Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is the classic snow excursion from Manali, and it needs a vehicle permit. Official permit fees, quotas and rules from the Kullu district portal are summarised below.

Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass at about 3,980 metres on the eastern Pir Panjal range, around 51 km from Manali. It divides the green Kullu Valley, with its mainly Hindu culture, from the dry, high Lahaul and Spiti valleys, where Buddhism predominates. The Beas rises on its southern side, and the Chandra, a source of the Chenab, flows on the north.

It has long been a trade route across the Pir Panjal, and its reputation for sudden storms is reflected in its name, often translated as 'pile of corpses'. For visitors the pass is mainly about snow and views. Himachal Tourism says heavy snow closes it in late November and it reopens about six months later, by May; tourists come in June to August to play in the snow, and paragliding, trekking and skiing are offered.

To protect the fragile environment, access is regulated under National Green Tribunal directions. Petrol and diesel vehicles going for tourism need an online permit from the Kullu district portal. Daily quotas apply, the vehicle must be no more than 10 years old with a valid PUC certificate, and a printout is required. A separate congestion charge is paid for crossing Gulaba bridge.

Weather changes fast at this altitude: carry warm, waterproof layers, start early and watch for altitude sickness. Since the Atal Tunnel opened, traffic to Lahaul no longer has to cross the pass.