Shimla district’s Pabbar Valley is home to the stunning Chanshal Pass (12,000 ft / 3,658 m) – one of Himachal Pradesh’s untouched and offbeat destinations. Located about 48 km from Rohru town, this pass connects Pabbar Valley to the remote Dodra–Kwar Valley.
The journey to Chanshal is not just a road trip, but a complete adventure. Narrow zig-zag roads, pine forests, apple orchards, and snow-covered mountains surprise you at every turn. For adventure bikers, trekkers, and nature lovers, this pass is truly a “hidden paradise.”
Even today, Chanshal Pass tourism is gradually gaining popularity, but it still remains less crowded compared to Himachal’s busy hill stations — and that is its real beauty.
1. History & Significance of Chanshal Pass
Chanshal Pass has been deeply connected to Himachal’s cultural and trade routes. In earlier times, it served as the lifeline connecting Dodra–Kwar Valley (one of Asia’s most remote valleys) with Shimla and Rohru. Local villagers would carry their goods along this route to reach Rohru’s markets.
It also holds great cultural significance. Even today, villages around Chanshal are famous for their Devi–Devta traditions and folk rituals. While traveling, you can spot small temples and wooden shrines that highlight the spiritual importance of this route.
The name “Chanshal” comes from the local language, symbolizing glaciers and snowy peaks. Locals consider the pass sacred and advise travelers to cross with respect and discipline.
2. Why Visit Chanshal Pass?
Here are the top reasons why Chanshal Pass is considered a unique destination:
Snow Paradise
During winters, Chanshal Pass transforms into a white wonderland. Snow-filled valleys, frozen trees, and icy trails create a fairytale scenery. It is a dream spot for snow trekking and skiing lovers.
Off-Roading & Biking Adventure
For bikers and off-road enthusiasts, the Chanshal road trip is unforgettable. Narrow muddy tracks, steep inclines, and hairpin bends offer pure thrill. Every year, biker groups organize the famous “Chanshal Ride.”
Scenic Beauty
At an altitude of 12,000 ft, you can enjoy panoramic views of both Pabbar Valley and Dodra–Kwar Valley. In spring and summer, the meadows bloom with wildflowers, while winters turn it into a snow paradise.
Trekking Trails
From Chanshal, several unexplored trekking trails lead to valleys and remote villages. It offers trekkers a raw Himalayan experience away from the crowds.
Cultural Exploration
Nearby villages like Larot and Dodra–Kwar are known for their wooden Himachali houses and traditional lifestyle. Exploring these villages gives you a glimpse into Himachal’s authentic culture.
👉 For all these reasons, Chanshal Pass is counted among the best offbeat travel destinations in Himachal.
4. Best Time to Visit Chanshal Pass
Every season brings a unique experience at Chanshal, but choosing the right time is important:
April – June (Summer):
Pleasant weather (15°C–20°C), clear roads, and open trekking trails. Best season for bikers and trekkers.
July – September (Monsoon):
Valleys turn lush green, and the Pabbar River flows in full force. Roads may get muddy, and landslides are common. A magical time for photography lovers.
October – November (Autumn):
Cool, crisp weather with colorful valleys and meadows. Perfect for adventure and photography. December – March (Winter):
The pass becomes a complete snow paradise with heavy snowfall. Roads often remain closed, but snow adventure lovers find it dreamy.
👉 Best time overall: May–June and September–October are the most safe and enjoyable.
5. Where to Stay Near Chanshal Pass
Big luxury hotels are not available near Chanshal Pass, but you can easily find clean and comfortable places to stay that offer warm Himachali hospitality. Here are the best options:
Rohru Town (48 km before the pass)
Rohru is the main town on the route and the most convenient place for a proper stay.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels, guesthouses, and Himachal Tourism rest houses are easily available here.
- Facilities: Most hotels have attached bathrooms, hot water, and in-house dining options.
- Best for: Families, groups, and travelers who prefer a comfortable base with shops, ATMs, and restaurants nearby.
Larot Village (16 km from the pass)
Larot is the last major settlement before Chanshal Pass and the closest stay option.
- Accommodation: Small guesthouses and homestays run by local families.
- Experience: Perfect for travelers seeking peace and quiet along with authentic Himachali hospitality.
- Highlight: Early morning views of the snow-clad peaks are breathtaking from here, making it ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
Dodra–Kwar Villages (18km from the pass)
For those who wish to explore deeper into the remote valleys, Dodra and Kwar offer a rare cultural experience.
- Accommodation: Limited but cozy homestays are available, often in traditional wooden houses.
