Escape into an icy cold region of the Himalayas

In the blistering heat of the hot Indian summers an escape into an icy cold region of the Himalayas would be blissful to both body and soul. Travelling to a place like this would also provide a much needed break from the busy and hectic schedules that most people have throughout the year. It pumps in the much needed zeal and enthusiasm in which provides people the energy to go back to their daily jobs.

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Rohtang-Pass

Rohtang Pass located in the Himalayas provides all this along with an action packed adventure holiday. Located at a distance of 51 kms from Manali, it lies between Lahaul, Spiti and Leh sectors. Traffic is open from May/June to October/November every year and during rest of the year the roads are eaten up due to the heavy snowfall in the area. The snow cover makes it impossible to cross the mountain pass because of the heavy debris of snow that is deposited.

The pass has the heritage of being an important trade route connecting Kulu valley to Lahaul Spiti and it further goes upto Tibet. This route has been in existence for a long period of time. Rohtang Pass is also significant because it lies at the crossroads of Kulu valley/district to Lahaul and Spiti district.

History

The pass has been a historic trade route for the people residing on both sides of the Pir Panjal. The local name for Rohtang pass can be called to be generic name by which a pass is known. There are many other passes which have particular names. This suggests that this pass is one of the oldest and most significant passes of the region with a major historical and geographical significance.

Pir-Panjal

Location

Rohtang Pass lies at an altitude of 3,978 mts or 13,051 ft. The view of the mountain range offered from this pass is panoramic and breathtaking. There are beautiful sights of glaciers, peaks of mountains and the Chandra River flowing down the Lahaul valley. Just at the left of Rohtang pass are the twin peaks of Geypan. Located at a distance of 51 kms from Manali it lies between Lahaul, Spiti and Leh sectors. During the summers (mid June to October) there is regular bus service between Manali to Keylong/Darcha, Udaipur, Spiti and Leh. The best time to visit Rohtang is between May/June to October/November.

Chandra-River

Rohtang can be easily reached by the roads of Kulu and Manali valleys. Car rental vehicles are also available to cover the entire trip from Manali to Rohtang. Bus tours are also available which ply on a daily basis. It is roughly 2-3 hours drive from Manali to Rohtang Pass due to the sloping terrain and narrow mountain roads.

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Jallori-Manali-Rohtang

Where To Stay

There is no such hotel at Rohtang due to the arid and harsh climates. But a variety of accommodation options are available at Manali ranging from traditional hotels to amazing homestay properties. There are also several reputed hotel chains available at Manali. It is pretty easy to find quality accommodation at Manali at affordable prices. The hotels in Manali are not as expensive as that in most metro cities. But for affordable prices one can get quality accommodation, good food and hygienic arrangements.

Green-Manali-Cottage

Government hotels owned by HPDTC are also present in Manali. There are some very good Homestays in Manali that offers good service at value for money. Apart from this there are also several Eco-resorts in Manali that offer good service and proper arrangements.

Religious Significance

Rohtang Pass is of religious significance to both Hindus and Buddhists because of “Beas Kund” origin of the Beas River. It is denoted by an Igloo shaped temple. However this “Beas Kund” should not be confused with another a 4-6 hours trek from Palchan “Beas Kund” where it is found in a Lake. Two streams rise from these two sources which gives rise to the Beas River. This place is also of deep religious significance to Buddhists. Moving further along the road one can find a Buddhist shrine with many colourful flags adorning its structure.

Beas-Kund

Landscape

The landscape at Rohtang Pass comprises of rocky terrain or smooth snowy landscapes. It all depends on which time of the year one decides to visits this Pass. It is probably one of the few Passes in the world where people love going to rather than going through! The snowy landscapes Rohtang presents are one to watch out for as it makes for a breathtaking sight.

