Exploring Rohtang Pass Like Never Before -From Manali to the Clouds–Permits, Taxi, Bus & Travel Tips

 Rohtang Pass is located about 51 km from Manali, at an altitude of 13,058 feet (3,978 meters) above sea level.

It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul–Spiti Valley and offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and valleys. It’s one of the most famous tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh.

Part 1

Meaning of the Name “Rohtang”

The name “Rohtang” comes from two words in the Ladakhi/Tibetan dialect — Roh (corpse) and Tang (pile).
It is said to have earned this name because in ancient times, many traders and travelers lost their lives while trying to cross it due to sudden snowstorms, avalanches, and harsh weather conditions.

Trade Route of the Ancients

Long before roads or vehicles existed, merchants, monks, and travelers used to cross Rohtang on foot or with mules and yaks.
It was part of an ancient trans-Himalayan trade route connecting:

• Kullu and Manali in the south

• Lahaul, Spiti, Ladakh, and further towards Tibet in the north

They traded wool, salt, borax, dry fruits, and horses from Tibet, while Indian traders carried grains, spices, and cloth.

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

• Buddhist monks and scholars often crossed Rohtang to travel between Tibetan monasteries and Himalayan regions of India.

• Many Lahauli and Spitian people still consider it a sacred pass, offering prayers before crossing it.

• Local deities of Kullu are believed to protect travellers along this route.

  Mention in Ancient Records

  • Early Himalayan travelers like Chinese Buddhist pilgrim Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) (7th century CE) are believed to have described passes similar to Rohtang while traveling through the Himalayas on his journey to India.

  • British explorers and surveyors during the 19th century, such as Alexander Cunningham, Henry Strachey, and others, documented Rohtang as a vital gateway to the northern valleys.

  ---

  🚗 Modern Era

  • In 1913, the British built the first rough road through Rohtang for movement of goods and mail.

  • Today, the Atal Tunnel (opened in 2020) bypasses Rohtang Pass, providing an all-weather connection between Manali and Lahaul–Spiti.
    Yet, Rohtang remains a symbol of adventure, history, and cultural connection between two ancient worlds.

📅 Best Time to Visit

May to October — when the pass remains open. Closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall. May–June: Ideal for snow lovers — you can play and enjoy fresh snow. September–October: Clear weather and fewer tourists make it a peaceful and scenic time. Historically, the Rohtang Pass — located at about 13,058 feet (3,978 meters) on the Manali–Leh Highway — was extremely dangerous to cross, especially before modern roads and tunnels. Due to heavy snowfall, avalanches, and unpredictable weather, many travelers and traders lost their lives while attempting to cross it. Hence, locals named it “Rohtang,” symbolizing “a place where people die” or “a pass of corpses.”

Despite its grim origin, today Rohtang is one of the most beautiful and popular mountain passes in Himachal Pradesh, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, the Lahaul and Spiti valleys, and snow-covered peaks. Permit / Formalities

Visiting Rohtang Pass requires an Environmental Permit issued by the Manali Administration (SDM Office, Manali).

How to Apply: Apply online at: https://rohtangpermits.nic.in

Required documents: Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) Driving License Pollution Certificate (PUC) Daily Vehicle Limit: Around 1,200 vehicles per day (800 petrol, 400 diesel). Permits are issued from Tuesday to Sunday only. Closed on Tuesdays for maintenance. Permit Fees: ₹500 (Permit Fee) + ₹50 (Congestion Charge)

Taxi / Cab Information There are many local taxi unions in Manali that operate cabs to Rohtang Pass. Typical cost (in season): ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 (round trip, varies by demand and vehicle type). If you don’t have your own car, local cabs or shared taxis are easily available.

Local drivers usually have valid permits in advance.

🚌 Tourist Buses The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) runs Rohtang Pass sightseeing tours from Manali.

Buses usually leave around 7–8 AM and return by evening. Fare: ₹600–₹800 per person (approx). Important Tips

Carry warm clothing — temperature often drops below 0°C. High altitude may cause shortness of breath — walk slowly and stay hydrated. Plastic is banned, keep the environment clean. Snow dresses and boots are available on rent at Gulaba or Marhi.

The pass is open on Monday, but closed on Tuesday.

📍 Main Stops & Distance from Manali

Place Distance from Manali Palchan 5 km Kothi 3 km Gulaba 6 km Marhi 17 km Rohtang Pass 17 km Total Distance: ~51 km