Dr. Traveler India · Himalayan Adventures
Conquer the
Himalayan Passes
Private 4×4 expeditions from Manali. Two legendary passes. One unforgettable journey.
4.9 ★
Google Rating
5,050 m
Max Altitude
100%
Private Trips
2 Passes
Adventures
Our Packages
Choose Your Adventure
Two legendary mountain pass expeditions. One extraordinary travel company.
Day Trip
3,978 m
Snow · Scenic · Family
Rohtang Pass
Adventure
- Legendary snow point above Manali
- Scenic alpine meadows & Rahala Falls
- Snow activities & panoramic photography
- Ideal for families & first-time snow visitors
Expedition
5,050 m
High Altitude · Remote
Shinku La Pass
Expedition
- India's most remote high-altitude pass
- Off-road 4x4 adventure to 5,050 m
- Zanskar panoramas & prayer flags
- Premium expedition route via Atal Tunnel
Can't Decide? We'll Help You Choose.
Talk to our travel experts — we'll match the perfect Himalayan adventure to your group and dates.
Dr. Traveler India · Day Trip
Rohtang Pass
Adventure
Private 4x4 Taxi · Manali to Manali · Full Day
13,058 ft Summit
Private 4x4 Taxi
Permit Required
4.9 Rating
Altitude
13,058 ft 3,978 m
Round Trip
~110 km from Manali
Duration
8–10 hrs Full Day
Best Season
May–Oct Peak: Jun–Aug
Itinerary
Route
Inclusions
Weather & Tips
Day Plan
Suggested Day Itinerary
Tap each card to expand the full schedule. Early departure by 6:00 AM is essential to avoid traffic and secure permit time slots.
6:00 AM
Departure from Manali
Mall Road / Volvo Bus Stand
▼
6:00 AM
Depart Manali
Early start to avoid traffic and secure a good slot at the permit checkpoint. Your private 4x4 picks you up from Mall Road or Volvo Bus Stand.
6:30 AM
Solang Valley Bypass
Pass through Solang Valley — popular for adventure activities. A quick photo stop if time permits.
7:15 AM
Gulaba & Snow Gear Rental
At Gulaba, rent snow suits, gumboots, and gear for the snow point. This is where the real excitement begins — the pass is in sight.
8:00 AM
Rahala Falls & Marhi Stop
Waterfall · Mountain Cafe · Last Checkpoint
▼
8:00 AM
Rahala Falls
Stop at the magnificent Rahala Waterfall — a cascade fed by melting glaciers. One of the most dramatic viewpoints on the route.
8:45 AM
Marhi Dhaba Stop
Warm up with piping hot Maggi noodles and chai at one of Marhi's legendary mountain dhabas. This is the last major stop before the pass.
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Rohtang Pass Summit — 3,978 m
The Highlight of the Day
▼
9:30 AM
Arrive at Rohtang Pass
Reach the summit at 3,978 m. Breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, the Lahaul Valley beyond, and the glacial terrain stretching in every direction.
9:30–12 PM
Snow Activities & Photography
Enjoy skiing, snow scooter rides, and snowball fights. Capture stunning Himalayan photographs. Spend 2–2.5 hours soaking in the summit experience.
12:00 PM
Return Journey to Manali
Marhi → Rahala → Gulaba → Manali
▼
12:00 PM
Begin Return
Depart the summit and begin the leisurely return drive — retrace the route through Marhi, Rahala, Gulaba, Kothi, and Solang Valley.
3:00–4:00 PM
Back in Manali
Drop at Mall Road or Volvo Bus Stand. Round trip complete — approximately 110 km and 8–10 hours of unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
What to Expect
Highlights & Experiences
First Snow Experience
India's most accessible snowfield — perfect for families experiencing snow for the very first time.
Photography Paradise
Snow-capped peaks, glacial rivers and alpine meadows create extraordinary photo opportunities.
Snow Activities
Skiing, snow scooter rides, snowball fights — multiple snow adventures await at the top.
Panoramic Vistas
360° views of the Pir Panjal range and Kullu Valley from the summit at 3,978 m.
Rahala Falls
Dramatic waterfall en route — one of the most photographed cascades on the Manali–Rohtang road.
Scenic Mountain Drive
Winding mountain roads through Solang Valley, Kothi and Gulaba make the journey itself a highlight.
Mountain Cafes at Marhi
Cosy dhabas at Marhi offer steaming Maggi noodles and chai — a beloved Himalayan tradition.
Gulaba Meadows
Lush alpine meadows at Gulaba — a stunning contrast to the snow-covered pass above.
