The Atal Tunnel (Himachal Pradesh) passes through Rohtang pass and the longest highway tunnel in the world. It is connecting Manali to Lahul-Spiti valley throughout the year.
The south portal of the tunnel is located at a distance of 25 km from Manali at an altitude of 3060 meters, and the North portal is located Sissu, in Lahul valley at an altitude of 3072 meters.
Features of Atal Tunnel
The tunnel is horseshoe shaped, single tube with two way traffic road, designed to cater upto 3000 vehicles per day in any weather conditions at a speed of 60 km. Tunnel length is 9.2 km and built at an altitude of 10171 feet.
The journey from Manali to Lahul-Spiti valley will become easy by reducing distance of 46 km and travel time by upto 4 hours.
This tunnel, built in the Pir Panjal mountain range of the Himalayas. Which took 10 years to complete. It has telephone facility at every 150 meters, fire hydrant at every 60 meters, emergency exit at every 150 meters, any person can open this door and communicate quickly with control room with one touch panic button. Air quality sensors are also installed at each kilometre.
The tunnel recognised by the World Book of Records, London as the longest highway tunnel in the world at this height. It is the world’s first tunnel having 4G internet connectivity.
Things to do
No doubt that this tunnel promotes tourism in Lahul-Spiti and near by areas. There are some Must have attractions for tourists in near by Atal Tunnel includes:
✓Sissu Helipad- around 11 km from tunnel. There is a small lake where boating is done and a spectacular mountain view with some good food points.
✓Gondhala Fort- built by Raja Man Singh of Kullu for Thakurs of Gondhala Village in 1700 AD.
✓Koksar- small village situated 19 km from Rohtang. Most chill place in Lahul and experience heavy snowfall during the winters.
✓Hampta Pass- most perfect trek for beginners. It takes 4 days to complete this comfortable trek. One can increase a day by going at Chandratal Lake known for its deep blue color.
✓Manimahesh- thousands of passengers come following the carnival of Janmashtami. It’s a sacred place. The water is crystal clear and is a treat to the eye.
✓Keylong- administrative centre of Lahul-Spiti district and situated on the Manali-Leh highway. Popular for Kardang Monestry, Shasur and Tayul Monasteries. Keylong Gives you a feel of Buddhist culture.
✓Kareri Lake- 10 km tiny lake is attraction of the town. It is fed by mountain tributary and glacier water. Crystal clear cool water for dive in the summer.