- Experience: A chance to live like locals, enjoy home-cooked Himachali food, and witness the untouched beauty of this region.
- Best for: Adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts looking for an offbeat, slow-travel experience.
✨ Travel Tip:
Since accommodation is limited, advance booking is highly recommended, especially during winters (when snow attracts visitors) and during the apple season (August–September) when the region is bustling with orchard activity.
6. Local Food & Shopping Around Chanshal Pass
Local Food
- Siddu: A Himachali favorite, available in Rohru and Larot homestays.
- Rajma-Chawal: Famous in Pabbar Valley for its rich flavor.
- Trout Fish: Fresh trout from Rohru & Chirgaon is a must-try.
- Himachali Dham: Traditional community feast during festivals or local functions.
Shopping
- Apples & Dry Fruits: Fresh from Rohru & Chirgaon orchards.
- Handmade Woolens: Caps, socks, and shawls knitted by local women.
- Wooden Handicrafts: Authentic Himachali souvenirs available in Rohru market.
Though Chanshal Pass itself is a destination, nearby places make the trip even more special:
How to Reach Chanshal Pass
Reaching Chanshal Pass (12,000 ft) is an adventure in itself. The pass is about 180 km from Shimla and around 48 km from Rohru, which is the main base town for the journey. There is no direct bus or train, so you’ll need to combine road travel with either a private car, taxi, or bike trip.
1. By Air
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti) – approx. 190 km away
- From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Rohru and continue towards Chanshal.
- Alternative Airport: Chandigarh Airport (approx. 260 km), with better connectivity from major Indian cities.
2. By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (narrow-gauge) – about 180 km from Chanshal Pass
- You can reach Shimla by the famous Kalka–Shimla toy train or by road from Chandigarh/Kalka.
- From Shimla, book a taxi or take a bus to Rohru and then onward to Chanshal.
3. By Road
This is the most popular and scenic way to reach Chanshal Pass.
Route from Shimla:
Shimla ➜ Theog ➜ Kotkhai ➜ Jubbal ➜ Hatkoti ➜ Rohru ➜ Chirgaon ➜ Larot ➜ Chanshal Pass
- Distance: ~180 km
- Travel Time: 7–9 hours (depending on road conditions)
From Rohru to Chanshal (48 km):
The real adventure starts here. The road becomes steep, narrow, and partly unpaved. A 4×4 vehicle, SUV, or adventure bike is highly recommended.
4. Public Transport
- Buses: Himachal Roadways (HRTC) buses run regularly between Shimla and Rohru.
- From Rohru, you can find local jeeps or shared cabs to Larot, but direct buses to Chanshal Pass are rare.
- For flexibility and comfort, hiring a private taxi/jeep from Rohru is the best option.
💡 Travel Tip:
- Start early in the morning to avoid fog and landslides, and to enjoy clear mountain views.
- In winter (Dec–March), heavy snowfall often closes the pass. Check road conditions before traveling.
Nearby Attractions from Chanshal Pass
Dodra–Kwar Valley
Beyond Chanshal lies Dodra–Kwar, one of Asia’s most remote valleys. The drive is adventurous and takes you through dense forests and high mountains, but the reward is pure serenity. Wooden Himachali houses, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes make it feel like a place where time stands still. Perfect for travelers who love peace, nature, and authentic village life.
Larot Village
Just 16 km from Chanshal Pass, Larot is the nearest village and a natural base for treks or jeep rides to the pass. Surrounded by apple orchards and pine forests, it’s quiet and scenic. Staying in small homestays lets you enjoy warm Himachali hospitality and beautiful sunrise or sunset views right from the village itself.
Chirgaon & Tikri Villages
Close to Rohru, these villages are famous as some of the biggest apple-growing belts of Himachal Pradesh. The surroundings are peaceful, with traditional wooden houses and fresh mountain air. During apple season (August–September), you can watch the harvesting or even taste apples straight from the orchard—an experience both refreshing and memorable.
Hatkoti Mata Temple
Set on the banks of the Pabbar River in Jubbal Valley, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahishasurmardini. The stone carvings and old Himachali architecture give it a deep spiritual charm. Whether you come for blessings or simply to enjoy the calm riverside setting, Hatkoti adds a touch of history and devotion to the Chanshal journey.
8. Travel Tips for Chanshal Pass Visitors
Choose the Right Vehicle: The road from Rohru to Chanshal is steep and rough. An SUV, 4×4, or adventure bike is best for the climb—avoid small cars.
Fuel Up Before Rohru: There are no petrol pumps after Rohru. Make sure your tank is full to cover the entire trip and return.