Ready to Conquer Rohtang Pass?
Book your private 4x4 taxi with Dr. Traveler India. All taxes included. Experienced mountain driver.
Getting There
Route Milestones
Manali
→
Solang Valley
→
Kothi
→
Gulaba
→
Rahala Falls
→
Marhi
→
Rohtang Pass
| Stop | From Manali | Altitude | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manali | 0 km | 2,050 m | Starting point — Mall Road / Volvo Bus Stand |
| Solang Valley | ~14 km | 2,480 m | Scenic meadow; cable car; adventure activities |
| Kothi | ~20 km | 2,500 m | Charming village; last settled area before pass |
| Gulaba | ~25 km | 3,100 m | Alpine meadows; snow rental point |
| Rahala Falls | ~35 km | 3,350 m | Stunning waterfall; mandatory photo stop |
| Marhi | ~43 km | 3,700 m | Dhabas & cafes; last stop before the pass |
| Rohtang Pass | ~51 km | 3,978 m | Summit — snow activities & panoramic views |
Quick Reference
At a Glance
Pass NameRohtang Pass
Altitude3,978 m / 13,058 ft
LocationPir Panjal Range, Himachal Pradesh
Distance~51 km one way · ~110 km round trip
Trip TypeDay Trip by Private 4x4 Taxi
Vehicle4x4 SUV — Innova, Scorpio, Thar, Jimny
PermitRequired — online via HP Govt portal (closed Tuesdays)
ConnectivityWeak beyond Marhi — download offline maps
Book Your Rohtang Pass Day Trip
Private 4x4 taxi · Experienced mountain driver · All taxes included
Package Details
Inclusions & Exclusions
Package Inclusions
🚘 Private 4x4 taxi — round trip Manali to Rohtang Pass
📍 Experienced local mountain driver
🛣 All toll taxes, state taxes & parking charges
🕐 Flexible time at the snow point
🗺 All sightseeing stops en route
Not Included
📋 Rohtang Pass entry permit (arranged with guidance)
🍽 Meals, snacks & refreshments
🏓 Snow gear rental at Gulaba (paid on-site)
🛡 Personal travel insurance
🌧 Expenses due to road closure or weather
Important Notice
Permit Information
Entry Permit Required for Rohtang Pass
- 📋 An online entry permit is mandatory for all vehicles visiting Rohtang Pass — Indian nationals and foreigners alike.
- 🌐 Permits are issued through the official Himachal Pradesh government portal (himachalroadways.nic.in). Daily quotas apply.
- ⏰ Permits must be booked at least 1 day in advance. Peak season slots fill up fast — book early!
- 📆 The pass is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance. Plan your trip accordingly.
- 🛂 Carry a valid government-issued photo ID. Vehicle registration must match the permit details.
- 💬 Dr. Traveler India's coordinators will guide you through the permit process before your trip.
Cancellation Policy
- 📅 30% charges if cancelled before 30 days
- 📅 45% charges if cancelled within 20 days
- 📅 70% charges if cancelled within 10 days
- ❌ No refund if trip starts within 10 days or after commencement
- ❌ No Show = 100% of tour cost forfeited
- ⚠ Road closure or bad weather — alternate date arranged subject to availability
Book Your Rohtang Pass Day Trip!
Private 4x4 taxi · All taxes & toll charges included · Experienced mountain driver
Planning Your Trip
Weather & Best Time
| Month | Manali Temp | Pass Temp | Road Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-April – May | 5–18°C | -2 to 8°C | BRO clearing snow; risky but passable |
| June – July Best | 15–25°C | 5–15°C | Clear roads — Peak snow activity season |
| August | 15–22°C | 5–12°C | Good; occasional rain/landslide risk |
| September – October | 8–18°C | 0–8°C | Quieter; early snowfall possible late Oct |
| November+ | Below 5°C | Below -5°C | Pass closed for winter |
Essential Travel Tips — Must Read
- Start Very Early — Depart Manali by 6:00 AM. Rohtang traffic builds quickly after 8 AM, and permits have entry time windows.
- Book the Permit in Advance — Daily quotas are limited. Book online at least 1 day ahead. The pass is closed every Tuesday.
- Warm Layers are Essential — Even in summer, the pass temperature can drop to near 0°C. Carry woolens, gloves, and a windproof jacket.
- Snow Boots / Warm Footwear — Wear waterproof footwear or rent snow gumboots at Gulaba for better grip on the snowfield.
