A Complete Travel Guide | Take a Break

Nestled in the majestic Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, Rohtang Pass is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most iconic and visited mountain passes. Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or road trip enthusiast, Rohtang offers surreal landscapes, thrilling roads, and snowy escapades that leave you spellbound.

In this comprehensive guide brought to you by Take a Break, we’ll walk you through:

• How to reach Rohtang
  
  

• Permit details
  
  

• What to carry
  
  

• Best time to visit
  
  

• Weather tips
  
  

• Responsible travel practices
  
  

What is Rohtang Pass?

Rohtang Pass, meaning ‘pile of corpses’ in the local dialect (a somber reference to past tragedies), sits at an elevation of 13,058 ft (3,978 m). It serves as a gateway between Kullu Valley and Lahaul & Spiti, historically vital for traders and locals.

Today, it's a favorite destination among domestic tourists, especially honeymooners and adventure seekers.

Where is Rohtang Pass Located?

• State: Himachal Pradesh, India
  
  

• Nearest Town: Manali (51 km)
  
  

• Coordinates: 32.3667° N, 77.2483° E
  
  

• Altitude: 13,058 ft above sea level
  
  

Rohtang lies on the Leh–Manali Highway (NH-3) — one of India’s most scenic roads.

How to Reach Rohtang Pass

1. From Manali (Most Popular Route)

• Distance: 51 km
  
  

• Travel Time: 2–3 hours (longer in peak season)
  
  

• Options:
  
  

• Private Taxi: ₹3,000–₹5,000 (round trip)
  
  

• Local Cabs: Pre-booked with experienced drivers
  
  

• HRTC Bus: Budget-friendly, available June–Sept
  
  

Take a Break Tip: Leave by 5:00 AM from Manali to avoid traffic and enjoy clear skies.

2. By Air

• Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (104 km from Rohtang)
  
  

• Route: Fly to Bhuntar → Cab to Manali → Road trip to Rohtang
  
  

3. By Train

• Nearest Station: Joginder Nagar (145 km from Manali)
  
  

• Route: Train to Joginder Nagar → Bus/Taxi to Manali → Rohtang by road
  
  

Best Time to Visit Rohtang Pass

Open from late May to early November, depending on snow conditions.

✅ Ideal Months:

• May – June: Snowfall and snow activities
  
  

• September – October: Clear skies, fewer tourists
  
  

⛔ Closed from November to April due to snow. Even in summer, temperatures range between 0°C to 15°C — pack accordingly.

Rohtang Pass Permit – Mandatory!

To limit environmental damage, daily access is restricted to 1,200 vehicles.

Types of Permits:

• Tourist Permit – For leisure visits
  
  

• Transit Permit – For travelers heading beyond Rohtang (e.g., Lahaul, Spiti, Leh)
  
  

How to Apply:

• Website: https://rohtangpermits.nic.in
  
  

• Documents:
  
  

• Valid ID proof
  
  

• Vehicle RC
  
  

• PUC certificate
  
  

• Fees:
  
  

• Permit Fee: ₹500
  
  

• Congestion Fee: ₹50
  
  

Note: Electric vehicles and certain local taxis may be exempt.

What to Expect at Rohtang Pass

❄️ Snow Activities:

• Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Scooters
  
  

• Sledging, Snowball fights, Snowman building
  
  

(Snow gear available on rent — prices negotiable.)

What to Pack for Rohtang Pass?

A checklist from Take a Break:

• Heavy woollen jackets & thermals
  
  

• Waterproof gloves & snow boots
  
  

• Woollen cap & muffler
  
  

• Sunglasses & SPF 50+ sunscreen
  
  

• Dry snacks & water bottles
  
  

• Power bank & cash
  
  

• Motion sickness pills
  
  

• Identity proof & permit printout
  
  

⚠️ Travel & Safety Tips

1. Start early (before 5:00 AM)
   
   

2. Avoid if you have heart or breathing issues
   
   

3. Stay hydrated and take breaks
   
   

4. Limited network – stay in touch with your group
   
   

5. No alcohol – worsens altitude sickness
   
   

6. No littering – respect the mountains
   
   

Sustainable Travel at Rohtang

To protect this fragile ecosystem:

• Say NO to plastic
  
  

• Use public transport
  
  

• Don’t disturb wildlife or pick flowers
  
  

• Support local vendors and culture
  
  

• Never write on rocks or trees
  
  

Planning with Take a Break

Let us help you with the hassle of Rohtang travel. We offer:

• Customized Rohtang-Manali itineraries
  
  

• Permit assistance
  
  

• Experienced local guides
  
  

• Comfortable stays in the hills
  
  

• Packages from budget to luxury
  
  

We make your Himachal dream trip scenic, smooth, and stress-free!

Final Words

Rohtang Pass isn’t just a place — it’s an emotion. The moment snow touches your fingertips and you inhale that crisp mountain air, you’ll know it’s magic.

✨ Plan smart, travel responsibly, and let Take a Break lead your Himalayan journey.