bus from Kullu or Manali towards Rohtang La pass is simple. You could employ a cab or taxi to get to get to Manali or Kullu at the airport,
Numerous government and private bus services are operating along the Lehmanali highway. If you’re prepared to spend additional cash, you can also book a semi-sleeper bus. If you do not need to endure the stress of changing buses, book a taxi ride at the airport and take it to Rohtang La Pass, although it could be among the costliest options.
Below are a few of the most cozy hotels to stay at or near Rohtang la Pass:
1. The Orchid Inn The Orchid Inn is just 9 km from Rohtang Pass; the comfortable and cosy hotel is renowned for its reasonable rates. In addition, the helpful staff is available 24/7 to assist you. The hotel has the finest amenities you could expect, along with one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region. This is all on the price of a modest budget. What else could you need?
2. One Ski Resort owned by One Hotels: Located 8.5 kilometres from the mountain pass. The hotel may be slightly more costly; however, it’s worth each penny with the breathtaking panorama surrounding the Himalayas. This is one of the top-quality hotels with the latest services and amenities.
3. Burua Valley Retreat: This hotel is 9.5 km from the mountain pass. The hotel offers reasonably priced rooms for those who travel on a tight budget. In addition, the resort is non-smoking and provides the most cozy and welcoming design that the fatigue you experience during your journey.
The Rohtang tunnel for the Rohtang Pass is currently constructed beneath the Rohtang Pass along the Leh-Manali highway. It is being built under the eastern regions of the Pir Panjal range within the Himalayas. The tunnel’s length is 8.8 kilometres and is considered among the longest tunnels in the nation. The tunnel is expected to significantly cut the distance between Manali and Keylong in the 50-kilometre region.Because the tunnel will remain closed for 8 months of the year, it has been designed to remain accessible during winter. The tunnel will traverse the Leh Manali highway, which is expected when the tunnel’s construction is finished. The tunnel’s digging began in October 2017, and the building should be completed by December 2019. The tunnel is situated at 3100m above sea level; the tunnel is expected to make it easier to travel the Rohtang La Pass. It currently can take between 4 and 6 hours to get there and return from the Rohtang pass. But when the tunnel is finished, it’ll take just 30 minutes.
These are the most popular places to go close to Rohtang Pass:
You require a pass to traverse the stunning pass to the beautiful one. It is possible to apply for a permit online. The Himachal Tourism website allows applicants to apply for a license, which can be used for up to 24 days. Only one permit is required to travel through Rohtang La to and from is only needed. It is essential not to forget that the government does not offer unlimited passes. There is only a certain quantity of passes per day. It is, therefore, suggested that you plan your journey ahead of time and secure your passes as quickly as possible.The required documents for applying for the permit:
Here are some helpful tips to help you visit the Rohtang La pass:1. Make sure to leave sometime during your visit to the past in case of delay. Since many tourists visit the area, it is not unusual that traffic can be bound for long periods. When this occurs, it is possible to to go to the main point, which can take longer.2. Plan your route to reach the summit in daylight. It is a long and challenging route, with the roads windy and as the altitudes are high and get colder throughout the day. Therefore, it’s better to begin early in the day so you can return at the right time.3. Wear warm clothing, as it can be highly frigid during the winter months in mountain areas. In addition, it’s advised to carry an insulated thermos filled with coffee or tea and snacks.4. If you plan to get snow clothing, check the price against the price that the federal government fixes.5. Because oxygen levels are lower when you are in the mountains, it is possible that there is a chance of getting high altitude sickness. Bring some essential medications in case of these situations.
1. The Ladakah excursion to Manali through Rohtang is well-known: Manli-Leh is a great way to see some breathtaking and beautiful panoramas from the Himalayas. These are the top highlights of the trip2. Get your day started with a visit to Manali Manali. This hill station offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan summit and the possibility of skis and paragliding here.3. Go the Rohtang pass. This beautiful route leads to Lahaul, Spiti, and Leh. Photograph the snow-capped mountains and listen to the swaying of the Chandra River that flows right close to you.4. Keylong, the laidback area where nature’s beauty is evident in its finest shape. Stroll through the green and lush Bhaga valley, then go into Jispa. It is right beside Jispa, which is next to the Chandra River. Jispa is an absolute treasure trove of fascinating paths and lush green forests.5. The next stop is Dracha. Discover this beautiful Himalayan village before heading towards Zongzing Bar – one of the most elevated roadside bars around the globe.6. The next place you will visit will be Baralacha La: Standing at 16,000 feet, the place is where you can see the convergence of the three valleys. There is also the option of starting your Suraj Tal trek here.7. The next stops are Sarchu as well as Gata Loops. Take in the breathtaking splendour of Lachulung la, and then go to Pang. Take in the gorgeous surroundings before heading toward Upshi. Go on a journey to learn about goat farming and experience the joy of never-ending bliss.8. Your next destination will be Karu, where you’ll enter the enchanting and idyllic valleys of Leh Ladakh. This is the ultimate destination and ideal for thrill seekers who are adventurers, thrill seekers, and adrenaline addicts. Enjoy natural beauty like you’ve never before. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.
Here are a few of the top restaurants in Rohtang la Pass:1. Manali Sweets is among the most well-known dhaba restaurants across the country, with witts-foundations. Manali Sweets serves many of the lowest-priced food items that also taste delicious. There is a never-ending supply of masala sweets, chai, and snacks without burning holes in your pockets.2. Lazy Dog Lounge: The restaurant is as distinctive as the name suggests. Enjoy delicate continental dishes, big olive and cheese pizzas, and veg-friendly Penne pasta. The lounge is ideal for enjoying enjoying some warm food or comfort foods when cold outside.3. People: This tiny joint has been kept from view by all the world in the smallest of corners. However, it’s also where you can find some of the best and most affordable food. For this reason, People is an ideal place for backpackers or people on a tight budget.