Landscape-Rothang

Route (Manali – 12 kms – Palchn – 5 kms – Kothi – 20 kms – Marhi – 10 kms – Rohtang Top)

Palchn is 12 kms from Manali.From Palchn it is 5 kms to Kothi and a further 20 kms Marhi and finally 10 kms to the top of Rohtang. The ascending starts soon after leaving Manali and the road is quite smooth and even till Marhi. Kothi is the last place on this route where people can stay. The only guest houses available are that of PWD or the Forest department. One should try to move from Manali as early in the morning possible as there are traffic congestion problems during the day and the cars move at snail’s pace at daytime.

Rothang-Pass-Road

Also the scenic view offered during this road-trip is quite majestic and one can observe the gradual change of flora from a greenish outlook to a more barren form somewhere before Marhi. Marhi is the last and largest outpost that lies on this stretch of road. There are quite a few dhabas and roadside teashops available here.

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Top Tourist Places In Rohtang

Jagat Sukh

It is located at a distance of 6 kms from Manali and lies on the road to Naggar on the left bank of the Beas River. This place is well known for the ancient temples of Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri built in the Shukhara style. These are a major tourist attraction.

Jagatsukh-nala-and-Dam-construction

Arjun Gufa

It lies 4kms from Naggar toward Manali. This village is located near Prini village. This has an appealing view and high mountains.

Arjun-Gufa-kullu-Manali

Solang Valley

It is a valley between Solan village and Beas Kund. It offers sceneries of glaciers, ice topped mountains and peaks. There is also a mountaineering school present in this part. In this school training on trekking, mountain climbing and skiing is imparted. An annual winter skiing festival is also held here.

Solang-Valley

Vashist

Hot water springs are found here in Vashist with sulphur and hot water springs. Vashist is a small village that lies here. It is located on the left side of the river Beas towards Rohtang Pass. There is also a stone temple in the form of a pyramid that is dedicated primarily to Vashist Muni an ancient Hindu saint. A nearby temple of Lord Ram is also located here.

Vashist-Hot-water-springs

Things To Do

One can try a host of activities ranging from skiing, paragliding and other mountain sports offered in the surrounding areas. Paragliding tours are offered at Marhi which can enable one to fly in the skies and kiss the clouds. Besides the road-trip on this rocky terrain is quite an adventure in itself. The car ride can get really bumpy at times so one should be prepared to a jerky ride. One could for shopping at Manali with all sorts of articles and merchandise up for grabs. One of the specialties at Manali is the Tibetan food which should be a delight for anyone with taste buds. The local Himachali wine shops are also worth a try as the wines sold here are pretty delightful and refreshing after a long day of sightseeing. If one goes a few kilometers extra beyond Rohtang the view that is available is mind blowing.

View-of-Rohtang-Pass

All in all Rohtang provides an excellent getaway from the daily hassles of day to day life. The scenic view along with the quality of living is amazing. It is a perfect holiday destination for someone looking for a quiet yet adventurous holiday. For the people interested in trekking it offers sloppy mountain a lot of which is often covered in ice. For others who like to be in peaceful environment the streets of Manali are perfect for a lazy evening walk or an early morning stroll.

Rohtang has a bit for everyone and anyone who visits here is bound to fall in love with this place. The sprawling greens in contrast to the snowy white mountains are bound to make people feel closer to heaven. Quite startling is the sudden change in scenery from green pastures to the arid barren lands is startling to the human eye. The mystic beauty of this place is surely a photographer’s delight. So if anyone wants to escape to a weekend of bliss then Rohtang is surely the place to go to.

Himachal Tourism - Things to do in Spiti

Spiti stems from two words Sa Piti, literally meaning, the country (Sa) of Piti river (Spiti). Not many people know the meaning and origin of the words- Similarly, the Spiti and upper Lahaulis call themselves La-Yul-Mis, the folks from the god’s land. The word Lahouli, Spiti, Laddhakhi and Tibetan seemed to have come from Lah, which means mountain, peak or pass. Mountains command great reverence in theregion.

