Residing more than 13,000 feet above sea level, Rohtang Pass is an ancient trading route. Today, it offers tourists a place to explore the higher elevations, see the Himalayas and enjoy various activities. Learn more about this captivating location in Himachal Pradesh, India.
Exploring Some Unusual Facts
Because this pass dates back hundreds of years, ancient people experienced victories and tragedies along the pathway. As a result, the name "Rohtang" translates to "ground of corpses," which describes the many lives lost over the years. In truth, the pass is only open to visitors between May and October because the winter months are incredibly treacherous.
Another unusual fact is the pass is a favorite spot for movies. Shooting scenes in the snow without the high studio cost is attractive. Indeed, Indian directors love this backdrop for famous titles, such as:
- Jab We Met
- Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani
When you visit, you might catch a glimpse of a production. Because there are limited months for access, both visitors and production companies must share the area. Luckily, the area is large enough so that it can be shared between the movie industry and eager tourists.
Best Time to Visit
Because the weather can be unpredictable each winter, Rohtang Pass's opening date can fluctuate. At times, it might open as early as April. However, the Indian Army has the final word on when the opening date occurs.
To avoid any delays, consider a summer or early fall visit. Certainly, the area will be open during these months for easy access to all the slopes and activities. Because this pass is famous for snow nearly year-round, you won't miss out on any cold-weather activities.
Adventure Activities at Rohtang Pass
Because of the ample snowy conditions, many activities revolve around winter-based activities. For example, skiing is a huge attraction for adventurous souls. As an alternative, ride an oversized tire to slide down the slope, too. Also, ride on wooden toboggans for another thrill. Typically, vendors rent out equipment for these activities, which means you can try some or all of them at your leisure.
When the snowy conditions ease, such as in July, consider renting a bike. In particular, mountain biking is a thrill in Rohtang Pass. Explore a variety of different trails that give you views of the nearby mountains.
Considering Travel Arrangement
Because of the high elevation, take it easy during your first few days in and around Rohtang Pass. For safety's sake, daytime visits are only allowed, too. In addition, be aware of the number of cars allowed into the area each day. There's a limited quantity for congestion and pollution reasons. In the end, heading out early is the best way to see all the sights around Rohtang Pass.
Taking a Calmer Approach
For visitors who want a relaxing vacation, Rohtang Pass and its surrounding areas offer distinct views of the Himalayas. For instance, look up at the Gaypan backdrop, which is a set of twin peaks in this mountain range. Nearby, the Sonapani Glacier is another highlight of this region.
If you're looking for a spiritual retreat, visit Beas Kund. As a Hindu holy site, Beas Kund is also the water source for the Beas River. Overall, your visit to Rohtang Pass can include a mixture of calming retreats, taking photographs and trying a few adventures when weather permits.
Staying for a Vacation
Naturally, lodging within Rohtang Pass isn't an option. Typically, visitors stay in a neighboring city, such as Manali. Depending on traffic, it would take a little over an hour to travel between Manali and Rohtang Pass.
Setting up a tent along the roadside might be an option if you want to stay closer to the action. However, always verify if camping is allowed in these areas. In some cases, it might be too close to the road or the weather is too treacherous for overnighting in the elements.
Today, the Rohtang Pass has a more modern passageway using the Atal Tunnel. As the longest tunnel above 10,000 feet in elevation, it offers another way to enjoy the area without losing too much time to travel conditions. With a planned vacation, you can experience Rohtang Pass in all its glory.
