Rohtang Pass reopens for tourists: Vehicles drive through 40-feet-high snow walls
Babushahi Bureau
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), May 17, 2025: In a major development for tourism in Himachal Pradesh, the iconic Rohtang Pass has officially reopened for tourists from Saturday, marking the beginning of the high-altitude travel season.
Tourists can now once again experience snow in peak summer, as vehicles passed through 40-feet-high snow walls, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Despite challenging weather conditions and heavy snowfall, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) successfully cleared snow along the route, enabling safe travel.The restoration of the pass has brought excitement and a surge in tourist activity, with over 800 vehicles making their way to Rohtang on the very first day.
Administration Issues Official Notification
The Kullu Deputy Commissioner, Torul S. Ravish, acting as the District Magistrate, issued a formal notification reopening the pass.
Prior to this, SDM Manali Raman Kumar Sharma had inspected the area on May 15 along with BRO and police officials, confirming that the road and facilities were ready to accommodate tourists.
Parking areas were cleared and essential amenities like toilets were set up before reopening.
Weekly Closure on Tuesdays
The district administration has also announced that the Rohtang Pass will remain closed every Tuesday for essential road maintenance. This year, the BRO managed to reopen the route 13 days earlier than in 2024, when it was restored on May 30.
High Demand for Permits
There is huge enthusiasm among tourists, and online permits for vehicle entry are being booked rapidly.
As per NGT guidelines, 800 permits are issued daily—400 for petrol and 400 for diesel vehicles. With more than half the slots for Sunday already booked, a significant influx of tourists into Manali is expected.
Located at an altitude of 13,050 feet, Rohtang Pass remains a top choice for travelers seeking snow-covered landscapes, adventure, and scenic beauty—even during the summer months.