Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, near Manali. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking stunning views and adventure in the Himalayas. Traveling from Delhi to Rohtang is common for travelers wanting to explore the mountains and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to reach Rohtang from Delhi, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find practical travel tips, a step-by-step plan, and advice on the best time to visit.

Getting from Delhi to Rohtang – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Delhi to the nearest railway station is a popular choice for comfort and affordability. However, there is no direct train to Rohtang, so you must combine train travel with road transport.

• The closest major railway station to Rohtang is Joginder Nagar, about 90 km away, but it has limited connectivity. Most travelers prefer to reach Chandigarh or Pathankot stations first, which are well connected to Delhi.

• From Delhi Railway Station or New Delhi Railway Station, trains to Chandigarh take around 3 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹800 depending on class and train type.

• After reaching Chandigarh or Pathankot, you need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Manali, which is approximately 310 km from Chandigarh and takes 8 to 10 hours by road.

• Train travel is comfortable and reliable, but the last leg to Rohtang requires careful planning due to mountainous roads and weather conditions, especially in winter and monsoon seasons.

Bus

Buses are a common and economical way to travel from Delhi to Rohtang, especially for budget travelers. State-run and private buses operate on this route regularly.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs Volvo and deluxe buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Manali, taking around 12 to 14 hours and costing ₹600 to ₹1200 depending on the bus type.

• From Manali, local buses and shared taxis are available to reach Rohtang Pass, which is about 51 km away; the road can be challenging during winter closures.

• Bus frequency is higher during summer months; in winter, services reduce due to snow and roadblocks, so check schedules in advance.

• Night buses are popular to save daytime for sightseeing, but they can be crowded and less comfortable during peak travel seasons like summer holidays and festivals.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Rohtang Pass is a preferred option for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The route offers scenic views but requires careful driving on mountain roads.

• The distance from Delhi to Rohtang via NH44 and NH3 is approximately 570 km, taking around 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through major cities like Karnal, Ambala, Chandigarh, and Manali, with multiple toll plazas and rest stops offering food and fuel.

• Driving is best during daylight hours to avoid fog and difficult mountain driving conditions, especially near Rohtang where weather can change rapidly.

• Self-drive cars or rental cabs with experienced drivers are widely available in Delhi and Manali; ensure your vehicle is suitable for hilly terrain and check for road permits required for Rohtang.

• During winter months, Rohtang Pass is often closed due to heavy snowfall, so confirm road status before planning your drive.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover most of the distance from Delhi to the Himachal region, but there is no airport near Rohtang. Flights are useful combined with road travel.

• The nearest airport to Rohtang is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, about 50 km from Manali and 100 km from Rohtang Pass.

• Daily flights from Delhi to Bhuntar take about 1 hour, with fares typically ranging from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Bhuntar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Manali and then proceed to Rohtang Pass by road.

• Flight schedules can be affected by weather, especially fog in winter, so check for delays or cancellations before booking.

• Flying saves time but adds the need for additional road travel; it is ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer to avoid long road journeys.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Rohtang Pass. It guides you through booking and journey steps to ensure a smooth trip.

• Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or HRTC websites to secure seats, especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays.

• If flying, book your flight to Bhuntar Airport at least two weeks in advance to get better fares and confirm flight timings.

• Arrange local transport from your arrival point (Chandigarh, Manali, or Bhuntar) to Rohtang by pre-booking taxis or checking bus schedules to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack warm clothes and necessary permits for Rohtang Pass, which are issued by local authorities and required for vehicle entry beyond Manali.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic jams near Manali and to reach Rohtang before afternoon weather changes.

• Keep mobile data or offline maps handy for navigation and stay updated on road conditions through local news or travel apps.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options can be limited and expensive near Rohtang Pass, especially during peak tourist season.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in cities to avoid overcharging; negotiate fares carefully for local taxis near Manali.

• Check weather forecasts regularly since heavy snowfall or landslides can close roads; plan flexible travel dates during winter and monsoon seasons.

• Keep your luggage light and secure; mountain roads can be bumpy, and carrying heavy bags can be tiring during transfers.

• Ensure your vehicle has valid permits for Rohtang Pass, as police check posts enforce strict rules to control traffic and pollution.

• Travel in groups or with a guide if unfamiliar with mountain driving or local conditions, especially during monsoon when roads can be slippery.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Rohtang Pass is between May and October when the roads are open and weather is pleasant. Winters bring heavy snow and road closures.

Monsoon season from July to September can cause landslides and delays, so plan accordingly and check road status before departure.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and summer holidays when roads and buses are crowded, leading to longer travel times.

• Early morning departures help avoid fog and traffic jams near Manali, making the journey safer and more comfortable.

• Winter months from November to April often see Rohtang Pass closed due to snow, so plan alternate destinations if traveling in this period.

• Summer months offer clear roads and scenic views but book accommodations and transport well in advance due to high tourist demand.

Arrival at Rohtang & What to Expect

When you arrive at Rohtang Pass, you will experience breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and valleys. The area is popular for sightseeing, photography, and adventure activities.

Local transport options include shared taxis and buses from Manali, but private cabs offer more comfort and flexibility. There are no large hotels at Rohtang, so most travelers stay in Manali or nearby towns.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available in Manali for onward travel. The Rohtang area has limited facilities, so plan your stay and meals accordingly. Weather can change quickly, so carry warm clothing and stay alert to local advisories.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Rohtang Pass involves a combination of transport modes, with road travel being essential for the final stretch. The most efficient way is to fly to Bhuntar or take a train or bus to Manali, then proceed by road to Rohtang. Each option offers different balances of cost, comfort, and travel time.

Plan your journey carefully by booking tickets in advance, checking weather and road conditions, and preparing for mountain travel challenges. With proper planning and awareness, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Rohtang Pass from Delhi.