Rohtang Pass Declared Open for 2018

by Vargis.Khan

Rohtang Pass has been declared open for year 2018. BRO was able to clear snow all the way and restore traffic on the route on Thursday. For now, only light motor vehicles will be allowed to ply between Manali and Keylong from Friday, April 6th. An official announcement of the opening however will only be made on 9th April. Please note though that for initial days, only the local vehicles are allowed to cross over. Tourists do not get the permit to cross over for initial few days.  You must give it at least 7 to 10 days before planning a trip. To be on a safer side, do not plan to cross the pass before 15th April.

Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Rohtang Pass


Update May 3rd

Tourists as of now are only allowed till Marhi. The entire stretch of Rohtang is not yet open. It continues to snow at Rohtang top and it actually snowed even yesterday. The expected date of opening of the entire Rohtang Pass right now is 16th May.

Sharing some pics below sent by a friend from Manali. It rained all day in Manali yesterday and snowed at Rohtang Pass. See the fresh snow at top of the peaks. Click on the pic to view in full size.

This pic below is from the Gulaba check post this morning. Estimated wait time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hours. A long line of vehicles before you finally get to cross the barrier.


BRO is hopeful that if the weather remained the way it is right now; they will be able to restore connectivity on entire Manali Leh highway by 20th April. The road from Manali to Kaza will also be restored by April end; or May first week at latest.

rohtang pass declared open

For now, one-way traffic will be allowed towards the pass on a daily basis. This is because the road is not really in best of the condition and is quite narrow at some places. On Friday, traffic will be allowed to ply from Manali side and then on Saturday, vehicles from Lahaul side will be allowed to cross over. BRO will continue to work on the road and stabilize it. Once they have widened it enough for vehicles to cross each other, two way traffic will be allowed.

Rohtang Pass Declared Open for 2018

This is the earliest that the mighty Rohtang has opened in last 10 years. It was declared closed on 11th December after the snow blocked the road towards the top. However due to low amount of snow this winter, BRO was able to allow traffic earlier than usual this year. This definitely is good news for people planning a trip towards Spiti Valley or Ladakh. The early opening of Rohtang is an indication and also a confirmation that roads towards Leh and Kaza will also open earlier than expected.

I hope the information above was of help. If you have any further questions; or need any help planning your trip; please feel free to ask in the comments section below; or at our Community Forum; and I will be glad to answer.

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166 comments

Shruti June 17, 2019 - 8:14 am

Hi Vargis,

Im planning for a trip to manali this year. Would there be snow at the below given dates?

14 sept to 25 sept and 10 october to 20 october?
Kindly reply.

My mom is keen on seeing snow. I just want to make sure we get to see some snow patches atleast.

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 17, 2019 - 1:54 pm

Hi Shruti – Yes you will find snow at top of the pass.

Reply
Shruti June 23, 2019 - 7:07 am

Hi Vargis,
Thank you so much for your reply.
Your site is indeed very helpful.
Is November first week good time to visit Shimla and Manali? What would be the weather be like? Is the cold weather bearable? I’m taking my senior parents along.

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 23, 2019 - 3:29 pm

Hi Shruti – The scenery will be very dull in November and the weather will be very cold. Rohtang too will remain closed. So it is not really a good time but a trip is doable in these months if this is the only time you can go.

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Shruti June 23, 2019 - 4:44 pm

Ok, thanks again.. what do you suggest for 12 Oct to 20 Oct?

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Vargis.Khan June 23, 2019 - 6:44 pm

Much better than November

Shruti June 24, 2019 - 4:59 am

Thank you so much

Vargis.Khan June 24, 2019 - 5:54 pm

You are welcome !!!

Arun October 17, 2018 - 9:33 pm

Is rohtang pass open on nov 1- nov 4?

Reply
Vargis.Khan October 18, 2018 - 3:09 pm

Depends on how the weather turns in next 2 weeks, hard to predict.

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Harsh Jain October 22, 2018 - 10:06 pm

Sir we plan for 25 to 30 October is rohtqnR pass is open

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Vargis.Khan October 23, 2018 - 1:40 am

The way things are yes it should be unless a sudden snowfall changes things next week,

Reply
Kusha Vats October 26, 2018 - 3:52 pm

Hi we are planning for 9-12 November will it be open?

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Vargis.Khan October 26, 2018 - 3:56 pm

It should remain open considering the weather right now unless it snowed in next 2 weeks.

