Do we need a permit for Rohtang Pass in Manali?

Yashwantkk

“I’m planning a Manali trip this October 2025 and really want to visit Rohtang Pass. I heard that tourists need a special permit to go there, but the rules keep changing every year. Can anyone confirm if a permit is still required in 2025 to visit Rohtang Pass from Manali? Also, where do we apply for it — online in advance or on arrival in Manali? Do taxis arranged by hotels take care of the permit, or do we need to handle it ourselves? I’m also curious if permits are needed for both Indian citizens and foreign tourists. Any guidance on the cost, validity, and whether permits are limited per day would be super helpful.”

SUDHAMATHI

I visited Manali just last summer (June 2024), and like most first-timers, Rohtang Pass was high on my bucket list. I’d heard so many mixed things about the permit system that I was honestly confused before going. Some blogs said you need one, some said you don’t if you’re just passing through the Atal Tunnel to Lahaul. So, here’s what actually happened on my trip.

I was staying near Old Manali, and the hotel manager told me clearly: “If you want to go to Rohtang Pass itself (the snow point, not just crossing the tunnel), you must get a permit.” This rule is mainly to control the number of vehicles and reduce pollution in that fragile zone. The permit is issued by the Himachal government, and you can apply online a few days before at the official website. I booked mine online, and it cost me around ₹500 for the permit + a small congestion charge.

The process was fairly smooth — you need to upload your vehicle’s RC, insurance, and pollution certificate if you’re taking your own car. In my case, I didn’t have a personal car, so I booked a local taxi from Manali. The best part is that most local taxi drivers are used to the system and arrange the permits for you. Mine just asked for a copy of my ID and included the permit cost in the overall taxi fare.

On the day of the trip, we left early (around 5:30 AM) because permits are limited per day, and the police check-post before Rohtang is strict. They scanned the permit, checked IDs, and let us through. Foreign tourists I met at the check-post also had to show permits — so yes, whether you’re Indian or foreign, the rules apply to everyone.

One thing to note: If you’re just going through the Atal Tunnel to Lahaul/Spiti, you don’t need this permit. The rule is only for travellers who actually want to visit Rohtang Pass snow point. That was a bit confusing for me until the locals explained it.

So, in short: Yes, you do need a permit in 2025 if you want to visit Rohtang Pass, but not if you’re only crossing into Lahaul. Book online in advance or let your taxi operator handle it, carry your ID, and start early in the morning. It felt like a bit of a hassle at first, but honestly, once I was up there surrounded by snow walls and that stunning Himalayan view, it was totally worth the paperwork.