Manali is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the Kullu Valley. Rohtang Pass lies about 51 km from Manali and is a famous high mountain pass known for its stunning views and adventure activities. Many travelers visit Rohtang Pass as a day trip from Manali to experience snow and the scenic landscape.

This guide explains the best ways to travel from Manali to Rohtang Pass, including transport options, travel tips, and important seasonal information. You will learn how to plan your trip efficiently and what to expect on the route.

Getting from Manali to Rohtang Pass – Main Options

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Manali to Rohtang Pass is the most popular and flexible option. It allows you to stop at scenic points and control your schedule. The route is on NH3, but the road can be challenging due to altitude and weather.

• The distance from Manali to Rohtang Pass is approximately 51 km via NH3, taking around 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, especially during peak season or monsoon.

• Self-driving requires a valid driving license and experience with mountain roads; the route has sharp turns and occasional landslides, so cautious driving is essential.

• There are toll plazas and permit checkpoints on the way; you must carry a Rohtang Pass permit, which is mandatory and can be booked online through the Himachal Pradesh government portal.

• Fuel stations are limited on this route, so ensure your vehicle has enough fuel before starting; also, carry warm clothes and water as weather can change quickly.

• Roadside dhabas and small eateries are available near Marhi and at the base of the pass, offering snacks and tea, but options are limited beyond that point.

Shared Taxi / Cab

Shared taxis and private cabs are common for tourists who prefer not to drive. They offer convenience and local knowledge about the route and permits.

• Shared taxis depart from Manali bus stand or Mall Road and cost between ₹600 to ₹1200 per person for a round trip, depending on the season and negotiation skills.

• Private cabs can be hired for a full day, costing around ₹2500 to ₹4000, providing flexibility to stop at points like Solang Valley or Marhi on the way.

• Most taxis wait at the Rohtang Pass for 1-2 hours before returning, allowing time for sightseeing and photography.

• During peak season, taxis fill up early in the morning; booking a cab a day in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Drivers usually handle the permit process, but confirm this beforehand to avoid delays at the check post.

Bus

Public buses run by Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) connect Manali to Rohtang Pass, offering a budget-friendly option but with less comfort and flexibility.

• HRTC buses depart early in the morning from Manali bus stand, usually between 6 AM and 8 AM, and take about 3 to 4 hours to reach Rohtang Pass.

• Bus fares range from ₹100 to ₹200 one way, making it the cheapest option, but buses can be crowded, especially during tourist season.

• Buses are mostly ordinary or deluxe types, with limited luggage space and no guaranteed seating during peak times.

• The bus route follows NH3 and stops at Marhi and other points, but the journey can be slow due to frequent stops and road conditions.

• During winter or heavy snowfall, bus services may be suspended or delayed; check HRTC schedules and weather updates before planning.

Flight

There is no direct flight option from Manali to Rohtang Pass as Rohtang is a mountain pass accessible only by road. The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, about 50 km away.

• Travelers flying into Bhuntar Airport must first reach Manali by taxi or bus before proceeding to Rohtang Pass by road.

• Flights to Bhuntar are limited and weather-dependent, often affected by fog and winter conditions.

• From Manali, you must use road transport to reach Rohtang Pass, as no airstrip exists near the pass.

• Plan your arrival and onward journey carefully, considering flight timings and road travel duration.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Manali to Rohtang Pass, helping you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Step 1: Book your Rohtang Pass permit online well in advance, as daily permits are limited and mandatory for all vehicles crossing the pass.

• Step 2: Choose your mode of transport based on comfort, budget, and experience; book taxis or buses a day before during peak season to secure your seat.

• Step 3: Start early in the morning, ideally before 7 AM, to avoid traffic jams and enjoy better weather conditions on the pass.

• Step 4: Carry warm clothing, water, and snacks, as temperatures at Rohtang Pass can be very low, even in summer, and food options are limited.

• Step 5: Follow road safety rules strictly; if self-driving, drive slowly on curves and watch for falling rocks or sudden weather changes.

• Step 6: On arrival at Rohtang Pass, spend time enjoying the views and snow activities, then plan your return trip before late afternoon to avoid driving in fading light.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Altitude sickness can affect some travelers; acclimatize in Manali for a day or two before visiting Rohtang Pass and stay hydrated throughout the journey.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks; avoid eating roadside food unless it looks clean and fresh to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking Strategy: Use the official Himachal Pradesh government website for Rohtang permits and book taxis through trusted local operators or apps like Ola to avoid scams.

• Local Transport: In Manali, use cycle rickshaws or shared taxis to reach the bus stand or taxi points; negotiate fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Luggage: Pack light as vehicles have limited space; keep essentials like medicines, warm clothes, and ID proofs handy during the trip.

• Seasonal Warnings: Rohtang Pass is closed from November to May due to heavy snowfall; plan your visit accordingly and check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Manali to Rohtang Pass is between June and October when the pass is open and the weather is pleasant. Winter months bring heavy snow, making the pass inaccessible.

During the monsoon (July to September), landslides and roadblocks can cause delays, so monitor local weather and road conditions closely before starting your journey.

• Avoid weekends and public holidays like summer vacations and festivals when traffic to Rohtang Pass increases sharply, causing long delays.

• Early mornings are the best departure times to avoid traffic jams and enjoy clearer skies and better visibility on the pass.

• Fog and rain during monsoon can reduce visibility and make roads slippery; carry appropriate gear and drive cautiously.

• Winter months (November to May) see the pass closed due to snow; plan alternative sightseeing options in Manali during this period.

Arrival at Rohtang Pass & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Rohtang Pass, you will experience breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The pass is at an altitude of about 3,978 meters, so the air is thin and cold.

Local transport options are limited beyond the pass, so most visitors return the same way. You will find small stalls selling hot tea, snacks, and souvenirs near the parking area. Stay within designated areas for safety.

Back in Manali, you can use prepaid taxis, Ola, or Uber cabs to reach your hotel or other destinations. The main bus stand and taxi stands are near Mall Road, the town’s central area with many accommodation options.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Rohtang Pass from Manali is by hiring a private taxi or self-driving if you are comfortable with mountain roads. This option offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy the scenic route at your own pace. Booking your Rohtang Pass permit online in advance is crucial to avoid last-minute issues.

Plan to start early in the day, carry warm clothes, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. With proper planning and awareness of seasonal factors, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip from Manali to Rohtang Pass. This guide equips you with all the practical information needed to travel confidently and make the most of your journey.