Reply
Imas October 23, 2018 - 1:46 am

Hi vargis,

Thanks for your updates,

will the rohtang pass be open on Nov 3-4?

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Vargis.Khan October 23, 2018 - 3:37 am

Yes if it did not snow too much anywhere.

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Susheel Kishor October 11, 2018 - 9:06 am

15th October 2018 is open or not beyond Rohtang pass pls tell me

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Vargis.Khan October 11, 2018 - 9:10 am

Yes it will be

Reply
Arun October 17, 2018 - 9:31 pm

I’m planning on Nov 1 -Nov 4 to visit rohtang pass from delhi. Is it open?

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Vargis.Khan October 18, 2018 - 3:10 pm

Depends on how the weather turns in next 2 weeks, hard to predict.

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Mirsa October 5, 2018 - 6:28 am

Manali to leh road is open or not ..?

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Vargis.Khan October 5, 2018 - 1:37 pm

Yes for another couple of weeks.

Reply
Pawan Patil September 27, 2018 - 11:28 am

Manali to Leh
Road
10 October to 20 october
Open or not open

Reply
Vargis.Khan September 27, 2018 - 12:22 pm

Depends on the weather

Reply
Pawan patil September 27, 2018 - 6:05 pm

Bhiya kuch BHI ho
Pr
Us din ki date full jai kuch ho skta hai

Reply
Vargis.Khan September 27, 2018 - 7:02 pm

Nahi taxi book karoge toh vo pehle hi permit leke rakhega

Reply
Chandra Sekhar Darna September 25, 2018 - 5:34 pm

Hai Bhaya Live Snow Fall can be seen In Oct 2018 25th To 28th

Reply
Vargis.Khan September 25, 2018 - 8:21 pm

Kismet ki baat hai … agar aap lucky hue toh shayad mil jaaye

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ifthi September 9, 2018 - 12:37 pm

hello sir…
rothang pass is opened oct-18 to 20

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Vargis.Khan September 9, 2018 - 1:40 pm

Hard to predict brother, depends on the weather but usually it remains opens till Mid October

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Muhammad August 20, 2018 - 5:54 am

VARGIS bhai,
I m planning manali trip from 23Nov to 28 Nov . During this period Rohatang pass will be open or not??

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Balaji September 6, 2018 - 7:35 pm

Hi sir , we are planning to visit manual and rothang pass in Oct 2nd week can we expect live snow and will able to see snow in rotung pass if not where can we see

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Vargis.Khan September 6, 2018 - 11:20 pm

Snowfall in October 2nd week is very rare unless you are very lucky and caught one at Rohtang top

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Satyam Bhuyan August 19, 2018 - 7:58 pm

Will it be open between nov 2nd to 10th

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leela August 10, 2018 - 10:08 am

sir we planning to visit manali in dec 26th in that time rohtang pass is open?

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Vargis.Khan August 10, 2018 - 10:10 am

No it remains closed in December

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Ibai July 28, 2018 - 1:34 am

Hello, is it possible to cross rohtang pass to Leh on Tuesday? I read that it is possible if you go to Leh, but no possible if you stay in rohtang pass.

Thank you

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Cristal July 20, 2018 - 2:38 pm

Hi. When is the best time/month to visit Rothang pass. Does it snow there in August? I want to see it covered with snow 🙂

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Vargis.Khan July 20, 2018 - 2:47 pm

You won’t catch a live snowfall in August unless you were very lucky but yes, you will find snow there at the top.

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Deepak July 1, 2018 - 7:45 am

Rothang pass open or not in next week

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Vargis.Khan July 1, 2018 - 7:51 am

Open

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vikas July 6, 2018 - 7:33 am

Brother is there any problem from delhi to rohtang because of rainfall or anything??

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Vargis.Khan July 6, 2018 - 3:11 pm

There was a cloudburst and the road to Solang valley was shut down last week. It is raining cats and dogs right now brother so landslides will be common.

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ekta June 16, 2018 - 1:31 pm

rohtang pass close from which month to which month ??
manali – rohtang – manali

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Vargis.Khan June 18, 2018 - 2:17 pm

It is closed from November to April.

