Himachal Gets New Year Gift: Snow-Capped Peaks and Long-Awaited Rainfall
The New Year arrived in Himachal Pradesh draped in white, as snowfall returned to the mountains after nearly three months of dry weather. On Wednesday night and Thursday, higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Kullu districts were sprinkled with fresh snow, lifting spirits among locals and tourists alike.
Snowfall Brings Cheer to Tourists and Locals
Koksar, Rohtang Pass, Atal Tunnel, and Udaipur in Lahaul-Spiti were blanketed in snow, while Chamba’s Manimahesh, Kugti Pass, and Pangi-Bharmour also sparkled under a fresh cover. By afternoon, snowflakes danced steadily at both ends of Koksar and the Atal Tunnel, delighting visitors who had come to ring in the New Year.
Traffic Restrictions for Safety
With roads turning dangerously slippery, police in Lahaul-Spiti banned vehicular movement beyond Gulaba to prevent accidents. Despite the restrictions, tourists soaked in the winter magic, capturing snowy selfies and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Snowfall Measurements
- Rohtang Pass: 12 cm
- Shinkula: 15 cm
- Kunzum Pass: 15 cm
- Zanskar-Samdo: 10 cm
- Baralacha: 20 cm
- Koksar: 5 cm
Rain Brings Relief to Farmers
Light showers touched Una, Solan, and Mandi, offering long-awaited relief to farmers who had been grappling with the prolonged dry spell. The drizzle was as welcome as the snow, promising better conditions for crops.
Weather Outlook
The Meteorological Department forecasts more rain and snowfall in hilly areas on January 1 and 2. Clear skies are expected on January 3 and 4, before another change in weather around January 5 and 6.
For Himachal, the New Year has begun on a refreshing note—snow for the mountains, rain for the fields, and joy for everyone who had been waiting for winter to truly arrive.
