Go green: Affordable ride to Rohtang Pass in just Rs 500

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has launched an electric bus service from Manali to the picturesque Rohtang Pass, offering tourists a more affordable and eco-friendly travel option. Starting today, visitors can embark on the scenic 100-km journey to the 13,058-foot-high pass for just Rs 500 (round trip), bypassing the hassle of permits and the steep taxi fares that can go up to Rs 8,000.

With bookings now available directly at the Manali bus stand, tourists no longer need to secure online permits or pay the National Green Tribunal’s congestion and environmental charges, as electric vehicles are exempt from these requirements. The Rohtang Pass was opened to tourist vehicles yesterday, but strict daily limits remain—only 800 petrol and 400 diesel vehicles are allowed beyond the Gulaba barrier, each requiring an online permit and a Rs 500 fee, plus a Rs 50 congestion charge.

Currently, two 25-seater electric buses are operating on the Manali-Rohtang route, with departures scheduled at 9 am from Manali. Kullu HRTC Regional Manager DK Narang stated that the number of buses will be increased based on demand. He added that this service is reintroduced each year to offer tourists a more convenient and eco-conscious travel experience.

However, the tourism sector in Kullu-Manali has taken a hit due to recent tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam incident. According to tourism experts, tourist footfall in May dropped by nearly 70 percent compared to April. Many adventure tourism operators have reported a severe dip in business.

Former Manali Hotelier Association president Gajender Thakur noted that the number of incoming vehicles has fallen sharply—from around 4,000 daily in early May to fewer than 1,500 even on weekends.

Despite these challenges, stakeholders remain hopeful. With schools in the plains closing for summer holidays from May 15, hotel occupancy has already risen by 15–20 percent since May 16. Experts predict that tourist numbers will rebound as families flock to the hills to escape the heat, bringing renewed energy to the region’s tourism hotspots.