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Swarnadeep Dey June 12, 2018 - 2:43 pm

Hello Vargis I’m Swarnadeep. .planing to visit rohtang pass on 21st June 2018..will i be able to buy the permit for it? Except Tuesday when is the pass is closed? Please kindly answer

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 12, 2018 - 2:50 pm

See the post below Sawrnadeep on how to get the permit. It depends on availibility.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/rohtang-pass-permits-details-charges-apply/

Reply
Nidhi SIngh June 11, 2018 - 8:51 am

Hi Vargis,

We are planning to visit Rohtang in coming weekend. will it remain open.

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Vargis.Khan June 11, 2018 - 6:12 pm

Hi Nidhi – Yes it will be open

Reply
Puja June 18, 2018 - 1:29 am

Has any one visited Rohtang last weekend how was the snow any suggestion please would be very helpful. It is urgent my little one 9 yrs old wanted to visit Rohtang to play in snow.

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Vargis.Khan June 18, 2018 - 1:58 pm

There is some snow at top of Rohtang Pass but that is pretty much it. It is less as compared to previous years but it is there.

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Nitish June 4, 2018 - 7:39 pm

Hi Vargis,

Thanks much for your valuable updates on the route and itinerary planning. I have been recently going thru your blogs and posts, it provides succinct idea about planning the journey. Appreciate your help!!

I have few questions in reference to my upcoming trip, would really appreciate if you could help me with the answers and correct me if I am wrong or add any few key pointers.

1. I am planning trip to Chandratal Lake from Delhi. Is it possible to cover the entire trip (Delhi to Chandratal and Chandratal to Delhi, both side via Manali) in 4 days. If we leave Delhi on 14th evening, direct drive till Chandratal via Manali and Rohtang, so will reach on 15th evening approximately (Please correct me if I am wrong here or any points you want to add here). Stay in Chandratal on 15th night and 16th entire day, leave for Delhi from Chandratal on 17th morning around 10 AM. I know its quite a short trip, but is this possible to cover?

2. I am assuming route to Chandratal is open with almost cars travelling upto Chandratal by now or may be atleast by this weekend (apart from the trekking part of approx 2 kms to the lake). Please let me know if during 15th June weekend, trekking can be done to Chandratal Lake and cars can go ahead from Batal as I have read, their have been few instances due to snowfall, or going early in the season immediately after route opens, there has been heavy snow on the route and people had to trek from Batal to Chandratal and cannot drive car. Please advise on this as I have don’t have a plan to trek for about 14 KMS.

3. Per your experience and taking into consideration lesser snowfall this year, will the route from Manali to Chandratal have lesser snow and slush between the aforementioned date(15th June-17th June).

4. I will be taking a Nissan Terrano, will this car be good enough for the trip?

Reply
Manas Gangwani June 4, 2018 - 6:36 am

I was wondering if the pass is still open. Planning to go on 13 June but heard from some people that the pass is closed Any update?? Thanks in advance

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Indrani May 27, 2018 - 4:18 pm

Hi Vargis,
Your article is very helpful and very informative. I have few questions:
(1) We will visit Rohtang pass on 3/6/18. V plan to take HPTDC bus. As per your article, v need to buy ticket in person a day before. I hope tickets will b available!
(2) How far is snow point from the place where bus drops us? Is it possible to cover the distance by foot.
(3) The HPTDC bus is a to-n-fro service for a ticket price of 350INR… right? Does the bus wait fr return journey?
Thanks

Reply
Raj May 28, 2018 - 6:21 am

Hi Vargis bhai

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Hiren May 23, 2018 - 9:58 am

hi, now rohtang pass is open for vehicle

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Vargis.Khan May 23, 2018 - 1:27 pm

Yes it is

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Vicky May 25, 2018 - 5:07 pm

Thx for such useful info vargisji.. it’s really helpful! Will I get snow in Solang valley as I was thinking of avoiding Rohtang considering the season rush.. or would you still recommend Rohtang

Reply
Taru May 23, 2018 - 3:43 am

Hi Sir, We are planning to visit Rohtang pass on 27th May,2018 Morning by our own car (Ford Figo ). We have taken permit online. Is it safe to visit by own car and what are Road conditions Till Rohtang pass ? how much time it will take to reach Rohtang pass and how about traffic conditions ? sorry for asking so many questions at one time

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Vargis.Khan May 23, 2018 - 1:43 pm

You can go, there is no problem. Till the the point where tourists are allowed, roads are fine but still drive carefully. Start earlly in the day and you will not gget stuck in traffic.

