Snowfall Returns to Lahaul-Spiti and Manali, Tourists Rush to the Hills
Winter has made a grand entrance in Himachal Pradesh! On the crisp morning of October 22, fresh snowfall blanketed the stunning landscapes of Lahaul-Spiti, turning places like Sissu, Kokhsar, and the iconic Rohtang Pass into a dreamy white wonderland. Meanwhile, Manali and its surrounding areas welcomed chilly showers, adding a refreshing nip to the air and signaling the start of the winter season.
And guess what? Tourists are already on the move! With the upper reaches shimmering under a fresh coat of snow, travelers are flocking back to Manali to soak in the magic of the mountains.
Snow in Lahaul, Hope for Tourism
While the snowfall has temporarily slowed down farming activities in the Lahaul Valley, it’s also sparked hope for a bustling tourist season. Locals are optimistic that the snow-covered vistas will draw more visitors in the coming days. The Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for Kullu district, predicting more snow and rain over the next two days. That’s good news for tourism — not so much for your umbrella.
A yellow alert has also been issued for Chamba, Kangra, and Sirmaur, with chances of thunderstorms and rain on October 22 and 23.
Manali Hotels Filling Up Fast
Thanks to the recent snowfall, Manali’s tourism scene is buzzing again. Hotel owners report that occupancy rates have climbed to 60%, a welcome boost after a quiet spell. Many tourists are also venturing beyond Manali, heading through the Atal Tunnel to explore the snow-kissed beauty of Lahaul Valley.
To sweeten the deal, local businesses are rolling out attractive travel packages, making it even easier for visitors to enjoy the season. And yes — Rohtang Pass is open again, with daily crowds heading up to play in the snow.
Tourism Picks Up Steam
Local tourism veterans like Rakesh Rana, Chaman Kapoor, and Mohan Singh are thrilled. “The snowfall has brought back the buzz,” they say. “We’re seeing more footfall, and with the weather on our side, we’re hopeful for a strong season ahead.” Hoteliers are pulling out all the stops with special offers to make sure every visitor leaves with warm memories — and maybe a snowball or two.