A day long Delhi-Manali bus or taxi journey; or a two-hour Delhi-Bhuntar flight, and one is at the sprawling riverside Manali town, enjoying the sylvan environs and the surrounding peaks and meadows. From Manali, one goes driving through 13,050 feet high alpine Rohtang Pass. Between Rohtang and Kunzom Pass are rich riverscapes, snow-capped Himalayan mountain views, and exciting glimpses of the gigantic Bara Shigri glacier’s north-eastern tip; and several oasis camping sites: tiny streams meandering along the feet of high mountains, cutting neatly through grassy patches, as if designed by an imaginative landscape architect. Kunzom Pass, abode of Kunzom Lahmo, a female deity, is around 4,551 metres above sea level.

It beckons visitors to get out and about, and explore its essence. Here are eight ways you can immerse yourself in the wonders of Spiti.

1. Delve into Spirituality

There are five main Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Spiti, filled with mystical dimly lit rooms and ancient treasures. Inside, you’ll be able to unearth well preserved artwork, scriptures, and statutes. The largest and most accessible monastery is Ki Gompa, perched on an isolated hilltop not far from the main town of Kaza, Narrow stairways, multitudes of box like rooms, courtyards, and a magnificent view over the valley captivate all who enter. If you can, time your visit to coincide with the thrice daily prayer ceremonies. Sitting quietly in the prayer hall, while the monks perform their rituals, is an uplifting interlude. The wafting incense, clanging cymbals, and powerful chanting add to the magic. Yet, the monasteries of Spiti aren’t the subdued places you may expect. The courtyards are filled with lively chatter, while children run about. These children are the second eldest sons of local families, who have been donated to the monasteries as tradition requires. A small peek into such remarkable customs and you’ll be curious to know more! Don’t miss the annual three day Chaam festival at Ki Gompa, featuring masked dancing monks. It usually takes place late July.

Monastery in Spiti

2. Tabo Gompa

Tabo monastery, true to its Himalayayan Ajanta image, has rare palette, style richness, and presence of the Buddhist Pantheon in its 9 temples, 23 chortens, and chambers for monks and nuns. Its ever glowing wall-paintings, and stuccos-reveal Buddhist teachings, and depict tales from the Buddha’s previous’ and immediate lives. The three-dimensional stucco images, 33 in number, fixed to the walls of the Lah Khang (Assembly hall) are unique works of craftsmanship and form the vajra mandala. The kind of rich and lasting palette created in earth-colour wall paintings speak of excellence of temple art and architecture in this valley. The highlight of the Assembly hall is the four-fold Vairochana, who is considered one of the five spiritual sons of the Abibuddha, the primordial Buddha.

Tabo Gompa Spiti

3. Experience Village Life

One of the most fascinating things that you can do in Spiti is spend time in a village. Highlights include the highest village in Asia (Komik), and the world’s highest village with vehicle access and electricity (Kibber). Local Homestays offers some charming, rustic accommodations where you can live with a local family and discover exactly what it’s like to inhabit such a remote, high altitude environment. The way of life is simple and uncomplicated, but challenging. Winters are harsh. Heavy snowfall and below freezing temperatures force residents to be homebound for months at a time. “We stockpile food and pass the time by making handicrafts”, they tell. While visiting Spiti’s villages, you’ll be able to dine on delicious home made local cuisine, often consisting of momos (vegetable dumplings), thukpa and thenthuk (hearty noodle soups).

Village in Spiti

4. Demul village

Demul village is one of the greenest regions in Spiti. At 4,300 metres above sea level, with a towering Chocho Kangnyilda peak against its backdrop, Demul is a dreamy village about 25km from Kaza. Situated in a sun-facing, crescent-shaped mountain plank-this village suddenly appears like a shock of white-washed houses. A harmonious settlement, its surroundings are replete with alpine flora and fauna, and marine life fossil. It is an ideal village tourism site.

