Winter Shuts Down Manali–Leh Highway: Authorities Warn Travellers to Stay Away

As winter tightens its grip on the high Himalayas, the Lahaul–Spiti district administration has announced the seasonal closure of the Manali–Leh National Highway starting November 20, following an advisory from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

The BRO’s 70 RCC flagged several stretches — Jingjingbar–Sarchu, Gulaba–Rohtang, and Gramphoo–Losar — as high-risk zones where early snow buildup, black ice, and plunging temperatures make driving treacherous. By mid-November, water on the road surface begins to freeze, turning even daylight travel into a dangerous gamble. Frozen waterfalls and streams add to the hazards, creating slick patches that can catch motorists off guard.

Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana confirmed that traffic will remain barred until conditions ease next year, most likely between late May and June. She urged tourists, adventure seekers, and transporters not to attempt the route after the cut-off date, stressing that emergency movement will only be allowed with prior approval and BRO’s clearance.

The warning gained urgency after a landslide near Mooling Bridge on Monday morning halted traffic for nearly three hours. Large rocks and debris rolled down the hillside, stranding vehicles until BRO teams and local police cleared the stretch with heavy machinery. One-way traffic was restored by noon, but officials cautioned that slope instability remains a serious concern.

Keylong SP Shivani advised motorists still travelling before the closure date to exercise maximum caution, noting that final debris clearance is underway.

The Manali–Leh highway, one of India’s highest and most weather-exposed routes, faces an annual winter shutdown due to heavy snowfall, avalanche risks, and prolonged sub-zero conditions. This year’s early signs of freezing and landslides point to another long closure ahead — a reminder that in the Himalayas, nature always sets the rules.