Ever found a place so untouched, so serene, that it feels like stepping into another world? For me, that place was Chanshal Pass in Himachal Pradesh—a hidden slice of heaven in the Himalayas.
Dreaming of visiting this gem? Let me take you through my journey.
I’ll share how I planned it, what I learned along the way, and why this trip left me completely spellbound.
How It All Began
Chanshal Pass was the result of a random internet search for traveling off the beaten path. Then, at 4,520 meters above sea level, the pass connects the Pabbar Valley to the remote Dodra Kwar region.
Pictures promised raw beauty, snow-capped peaks, and winding roads that seem to lead directly to adventure. I was hooked.
What really attracted me was that this place seemed so unexplored. Unlike those Manali and Shimla tourist destinations, Chanshal Pass really sounded like a journey into the wild, away from crowded throngs and noisy cities.
The idea of venturing into a peaceful paradise was enough to make me want to organize this trip.
When to Visit: Timing is Everything
I knew it was all about the timing; otherwise, I would not make it. So, after some research, I settled on June when the snow had melted and the roads were open.
During this time, the landscapes come alive with greenery and wildflowers, and the weather is perfect for exploring. Days are pleasantly warm, and nights are cool—ideal for trekking and soaking in the views.
I also read that visiting in the monsoon months, particularly July and August is risky because of landslides and slippery roads. Similarly, winter months from November to April are a no-go because heavy snow renders the pass inaccessible. So, cross-check your weather forecast and confirm road conditions before planning a trip.
How to Reach Chanshal Pass: My Route
Getting there was half the fun! Leaving from Delhi, my road trip went like this:
Delhi to Shimla:
It is an easily tolerable 8-hour drive. I left early to avoid traffic and did several breaks on the way to have chai and snacks.
Some of my favorite stops were when I stopped by a dhaba near Murthal, where I gobbled buttery parathas. Since I entered Shimla, it was much cooler, with really good views everywhere.
Shimla to Rohru:
It took around 5 hours to get from Shimla to Rohru. And the change in landscape became very dramatic after this point.
Roads started to become slender and winding through the denser pine forests and through the charming mountain villages. Rohru, being a bustling little town, felt like an ideal base camp for the next day’s journey.
Rohru to Chanshal Pass:
The most thrilling part of this was the last 50 km from Rohru to Chanshal Pass. All time raw, screeous climbs and sharp bends, but views are straight worth it, white patches of snow on the higher reaches, almost ‘surreal’ feel of the towering mountains around me.
For those without a personal vehicle, buses run from Shimla to Rohru, and from there you can hire a cab. If you enjoy road trips and are comfortable driving on mountainous terrain, I would recommend taking your own vehicle – it adds to the adventure!
Where I Stayed
As Chanshal Pass was located far from commercialization, I had to make proper planning for my stay in nearby towns. I selected Rohru as it had a few budget hotels and homestays that were neat and decent.
The guesthouse where I stayed was one of those simple but cozy places with warm blankets and heartwarming food that remind me of home.
Chirgaon, another small town about 15 km from Rohru, is a quieter alternative. Though accommodation options here are limited, it’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for more solitude.
Camping near the pass is also suggested by many adventure enthusiasts, but I did not prefer it as bad weather was unpredictable. If you wish to camp, ensure proper camping equipment and a great, strong tent along with suitable sleeping bags for cold climate conditions.
What to Carry: My Essentials Kit
While packing to Chanshal Pass, I had mixed comfort with preparedness. Here’s what I found indispensible:
Clothing
Layered Warm Clothes:
Once you go up, the temperature really drops, especially in the evenings. I used a thermal set of clothes, a fleece jacket, and an outer layer of waterproof fabric. The chill can get you even in summer.
Comfortable Trekking Shoes:
This will be very important on uneven terrain and on rocky trails, so good shoes are a must. I had my sturdy trekking boots that gave me the grip and support.
Rain Gear:
It rains quickly in the mountains. I carry with me a light raincoat and a cover for my backpack.
Miscellaneous Essentials
Sunscreen and Sunglasses:
High-altitude sun is mighty fierce. A high SPF sunscreen as well as polarized sunglasses prevented me from getting sunburned as well as blinded by glare.
Snacks and Water:
As there are no shops around the pass, I carried energy bars, nuts, and plenty of water. Staying hydrated at high altitudes is essential.
First Aid Kit:
In this, I had put in basic medicines, band-aids, and altitude sickness tablets. Luckily, I did not need any of them, but one never knows.
What I Did There
Swaying in the Sceneries
I immediately stopped to take it all in as I reached Chanshal Pass. It was nothing short of mesmerizing, with the panorama of the Himalayas in all their glory- with snow-clad peaks and valleys bursting forth in all shades of green.
It was a feeling akin to standing at the end of the world, amidst nature’s grandeur.
Desouling the Trails
I spent an entire day traversing the trails around the pass. Some of the highlights would be going on a trek to the Dodra Kwar villages nearby.
These hamlets were exceedingly time-warp-like, with their wooden houses and terraced fields. The people were extremely friendly and hospitable, sharing their traditions and way of life with me.
Photography and Stargazing :
As an avid shutterbug, I would not leave without capturing dramatic landscapes. It was magical to have the play of light and shadow dancing across mountains at dusk.
By nightfall, a celestial feast opened up before my eyes. With no city lights to outshine the Milky Way, it outshone the Milky Way brighter than ever I had seen.
Lessons from the Road
Start Early:
Mountain roads are best traversed in daylight. I made a rule to begin my journey at sunrise so that I could have a nice long time to enjoy the sceneries and not have to travel during the dark of night.
Prepare for No Network:
I know that connectivity is practically impossible at the top, so I downloaded maps for offline traveling and made my friends and family aware of my itinerary.
Respect Environment:
Chanshal Pass is highly unspoiled. It remains in the hands of those who treat it this way. I took all the rubbish back with me and avoided disturbing the wildlife.
Why Chanshal Pass Stole My Heart
The trip was not merely for visiting some beautiful location; it was going to be a journey out of my comfort zone and into the unknown. Chanshal Pass provided me with solitude, an adventure to explore, and a peek into a simpler life.
If you’re going somewhere, my suggestion is to go without a preset judgment and a sense of adventure. The pass is bound to surprise you at every turn, and the memories created here will never fade from your mind.
Pack your bags and get on the highway-you won’t regret it!
Also read: 10 Best Places to Visit in Narkanda In 2025