How to Reach Jalori Pass
Jalori Pass is well-connected by road from major cities in North India. Here is everything you need to know about getting there.
By Air
The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), approximately 90 km from Jalori Pass. Airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet operate daily flights from Delhi to Bhuntar.
From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi to Jalori Pass via Banjar and Jibhi. The drive takes about 3 hours through scenic mountain roads. Pre-booking a taxi is recommended during peak season.
By Road
The most popular way to reach Jalori Pass. From Delhi, take NH44 towards Chandigarh, then proceed to Mandi via Bilaspur. From Mandi, take the road to Aut and then towards Banjar, Jibhi, and Shoja.
HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) buses run from Delhi and Chandigarh to Aut and Banjar. From Banjar or Aut, local buses and taxis are available to Jibhi, Shoja, and Jalori Pass.
By Rail
The nearest broad gauge railway station is Chandigarh (280 km). The narrow gauge railway at Joginder Nagar is about 120 km from Jalori Pass and offers a scenic mountain train experience.
From either station, you can take HRTC buses or hire taxis to reach Jalori Pass. The Chandigarh route is more commonly used due to better connectivity.
Distance and Route Chart
| From | Distance | Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 500 km | 12-14 hours | NH44 via Chandigarh - Mandi - Aut - Banjar - Jibhi - Shoja |
| Chandigarh | 280 km | 8-10 hours | Via Bilaspur - Mandi - Aut - Banjar - Jibhi - Shoja |
| Shimla | 150 km | 5-6 hours | Via Narkanda - Kumarsain - Ani - Jalori Pass |
| Manali | 135 km | 5-6 hours | Via Kullu - Aut - Banjar - Jibhi - Shoja |
| Mandi | 90 km | 3-4 hours | Via Aut - Banjar - Jibhi - Shoja |
| Bhuntar Airport | 90 km | 3 hours | Via Aut - Banjar - Jibhi - Shoja |
Travel Tips
Fuel Up Before Aut
There are limited fuel stations after Aut on the route to Jalori Pass. Make sure to refuel your vehicle at Aut or Mandi. The nearest petrol pump to Jalori Pass is in Banjar.
Carry Cash
There are no ATMs at Jalori Pass, Shoja, or Jibhi. The nearest ATMs are in Banjar and Aut. Carry enough cash for your entire trip. Some places in Jibhi accept UPI payments.
Road Conditions
The road from Aut to Jalori Pass is a mix of paved and rough patches. During monsoon (July-September), landslides can temporarily block roads. Check road conditions before traveling during monsoon.
Night Driving
Avoid driving the mountain roads after dark, especially the stretch from Banjar to Jalori Pass. The roads are narrow with sharp turns and no street lights. Plan to arrive before sunset.
Best Vehicles
While cars can reach Jalori Pass, an SUV or vehicle with good ground clearance is recommended, especially during and after monsoon. The last few kilometers before the pass can be rough.
Aut Tunnel
The Aut Tunnel on NH21 is a major landmark on the route from Mandi. After the tunnel, you take a left turn towards Banjar. Watch for the signboard as it is easy to miss.