5. Discover High Altitude Farming

Farming is the primary source of income for villagers in Spiti. Every morning, they rise at the crack of dawn and head out into the fields to tend to plantations of barley, wheat, and peas. If you’re interested in agriculture or sustainable living, you’ll find it absorbing to learn of the cultivation and irrigation process. The extreme weather only allows for one crop per year, which is largely dependent on the melting snow. Join the villagers as they toil in the fields for a hands-on education!

Farm land Spiti

6. Enjoy a Cultural Performance

Music and dance are integral parts of village life in Spiti. Visit Lhalung or Demul villages, and you’ll be treated to a live cultural show that will leave you spellbound. It’s possible to stay at homes in both villages. Higher altitude Demul, with its captivating vista, is the most alluring though. The night falling on the secluded mountain background in Demul, while traditionally dressed dancers gracefully perform to live music, makes it all the more memorable.

Folk dance spiti

7. Track Endangered Wildlife

Pin Valley National Park and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary are home to an array of India’s more uncommon wildlife. Some of them, such as the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Wolf, are as endangered as they are exotic. Ecosphere Spiti operates dedicated wildlife tracking tours from April to October. This remarkable organization — with a focus on conservation, responsible tourism, and sustainable development — has been working diligently to protect Spiti’s endangered species. The tours offered by Ecosphere run from nine to 19 days, with accommodations provided in village homestays and tents. Envisage the buzz of peeping into the den of a Himalayan Wolf, the world’s oldest surviving species of wolf and one of the world’s highest predators. Thrilling wildlife in India isn’t just limited to tigers!

8. Pin Valley National Park

The Pin Valley National Park is an ideal wildlife tourism spot with a transit camp accommodation at Mud Farka, and bunkers. Chhumurti horses are available for a ride. Two to three days’ travel in the Park under the guidance of the forest guides should be enough for sighting an ibex. Wildlife Census, 1999-2000, put the animal population of Pin Valley National Park and Kibber Sanctuary 12,245, including 508 snow ibex in the Pin valley.

Yalks Pin Valley National Park

9. Trek Remote Trails

The trekking opportunities in Spiti are a popular attraction for adventure enthusiasts, and you’ll find a myriad of options to choose from. Some well-known treks are Pin-Parvati, Parang- La, and Pin-Bhaba. It’s possible to visit less frequented areas as well. Walk on glaciers, follow traditional trade routes, go on a floral foray, scale the Khanamo peak, or simply trek from village to village. Ecosphere Spiti organises regular five to seven day treks, and longer fixed departure treks, from May to October. This activity isn’t for everyone though. Trekking in high altitude requires fitness, stamina and endurance!

Remote trail Spiti

10. Take a Yak Safari

Tell your friends and family that you’re taking a yak safari, and they’ll probably exclaim with amazement! Most people never get to see a yak in their lifetime, let alone ride one. A yak safari is perfect for those who want to explore Spiti’s surroundings, but aren’t up for trekking. Each village family usually owns one yak, which they let roam freely during the summer. Your safari will take place on one of these yaks, fetched by the village boys. You’re likely to discover that yaks are temperamental beasts. Still, by the end of the safari, it’s hard not to fall at least a little in love with these furry, stocky, quirky creatures. The yak safari from Komic to Demul villages, organized by Ecosphere Spiti, takes around four hours, including a stop for lunch. It passes though bare open slopes, rocky outcrops, and small religious shrines. All the while, the yak’s powerful legs never falter.

Yak Safari in Spiti

11. Release Your Adrenaline

If the above activities aren’t exhilarating enough for you, get your adrenaline flowing by going white water rafting along the Pin and Spiti rivers, or traversing little known valleys and plateaus on a mountain bike. Ecosphere Spiti runs 13 day Biking Through Trans-Himalayan Back-Country trips from mid May to October, and 12 day Classic Spiti Adventure trips from June to October. The Classic Spiti Adventure combines trekking, biking, yak safari, and whitewater rafting — ideal for those who want to experience everything!

Remote site spiti