Why there's a permit at all
Traffic to Rohtang has been restricted since the National Green Tribunal ordered limits on vehicles using the Manali–Rohtang road, to protect the fragile high-altitude environment. Permits are issued per vehicle, not per person, by the Kullu district administration through its online portal.
How permits work in practice
Reports from operators and travel writers describe a daily quota split between petrol and diesel vehicles, with permits released in batches and often gone within minutes in peak season. A small number of 'special' permits exist, and there's a separate, uncapped congestion fee for vehicles travelling beyond Rohtang towards Lahaul. These details change, so treat any specific number you read (including here) as indicative.
- The permit is tied to the vehicle's registration, so your taxi operator applies, not you.
- Older vehicles may not be eligible; operators report a 10-year age limit.
- A permit is valid for one day, for a return trip.
- If the online quota is gone, there may be no permit for that day, whatever anyone promises.
When the pass is open
Rohtang sits at roughly 3,980 m and is closed through the winter by snow. It usually opens for tourists in late spring or early summer and closes again with the first heavy snow in autumn. Opening and closing dates are announced each year by the district administration and depend on snow clearance.
No permit needed: Solang and the Atal Tunnel
You don't need a Rohtang permit for Solang valley, which is on the road out of Manali, or for the Atal Tunnel, whose south portal is about 25 km from Manali. The tunnel bypasses Rohtang entirely and leads to Sissu and Lahaul. Vehicles entering Lahaul and Spiti may need a separate e-permit or e-ticket from the state's online system, which your operator can arrange.
For most families, Solang plus the Atal Tunnel gives the snow, the views and the high-mountain feeling, with none of the permit lottery.
How we handle Rohtang requests
We'll try for a permit if you want Rohtang, but we only confirm the trip once the permit is issued. If it isn't, we'll plan Solang and the Atal Tunnel instead, so you don't lose the day. The permit fee is passed on at cost and shown separately on your quote.
Planning a Rohtang day
If you do get a permit, start early. Traffic builds on the road out of Manali after breakfast, and weather at the top changes quickly in the afternoon. Warm layers, gloves and sunglasses matter even in summer, because temperatures near the pass can be close to freezing and the glare off the snow is strong. Snow-clothing and boot rentals are available on the way out of Manali.
Anyone sensitive to altitude should take it slowly at the top, drink water, and come back down if they feel unwell. Children and older travellers often enjoy Solang just as much, at a far lower altitude.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for the Rohtang permit myself?+
Permits are issued per vehicle, so the taxi operator applies using the vehicle's registration. You just tell us the date.
Do I need a permit for the Atal Tunnel?+
No Rohtang permit is needed for the Atal Tunnel. Going on into Lahaul may need a separate state e-permit, which we arrange.
Is Rohtang open in December?+
Normally no. The pass closes for winter with heavy snow and reopens in late spring or early summer each year.
What if no permit is available on my date?+
We'll switch to Solang and the Atal Tunnel, which need no Rohtang permit, so the day isn't wasted.
