Atal Tunnel in Rohtang-pass

The Atal Tunnel, Rohtang is a strategically important infrastructure project located in Himachal Pradesh, India, built under the Rohtang Pass at an altitude of 13,050 feet (3,978 m) above sea level. It is 9.02 km long, making it the longest tunnel above 3,000 meters in the world. It uses the New Austrian Tunneling Method and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for safety. The tunnel reduces the distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km and provides all-weather connectivity to the remote Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi valleys, increasing economic opportunities for the locals. The tunnel was opened in October 2020, named after Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and is considered a major achievement in infrastructure development in India.

The Atal Tunnel has been a game-changer for the people of Himachal Pradesh, providing all-weather connectivity to the remote Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi valleys. It has opened up new trade routes and increased tourism in the region, boosting the local economy. The reduced travel time and improved access to essential goods and services have also improved the quality of life for the local people.

The tunnel has received widespread recognition and accolades from various quarters, including the International Road Federation, which awarded it the “Global Achievement Award for Excellence in Road Engineering” in 2021. It has also been featured in various international media outlets, including National Geographic and The New York Times.

How to Reach Atal Tunnel

There are several ways to reach the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang, located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The three most common ways to reach the tunnel are:

By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, located in Kullu, which is around 10 km from Manali. The airport is well-connected to other major cities in India, and regular flights are available to and from Kullu. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Atal Tunnel.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Chandigarh, which is around 300 km from the Atal Tunnel. From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the tunnel.
By Road: The tunnel is well connected by road, and the closest major city is Manali, which is around 51 km away. Manali is well connected by road to other major cities in India, and regular bus and taxi services are available from Manali to the Atal Tunnel.

It’s worth mentioning that the road to Atal Tunnel is quite winding and steep, it’s recommended to drive cautiously and to check weather and road conditions before embarking on the journey.

Attraction and Famous Atal Tunnel, Rohtang

The Atal Tunnel, Rohtang is a popular tourist attraction for those visiting the Himachal Pradesh region. The tunnel is not only an important infrastructure project, but it also offers a unique and scenic drive for travelers. The tunnel is surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains, and visitors can take a tour of the tunnel to learn about the engineering and construction methods used to build it. The tour includes information on the geology of the area, the challenges faced during construction, and the safety measures in place to ensure the safety of travelers.

The tunnel is also a gateway to the Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi valleys, which are known for their picturesque landscapes, ancient temples and monasteries, and unique culture. Visitors can take a drive through these valleys to explore the local villages, meet the friendly locals, and experience the traditional way of life.

Additionally, the surrounding area of Rohtang Pass also offers several adventure activities such as skiing, paragliding, and trekking.

Furthermore, the Atal Tunnel is also famous for being the longest tunnel above an altitude of 3,000 meters in the world and being named after former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It’s also a major achievement in the field of engineering and infrastructure development in India, which adds to its popularity among visitors.

Overall, the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas, learn about the engineering marvels of the region, and discover the rich culture and history of the surrounding areas.

Overall, the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas and learn about the engineering marvels of the region.

Discovering the Hidden Gems

The Atal Tunnel, Rohtang is a gateway to several hidden gems in the Himachal Pradesh region. These hidden gems offer visitors a chance to escape the crowds and experience a more authentic and peaceful side of the region. Here are a few places that you can explore after visiting the tunnel:

Lahaul-Spiti Valley: This valley is known for its picturesque landscapes, ancient temples, and monasteries. Visitors can take a drive through the valley to explore the local villages, meet the friendly locals, and experience the traditional way of life. Some of the famous temples and monasteries to visit include the Tabo Monastery and the Key Monastery.
Pangi Valley: This valley is located in the remote region of Chamba, and is known for its unspoiled natural beauty. Visitors can take a hike through the valley to discover hidden waterfalls, glaciers, and traditional villages. The valley is also known for its unique culture and traditional lifestyle.
Solang Valley: This valley is located near Manali and is known for its adventure activities such as skiing, paragliding, and zorbing. Visitors can also take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Beas River: The Beas River is located near the Atal Tunnel and is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery. Visitors can take a white-water rafting trip or a kayaking trip down the river.
Jispa: Jispa is a small village located near the Atal Tunnel, known for its natural beauty and traditional lifestyle. Visitors can take a hike through the village to discover traditional houses and temples and learn about the local culture and customs.

These hidden gems offer a chance for visitors to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of the region in a more authentic and peaceful way. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover these hidden gems near the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang.

Economic aspects of Atal Tunnel for Himachal Pradesh

The Atal Tunnel, Rohtang is a significant infrastructure project that provides numerous advantages for the people living in and traveling to the region. Some of the key advantages of the Atal Tunnel include

All-weather connectivity: The Atal Tunnel provides all-weather connectivity to the remote Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi valleys in Himachal Pradesh, which were previously cut off from the rest of the world for several months every year due to heavy snowfall.
Improved tourism: The Atal Tunnel has made it easier for tourists to access the popular tourist destinations of Manali, Leh, and the Lahaul-Spiti region. This has increased tourism in the area, leading to economic growth and job opportunities for the local people.
Enhanced national security: The Atal Tunnel provides a critical all-weather road link between the Manali-Leh axis, which is of strategic importance for India’s national security. It also ensures the timely and efficient movement of troops and supplies to the forward areas in the region.
Technological advancements: The construction of the Atal Tunnel has introduced the latest technological advancements in tunnel construction and engineering in India. This has helped develop the country’s technological capabilities and has opened up new avenues for research and development.

The Atal Tunnel, Rohtang Pass is a significant achievement in the field of infrastructure development in India. It has provided numerous advantages to the people of the region and has helped promote economic growth, tourism, and national security.

At a Glance

Coordinates: 32.401270°N 77.148335°E
Country: India
State: Himachal Pradesh
Crosses: Rohtang Pass
Length: 9.02 kilometres (5.60 mi)
No. of lanes: Two (one in each direction)

Frequently Asked Questions About Atal Tunnel

Here are some frequently asked questions about Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh:

What is Atal Tunnel and where is it located?

Atal Tunnel is a road tunnel in Himachal Pradesh, India, that connects Manali with Leh. The tunnel is located beneath the Rohtang Pass in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas and is one of the longest road tunnels in the world.

How long is the Atal Tunnel and how was it constructed?

The Atal Tunnel is 9.02 km long and was constructed using the latest tunneling technology. The tunnel was built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and is named after the former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

When was the Atal Tunnel inaugurated?

The Atal Tunnel was inaugurated on 3rd October 2020 by the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. The tunnel was opened for public use soon after the inauguration.

What are the benefits of the Atal Tunnel for travelers?

The Atal Tunnel has greatly reduced travel time between Manali and Leh, and has made the journey safer and more comfortable for travelers. Earlier, travelers had to cross the Rohtang Pass, which was often closed due to heavy snowfall and landslides, making the journey difficult and time-consuming.

Is there a fee for using the Atal Tunnel?

Yes, there is a fee for using the Atal Tunnel, which is charged based on the type of vehicle. The fee is collected at the toll plaza located at the South Portal of the tunnel.

What are the timings for using the Atal Tunnel?

The Atal Tunnel is open for public use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, travelers are advised to check the weather and road conditions before starting their journey, especially during the winter months when the area experiences heavy snowfall.