Rohtang Pass Treks have long been considered breathtaking winter paradises, turning Lahaul into an incredible winter scene that cannot be captured through photos alone. Rohtang has taken on an almost eerie silence due to the snowfall clinging tightly around all activity; perfect conditions to experience an unforgettable trek like Rohtang Pass Trek!
Lahaul is stunning during winter months. If you only ever see its beauty through photos, then you aren’t genuinely experiencing its glory. Rohtang becomes an idyllic and snow-covered scene that resembles an icy cemetery when covered by 10km ranges of snow-scum covering all activity in Rohtang region – an opportunity to go exploring Rohtang and be genuinely amazed at the force of mountain range whose elevation stands at 3980m (12740 feet).
Trail The difficulty of this trail can be considered highly demanding. Though only 20 km in total, you should use extra caution in walking on fresh and dry snow surfaces, staying close to guides who will accompany you, and taking care not to wait too long on its peak for too much wind exposure.
Pathankot is the nearest railway station.
Update on Transportation: Unfortunately, there are no bus services accessible; taxi services do, however, operate until 4:30 am; note that taxis begin operating from 2:30 AM, so make sure that you reserve one early to guarantee yourself a seat!
On day one, trek from Marhi towards Koksar and Koksar for 8 to 10 kilometres over 6-8 hours.
Day Two: Travel from Koksar to Keylang on the road via taxi service, available in Koksar at approximately INR 400 to 500 per person.
Day 3: Keylang will depart at 2:00 am today.
Best Time of Visit: April 1 to the middle of April is ideal.
Guide and porter services are inaccessible; thus, we lack information regarding their activities. Rohtang Pass Summit at 3980 meters was reached. A freezing winter is forecasted, and temperatures could dip to 5 degrees Celsius. Heavy precipitation could fall anytime; heavy snow or rainfall could occur unexpectedly.
My initial crossing of Rohtang Pass in 2012 was both challenging and fulfilling – it wowed me as I encountered seemingly never-ending snow, with Ghepan Goh looming majestically in the distance. Though I struggled to traverse the mountain, I ultimately travelled across it at a slower speed than my fellow trekkers. Climbing into the valley left me disoriented since my focus had been solely on traversing up. Furthermore, an unexpected return later that day further exacerbated an existing leg injury. However, my discomfort subsided as soon as I took in the stunning views from the summit of the pass, where the snow-covered landscape spread like an ocean over my journey. As it was worth all the exertion. Lah’s journey will likely begin in April or even earlier if conditions remain dry; I consulted a colleague who completed this trek in 2008 and taxi companies from Manali for more details. On April 11, I researched my time of departure. Taxis from Manali typically leave at 4:00 A.M. It was interesting to find out that one of the first groups to cross over was teachers from the government who took to walking due to no available flights. In 2013, crossing Shingo La pass became possible again during April, as taxi rates fluctuate annually depending on the distance travelled and level of risk; motorists may charge passengers anywhere from 600-600 rupees in such instances. If an unexpected road closure arises, prices are adjusted to account for it. When passengers are dropped off at an agreed-upon location (Marhi), drivers wait patiently for passengers arriving from opposite directions. They must endure the extreme temperatures of the desert for up to six hours without showing signs of human activity – only tyres from Border Roads Organisation vehicles have left any trace behind on this barren landscape.
People often slip across treacherous terrains, suffering serious injuries like broken bones or head trauma as a result. As I traversed Rohtang Pass on 2013’s Rohtang Traverse, I attempted to keep pace with people from Lahaul but found myself the slowest traveller despite walking for three hours straight. At various stages during your trip, you could face the task of traversing a steep slope like Rakshas Dhank without seeing breathtaking views like the Chandra River frozen over. Traversing the Rahni Nallah section may prove the most formidable challenge of this trek. Extreme terrain and strong icy winds can pose a danger in Lahaul. Although ropes are recommended in this region, the locals use their method. You will soon gain the confidence to follow their trail – once at the top, your view is simply incredible – Ghepan Goh peak (5870 meters), guarded by Rohtang Pass to your left; to your right is rolling hills that surround Rohtang Pass; which seems as though someone had taken turns showering snow over it all year.
Endurance of the cardiovascular system
An essential factor of successful trail hiking is developing your aerobic capacity. A daily jogging regimen is ideal; try setting a target goal of four kilometres completed in 20 minutes before setting out on your trek. Maintain a steady regimen because reaching this target takes time and dedication on an ongoing basis. Exercise such as cycling, swimming, or stair climbing that require minimal rest time are beneficial in reaching this goal. Strength and muscle-building exercises for legs and core areas are also incredibly essential. Start by performing exercises targeting your leg muscles; aim for three sets of 8 repetitions each. Crunches or planks enhance both fitness and endurance for trekking expeditions, making for an enjoyable trek experience. Being agile also ensures a pleasant journey ahead.
Adaptability at Work
RegularRegular stretching exercises to stretch hamstrings, quadriceps muscles, hip flexors, lower back muscles, and shoulders are highly recommended to increase flexibility and build physical strength for treks. Including this activity in your schedule will strengthen these areas to avoid strain while carrying a light load that weighs you down over time.
Director & Founder
With over 12 years of experience in the Himalayas, Preetam has summited multiple 6000 - 7000 meter peaks and led more than 200 expeditions across iconic routes like Bali Pass, Buran Ghati, Rupin Pass, Pin Bhabha, Stok Kangri, and Black Peak. His deep mountain experience and leadership make him a trusted name in Himalayan trekking. Write to him at: preetam@trekupindia.com
