Rohtang Pass Permit 2026: Fees, Rules, Online Booking & Complete Travel Guide

Rohtang Pass Permit 2026: Fees, Rules, Online Booking & Complete Travel Guide

Rohtang Pass is one of the most beautiful and popular places to visit from Manali. Located in the Pir Panjal range of Himachal Pradesh, this high-altitude mountain pass stands at around 3,978 metres (13,051 feet) above sea level. It connects the green Kullu Valley with the scenic Lahaul region and offers unforgettable views of snow-covered mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and winding Himalayan roads.

However, a Rohtang Pass trip requires proper planning. Vehicle entry is regulated to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, which means a permit is required for tourist vehicles travelling towards Rohtang Pass.

This guide explains the Rohtang Pass permit process, fees, rules, documents, best time to visit, road conditions and important travel tips.

Is Rohtang Pass Permit Mandatory?

Yes. A valid permit is generally required for tourist vehicles travelling beyond the designated check-post towards Rohtang Pass.

The permit system helps authorities control traffic, pollution and environmental damage in the sensitive mountain region. Without a valid permit, private tourist vehicles may not be allowed to proceed beyond the restricted point.

If you book a local Manali taxi, confirm in advance whether the quoted price includes the permit and whether the driver has a valid permit for your selected travel date.

Types of Rohtang Pass Permits

There are two main permit categories:

1. Tourism Permit

This permit is for visitors travelling to Rohtang Pass for sightseeing and returning to Manali on the same day. It is suitable for families, couples, groups and tourists planning a day excursion.

2. Beyond Rohtang Permit

This permit is for travellers continuing towards destinations beyond Rohtang, such as Lahaul, Keylong, Jispa, Spiti Valley or Leh-Ladakh, where applicable.

Do not confuse a Rohtang permit with permits required for protected or border regions. If you are travelling to Spiti or Leh, check the complete permit requirements for your route separately.

Rohtang Pass Permit Fees 2026

The permit fee normally includes a permit charge and a congestion/environment-related charge.

Fees and vehicle-category charges can be revised by the authorities. Therefore, always check the final amount displayed on the official Rohtang permit portal before making payment.

The permit fee is separate from:

• Taxi fare
• Snow dress or boot rental
• Adventure activities
• Food and refreshments
• Parking charges, if applicable

Rohtang Pass Permit Online Booking Process

Follow these simple steps to apply online:

1. Visit the official Rohtang permit portal: rohtangpermits.nic.in
2. Select the relevant permit category—Tourism Permit or Beyond Rohtang Permit.
3. Enter your vehicle registration number and vehicle details.
4. Fill in the owner/driver and contact details.
5. Select the travel date, subject to permit availability.
6. Upload or enter the required vehicle information.
7. Make the payment online.
8. Download and print the approved permit.

Carry both a printed copy and a digital copy on your phone. The permit may be checked at the barrier along with vehicle documents and identity proof.

Documents Required for Rohtang Pass Permit

Keep the following documents ready before applying:

• Valid vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
• Valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
• Valid driving licence
• Government photo ID proof
• Vehicle registration number and date of registration
• Active mobile number for booking confirmation

For self-drive vehicles, ensure all vehicle documents are current. For hired taxis, ask the operator to share permit confirmation before starting the journey.

Rohtang Pass Vehicle Rules and Restrictions

Rohtang Pass has daily vehicle limits because it is an environmentally sensitive area. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly during weekends, school holidays and peak summer months.

Important points to remember:

• Tourist permits are issued in limited daily numbers.
• Older vehicles may not be eligible; vehicles above the permitted age limit can be refused.
• Vehicle quotas are often divided by fuel type.
• Permits are usually date-specific and valid only for the approved travel day.
• Repeated permits for the same vehicle may be restricted within a week.
• Tuesday is commonly observed as a maintenance/closure day for tourist movement, but travellers must verify the latest notice before making plans.
• Entry is subject to weather, road safety and instructions from local authorities.

Never travel using a fake, altered or expired permit. It can lead to denial of entry and legal action.

When Does Rohtang Pass Open?

