Rohtang Pass, in the Himalayas, serves as the gateway for Lahaul and Spiti Valley, will be opening for tourists from June 1. Referring to this development, Kullu Deputy Commissioner said that for the tourists traveling toward Keylong, Pangi, and Leh, the pass is open from May 30; however, for those who want to exclusively want to visit Rohtang top, access will be allowed from June 1.
He also added that tourists willing to visit beyond Rohtang should have all their bookings in place, including homestays, camping sites, and hotels, which are duly registered with the state’s tourism department in Keylong, Leh, and Pangi. After the National Green Tribunal (NGT) passed the order, permits are now limited to around 1300 vehicles for each day. The pass will, however, remain closed for maintenance every Tuesday. The NGT has also issued instructions that only 850 petrol vehicles and 450 diesel vehicles will be allowed to go beyond Gulaba barrier on the Manali-Rohtang road after paying an amount of INR 550.
The administration has also issued instructions and fixed timings for the vehicles. While heavy vehicles carrying essential commodities will be allowed to pass from 5 AM to 5:30 AM, those violating the permit conditions, will be issued a penalty of INR 5000 as environmental compensation and the said vehicle will be blacklisted. Tourist vehicles intending to go till Rohtang will get permission to pass from 7:45 AM to 10 AM, while those going toward Pangi and Laul, will get permits to travel from 10 AM to 11 AM.