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Ricky May 19, 2018 - 5:21 pm

Rohtang open for tourist now 🙂

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Sam May 20, 2018 - 6:05 am

Are you can find . Ricky

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Vargis.Khan May 20, 2018 - 7:00 pm

Thanks for sharing the information Ricky

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Shahanas June 1, 2018 - 5:11 am

Sir,we have planned to visit rohtang pass on 21st june.Is it open now??please reply

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Vargis.Khan June 5, 2018 - 9:23 pm

Yes it is

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vishal choudhary May 19, 2018 - 10:46 am

Sir we are planning to go at rohtang on 25 may 2018 so it will be open or not????
And if not then from marhi how and where we have to go to find snow in good quantity???

Reply
Vargis.Khan May 20, 2018 - 7:07 pm

It is open already Vishal Bhai.

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Neeraj Shukla May 18, 2018 - 3:50 pm

dear Vargis, any new update of rohtang pass, is it open or not?????

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Vargis.Khan May 18, 2018 - 8:31 pm

Hi Neeraj – It is still open until Marhi only, will take another 2-3 days to open completely.

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Amandeep May 18, 2018 - 1:55 pm

Whats the current status of Rohtang Pass.
Open for tourists from Spiti to Keylong ?
If not
What are the chances it will be open by 25th May 2018?

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Vargis.Khan May 18, 2018 - 3:17 pm

It should open in next 2-3 days as per the latest update

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dr.kirti May 16, 2018 - 6:29 pm

manali to keylong strech is open or not at present?

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Vargis.Khan May 17, 2018 - 2:24 am

Not for tourists

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Nilesh May 16, 2018 - 7:28 am

Where we can find snow?

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Vargis.Khan May 17, 2018 - 2:35 am

6-7 kilometers after Marhi

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Satz May 17, 2018 - 9:42 am

@Vargis.Khan

Are we allowed to travel 6-7 km after Marhi on May 21 to 23rd. We like to see complete snow.Please suggest place near rohtang pass

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Vargis.Khan May 17, 2018 - 6:13 pm

Yes you are allowed to go 6-7 kms after Marhi. You can rent a pony for it or walk on your own.

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Satz May 18, 2018 - 3:47 am

Thanks Varghis Khan

Vargis.Khan May 18, 2018 - 1:47 pm

You are welcome !!!

Anubhav Hajela May 14, 2018 - 7:56 pm

Do we need to get the permit if we want to go till marhi only, I am planning to go on 21st may by my own car
Also I would like to know that whether it is feasible to go by my sedan car(honda civic) till marhi or not

Reply
Vargis.Khan May 15, 2018 - 4:44 pm

Yes, till Marhi will be fine by a Sedan and yes, you do need to get a permit till Marhi as well.

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Priya May 13, 2018 - 5:53 pm

Hi. Any updates regarding opening of rohtang pass?

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Vargis.Khan May 15, 2018 - 5:46 pm

It is only open till Marhi still.

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Vishwas May 5, 2018 - 3:49 am

Sorry bhai it’s spelling mistakes for ur name regards..

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Vargis.Khan May 5, 2018 - 4:07 pm

Vishwas Bhai the estimated date as of now is of 15th or 16th May

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Vishwas May 5, 2018 - 3:47 am

Hi varVar bhai.what is the situation of Rohtang pass will it open before 9th may

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utkarsh May 4, 2018 - 8:07 pm

hey Vargis, We are planning to visit Rohtang pass and Solang vally on 25th of may my queries are
1) Will Rohtang pass be open at that time?
2) how much we have to pay for innova for Rohtang and Solang on same day?(i called few travelling agencies which told me 8000)
3) do we have to worry about permit or its the job of the taxi firm?

Reply
Vargis.Khan May 5, 2018 - 4:01 pm

Hi Utkarsh,

1. Chances are that yes it will be
2. That figure sounds about right. As the tourist seasons progresses, this charge can even go up to Rs. 18,000. Daytime robbery, isn’t it?
3. Some taxi guys arrange it and some don’t so make sure you clarify this with them beforehand.

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Vansh May 3, 2018 - 11:41 pm

Hello sir.. I’m vansh..
We r planning to go to manikaran by 6a.m now today 5th May.. How r d roads of manikarn as ppl say roads r muddy Coz of rainfall.. Is it safe to drive to manikaran

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Vargis.Khan May 4, 2018 - 4:57 am

Yes it has been raining around Manali for last couple of days but it is not that muddy. You are OK to go.

