Toll Tax Hike: Big news for everyone. People travel to the mountains to enjoy the snowfall during winter and to cool down in the summer. Himachal Pradesh, in particular, attracts a multitude of tourists throughout the year. Many visitors arrive in Manali, Shimla, and other nearby hill stations by car or bike. If you’re considering a road trip, you might want to reconsider, as you’ll need to adjust your budget to accommodate higher costs.
This is due to the Himachal government raising the entry fees for vehicles from outside the state. As of April 1, 2026, vehicles will be subject to new toll rates. This decision was made under the Himachal Pradesh Toll Act of 1975. The government states that this measure was essential due to increasing infrastructure expenses and the need for revenue. Consequently, traveling to the mountains will now be a bit pricier than it used to be. You can check how much a trip to Himachal will cost based on your vehicle type.
What is the increase in charges for small and medium vehicles?
According to the new rates established by the Himachal government, private cars, jeeps, vans, and light motor vehicles will now incur an entry fee of Rs 170, up from Rs 70, marking a direct increase of Rs 100. The fee for 12-plus-1-seater passenger vehicles has also risen from Rs 110 to Rs 170. Additionally, the toll for a 32-seater minibus has jumped from Rs 180 to Rs 320.
This change will impact families and groups traveling together. However, the state government has maintained the exemption for local Himachali vehicles from entry fees, as it was previously. This will help alleviate any extra financial burden on local residents. Only tourists from outside the state will be required to pay the increased rates.
New rates for large and commercial vehicles
The entry fee for commercial buses has been raised from Rs 320 to Rs 600. The cost for construction machinery has increased from Rs 570 to Rs 800. Large cargo vehicles will now face a fee of Rs 900 instead of ₹720. Tractor drivers will now pay Rs 100 instead of Rs 70.
However, the fare for a double-axle bus truck remains unchanged at Rs 570. Overall, if you’re traveling to Himachal in your own vehicle, be sure to factor this extra expense into your trip budget . Planning ahead will make your journey easier.









