Rohtang Pass Opening and Closing Dates 2026 — Complete Guide to Permits, Atal Tunnel & Best Time to Visit

Last Updated: March 2026

If you are planning a trip to Manali, Lahaul, Spiti, or Ladakh via the Manali – Leh Highway, one of the first questions that will come to your mind is about Rohtang Pass opening and closing dates. When does Rohtang open? When does it close? Do I need a permit? What about the Atal Tunnel? I have been traveling through Rohtang Pass for over a decade now, and in this guide, I will answer all these questions based on years of firsthand experience and the latest 2026 updates.

What Are the Typical Rohtang Pass Opening and Closing Dates?

Rohtang Pass sits at an altitude of 13,050 Ft (3,978 m) on the Pir Panjal range, about 51 km from Manali. It connects the Kullu Valley to the Lahaul Valley and has historically been the only road link between Manali and Keylong, Spiti, or Leh. Every year, heavy snowfall forces the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to shut down the road in late autumn, and it stays closed through winter until BRO clears the snow in spring.

Here is a summary of Rohtang Pass opening and closing dates over the past several years. Keep in mind that these dates change every year depending on snowfall and BRO’s snow clearance progress.

As you can see, the opening date typically falls between May 15 and May 31, and the closing date is usually around November 15. However, early snowfall can push the closure to late October (as it happened in 2023), and late snow clearance can delay the opening to early June. The final decision is always taken by the district administration of Lahaul-Spiti based on BRO’s assessment of road conditions.

Does the Atal Tunnel Replace Rohtang Pass?

This is one of the most common questions I get. The Atal Tunnel (opened October 3, 2020) is a 9.02 km tunnel that connects the south portal near Dhundi (Manali side) to the north portal at Sissu in Lahaul Valley. It sits at about 10,171 Ft and bypasses Rohtang Pass entirely. Here is the important part that many travelers miss.

If your destination is Lahaul Valley (Keylong, Jispa, Sissu, Tandi), Spiti Valley via Kunzum Pass, or Leh via Manali – Leh Highway, you do NOT need to cross Rohtang Pass anymore. The Atal Tunnel stays open year-round (barring rare closures for maintenance or extreme weather at the portals). You also do NOT need a Rohtang Pass permit to use the Atal Tunnel.

However, if your specific goal is to visit Rohtang Pass itself for the snow, the views, and the experience of standing at the top, then you still need the pass to be open and you still need a permit. So the Atal Tunnel is a bypass, not a replacement, for the Rohtang Pass experience.

Do I Need a Permit for Rohtang Pass in 2026?

Yes, you need a permit if you are visiting Rohtang Pass as a tourist. The permit system was introduced by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to control the number of vehicles and reduce environmental damage at the pass. Here are the key details as of 2026.

Rohtang Pass Permit Details (2026)

Important tip: Permits fill up very quickly, especially during peak season (June to September) and on weekends. I would recommend booking your permit as soon as the booking window opens. Commercial vehicle slots get booked within minutes during the rush season. If you are unable to get a permit for your preferred date, try for a weekday slot, as these are easier to get.

Do Non-HP Vehicles Need a Special Permit?

This is something many travelers from outside Himachal Pradesh ask about. In the past, there were restrictions on non-HP registered commercial vehicles (taxis, cabs) using Rohtang Pass. Private vehicles with out-of-state registration have generally been allowed with the standard tourism permit. However, if you are hiring a local Manali taxi or cab for the day trip, the driver will typically handle all permit paperwork on your behalf. Just make sure the cab operator confirms they have the required permit for the day. This rule has seen multiple changes over the years, so verify with the permit portal or your cab operator at the time of booking.

For a detailed guide on the permit process, how to apply step by step, and common issues, check my dedicated post on how to get Rohtang Pass permit online.

How to Reach Rohtang Pass from Manali

Rohtang Pass is 51 km from Manali town. There is no public bus service that goes directly to Rohtang Pass, so your options are either a private vehicle, a hired cab, or a shared taxi. Here is a breakdown of how each option works.

By Private Vehicle (Own Car or Rented)

If you have your own vehicle or have rented one in Manali, this is the most flexible option. You apply for the permit yourself on rohtangpermits.nic.in, carry a printout, and drive up. The route goes from Manali town through Kulang, past Kothi, then up through Gulaba (where there is a checkpoint) and Marhi to the pass. An SUV or 4WD is strongly recommended if there is still snow on the road (May to mid-June). A hatchback or sedan can manage in dry conditions (September-October).

Fill up your fuel tank in Manali before heading out. There is no petrol pump on the way to Rohtang Pass, and the next pump after Manali on the Manali – Leh Highway side is at Tandi (approximately 115 km from Manali). For bike rentals in Manali, check my guide on renting a motorcycle in Manali.