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ajinath May 3, 2018 - 7:06 am

hi
is Rohtaang pass opened for tourists

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Vargis.Khan May 3, 2018 - 6:54 pm

It is open now but only till Marhi.

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Vishwas May 3, 2018 - 3:38 am

Hi Vargis bhai, I am planning to visit Rohtang pass on 9th may today I read that the tourists allow upto Marhi can we get any other arrangements to go to Rohtang pass pl guide or can we get snow at Marhi

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Vishwas May 3, 2018 - 5:13 am

What’s the position today for Rohtang pass

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Vargis.Khan May 3, 2018 - 6:59 pm

Open till Marhi. Expected to open by 16th completely.

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Vargis.Khan May 3, 2018 - 7:00 pm

No other way Vishwas Bhai. Vehicles are only allowed till Marhi. From there you can rent a horse and go about 6-7 kilometers further to find some snow.

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HARISH KUMAR May 2, 2018 - 1:13 pm

Hello Mr. Vargis, I am Harish and I am planning to visit Rohtang pass on14 May, at present it is opened only at Marhi, please guide us it is opened or not till 14 May.

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Vargis.Khan May 2, 2018 - 2:02 pm

Hello Mr. Harish – The road until Marhi is already open and permits are being issued to tourists.

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HARISH KUMAR May 2, 2018 - 3:22 pm

Yes Vargis I heard a official news of Marhi opened but I want to go Rohtang pass, Please guide us when it will opend. I will plan to go Rohtang on 14 may.

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Vargis.Khan May 2, 2018 - 6:27 pm

There is no set date as of now. It snowed at Rohtang top even today so no one can say really if it will open by 14th or not.

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HARISH KUMAR May 3, 2018 - 5:25 am

Thanks Vargis..for your information.
Can you have any idea of Rohtang pass opened because i think there is a little bit snow in Marhi. If i plan to visit in first week of june then it is opened?

Vargis.Khan May 3, 2018 - 6:55 pm

It is expected to open by 16th for now. You will have to take a horse and climb up further 6-7 kilometers from Marhi to find some snow.

HARISH KUMAR May 2, 2018 - 4:35 pm

Yes Vargis I heard a official news of Marhi opened but I want to go Rohtang pass, Please guide us when it will opend. I will plan to go Rohtang on 14 may ?

Reply
Vargis.Khan May 2, 2018 - 6:19 pm

There is no set date as of now. It snowed at Rohtang top even today so no one can say really if it will open by 14th or not.

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HARISH KUMAR May 3, 2018 - 5:20 am

Thanks Vargis…for your information.
Can you tell me any idea from when Rohtang pass will be opend because I think in Marhi there is alittle bit snow.

Vargis.Khan May 3, 2018 - 6:58 pm

It is expected to open by 16th as of now.

Yeasir Malik May 2, 2018 - 12:41 pm

Brother, I want to visit Manali, on May 8/9… I want to visit Rothang Pass… Is Rothang Pass is open ?? please brother help me

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Vargis.Khan May 2, 2018 - 2:04 pm

Yeasir Bhai the road is open for tourists until Marhi

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HARISH KUMAR May 2, 2018 - 9:16 am

Hello Mr. Vargis, I am Harish and I am planning to visit Rohtang pass on14 May, at present it is opened only at Marhi, please guide us it is opened or not till 14 May.

Reply
Vargis.Khan May 2, 2018 - 2:06 pm

Hello Mr. Harish – The road until Marhi is already open and permits are being issued to tourists.

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Tanvi Solanki May 2, 2018 - 5:04 am

Hi,

I am planning to visit Rohtang Pass on coming days- 5/6/7 May, is it opened?

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Vargis.Khan May 2, 2018 - 2:16 pm

Yes it is

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Tanvi Solanki May 3, 2018 - 1:22 am

Believe it’s opened till Marhi, is there any chances that it open on mentioned dates.?

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Vargis.Khan May 3, 2018 - 7:08 pm

It is expected to open by 16th May now

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Ganesan May 1, 2018 - 3:55 am

Hi sir I am planning to visit on may 3,4&5. Will rohtang pass be open ? Untill which place is it open? Ur inputs will be of much help . Thanks

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Vargis.Khan May 1, 2018 - 2:55 pm

Hi Ganesan, As of now tourists are only allowed to go till Marhi.

