Summers and mountains are indeed humans’ best friends! We all very well know that “Pahado me to rooh basti hai” literal meaning (soul lies in Mountains). There is never a perfect time to explore mountains. It’s your inner urge that takes you to the bliss of the mountains.
In India, whenever it’s about mountains, the first picture that arises in our mind is of Himachal. From pristine valleys, untouched landscapes, serene villages and different passes that are ever ready to take your breath away.
One of the most beloved and beautiful jewels of Himachal, the Rohtang La is one of the best places to spend your summers. The only place where no matter how many times you visit, there is always something new awaiting you. Whether you are about to visit for the very first time or it’s the 10th time, Rohtang La always lets you find the lost you.
Top 10 experiences to undergo in Rohtang La
1. Drive Through the Snow-Clad Rohtang Pass
There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of driving through Rohtang’s winding, snow-blanketed roads. It’s as if you’re tracing a path through the clouds themselves, with pure white landscapes stretching endlessly around you. Every twist and turn opens up to a brand-new, breathtaking view. Hire a local driver or brave the drive yourself — either way, it’s an unforgettable journey. Just be ready for chilly winds and the occasional snow flurry dancing across your windshield!
2. Touch the Sky with Snow Adventures
Rohtang La isn’t just about pretty views; it’s a full-on playground for snow lovers. Try your hand at snowboarding, skiing, or even snow scooter rides across vast sheets of untouched snow. Locals set up quick rentals, so you can dive straight into the fun even if you didn’t pack your own gear. It’s a surreal feeling — gliding across powdery snow at such a dizzying altitude. Plus, the backdrop of rugged peaks makes every photo look absolutely epic!
3. Witness the Origin of the Beas River
Trek a little off-road and you’ll stumble upon the humble beginnings of the mighty Beas River at Beas Kund. This high-altitude glacial lake holds both natural beauty and mythological significance, said to be where Sage Vyas meditated. The trek is short but the payoff is massive — a sparkling pool cradled by snow-capped peaks. The peace and silence here feel almost sacred, a sharp contrast to the lively rush of Rohtang’s main route. It’s a hidden gem you don’t want to miss.
4. Indulge in the Breathtaking Lahaul Valley View
As you cross over Rohtang La and descend into Lahaul, a jaw-dropping panorama opens up before you. Stark, brown mountains contrast sharply with snowy peaks, and tiny villages cling to the rugged terrain like secrets waiting to be discovered. The sudden change in landscape feels almost otherworldly — as if you’ve stepped into another planet. Stop by the roadside to simply sit and stare at the endless beauty unfolding in front of you. It’s the kind of moment that stays etched in your mind forever.
5. Play Amid the Freshwater Streams
Melting snow gives birth to lively little streams that crisscross Rohtang’s terrain like sparkling veins of silver. During warmer months, you’ll find them trickling down the rocks, inviting you to dip your hands or even splash around. There’s something so pure and playful about sitting by a gurgling brook, your face kissed by the cool mountain breeze. Kids love it, photographers adore it, and even the most stoic traveler can’t resist a smile. It’s nature’s very own playground tucked among the giants.
6. Experience the Magic of Changing Weather
Rohtang La’s weather is a drama in itself — and you’ll have front row seats! One moment you’re basking under the bright sun, and the next, clouds roll in and drape the pass in a soft, misty cloak. It might even start snowing lightly without any warning. This ever-changing mood of the mountains creates a constantly shifting atmosphere that feels utterly magical. It teaches you to be in the moment — because up here, no two moments are ever the same.
7. Capture the Mesmerizing Sunset (If You’re Lucky)
If you time your trip right and manage to stay until late afternoon, you might witness a sunset that will leave you speechless. The way the sun bathes the snow-capped mountains in hues of orange, pink, and purple is nothing short of divine. Shadows grow longer, the air gets crisper, and the entire pass transforms into a golden wonderland. It’s one of those scenes where you instinctively lower your camera and just watch. Pure magic is the only way to describe it.
8. Taste Local Delights at Roadside Shacks
Trekking and driving through Rohtang’s high altitudes builds up an appetite like no other — and the tiny food stalls along the way are your saving grace. Steaming bowls of Maggi, piping hot momos, butter tea, and crispy aloo parathas await you. Sitting in a makeshift shack, huddled over simple but delicious food with fellow travelers, feels strangely luxurious in this rugged land. The warmth of the food and the friendliness of the locals add a cozy, memorable touch to your adventure. Trust me, that Maggi will taste better than any fine dining experience!
9. Feel the Spiritual Energy of the Mountains
There’s something quietly powerful about Rohtang La — a spiritual vibration that’s hard to put into words but easy to feel. Maybe it’s the thin air, the vast silent spaces, or just the sheer scale of nature around you. Travelers often speak of feeling more connected to themselves, or of gaining sudden flashes of clarity up here. Whether you meditate for a few minutes or simply sit in silence, you’ll leave with a sense of peace stitched into your soul. It’s healing, humbling, and utterly unforgettable.
10. Conquer the Challenge of Getting There
Part of the Rohtang La experience is the very journey to reach it. From unpredictable landslides to sudden weather changes, the road to Rohtang tests both your patience and your sense of adventure. But once you finally stand at the top, breathing in the sharp, cold air and seeing the endless mountains all around you, it all feels worth it. Every little bump and every long wait becomes a story you’ll proudly tell. After all, the best experiences are the ones you earn.
Pack your warmest jacket, a big appetite for adventure, and a heart wide open to magic because Rohtang La is about to show you a side of the Himalayas you’ll never, ever forget.
Happy Sundaying!
Travellogs 