Dheeraj Sharma

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By Hired Cab (Private Taxi)

If you do not have your own vehicle, hiring a cab from Manali for a day trip to Rohtang is the most common option. The cab will typically be an Innova, Xylo, or similar SUV. Based on current market rates, expect to pay approximately Rs 3,500 to Rs 4,500 for a round-trip cab from Manali to Rohtang Pass and back (as of 2025-2026, verify locally for current rates). The driver handles the permit for the vehicle, so you do not need to apply separately. However, the Rs 600 permit fee may be charged to you additionally depending on the operator.

By Shared Taxi

The most budget-friendly option is a shared taxi. You can find shared taxis headed towards Rohtang from the Manali taxi stand, particularly in the morning hours. The cost per person on a shared basis is approximately Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500 for the round trip (as of 2025-2026, verify locally). The catch is that you are sharing the cab with other travelers and the schedule is less flexible. You go when the vehicle fills up, and return when the driver decides.

The Gulaba Checkpoint

About 23 km from Manali, there is a checkpoint at Gulaba where all vehicles headed to Rohtang Pass are stopped for permit verification. This is a major chokepoint, especially in the morning hours when hundreds of vehicles are moving up simultaneously. Keep your printed permit ready at Gulaba. Vehicles without valid permits are turned back here. The queue at Gulaba can sometimes stretch for 1-2 km during peak weekends, which is one reason I always recommend starting before 7 AM.

What Can You Do at Rohtang Pass?

Most people visit Rohtang Pass primarily for the snow and the high-altitude landscape. Here is what you can actually do when you get there.

Snow Activities (May to June)

In May and early June, the pass has significant snow on both sides and local operators set up snow activity stations. You can rent snow gear and do sledging, build snowmen, or simply walk around in the snow. Gear rental costs (snow suits, boots, accessories) are typically Rs 200 to Rs 400 per person. These activities are informal and priced on the spot, so feel free to negotiate. Just keep in mind the gear quality is very basic and meant for casual snow play, not any serious cold-weather activity.

Photography and Views

Even without snow, the views from Rohtang Pass are genuinely impressive. On a clear day, you can see the peaks of the Pir Panjal range on one side and the desolate, brown landscape of Lahaul opening up on the other side. September and October offer the clearest skies and the most dramatic photography. The contrast between the green Kullu Valley on the south side and the rain-shadow Lahaul landscape on the north side is something worth seeing.

Trekking Near Rohtang

Rohtang Pass is the starting point or transit point for several treks in the area. The Hampta Pass Trek begins from Jobra (near Prini village, about 12 km from Manali) and crosses into Lahaul near Chatru, not far from the Rohtang area. The area around Marhi and Gulaba also has short walks and viewpoints. However, if you are visiting Rohtang specifically as a day trip from Manali, you will not have enough time for any serious trek.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Rohtang Pass?

The answer depends on what you are looking for. Here is a month-by-month breakdown based on my experience.

May to June: Snow Season

This is when Rohtang Pass just opens and there is still heavy snow on both sides of the road. If snow is what you want, May and early June are your best months. The pass looks stunning with walls of snow on both sides. However, the road can be slippery and BRO may close the pass temporarily if conditions deteriorate. Traffic is also very heavy during this period because everyone wants to see the snow. I would say this is the most popular time but also the most frustrating in terms of crowds and traffic jams.

July to August: Monsoon Season

The snow is mostly gone by July, but the monsoon brings its own challenges. Landslides, waterlogging, and road damage are common. BRO works overtime to keep the road open, but temporary closures of a few hours to a few days are normal. If you are transiting through Rohtang to Lahaul, Spiti, or Leh, use the Atal Tunnel during this period to avoid the uncertainty. If you specifically want to visit the pass itself, I would honestly skip July-August unless you have no other choice.

September to October: Clear Weather

This is personally my favorite time. The monsoon recedes, the skies clear up, and the views from Rohtang are at their best. The road is generally in good condition and traffic is much lighter than the May-June rush. October can get tricky though. Early snowfall can close the pass without much warning, as happened in 2023 when the pass closed on October 31 instead of the usual mid-November. If you are visiting in October, stay flexible with your dates and have a backup plan.

How Does Rohtang Pass Closure Affect Your Travel Plans?

This is where many first-time travelers get confused. Let me explain the impact of Rohtang Pass closure on different travel routes.

Manali to Leh Highway

Before 2020, the closure of Rohtang Pass meant the complete shutdown of the Manali – Leh Highway. Now, with the Atal Tunnel, the situation has changed. The tunnel stays open year-round, so you can still reach Keylong and Jispa even when Rohtang is closed. However, the rest of the Manali – Leh Highway (Baralacha La, Lachalung La, Tanglang La) closes independently due to snow at those passes. The full highway typically opens in late May or June and closes by mid-October. For live updates, check my Manali – Leh Highway status page.