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Vishwas April 28, 2018 - 10:09 am

Sir, what is today’s position of Rohtang pass for tourists

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rina ghosh pramanick April 29, 2018 - 8:18 am

I am rina,pl tell me 15th may from manali to kaza road open or not?simla to kaza and kaza to manali taxi fare how much we are 5member.and moderate hotel charge how much?

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Vargis.Khan April 30, 2018 - 7:40 pm

Vishwas Bhai as of now tourists are being allowed till Marhi.

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Vishal April 25, 2018 - 10:47 am

Hi Dear vargis , I am mr. Vishal visiting on 9 th may 2018 to rohRoht pass will it open before that pl guide me

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Vargis.Khan April 25, 2018 - 2:17 pm

Hello Mr. Vishal – Hard to say right now due to unpredictable weather in last few days but chances are that yes it will be open

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Vishal April 26, 2018 - 4:12 am

Thanking you, regards…

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Vargis.Khan April 26, 2018 - 5:04 pm

You are welcome !!!

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Vishwas April 24, 2018 - 12:54 pm

Hi Mr. Vargis I am mr Vishwas planning to visit Rohtang pass on 9th may 2018 will it open for tourists pl guide

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Vargis.Khan April 24, 2018 - 6:36 pm

It is hard to predict right now Mr. Vishwas but chances are that yes it will be.

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Vishwas April 25, 2018 - 3:39 am

Thanks mr.Vargis

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Vargis.Khan April 25, 2018 - 2:38 pm

You are welcome !!!

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Vishwas April 28, 2018 - 10:07 am

Sir what is today’s position of Rohtang pass open for tourists

Vargis.Khan April 30, 2018 - 7:40 pm

Vishwas Bhai as of now tourists are being allowed till Marhi.

Dr.Sajid Raheem April 20, 2018 - 8:11 pm

Assalamualaikum vargis bhai, my email address is having some issues, please WhatsApp me at 7678229009. This is Dr Sajid Raheem, asked about Rohtang pass opening date as vl b traveling around 9 to 12 may.. please reply brother

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Vargis.Khan April 22, 2018 - 6:10 am

Walaikum As-salam Sajid Bhai, Weather at Rohtang is playing havoc right now and it continues to snow every couple of days. BRO declared it open earlier but shut it down again after the recent spells of snow. There is no confirmed date of opening still but estimate is that it will definitely be open by 9th May.

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Maya April 20, 2018 - 11:43 am

Hi, do you have any knowledge on the current state of the pass travelling from Manali to Kaza?

Thanks in advance

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Vargis.Khan April 20, 2018 - 1:37 pm

It is expected to open in May sometime.

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Vinod April 19, 2018 - 7:47 am

Hi Vargis,

We planning a trip to Manali in 19 to 21 May 2018. Since it is peak season in Manali, Can we still rent a room / hotel going there and find our own.

We have a vehicle booked for trip to Shimla, Manali, Dharmsala and Dalhousie from 18 to 25 May 2018.

Thanks & Regards

Reply
Vargis.Khan April 19, 2018 - 2:45 pm

Hi Vinod – You can always find a hotel in Manali very easily, irrespective of your time of travel.

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Vinod April 20, 2018 - 4:11 am

Hi Vargis,

Thanks for your prompt reply.

I have been to Shimla & Manali twice before. The last time i completed the Lahaul Spiti circuit (as per your itinerary) from Shimla and ending with Manali in July 2016 with my friends. At that time we quite easily able to search and find cheaper (Rs 500-1000) hotel on the way.

However this time we are a group of 17 people on a budgeted trip.

Since you have told me we can find hotel on the way, can you please help me provide specific area or hotel where we can get the budgeted hotel. Even a home stay option would be good for us.

Below is the place and date of stay in Himachal:

18th May – Shimla
19th-20th May – Manali
21st-22nd May – Dharamsala
23rd-24th May – Dalhousie

Thanks & Regards

Reply
Vargis.Khan April 20, 2018 - 1:56 pm

Hi Vinod – At all these 4 places, you will easily be able to find a room for Rs. 700 – Rs. 1000 per day. You may have to walk around a bit negotiating a deal but will find it for sure.

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Raunaq April 16, 2018 - 9:26 am

Hello,

We are planning to complete the Shimla – Kaza – Chandratal – Manali – Kasol route during 3rd week of May.
Any update on Rohtang La and Kunzum La? When will they open?

