Solang to Sissu, Manali–Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh
Atal Tunnel
Travel Tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds
- Carry water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes
- Respect local customs and dress modestly at religious sites
- Book guided tours in advance during peak season
About Atal Tunnel
Atal Tunnel, also known as Rohtang Tunnel, is one of the most important engineering achievements in Himachal Pradesh. Built beneath the Pir Panjal range, it is about 9 km long and lies at around 3,100 metres. It connects Solang near Manali to Sissu in the Lahaul valley.
Before the tunnel opened in October 2020, snow often closed the road over Rohtang Pass for months. Now the journey between Manali and Keylong is shorter and safer, and it stays open in most winter conditions. The government named the tunnel after Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Driving through the tunnel is a unique experience. The road is well lit and has ventilation, emergency exits and safety systems. However, stopping, overtaking and photography are not allowed inside, so stay in your lane and follow the speed limit.
On the other side, the landscape changes dramatically from green Manali to the dry, rocky Lahaul valley. The northern portal near Sissu offers views of the mountains and the Chandra river valley. Also, many travellers stop at Sissu, Gondhla and Keylong.
May to October is the best time for road journeys through Lahaul, though the tunnel keeps the route open through winter. Check road and weather updates before you travel, and carry warm clothes.
Also respect local customs, and ask before you take photos of people. When you plan well, the journey feels easier and far more enjoyable. Also, carry a valid photo ID and some cash, because network and cards can be unreliable in the hills. Start early in the day, so you have enough time and softer light for photos.
Explore more places in Lahaul and Spiti or read official travel details on Himachal Tourism. Send us an enquiry with your dates, and BeMyTraveler will help you plan hotels, cars and tours for Atal Tunnel.
Sightseeing
Why Visit Atal Tunnel?
Atal Tunnel is a modern engineering marvel that opens year-round access to Lahaul and Spiti. It is ideal for road-trippers, families and travellers heading beyond Manali to Sissu, Keylong and Spiti.
Highlights include:
- Drive through the tunnel
- Enjoy views at the Sissu portal
- Visit Sissu and Gondhla
- Drive on to Keylong
- Day trip from Manali
- Continue to Chandratal and Kaza
- Photography at the portals
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Frequently Asked Questions about Atal Tunnel
Find answers to the most common questions about this listing, booking, payments, and our services.
Atal Tunnel, also called Rohtang Tunnel, is in Himachal Pradesh under the Pir Panjal range. Its southern portal is near Manali at Solang, and its northern portal is at Sissu in the Lahaul valley, giving all-weather access to Lahaul and Spiti.
Atal Tunnel is famous as one of the longest highway tunnels in the world at high altitude, about 9 km long and around 3,100 metres above sea level. It cuts travel time between Manali and Lahaul and keeps the route open even in winter.
Atal Tunnel is about 9.02 km long, and it takes a few minutes to drive through at the permitted speed. It was opened in October 2020 and named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It has emergency exits and safety systems along its length.
Atal Tunnel is reached by road from Manali, and the southern portal is a short drive beyond Solang Valley. Taxis and tourist vehicles use the tunnel to go to Lahaul, Keylong and Spiti. The nearest railhead is Joginder Nagar and the airport is Bhuntar.
May to October is the best time, with open roads and pleasant weather, but the tunnel keeps the route open in winter too. Heavy snowfall near the portals can cause temporary closures, so check road status and weather before you travel.
Drivers must follow the speed limit, keep to their lane, avoid overtaking, and not stop or take photos inside the tunnel. Only permitted vehicles may use it, and traffic rules are strictly enforced for safety, so follow all signs and instructions.
The tunnel itself takes only a few minutes to cross. Plan a day trip from Manali to Sissu and Keylong, or a longer trip of two to three days to include Lahaul's villages, Chandratal and Spiti, using the tunnel as the gateway.
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