Winter Wonderland : Manali and Lahaul Drape Themselves in Snow, Tourists Rejoice
As November rolls in, Himachal Pradesh is donning its winter robe—and it’s nothing short of magical. The higher reaches of Manali and the Lahaul Valley have been kissed by fresh snowfall, turning the region into a postcard-perfect paradise. For locals, it’s a seasonal shift. For tourists, it’s a dream come true.
Snowfall Sparks a Surge in Tourism
The snow has arrived, and so have the travelers. From the scenic slopes of Rohtang Pass to the serene shores of Chandratal Lake, white blankets now cover the landscape. Even the Atal Tunnel’s north and south portals have seen light snowfall, adding to the allure of the journey. Just 25 kilometers from Manali, visitors are already reveling in the snowy spectacle.
After nearly a month of dry skies, the weather has finally turned. Rohtang, Shinkula, and Baralacha passes have received nearly half a foot of snow, while the iconic Kunzum Pass and Chandratal Lake are now frozen in time. Snowflakes continue to fall across the elevated zones of Kullu, Manali, and Lahaul-Spiti, making it a perfect time for winter lovers to pack their bags.
Travel Advisory: Drive Smart, Stay Safe
With beauty comes caution. The local police have issued a gentle reminder to tourists: enjoy the snow, but respect the terrain. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are strongly recommended, as regular cars may struggle on icy roads. Drivers are urged to avoid sudden braking and instead rely on gear control to navigate safely.
Due to the snowfall, traffic on key routes like Manali-Leh, Manali-Kaza, and Darcha-Zanskar has been temporarily disrupted. Vehicles heading from Leh to Darcha are currently halted at Sarchu, while those traveling from Manali to Leh are paused at Darcha. Authorities are hopeful that once the skies clear, normal movement will resume.
DSP’s Message: Enjoy the Snow, But Be Mindful
KD Sharma, DSP of Manali, shared a heartfelt message for visitors: “The road from Manali to Keylong is open, but snowfall in higher regions demands caution. We want tourists to enjoy the beauty of the season, but safety should always come first.”
A Season of Opportunity
For the tourism industry, this snowfall is a blessing. Hotels are gearing up for a surge in bookings, adventure operators are prepping their gear, and local businesses are ready to welcome the influx. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker chasing snow trails or a peace-seeker sipping chai by the window, Manali and Lahaul are calling.
