Embarking on a journey through the Himalayas had always been a dream of mine. I finally set out to explore the majestic landscapes of Rohtang Pass, Koksar, Atal Tunnel, and Sissu. The experience was nothing short of magical, filled with breathtaking views, thrilling adventures, and heartwarming encounters. Let me take you through my recent adventure and inspire you to set out on your own Himalayan escapade.

Manali to Rohtang Pass

The journey to Rohtang Pass began at dawn. As the car wound its way up the 51 kilometers from Manali, the landscape transformed from lush greenery to stark, snow-covered peaks. The drive, though challenging was incredibly scenic with each turn revealing a new vista.

Reaching Rohtang Pass, situated at an elevation of 3,978 meters (13,050 feet), was like stepping into another world. The verdant pine forests of Manali gradually gave way to the rugged, snow-draped terrain that Rohtang is famous for. Every turn offered a new panoramic view, from cascading waterfalls to the distant peaks of the Pir Panjal range.

Arrival at Rohtang Pass: Stepping into a Winter Wonderland

First Glimpse: Arriving at Rohtang Pass felt like stepping into another world. The air was crisp and invigorating, filled with the scent of fresh snow. The sweeping views of snow-capped mountains and glaciers stretching into the horizon were awe-inspiring. It was a surreal experience, standing at such an altitude and taking in the vast, pristine beauty that surrounded me.

Snow Activities: Rohtang Pass is a haven for snow enthusiasts. I couldn’t resist diving into the various activities on offer. Sledding down the gentle slopes was exhilarating, while snowmobiling provided a rush of adrenaline. The child in me reveled in a spirited snowball fight, laughing and playing amidst the snowflakes.

Local Flavors: Amidst the snowy escapades, I took a break to warm up with some local delicacies. The small stalls dotting the pass offered hot Maggi noodles, momos, and steaming cups of tea. The simplicity and warmth of these flavors, enjoyed amidst such majestic surroundings, were unforgettable. One of the highlights of my visit was interacting with the local Lahauli people. Their stories of life in such a harsh, yet beautiful environment were fascinating. The warmth and resilience of the people living in these high-altitude areas left a lasting impression on me.

The snow-clad mountains and glaciers were awe-inspiring. I couldn’t resist engaging in some snow activities.

From Rohtang Pass, several majestic peaks and ranges of the Lahaul region are visible, providing a stunning glimpse into the beauty of the Himalayas. Here are some of the notable Lahaul mountains that can be seen from Rohtang Pass.

The Chandra Bhaga Range, also known as the CB Range, is a prominent feature of the landscape visible from Rohtang Pass. This range includes several high peaks, many of which are snow-covered year-round. The Chandra and Bhaga rivers, which originate in this region, add to the scenic beauty. Peaks such as CB 13 and CB 14 are among the notable ones, offering stunning vistas to visitors at Rohtang Pass.

The Mulkila Range, with its highest peak Mulkila reaching an elevation of 6,517 meters (21,378 feet), is another spectacular sight from Rohtang Pass. The range is known for its rugged terrain and towering summits, making it a favorite among mountaineers and trekkers. The view of the Mulkila Range from Rohtang Pass is particularly striking, with its snow-capped peaks glistening in the sunlight.

The Pir Panjal Range, which extends into the Lahaul region, is prominently visible from Rohtang Pass. This range is characterized by its lush landscapes and several high-altitude peaks and passes. The range’s snowy summits and steep slopes create a dramatic backdrop against the sky.

Enroute Highlights: Beauty in Every Mile

Solang Valley: Enroute to Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley is a must-visit. Known for its adventure sports, it offers paragliding, zorbing, and during winter, skiing. The views from the valley are simply breathtaking.

Gulaba: This picturesque spot offers stunning landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect place for a quick photo stop or a short walk to soak in the natural beauty.

Marhi: Located a little before Rohtang, Marhi is known for its scenic beauty and small dhabas offering delicious local snacks. It’s a great place to stop and enjoy the vistas.

Discovering Koksar

Continuing the descent from Rohtang Pass, I arrived in Koksar, a quaint village at 3,140 meters (10,300 feet). The tranquility of Koksar was a welcome respite after the bustling activity at Rohtang. The warmth and hospitality of the villagers made me feel right at home and gave me a deeper appreciation for the local culture. The simplicity and peacefulness of the place provided a perfect end to an adventurous day. This little-known gem is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Manali and Rohtang Pass. However, my visit to Koksar proved that sometimes, the road less traveled leads to the most unforgettable experiences.

Arrival in Koksar: Arriving in Koksar was like stepping into a different world. The village, with its traditional wooden houses had a timeless charm. The sound of the Chandra River flowing nearby added to the tranquil ambiance. The crisp, clean mountain air was invigorating, and the views of the surrounding peaks were simply breathtaking.

Nature Walks: Koksar is surrounded by natural beauty. I spent hours walking through the village and its surroundings, soaking in the serenity. The village is a paradise for nature lovers, with its scenic trails, wildflower meadows, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The sound of the river and the sight of the mountains provided a soothing backdrop to my explorations.

Chandra River: A visit to the Chandra River was another highlight. The river, with its clear, cold waters, flows gracefully through the valley. Sitting by the riverbank, watching the water rush by, was a moment of pure tranquility. The river is also a popular spot for photography, offering stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks.

Koksar to Sissu via Atal Tunnel

After visiting Koksar, I continued my journey towards the Atal Tunnel. This 9.02-kilometer (5.6-mile) marvel, named after former Prime Minister Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is the longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet. Driving through the Atal Tunnel was an awe-inspiring experience. The tunnel, equipped with advanced safety features, ensured a smooth and safe passage. Emerging from the tunnel, I was greeted by the breathtaking landscapes of the Lahaul Valley.

My next stop was the enchanting village of Sissu. Often referred to as the crown jewel of the Lahaul Valley, Sissu is a paradise for nature lovers. The village offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and meadows.

I spent the afternoon exploring Sissu village and its surroundings. The majestic peaks, waterfall created a picture-perfect scene. One can also do a short hike to the Sissu Waterfall, where the cascading waters provided a mesmerizing sight. It was time to bid farewell to Sissu and begin my journey back to Manali. Driving through the Atal Tunnel once again, I marveled at the engineering brilliance that made this journey possible.

Arriving in Manali, I checked into my hotel and spent the evening reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past few days.

My visit to Rohtang Pass, Koksar, Atal Tunnel, and Sissu was an adventure filled with breathtaking scenery, thrilling experiences, and heartwarming encounters. Each destination offered something unique, from the thrilling snow activities at Rohtang Pass to the tranquil beauty of Sissu. The journey through the Atal Tunnel and the warm hospitality of the locals added to the charm of this Himalayan adventure. If you’re looking for an extraordinary holiday that combines nature, adventure, and culture, this is the perfect itinerary for you. Pack your bags, hit the road, and let the magic of the Himalayas captivate you !