Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, near Manali. It is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, known for its stunning views and snow-capped peaks. Traveling from Delhi to Rohtang Pass is a common journey for tourists wanting to explore the Himalayas.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Rohtang Pass from Delhi. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. Whether you prefer trains, buses, cars, or flights, this article covers all you need to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Delhi to Rohtang Pass – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Delhi to Manali is a popular choice for those who want a comfortable and scenic journey before continuing to Rohtang Pass. However, there is no direct train to Rohtang Pass, so you must combine train travel with road transport.

• Take a train from New Delhi Railway Station to Joginder Nagar or Chandigarh, the nearest major stations to Manali, with travel times ranging from 8 to 12 hours depending on the train service.

• Train fares vary between INR 300 to INR 1500 depending on class, with options like Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC available for comfort and budget preferences.

• From Joginder Nagar or Chandigarh, you need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Manali, which is approximately 2 to 4 hours by road, covering 80 to 120 km depending on the station.

• Trains are frequent but can be crowded during peak tourist seasons like summer and holidays, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable to secure seats.

• Monsoon rains can cause delays and occasional landslides on the rail route, so check weather updates before traveling and plan buffer time for connections.

Bus

Buses are a widely used and economical option to travel from Delhi to Manali, the gateway town to Rohtang Pass. From Manali, you can take local transport to reach the pass.

• State-run buses like HRTC and private Volvo buses operate daily from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Manali, covering approximately 540 km in 12 to 14 hours.

• Bus fares range from INR 600 for regular buses to INR 1200 for Volvo AC services, offering varying comfort levels for overnight journeys.

• Buses depart mostly in the evening or night, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing and avoid heavy daytime traffic on NH 44 and NH 3.

• During peak tourist season and festivals, buses can be fully booked, so advance booking through official portals or travel agents is recommended.

• Road conditions on the Manali-Rohtang route can be affected by monsoon or snowfall, causing delays; buses may stop at designated rest points with food stalls along the highway.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Rohtang Pass offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views at your own pace. This option is popular among families and groups who want to explore Himachal Pradesh comfortably.

• The distance from Delhi to Rohtang Pass is about 550 km via NH 44 and NH 3, with an approximate driving time of 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• You can drive your own vehicle or rent a car from Delhi with self-drive or chauffeur options, with rental costs ranging from INR 2500 to INR 5000 per day depending on the vehicle type.

• The route passes through key towns like Ambala, Chandigarh, and Mandi before reaching Manali, with multiple toll plazas and well-maintained highways.

• Plan to start early in the morning to avoid Delhi and Chandigarh city traffic, and take breaks at highway dhabas for meals and refreshments.

• During winter and monsoon seasons, roads near Rohtang Pass can be slippery and may close temporarily due to snowfall or landslides; check local weather and road status before departure.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach the region near Rohtang Pass, but since there is no airport at Rohtang, you must combine air travel with road transport from nearby airports.

• The nearest airport to Rohtang Pass is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, about 50 km from Manali and 110 km from Rohtang Pass, with limited daily flights from Delhi lasting about 1 hour.

• Flight fares from Delhi to Bhuntar typically range from INR 2500 to INR 6000, depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Bhuntar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Manali, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, and then proceed to Rohtang Pass by taxi or shared cabs.

• Flights can be affected by weather conditions, especially fog and rain during monsoon and winter, so check flight status and book flexible tickets.

• Booking flights well in advance during peak tourist seasons is crucial due to limited seats and high demand.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Delhi to Rohtang Pass for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common challenges.

• Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or official bus portals to secure seats, especially during peak seasons and holidays.

• Reach the departure station or bus terminal at least 30 minutes before scheduled time to avoid last-minute rush and confirm your seat or berth.

• If traveling by train, plan your onward road transport from Manali in advance by booking taxis or shared cabs to Rohtang Pass, as local options can be limited.

• If driving, check your vehicle condition thoroughly, carry necessary documents, and plan rest stops along NH 44 and NH 3 for meals and fuel.

• Carry warm clothes, water, and snacks for the journey, especially for the high-altitude Rohtang Pass where weather can be cold and unpredictable.

• Keep updated on weather and road conditions via local news or apps, as Rohtang Pass may close temporarily due to snowfall or landslides.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a government-issued ID and permits if required, as Rohtang Pass has restricted vehicle entry and requires permits issued by Himachal authorities.

• Drink bottled water and avoid roadside tap water to prevent stomach issues during your journey through Himachal Pradesh.

• Book tickets and transport services online where possible to avoid scams and ensure confirmed travel, especially for buses and taxis.

• Use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Manali for local travel, but confirm availability and fares in advance as options can be limited.

• Pack light but include essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a basic first aid kit for high-altitude travel and sudden weather changes.

• Travel during daylight hours on the mountain roads for better visibility and safety, avoiding night travel on the Manali-Rohtang route.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Rohtang Pass is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant and the roads are open. Winters bring heavy snowfall, often closing the pass.

Monsoon season can cause landslides and slippery roads, so extra caution is needed. Planning your trip outside heavy rain and snow periods ensures a safer and more enjoyable journey.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and New Year when traffic on NH 44 and NH 3 increases significantly, causing delays.

• Winter months from December to February often see Rohtang Pass closed due to snow, so check local government updates before planning.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and allow you to reach Manali before dark, making onward travel to Rohtang easier.

• Summer months from May to September offer the best weather, but be prepared for occasional rain showers and carry rain gear.

Arrival at Rohtang Pass & What to Expect

Arriving at Rohtang Pass is a breathtaking experience with panoramic views of the Himalayas and snowfields. The pass is located at an altitude of over 13,000 feet, so you may feel mild altitude effects.

Local transport options from Manali include shared taxis and private cabs, which are the most common ways to reach the pass. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are less common at Rohtang itself, so plan accordingly.

Accommodation options are limited near Rohtang Pass, so most travelers stay in Manali or nearby towns. Manali offers a range of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays to suit all budgets.

At the pass, expect basic food stalls and souvenir shops, but carry your own water and snacks for longer stays. The weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and be prepared for cold winds.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Rohtang Pass from Delhi depends on your preferences for comfort, budget, and time. Taking a flight to Bhuntar followed by a taxi is fastest but costlier, while buses and trains combined with road transport offer economical alternatives.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather and road conditions, and preparing for high-altitude travel will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With the right information and preparation, you can confidently explore the stunning Rohtang Pass and create memorable experiences in the Himalayas.