Manali is one of the first hill stations people think of when planning an escape to relax and rejuvenate. The next time you visit Manali, make sure you stop by Rohtang La Pass, a high mountain pass located 35 km away from Manali, on the eastern end of the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. Situated at an elevation of 3,980 metres, it is one of the world's highest motorable roads, connecting the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh. It offers mesmerising views of the mountains and valleys, and if you are looking to live all your YJHD dreams, this is the place to be! Here's everything you need to know before you plan a trip to this snow-clad paradise.
Rohtang La Pass: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Explore Its Scenic Beauty
Overview
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- 1. Introduction
- 2. Things To Know
- 3. Things To Do
- 4. Places To Visit
- 5. Places To Eat
Things To Know
Rohtang Pass Permit: In order to cross the Rohtang Pass, you need to get a special permit from Himachal Tourism, which you can easily get through their website. There is a daily quota for the number of permits that can be issued, so make sure you get yours in advance. Also, note that permits are not issued for Tuesdays since the pass is closed for maintenance.
How To Reach: The best way to Rohtang La is by road. The journey takes an hour or two by car or bus from Manali and offers scenic views of the mountains and valleys.
Best Time To Visit: While the pass is open to visitors from May to November, the best time to visit is between June and October.
Places To Stay: While the Rohtang Pass does not have any places to stay, you can bring your tent and set up camp by the roadside. For a more comfortable stay, consider staying in Manali where you get to choose between budget homestays or luxury resorts and deluxe hotels.
Price: The Rohtang Pass tour, offered by different companies, can cost between INR 5,999 and 10,999 per person.
Things To Do
Rohtang La Pass is popular among adventure seekers as a hub for enthralling activities that give you a much-needed adrenaline rush. From paragliding to skiing—here's everything you can do in Rohtang La.
Trekking
If trekking is what brought you to Manali, you will love the treks near Rohtang La. As a paradise for trekkers, the Rohtang Pass offers many challenging trails with glaciers, pristine waterfalls, and snow-laden peaks in between. One of the most famous treks is the Manali-Lahaul trek, along with other trek routes such as Gulaba to Bhrigu Lake and Batal to Rohtang.
Mountain Biking
To experience the best of an outdoor adventure for an intense adrenaline rush, go mountain biking around Rohtang Pass. The lesser-known routes offer splendid views of the region as you manoeuvre your bike across this challenging terrain.
Skiing
As the pass is covered in snow for the better part of the year, it serves as a great opportunity for travellers to enjoy skiing. The best part is that you do not have to carry any skiing equipment as you can rent all that you need from the shops nearby.
Paragliding
As one of the few spots in the country that offer a chance for paragliding, you do not want to miss this opportunity. It is the coolest activity you can enjoy here while flying over snow-capped mountains as the fresh air caresses your face. Cannot imagine anything better!
Sledge Rides
Your trip to Rohtang La will be incomplete without a super fun sledge ride on the snow in a wooden toboggan. The joy of sliding down the snow as fast as you can is truly unmatched!
Places To Visit
You will notice several places on your way from Manali to Rohtang Pass, so make sure you stop by these hidden gems to make the most of your trip.
Nehru Kund
Nehru Kund is an innate spring whose source is believed to be the Bhrigu Lake. Located around 6 km from Manali, it is a lesser-known spot where you can witness the first fall of snow and enjoy panoramic views of the mountains.
Gulaba
Located a few kilometres away from Manali, on the Leh-Manali Highway, Gulaba is a lovely village where you can spend some quiet time in lush green meadows, taking in exquisite views near the Beas River. Best of all, you can set up camp here and spend time stargazing at the glittery night sky.
Rahala Waterfall
Located around 16 km from Manali, on the way to Rohtang Pass, the scenery at Rahala Waterfalls is gorgeous. While the drive to the falls can be challenging with slippery roads and sharp turns, the view from here is totally worth it!
Dashir Lake
Found at a high altitude, Dashir Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Himachal Pradesh. Located close to the Rohtang Pass, surrounded by rugged mountain cliffs and waterfalls, this is one place you must add to your itinerary.
Solang Valley
A winter wonderland and another popular adventure hub in Himachal, Solang Valley offers the same host of activities like Rohtang La along with fun nature walks and spots for family picnics.
Places To Eat
Restaurant Romany Manali
Restaurant Romany Manali is a traditional family-style restaurant that serves delicious North Indian and Continental food. The pleasing ambiance of the space comes with switch outdoor seating, giving a postcard-perfect view of the Solnag Valley. They also have many non-veg options available at extremely reasonable prices.
Price For Two: INR 1,000 (approx)
Google Rating: 4.8/5
Pahadi Dhaba
For a simple rustic feel and soulful food, Pahadi Dhaba is a great choice. The food tastes like home-cooked meals, and the ambience will remind you of a campfire. They also offer accommodation options here, and everything is very affordable.
Price For Two: INR 700 (approx)
Google Rating: 4/5
Cafe 1947
To grab the perfect Italian bite in the midst of snow-capped mountains, Cafe 1947 is absolutely wonderful. Their pizzas are fresh and delicious, and their tiramisu is one of their best-sellers. If you feel like finding city-esque Italian, this should be your place of choice.
Price For Two: INR 1,000 (approx)
Google Rating: 4.1/5
