Rohtang roadblocks spark shift to Baralacha

Recent viral videos circulating on social media show taxi and tempo drivers from Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana alleging that certain groups in Manali are preventing out-of-state vehicles from accessing Rohtang Pass — even those with valid permits. In response, taxi operators are urging travel agents, tour operators and tourists to consider Baralacha Pass as an alternative, citing its unrestricted access and cleaner, more abundant snow. They also point out that Baralacha is accessible within approximately four hours from Manali, compared to the longer, often congested route to Rohtang.

The conflict escalated after a Manali taxi driver was allegedly blocked by Chandigarh operators in Sector 22 from picking up tourists under a Himachal package. Soon after, another viral video surfaced showing Manali locals preventing a tempo operator from reaching Rohtang. Similar tensions between taxi unions from Himachal and Punjab had flared up last year but were eventually resolved through joint discussions.

Rohtang Pass, perched at an altitude of 13,058 feet, has long been a tourist magnet. However, environmental regulations set by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) restrict daily access to just 1,200 vehicles — 800 petrol and 400 diesel — via an online permit system. High demand causes these slots to be booked quickly, leaving many tourists without access. Reports of overcharging by some taxi operators have further pushed travellers to explore Baralacha instead, leading to a noticeable increase in its footfall.

Acknowledging the growing interest, the Himachal Tourism Development Corporation (HTDC) has launched a tempo traveller service from Manali to Baralacha, priced at Rs 1,200 per seat for a round trip. In comparison, the fare to Rohtang Pass via Koksar and the Atal Tunnel is Rs 800.

As snow begins to melt across key points in the Lahaul valley, tourists are setting their sights on both Rohtang and Baralacha. Those heading to Baralacha via tempo traveller can also enjoy scenic stops such as Solang Nala, Atal Tunnel, Sissu, Tandi, Keylong, Jispa and Darcha.

Meanwhile, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) continues to operate electric bus tours to Rohtang Pass at Rs 500 per passenger. HTDC offers its tempo traveller services to both Rohtang and Baralacha, ensuring tourists have multiple options for their mountain adventures.