Rohtang Pass, Manali - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 43 km from Solang Valley, and 52 km from Manali, Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass located on Manali - Leh Highway (NH-21) at an altitude of 4111 m (13,400 ft). It is one of the most popular adventurous places in Himachal, and among the major Manali places to visit.

Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Pangal Range of the Himalayas. It is the gateway to Lahaul, Spiti, Pangi, and Leh valley. The pass is on the watershed between the water basins of the Chenab River and the Beas River. The word 'Rohtang' is literary means 'pile of corpses'. People die all the time due to bad weather while trying to cross the Pass. It is one of the best places to experience snow in the summer season in Himachal.

Rohtang Pass is a very beautiful and popular spot in Manali with more than 25 lakh visitors every year as part of Manali tour. The Pass offers a panoramic and spectacular mountain view. This pass was once served as an important trade route. It is an ancient trade route between the people on either side of Pir Panjal. The move to control traffic was also necessary as the Lahaul and Spiti valley gets connected by road for only three months (July to September) in a year. This is the time when people from Lahul valley transport their cash crop, potatoes, and peas to the markets across the Rohtang Pass to Kullu and earn money for the remaining landlocked period of 9 months.

The Pass is open from May to November each year. In winter, the mountains at the Rohtang Pass are completely covered in snow and it is impossible to get there. Hence, the pass remains closed during winters and generally opens again in May. The permission to travel on this highway is given by the Indian army after they clear the snow and inspect the road for its fitness and safety for the movement of people and vehicles.

During summer (mid-June to October) regular buses ply between Manali-Keylong, Udaipur, Spiti, and Leh. This road is usually open from May to November, but it can be closed anytime when the access is not cleared of snow. The road is too precarious and mostly jammed because of landslides. The Army and the BRO (Border Road Organization) are always alert and ready to meet up to the task.

Rohtang Pass is a place for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The snow-covered mountains provide the perfect opportunity to go skiing and snow scooter riding.

The best time to visit Rohtang Pass is between May/June to October/November. For the latest information about the opening of Rohtang Pass, contact the tourist information center at Manali, Ph: +91-1902-252175; 253531.

Timings: Remains closed during winters and on Tuesdays.