Chanshal Pass
Chanshal Pass, Himachal Pradesh Chanshal Pass, a lesser-known gem in India Hidden away in the trails of Chanshal, between the district of Shimla and Kotkhai is Chanshal Pass. Located at an elevation of 4,520 m (14,829 ft) above sea level, Chanshal Pass is known for its spectacular sights, around snow-covered peaks, green fields, and exciting road. It links the Himachal Pradesh’s Rohru region with the far-flung Dodra Kwar Valley.
So here a complete guide for Chanshal Pass so that you can know which route to take, the means of transportation, the best time to visit, where to stay, and tips on how to stay safe while travelling.
Chanshal Pass: Explore the Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Chanshal Pass varies based on the experience you are after.
Summer (May to June): The perfect time to visit Chanshal Pass is during summer when the roads are open, and the weather is pleasant. You see green and can ride in comfort.
Monsoon (July-September): One must avoid travelling during monsoon for landslides and slippery roads. Heavy rains in the region have posed a threat to travellers.
Autumn (October to November): Cue clearer skies and picturesque autumn foliage; autumn is just another era where it’s relatively good to visit.
Winter (December to April): Chanshal Pass is closed in the winter. But you can go higher altitude nearby lower altitude areas if you want to enjoy the adventure sports or snow.
How to Reach Chanshal Pass
Chanshal Pass is a remote place, and traveling here is not easy, proper planning is required. Here’s how to travel to this amazing destination:
By Air
Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla): 160 km (99 miles) is the nearest Airport to Chanshal Pass. Secured at Shimla, hire a taxi or take a bus towards Rohru and proceed to Chanshal Pass. But Shimla has limited flights, and the other option is Chandigarh Airport, which is around 240 km from Shimla.
By Rail
The closest railway station is Shimla railway station, which is linked to Kalka by the Kalka-Shimla toy train route. You have to drive to Rohru from Shimla and then further ahead towards Chanshal Pass.
For those traveling from other parts of India, the closest railway station to Chanshal Pass is Kalka Railway Station (87 km from Shimla), while Chandigarh Railway Station is located about 240 km away from Chanshal Pass.
By Road
The Chanshal Pass is easily accessible by road. With a combination of routes along the journey, here is a list of the best:
This was the route we chose: Chandigarh to Chanshal Pass (Via Shimla, Rohru)
Total Distance: Approx. 240 km
Duration: 8-10 hours
Route 1: Chandigarh → Shimla → Theog → Kotkhai → Rohru → Chirgaon → Chanshal Pass
Most popular and scenic route: this route will take you through beautiful landscapes and small towns with many pit stops along the way for food and sightseeing.
Route 2: Dehradun–Chanshal Pass (Via Chakrata, Tiuni, Rohru)
Total Distance: Approx. 200 km
Duration: 7-9 hours
Your plan: Dehradun → Chakrata → Tiuni → Rohru → Chirgaon → Chanshal Pass
The journey is picturesque and avoided by tourists, which is perfect for people travelling from Uttarakhand.
Travel Tips and Road Conditions
- The roads till Shimla and from Shimla to Rohru are decent but they get rugged as you start climbing towards Chanshal Pass.
- The final stretch of 40 km from Chirgaon to Chanshal Pass is a dirt road, green clipped with steep inclines and hairpin bends, it is an absolute necessity to have a 4*4 or a powerful motorcycle.
- There are no petrol pumps after Rohru so fill petrol in Rohru.
- Travel early morning to escape discrimination with weather change and landslide.
Where to Stay Near Chanshal Pass
Chanshal Pass being a secluded place, does not have any hotels or resorts at the top. But you can stay in nearby towns:
Rohru: It has decent guesthouses, budget hotels and homestays.
Chirgaon: Budget guesthouses, local lodges.
Larote: Few homestay accommodations for travelling off the beaten path.
Camping: If you are an adventure seeker, you can take your own camping gear and pitch a tent close to the pass.
Things to Do at Chanshal Pass
Enjoy the Panoramic Views
Chanshal Pass has enchanting views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. Because of the expansive meadows and snow-covered peaks.
Trekking and Hiking
Similar to Chanshal Pass, DSL also has numerous trekking trails that lead towards Dodra Kwar Valley and surrounding villages. The hiking is moderate to difficult depending on the trail.
Photography and Sightseeing
This makes Chanshal Pass a photographic paradise with its unspoilt beauty. Photograph the stunning scenery, the star-soaked night skies and rolling meadows.
Off-Roading and Biking Adventures
In order to make easy for adventurers, the rocky territory of Chanshal Pass is used as an adventure spot for bikers and offroad vehicles.
Explore Nearby Villages
Unexplored Villages of Himalayas: Visit these remote villages and experience the untouched beauty and unique culture of these unexplored places.
Rohru: Known for its apple orchards and the Pabbar River for trout fishing.
Must Know Things About Chanshal Pass
Check Weather: While planning your trip, check the weather forecast, as conditions can change quickly.
Pack Warm Clothes: Even during summer, the temperature at altitude decreases drastically.
Do pack food and water: After Rohru, there may only be a few food stalls.
Be Prepared for Off-Road Driving: If you are self-driving make sure your vehicle is in immaculate condition and bring a spare tire.
No Connectivity: There is no mobile signal beyond Rohru.
Conclusion
Chanshal Pass is an unexplored magical land featuring unblemished glorious nature and adventure. No matter if you are a biker or a trekker, or a nature lover just this place would provide you an amazing experience. But as it is so remote, you need to plan carefully till you reach there. This guide will help you navigate to Chanshal Pass without hassle, and make the most of your trip. Happy traveling!
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