Manali to Lahaul Valley

Thanks to the Atal Tunnel, Lahaul Valley (Keylong, Jispa, Sissu, Udaipur) is now accessible year-round from Manali. You do not need to wait for Rohtang Pass to open. This has been a game changer for the people of Lahaul who were cut off every winter for 6 months. For planning your Lahaul trip, check my complete Lahaul Valley travel guide.

Manali to Spiti Valley

If you are going to Spiti via Manali, you need to cross Kunzum Pass after crossing Rohtang (or using the Atal Tunnel). The Atal Tunnel gets you to the Lahaul side, but Kunzum Pass (15,060 Ft) has its own opening and closing schedule, typically opening in late June and closing by mid-October. So even though the Atal Tunnel is open, the Manali – Spiti route is still seasonal. For details, see my guide on Spiti Valley via Manali.

What Is the Road Like on the Way to Rohtang Pass?

The road from Manali to Rohtang Pass is about 51 km and takes roughly 2 to 3 hours one way, depending on traffic. The first 13 km from Manali to the Atal Tunnel south portal is a well-paved highway. If you are going to Rohtang Pass (not through the tunnel), you take the old road that branches off near Kothi and climbs through Gulaba, Marhi, and then up to the pass.

The road condition varies through the season. In May-June, expect snow on the road, slippery patches, and possible ice. In July-August, expect mud, slush, and possible landslide debris. September-October is usually the best road condition. BRO maintains the road actively during the open season, but this is a high-altitude mountain road, so do not expect highway-quality tarmac throughout.

A word of caution. The traffic at Rohtang Pass, especially during weekends and long weekends, can be absolutely brutal. I have personally been stuck in jams lasting 3-4 hours on the old Rohtang road. If possible, start very early in the morning (before 7 AM) and try to avoid weekends. Also, keep in mind that no vehicles are allowed on Tuesdays. Before heading to Rohtang, you might also want to explore Solang Valley and Kothi on the same day trip. My guide to Solang Valley and Kothi has the details.

What Should You Carry When Visiting Rohtang Pass?

Rohtang Pass is at 13,050 Ft and the weather can change dramatically within minutes, even in summer. Here is what I always recommend carrying.

• Warm layers: A good jacket, thermals, and gloves. Even in June, the temperature at Rohtang can drop to 0-5 degrees Celsius.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen: UV radiation is intense at this altitude. Snow reflection makes it worse, so proper UV-protection sunglasses are a must.
• Waterproof shoes: If there is snow, your feet will get wet. Regular sneakers are not enough.
• Snacks and water: There are a few dhabas at Marhi (about 8 km before the pass), but nothing at the top of the pass itself. Carry enough water for the day.
• Medicines: Basic painkillers, Diamox if you are altitude-sensitive, and any personal medication.
• Fuel: Fill up your tank in Manali. There is no petrol pump between Manali and Tandi (the next pump is in Lahaul, about 115 km away).
• Printed permit: A printout of your Rohtang Pass permit is mandatory. Digital copies may not be accepted at the Gulaba checkpoint.
• Cash: Carry sufficient cash. There are no ATMs anywhere on the road between Manali and the pass. The dhabas and gear rental stalls at Marhi are cash-only.

Safety Tips for Rohtang Pass

I want to be very direct here because Rohtang Pass sees accidents every year, and many of them are avoidable.

• Do not stop on the road at the pass. The road at the top is narrow and stopping causes massive jams. If you want photos, find a safe spot clearly off the road.
• Do not wander off marked paths in snow areas. Crevasses and thin ice patches are real dangers. Every year, tourists fall into hidden ditches covered by snow. Stay on visible tracks.
• Watch for AMS symptoms. At 13,050 Ft, altitude sickness is unlikely for most people, but if you have driven up from the plains without acclimatization, headaches and nausea are possible. Do not ignore these symptoms, especially in children and older adults.
• Drive carefully on the descent. The road from the pass down to the Lahaul side (towards Gramphu) is steep and full of hairpin bends. In wet conditions, braking distances increase significantly. Keep your speed very low on this section.
• Check weather before starting. BRO can close the pass at short notice due to bad weather. Call the Manali SDM office or check the Rohtang permit portal for real-time status before heading out.
• Do not attempt the road in heavy snowfall or poor visibility. I have seen tourists push their luck on the Rohtang road in bad weather. Please take a sensible call for yourself and your loved ones waiting for your safe return.

Practical Information at a Glance

How Has the Atal Tunnel Changed Things Since 2020?

The Atal Tunnel, inaugurated on October 3, 2020, has fundamentally changed the travel dynamics of this entire region. Before the tunnel, every vehicle headed to Lahaul, Spiti, or Leh from the Manali side had to cross Rohtang Pass. This meant the road was open for barely 5-6 months, and during those months, the traffic was chaotic because tourists and transit vehicles shared the same narrow road.

