
May to June (for snow views and activities) September to October (for clear weather and fewer crowds)
By Road: Rohtang Pass is around 51 km from Manali, and is accessible via the Manali-Keylong highway (NH 3). You can hire taxis or use Himachal Tourism buses (subject to permit availability). By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), around 104 km from Rohtang Pass. Cabs and buses are available from the airport to Manali and onward. By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar (approx. 145 km away), but Chandigarh railway station (310 km away) offers better connectivity
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3,978 meters
Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters in Himachal Pradesh, is a high mountain pass on the Pir Panjal range that connects Manali to Lahaul and Spiti valleys. Known for its stunning snow-capped landscapes, glaciers, and thrilling adventure sports like skiing and snow biking, it attracts thousands of tourists every year. The pass is typically open from May to November, depending on weather conditions, and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Rohtang Pass is a majestic high-altitude mountain pass located at approximately 3,978 meters (13,050 feet) above sea level in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, in Himachal Pradesh, India. It serves as a natural gateway between the Kullu Valley and the Lahaul-Spiti region, offering not only strategic significance but also incredible scenic beauty.
Rohtang, meaning “pile of corpses,” gets its name from the perilous conditions the pass once presented. Today, it is one of the most visited destinations in North India due to its panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, gushing rivers, and sprawling meadows.
The area becomes a paradise for adventure seekers, offering activities like snow scooter rides, skiing, sledging, and mountain biking. In summer months, when the pass is open (generally from May to November), it attracts thousands of tourists who flock here to witness snow and the high-altitude terrain.
The Atal Tunnel, completed in 2020, now provides all-weather connectivity between Manali and Lahaul, bypassing Rohtang Pass, but the pass remains a tourist hotspot for its raw Himalayan charm and accessibility.
Rohtang Pass has served as a critical trade and travel route for centuries, connecting the lush Kullu Valley with the stark landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti. The name "Rohtang" translates to “pile of corpses,” derived from the treacherous weather conditions that once made this route deadly for travelers. Historically, the pass played a key role in the movement of traders, shepherds, and Buddhist monks between India and Tibet. In recent times, it has become a significant tourist attraction and part of India’s defense routes leading towards the China border.