Atal Tunnel Tourism

Atal Tunnel, also known as Rohtang Tunnel, is an engineering marvel that stretches 9.02 km, connecting Manali to Lahaul and Spiti Valley throughout the year, previously cut off for about six months each year due to heavy snowfall. It is the world's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 3, 2020, and named after former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This all-weather route significantly reduces the travel distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km and the travel time by about 4 to 5 hours. The tunnel features a semi-transverse ventilation system, emergency exits every 500 meters, evacuation lighting, broadcasting systems, and fire hydrants for safety. It offers a new lifeline to the people in Lahaul and Spiti by providing better connectivity and boosting tourism in the region.