- Carry Sufficient Cash — Limited ATMs beyond Manali. Budget for meals, gear rental, and snow activities (Rs. 200–800 per activity).
- Altitude Caution — Walk slowly at the summit. Some visitors experience mild headaches or breathlessness. Stay hydrated.
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses — UV intensity at 3,978 m is extreme. Snow reflection makes it worse. Essential gear for a comfortable trip.
- Limited Connectivity — Mobile networks are weak beyond Marhi. Inform family before departure and download offline maps.
Emergency Contact — Dr. Traveler
If anything happens — road issue, vehicle problem, medical emergency — contact us immediately.
Ready to Conquer Rohtang Pass?
One-day journey · Private 4x4 taxi · May to October · Fully managed by Dr. Traveler India
Dr. Traveler India · Expedition
Shinkula Pass
Expedition
Private 4x4 Taxi · Manali to Manali · Full Day
16,580 ft Summit
Private 4x4 Taxi
No Permit Required
4.9 Rating
Altitude
16,580 ft 5,050 m
Round Trip
~280 km from Manali
Duration
11–13 hrs Full Day
Best Season
June–Sep Peak: Jul–Aug
Itinerary
Route
Inclusions
Weather & Tips
Day Plan
Suggested Day Itinerary
Tap each card to expand the full schedule. Early departure by 4:30 AM is essential for a safe return before dark.
4:30 AM
Departure from Manali
Mall Road / Volvo Bus Stand
▼
4:30 AM
Depart Manali
Early start is essential to ensure safe return before dark. Your private 4x4 picks you up from Mall Road or the Volvo Bus Stand.
5:30 AM
Atal Tunnel Crossing
9.02 km tunnel bypasses Rohtang Pass — reach Lahaul Valley in just ~45 minutes. World's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 ft.
6:00 AM
Sissu Waterfall Stop
Quick photo stop at the iconic Sissu Waterfall — a majestic cascade from melting glaciers in the lush Lahaul Valley.
7:30 AM
Keylong, Jispa & Darcha
Lahaul Valley Drive · Security Checkpoint
▼
7:30 AM
Keylong & Jispa
Dramatic cliffs and the Bhaga River. Optional breakfast at Keylong — HQ of Lahaul & Spiti district. Fill fuel at Tandi (~70 km) — LAST petrol pump before the pass.
8:30 AM
Darcha Checkpoint
Security check point at the Lahaul–Zanskar boundary. Road forks toward Shinkula Pass. Last major stop before the summit.
9:00 – 10:30 AM
Shinkula Pass Summit — 5,050 m
The Highlight of the Expedition
▼
9:00 AM
Shinkula Pass — 5,050 m
Arrive at the summit. Prayer flags at altitude, panoramic Zanskar vistas, views of the sacred Gumburanjon peaks. Stark contrast: lush green Lahaul on one side, moon-like barren Zanskar on the other.
10:30 AM
Optional: Gonbo Rangjon
Sacred standalone peak ~30 mins beyond the pass. Famous among photographers. A rare add-on for those wanting more of the Zanskar landscape.
11:30 AM
Return Journey to Manali
Darcha → Jispa → Keylong → Sissu → Manali
▼
11:30 AM
Begin Return
Depart from the summit and retrace the route — Darcha, Jispa, Keylong, Sissu, Atal Tunnel, and back to Manali.
5:00–6:00 PM
Back in Manali
Round trip complete — approximately 280 km and 13 hours of pure Himalayan adventure. Drop at Mall Road / Volvo Bus Stand.
What to Expect
Highlights & Experiences
Stand at 5,050 m
Panoramic Zanskar vistas from one of India's most remote passes.
Atal Tunnel (9 km)
World's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 ft — a feat of engineering.
Sissu Waterfall
Majestic glacier-fed cascade in the lush Lahaul Valley.
River Crossings
Raw, rugged Himalayan terrain and glacial river crossings on route.
Gumburanjon Peaks
Sacred mountain views from the summit — photographer's delight.
Remote Villages
Authentic Himalayan life along the route through Keylong and Jispa.
Prayer Flags
Colourful Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the mountain winds at 5,050 m.
Gonbo Rangjon
Sacred peak optional detour — a rare, otherworldly photography experience.
Ready to Conquer Shinkula Pass?
Book your private 4x4 taxi and experience one of the Himalaya's most remote corridors.
