[DirtyDan]

This is off season in Manali. It is cold there and Rhotang pass, 50k north of Manali where the big mountains start, is closed until May. No one is likely to let you rent their private or commercial 4x4 because people who rent them tend to abuse them by slamming them around off-road and by running on dry pavement in 4 wheel drive, a sure way to wear out the tranny and whatever else picks up the friction from front and rear axles turning at different speeds in 4 wheel drive. You might get a private guy to drive you but, like I said, it's winter up there and it has been snowing already. I live not too far away from there so I know a little about it, I suggest you make other plans until spring.