Reply
Vargis.Khan April 16, 2018 - 10:45 am

By 3rd week of May they all will definitely be

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Raunaq April 16, 2018 - 8:49 am

Hello Vargis,

Any update on when will Rohtang Pass re-open?
We are planning to do the Shimla-Chitkul-Kaza-Chandratal-Manali route during May 3rd week.
I heard Kunzum Pass should be open to complete the circuit.
Any idea when both Kunzum La and Rohtang La will open?

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Vargis.Khan April 16, 2018 - 10:50 am

Hi Raunaq – Rohtang Pass will open again in another 7-10 days after authorities are sure of the weather. Kunzum Pass and Manali Kaza stretch will reopen by Mid May this year.

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Prerna April 15, 2018 - 6:03 am

Hi I m Prerna we planning our trip to Manali on may 7 is Rohtang paas will be open on may 8 as it is Tuesday. I hered that every Tuesday Rohtang is closed.

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Vargis.Khan April 15, 2018 - 9:25 am

Correct. It will be closed for tourists on Tuesday.

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Sonal Subhash. Nimkar April 13, 2018 - 8:49 am

Hello.. I’m Sandhya Nimkar from Mumbai…
We r planning for rohtang pass on 1st May 2018..will rohtang be opened on that day?..
And is 14 seater allowed to go to rothangpass?

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Vargis.Khan April 13, 2018 - 6:21 pm

Hello Sandhya, Yes to both your questions. Rohtang will be open and you can take a tempo traveler as well as long as you have the permit.

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Nisha April 12, 2018 - 9:15 am

HI. We are planning to travel on 18th April. Will the Rohtang pass open for tourist vehicle by then? Also, in case if the pass is not open, from Manali until which point the travel would be allowed?

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Vargis.Khan April 12, 2018 - 12:24 pm

Hard to predict right now. They closed the pass again after recent snowfall in last 2 days. If the pass is not open than you can go until the check post at Gulaba

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Zinnia Arora April 11, 2018 - 6:22 am

Hi Vargis,

I’m planning to visit Rohtang on this weekend (Fri & Sat). Would it be open if we go via taxi from Manali?

TIA.

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Vargis.Khan April 11, 2018 - 8:19 pm

Hi Zinnia – It is not open right now and chances are that it will only happen next week sometime.

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Sadhana April 10, 2018 - 4:48 am

Planning to travel by bus from Delhi to Leh starting from Delhi on 21st of April. Is it good time?

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Vargis.Khan April 10, 2018 - 1:52 pm

You will first have to go to Srinagar from Delhi and then look for a mode of transport to Ladakh from there. Srinagar to Leh bus is not yet operational so you would have to look for a shared cab from there.

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Javi Denia April 9, 2018 - 4:15 pm

Dear sir. Thanks a lot for your blog.
I’ comming from spain intending to go tp kargil beguining pf june.fron srinagar and then
We want to go to Padum and then to phugtal monastery..
Do you know how many kms. Are on road and how many hours trekking left..! From padum to phugtal.( How much for a shared taxi or jeep )
Tank you
Javier Alava

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Vargis.Khan April 9, 2018 - 5:44 pm

Hello Javier, From Padum there is a road until Ichar village which is about an hour and a half drive. After Ichar, it is about 4-5 hours of trekking to Phugtal.

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Anjali April 9, 2018 - 2:53 am

Hi Vargis,

This post is definitely a happy news for me. I have planned to visit in Spiti in mid May. Looked like I can’t complete the circuit.

I have booked my flight tickets from bangalore to Delhi on mid of May. Would be taking overnight bus to shimla the same day.

I am planning to follow the same itinerary per your Spiti posts.

Spiti Valley Itinerary

15 May– Delhi to Shimla / Narkanda (overnight)
16 May– Shimla / Narkanda to Sarahan
17 May– Sarahan to Chitkul
18 May – Chitkul to Kalpa
19 May– Kalpa to Nako
20 May– Nako to Kaza
21 May– Kaza to Kibber, Komik, Tashigang, Kaza
22 May– Kaza to Chandratal
23 May– Chandratal to Manali
24 May– Manali to Tosh/ Chalal.

I have few questions as I would be travelling solo n depending on public transports.