Getting There
Route Milestones
Manali
→
Atal Tunnel
→
Sissu
→
Tandi (Fuel)
→
Keylong
→
Jispa
→
Darcha
→
Shinkula Pass
| Stop | From Manali | Altitude | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manali | 0 km | 2,050 m | Starting point — Mall Road / Volvo Bus Stand |
| Solang Valley | ~14 km | 2,480 m | Scenic meadow; optional photo stop |
| Atal Tunnel (South) | ~25 km | 3,060 m | World's longest tunnel above 10,000 ft |
| Sissu | ~34 km | 3,100 m | Sissu Waterfall & lush Lahaul Valley |
| Tandi | ~70 km | 2,700 m | LAST reliable petrol pump on this route |
| Keylong | ~85 km | 3,080 m | HQ of Lahaul & Spiti; Kardang Monastery |
| Jispa | ~105 km | 3,200 m | Campsite hub on Bhaga River |
| Darcha | ~120 km | 3,360 m | Border security check; road forks to Zanskar |
| Shinkula Pass | ~140 km | 5,050 m | Summit — prayer flags & Zanskar vistas |
Fill your tank at Tandi — it is the LAST reliable petrol pump before Shinkula Pass. Do not skip under any circumstance.
Quick Reference
At a Glance
Pass NameShinkula Pass (Shingo La)
Altitude5,050 m / 16,580 ft
LocationLahaul (HP) — Zanskar (Ladakh) Border
Distance~140 km one way · ~280 km round trip
Trip TypeDay Trip by Private 4x4 Taxi
Vehicle4x4 SUV — Innova, Scorpio, Thar, Jimny
PermitNo permit needed for Indian nationals (subject to change)
ConnectivityVery limited — BSNL & Jio post-paid only (patchy)
Book Your Shinkula Pass Day Trip
Private 4x4 taxi · Experienced mountain driver · All taxes included
Package Details
Inclusions & Exclusions
Package Inclusions
🚘 Private 4x4 taxi — round trip Manali to Shinkula Pass
📍 Experienced mountain driver
🛣 All toll taxes, state taxes & parking charges
🕐 Flexible timing at Shinkula Pass summit
🗺 All sightseeing stops en route
Not Included
🍽 Meals, refreshments & snacks
🏛 Entry fees at monuments or temples
🛡 Personal travel insurance
🌧 Any expense due to road closure or weather
Cancellation Policy
- 📅 30% charges if cancelled before 30 days
- 📅 45% charges if cancelled within 20 days
- 📅 70% charges if cancelled within 10 days
- ❌ No refund if trip starts within 10 days or after commencement
- ❌ No Show = 100% of tour cost forfeited
- ⚠ Road closure or bad weather — alternate date arranged subject to availability
Book Your Shinkula Pass Day Trip!
Private 4x4 taxi · All taxes & toll charges included · Experienced mountain driver
Planning Your Trip
Weather & Best Time
| Month | Manali Temp | Pass Temp | Road Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| April – May | 0–15°C | -5 to 5°C | BRO clearing snow; risky until May |
| June | 10–20°C | 0–8°C | Pass opens; some patches unstable |
| July – August Best | 15–25°C | 5–15°C | Clear roads & weather — Peak Season |
| September | 10–20°C | 0–10°C | Good; early snowfall possible late September |
| October+ | 0–10°C | Below 0°C | Pass closes — heavy snowfall |
Essential Travel Tips — Must Read
- Start Early — Depart Manali by 4:30 AM to ensure daylight for the return. A late start is dangerous on this route.
- Fuel at Tandi — Last reliable petrol pump on the entire route. Do not skip under any circumstance.
- 4x4 Vehicle Only — Always use a 4x4 SUV. Sedans are absolutely not suitable for this mountain road.
- Acclimatise First — Spend at least 1 night in Manali (2,050 m) before the trip to allow your body to adjust.
- Carry Warm Layers — Pass temperatures can drop to 0–5°C even in summer. Pack woolens, gloves, and a wind jacket.
- Cash is King — No ATMs beyond Keylong. Carry sufficient cash for the full day including meals and emergencies.
- Limited Connectivity — Only BSNL & Jio post-paid SIMs work (patchy). Inform family before departure.
- Check Road Status — Confirm road status with BRO or your Dr. Traveler coordinator before departure.
- Health Advisory — Not suitable for people with heart conditions, breathing disorders, or uncontrolled hypertension. Consult a doctor.
- Watch for AMS — Altitude Mountain Sickness symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness. Descend immediately if they appear.
Emergency Contact — Dr. Traveler
If anything happens — road issue, vehicle problem, medical emergency — contact us immediately.
Embark on the Shinkula Pass Adventure!
One-day journey · Private 4x4 taxi · June to September · Fully managed by Dr. Traveler India