Now, the tunnel handles all transit traffic. Vehicles going to Lahaul, Spiti, and Leh use the tunnel year-round without any permit. Rohtang Pass has become primarily a tourist destination, not a transit route. This has actually improved the experience for tourists who want to visit the pass, because there is less heavy vehicle traffic on the old Rohtang road. However, on weekends and holidays, tourist traffic alone is still enough to cause significant congestion.

For the people of Lahaul, the tunnel has been nothing short of transformative. Before 2020, villages like Keylong, Jispa, Udaipur, and Tandi were completely cut off from the rest of Himachal Pradesh for 5-6 months every winter. Medicines, vegetables, and essential supplies had to be stockpiled before the first snowfall. That isolation is now a thing of the past. For planning your Lahaul trip, check my guide on Jispa Village, which makes an excellent base for exploring the Lahaul Valley.

Dheeraj Sharma

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For a deeper understanding of how the tunnel fits into the larger highway, check my complete guide to planning a trip on Manali – Leh Highway.

What Happens When Rohtang Pass Closes for Winter?

When BRO announces the closure (usually around November 15), all tourist permits stop being issued. BRO withdraws its men and machinery from the pass and stations them at lower altitudes. Rescue posts are set up on both sides of the pass. The snow accumulates rapidly, sometimes reaching 20-30 feet at the pass, and the road becomes completely impassable.

However, the Manali – Leh Highway beyond Lahaul (towards Darcha, Baralacha La, and Leh) still closes in winter. So while you can reach Keylong and Jispa through the tunnel in January, you cannot continue to Leh until the full highway opens in May-June. For stopover recommendations, read my post on why Jispa is a better stopover than Sarchu.

If you are planning a Manali to Leh trip, knowing both the Rohtang Pass status and the broader Manali – Leh Highway status is essential. I keep my Manali – Leh Highway status page updated through the season. And once you reach Leh, my complete Manali travel guide has everything you need to know about the Manali end of the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Rohtang Pass open in 2026?

Rohtang Pass opened on May 17, 2026, after BRO completed snow clearance operations. The typical opening window is between May 15 and May 31 each year, depending on snowfall intensity and BRO’s clearance progress.

When does Rohtang Pass close for winter?

Rohtang Pass usually closes around November 15 each year. In some years with early heavy snowfall (like 2023), it can close as early as late October. The district administration of Lahaul-Spiti makes the final announcement based on BRO’s assessment.

Do I need a permit for Rohtang Pass in 2026?

Yes. A tourism permit costs Rs 600 (petrol vehicles) or Rs 400 (diesel vehicles) and must be booked online at rohtangpermits.nic.in. Only 1,200 vehicles are allowed per day. No vehicles are permitted on Tuesdays.

Do I need a permit for the Atal Tunnel?

No. The Atal Tunnel does not require any permit. You can drive through it year-round without any prior booking or documentation beyond your regular vehicle papers.

Can I visit Rohtang Pass in winter?

No. Rohtang Pass is completely closed from mid-November to mid-May. The road is buried under 20-30 feet of snow and is not accessible even on foot. You can, however, drive through the Atal Tunnel to reach Lahaul Valley in winter.

Is Rohtang Pass safe for sedans?

Yes, sedans can make it to Rohtang Pass during the open season when the road is in reasonable condition (typically September-October). In May-June, when there is snow and slush on the road, an SUV or 4×4 is strongly recommended. Always check road conditions before starting.

What is the difference between Rohtang Pass and Atal Tunnel?

Rohtang Pass is the traditional mountain road at 13,050 Ft that crosses the Pir Panjal range. The Atal Tunnel is a 9.02 km underground tunnel at 10,171 Ft that bypasses the pass entirely. The tunnel is open year-round and requires no permit. Rohtang Pass is seasonal (May-November) and requires a permit.

Can I see snow at Rohtang Pass in June?

Yes, early June usually still has significant snow at Rohtang Pass. By late June, the snow starts melting, and by July, most of it is gone. If snow is your primary reason for visiting, aim for late May or the first two weeks of June.

How much does a cab cost for a Rohtang Pass day trip from Manali?

A private cab for a round trip from Manali to Rohtang Pass typically costs Rs 3,500 to Rs 4,500 (as of 2025-2026, verify locally for current rates). Shared taxis are cheaper at roughly Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500 per person for the round trip.

Is there mobile network at Rohtang Pass?

Jio and Airtel networks are functional up to approximately the Gulaba area (about 23 km from Manali). Beyond Gulaba and at the pass itself, there is no reliable mobile network. Inform someone of your plan before heading up.

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Rohtang Pass. If you have questions or need the latest road updates, feel free to ask in the comments below or reach out through the DwD Community. For more Manali area guides, check my complete Manali travel guide and Solang Valley guide 🙂 …