1. What is the frequency or usual timing for me to get buses? Like only mornings or available throughout the day.

2. Are there any placesbin the list which doesn’t have public transport?

3. If not public transports, if I plan to use shared taxis, can you help me with an approximate estimate for cabs (if you are aware of it)?

4. Is it worth to spend a day in shimla/Narkanda or should I leave to Sarahan?

5. If the pass is closed, I believe the only option is to return to shimla via Kalpa. Can you help me with an estimate for travel hours from Kalpa to Shimla?

Thank you for being so informative!!

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Vargis.Khan April 9, 2018 - 1:26 pm

Hi Anjali,

Manali Kaza route may open by early May this year so you may be able to complete the circuit. Cannot guarantee it right now though.

1. Bus from Shimla to towards Kaza is only in the morning. For local please however, the timings could be of mid-day as well.

2. All the places in the itinerary are connected by public transport.

3. Cost of shared taxis per person is about the same as those of buses.

4. If you have time then you may chose to spend a day in Shimla and Narkanda.

5. There is a mornign bus from Kaza thar reaches Reckong peop towards later part of the day. The next day there is a bus for Shimla from Reckong Peo.

Take a look at the post below, should be able to answer most of your queries better.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/travel-spiti-valley-by-bus-taxi-services/

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Anjali April 10, 2018 - 1:07 am

Thank you Vargis for answering all my questions. Hopefully I will be a able to complete the circuit. I will drop a message on the website if the route opens while I am there.

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Vargis.Khan April 10, 2018 - 1:50 pm

I would greatly appreciate it Anjali. That would definitely be helpful for others. Thank you.

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Gaurav punj April 6, 2018 - 2:32 pm

Vargis bhai, we r going to chadrataal Lake on 3 June morning by Bus and Manali reach on 2 June

1) will Road open on 3 June ?
2) becuz we gave Rs 3000 Advance Payment to jamaica’s camps at moon Lake 2 night staying b/w 3 June 2018 and 4 June 2018

3) what time to go Manali to kaza by bus? Which area we catch the bus from Manali? For going Batal via kaza route?

4) what time to reach batal from Manali by bus?
5) if routes didnt open on 3 June then what we do ? We will wasted 3000 that we gave advance paid?

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Vargis.Khan April 7, 2018 - 10:00 pm

Hi Gaurav Bhai,

1. Yes it will be open
2. Jamaica’s camps will be operational too by then.
3. Catch the bus from Manali bus stand and get down at Chandratal diversion near Kunzum top
4. It depends but the bus starts in the morning from Manali and usually reaches Batal at around 2-3 PM.
5. It will definitely be open. Chances are that the road may actually open by April end itself so you are OK.

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Gaurav punj April 8, 2018 - 5:32 am

Vargis bhai , bus par jao toh kia hamesha late pahuchta ha batal kia ?
Manali se koi shared taxi mill jaye toh kitna tent hoga? Vo texi batal tak jayegi ya moon Lake tak ? Vo texi moon Lake se vapis chale jayege kia? Ya vahi rahega?

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Vargis.Khan April 8, 2018 - 5:56 pm

Gaurav Bhai, late nahi hota unless koi road block vagerah ho jaaye kahin agar. Shared taxi is also available. I think their rent is between Rs. 300 – Rs. 500 per person but there is no shared taxi all the way till Chandratal. Vo bhi vahin drop karega jahan Bus chhodegi. You will anyways have to either walk or take lift for the last 14 kilomters to the lake.

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Gaurav punj April 11, 2018 - 6:36 am

Ok bhaix, vase Milky Way galaxy at moon Lake kiss month mai hota ha? Kia 3 June ki raat ko Milky Way dikhayega?

Vargis.Khan April 11, 2018 - 8:19 pm

Haan dikh jaayega …. Aasman mein badal na hon bas jinka June mein chance kam hi hai

Nitish June 4, 2018 - 7:44 pm

Hi Gaurav, I am hoping you are on trip to Chandratal as per your posts. It would be great help if you could give me a high level overview about your trip, in terms of the road status with respect to snow and driving car till chandratal.

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Krishna April 6, 2018 - 5:09 am

That’s good news.. I believe permit is not required for travel to Manali side know?

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Vargis.Khan April 7, 2018 - 10:08 pm

Travel to Manali or from Manali? If you mean going to Rohtang from Manali then yes, you still need a permit. If you are crossing over to Manali from Lahaul side then no permit is needed.

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