Rohtang Pass is not open throughout the year. The route normally opens after snow-clearance work, usually between late May and June, and remains accessible until October or early November.

The exact opening and closing dates change every year because of:

• Snowfall
• Landslides
• Road repair work
• Weather forecasts
• Border Roads Organisation clearance
• Safety instructions from the administration

During winter, Rohtang Pass is generally closed due to heavy snowfall and unsafe road conditions.

Best Time to Visit Rohtang Pass

June to July

Best for snow views, sightseeing and family trips. This is also the busiest period, so book permits and taxis early.

August to September

The landscapes turn lush green and beautiful after the monsoon. However, rain, fog and landslide risk can affect road conditions.

October

A great month for clear mountain views, photography and relatively fewer crowds. Temperatures can be very cold.

For visitors looking specifically for snow, availability depends on the season and current weather. Never promise snow in advance—conditions can change quickly.

How to Reach Rohtang Pass from Manali

Rohtang Pass is approximately 51 km from Manali. The drive may take 3 to 5 hours one way, depending on traffic, weather and road conditions.

The route usually passes through:

Manali → Kothi → Gulaba → Marhi → Rahala Falls → Rohtang Pass

Start early in the morning to avoid traffic queues and to return safely before evening.

Atal Tunnel vs Rohtang Pass

The Atal Tunnel provides faster access from Manali to Sissu and Lahaul. However, travelling through the Atal Tunnel is different from visiting Rohtang Pass itself.

If your main purpose is to see Rohtang Pass, you need to take the old Rohtang route and comply with the permit rules. If you are only visiting Sissu through Atal Tunnel, Rohtang tourist permit requirements may not apply in the same way. Confirm the current route rules before departure.

Places to Visit Near Rohtang Pass

Make your Rohtang trip more memorable by adding these nearby attractions:

• Solang Valley – Adventure activities, ropeway and mountain views
• Gulaba – Snow point and scenic road views
• Marhi – Popular stop for tea, Maggi and refreshments
• Rahala Falls – A beautiful waterfall on the Rohtang route
• Kothi Village – Peaceful Himalayan landscape near Manali
• Sissu – A beautiful Lahaul village accessible through Atal Tunnel
• Atal Tunnel – One of India’s most impressive high-altitude tunnels

Important Rohtang Pass Travel Tips

• Start from Manali early, preferably before 6:00 AM.
• Carry warm jackets, gloves, woollen caps and waterproof shoes.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright snow reflection.
• Carry water, snacks and basic medicines.
• Fill up your fuel tank in Manali.
• Avoid alcohol at high altitude.
• Stay hydrated and do not overexert yourself.
• People with heart, breathing or serious health conditions should consult a doctor before travelling.
• Do not litter—carry your waste back to Manali.
• Follow local police, BRO and administration instructions at all times.
• Do not drive in fog, snowfall or poor visibility unless authorities permit movement.

Rohtang Pass FAQ

Is Rohtang Pass open in winter?

No. The pass is generally closed during winter because of heavy snowfall and hazardous road conditions.

Can I visit Rohtang Pass without a permit?

A permit is generally required for tourist vehicles entering the regulated Rohtang zone. Local taxis may arrange the permit, but you should confirm this before booking.

Can I get a same-day permit?

Sometimes, but permits are limited and may sell out quickly. Booking in advance is recommended.

Is the permit included in a Manali tour package?

Not always. Ask your travel company clearly whether the Rohtang permit, taxi and local charges are included or extra.

Is Rohtang Pass suitable for children and senior citizens?

Yes, if weather and health conditions are suitable. Carry warm clothing, avoid long exposure to cold and take breaks due to the high altitude.

Plan Your Rohtang Pass Trip with Keshari Travels

Rohtang Pass is an unforgettable part of a Manali holiday, but permits, weather and road conditions need careful planning. At Keshari Travels, we can help you arrange a customized Manali itinerary with hotel stay, local sightseeing, Solang Valley, Atal Tunnel, Sissu, Kasol and Manikaran options.

Contact us with your travel date, number of travellers and preferred hotel category to receive a suitable Manali package quotation.