Pack Warm Clothes: Weather stays chilly even in summer, and winter temperatures can dip to -5 °C. Carry layered clothing and a windproof jacket.
No Network Connectivity: Mobile signals are weak or absent. Download offline maps and inform family about your travel plan in advance.
Carry Enough Cash: ATMs are available only up to Rohru, and remote villages may not accept online payments. Keep cash for food, homestays, or emergencies.
Avoid Peak Monsoon: July–August brings heavy rain and landslides. Travel in fair weather for a safer and smoother journey.
9. Our Experience at Chanshal Pass
My Chanshal Pass Himachal Pradesh trip was one of the most adventurous and memorable journeys of my life. I stayed in Rohru town, which is the main base for the Rohru to Chanshal Pass road trip, and from there we started early morning towards Larot village. As the road became steep and narrow, every bend brought a new thrill and added to the excitement of this hidden destination.
Reaching the top of Chanshal Pass (12,000 ft) was like stepping into another world. On one side, the lush green Pabbar Valley stretched endlessly, while on the other, the rugged and untouched beauty of Dodra–Kwar Valley looked breathtaking. Standing at that height felt as if the clouds were right within our reach.
Interacting with the locals was equally special. They shared stories about their traditions, apple orchards, and the history of this region. We enjoyed playing in the leftover snow patches, captured stunning photographs, and soaked in the peaceful environment that makes Chanshal Pass Shimla so unique.
On our way back, we stopped at Larot village for authentic Himachali food. Eating freshly made siddu with hot tea in the cool mountain breeze was truly delightful. That taste, combined with the view of wooden Himachali houses and surrounding apple orchards, made the experience unforgettable.
Overall, the Chanshal Pass adventure is not just about scenic landscapes but also about connecting with the raw culture of Himachal Pradesh. If you are planning a trip to Shimla beyond the usual crowded hill stations, then a Chanshal Pass road trip should definitely be on your bucket list. It offers snow, adventure, panoramic views, and the charm of untouched valleys — all in one journey.
Chanshal Pass Location, Photos & Video
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Pictures Of Chanshal Pass
Location of Chanshal Pass
FAQs about Chanshal Pass
What is the height of Chanshal Pass in Himachal Pradesh?
Chanshal Pass is located at an altitude of around 12,000 ft (3,658 m) above sea level. This makes it one of the highest and most scenic mountain passes near Shimla. From the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pabbar Valley on one side and the remote Dodra–Kwar Valley on the other.
How far is Chanshal Pass from Rohru town?
The distance from Rohru to Chanshal Pass is about 48 km, which usually takes 1.5–2 hours by jeep or bike. The route passes through Larot village and offers zig-zag mountain roads, apple orchards, and dense pine forests, making it a thrilling journey for road trip lovers.
What is the best time to visit Chanshal Pass?
The best time to visit Chanshal Pass Shimla is from May–June and September–October, when the weather is pleasant, roads are open, and meadows are filled with flowers. Winters (December–March) turn it into a snow paradise, but heavy snowfall often closes the road, while monsoons bring risks of landslides.
Can small cars go up to Chanshal Pass?
The road to Chanshal Pass Himachal Pradesh is steep, muddy, and full of sharp bends. It is best to travel in an SUV, jeep, or bike designed for mountain terrains. Small cars are not recommended as the rough patches and steep inclines can be risky for them.
Are there any stay options near Chanshal Pass?
You won’t find hotels directly at the pass, but you can stay in nearby areas. Rohru town (48 km away) has budget hotels and guesthouses, while Larot village offers homestays close to the pass. For cultural immersion, limited stays are also available in Dodra–Kwar villages.
What food is famous around Chanshal Pass?
The area around Chanshal is known for authentic Himachali food. Local dishes like Siddu, Rajma–Chawal, and fresh trout fish from Pabbar River are must-try. During local functions, you may also get a chance to enjoy the traditional Himachali Dham feast.
Is network available at Chanshal Pass?
Mobile network connectivity is very weak near Chanshal Pass Shimla. Most visitors face frequent signal drops, especially near the top. It is advisable to download offline maps and inform family in advance. This lack of connectivity, however, makes the experience even more peaceful.
What are the nearby attractions to visit along with Chanshal Pass?
Along with Chanshal, you can explore nearby Dodra–Kwar Valley, Larot village, and apple-rich villages like Chirgaon & Tikri. The ancient Hatkoti Mata Temple in Jubbal Valley is also worth visiting for its unique stone carvings and spiritual vibes.
