On this page, we shall keep you updated about snow and snowfall status at Rohtang pass, Solang Valley, Manali and other tourist places of Kullu-Manali in 2023.
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4 September 2024: More snowfall on high altitude peaks around Manali. The night temperature has dipped below 15 degrees C while people have received respite from warm days.
27 August 2024: The peaks around Rohtang pass received fresh snow, possibly the season’s first snow, which resulted in sharp dip in temperature in Manali.
30 May 2024: Rohtang pass, Marhi, Gramphu, Koksar and Kunzum pass areas experienced fresh snowfall today. Rohtang pass and nearby areas already have enough snow. More snow added to the thrill of the tourists. However, not adhering to the disaster management guidelines weighed heavy on nearly 500 vehicles and their occupants as they got trapped after their vehicles started skidding on the road surface covered with fresh snow. Thankfully, all of them were evacuated safely with help of Manali police.
17 May 2024: As Marhi has been thrown open for tourists from today onwards, tourists can enjoy snow here. There is a lot of snow at Beas nullah near Marhi, 17km short of Rohtang pass. Rohtang pass, too, is expected to be open for tourists by end of this month or early June. Besides Marhi, tourists can see snow at Koksar in Lahaul valley, nearly 7km from Atal tunnel.
05 May 2024: Although Rohtang pass is still closed for all the vehicles, tourists can still see snow near Atal tunnel and in Lahaul valley. The current main snow point of Manali is at Koksar, about 40 km from Manali.
29 April 2024: Fresh snowfall at Solang valley, Rohtang, Kothi, Gulaba, Atal Tunnel, Lahaul valley, Hamta pass and nearby places. Many tourist vehicles are reportedly stranded at Atal tunnel.
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20 April 2024: Many places of Lahaul valley including Sissu and Koksar and Atal tunnel are receiving light snow. Rohtang pass and other higher areas in Manali are also experiencing snowfall.
31 March 2024: Its snowing in Solang valley, Rohtang pass, Atal tunnel, Gulaba, Marhi, Kothi, Hamta and nearby places. Snowfall is continuing since 30th March early morning.
21 March 2024: Its snowing again at higher places including Rohtang pass, Gulaba and near Atal tunnel. However, tourists can see snow at Solang valley and Atal tunnel and Lahaul valley (in 4X4 vehicles).
16 March 2024: Although roads to Rohtang pass and Lahaul valley have blocked following heavy snowfall, tourists can still enjoy snow at Solang valley, Kothi, Fatru and Hamta pass.
19 February 2024: Heavy snowfall occuring in Solang valley, Atal tunnel, Rohtang, Hamta, Gulaba, Sissu and entire Lahaul valley and most parts of Manali.
30 January 2024: Fresh snowfall at Manali, Solang valley, Atal tunnel, Rohtang pass, Lahaul valley, Hamta and nearby places.
6 December 2023: Snow is available for tourists at Atal tunnel, Dhundi, Gulaba and Lahaul valley.
16 October 2023: Fresh snowfall is occurring near Manali including Rohtang pass, Marhi, Atal tunnel, parts of Lahaul, Hamta and other higher places here.
14 June 2023: Rohtang pass, which recently opened for tourists, is the present snow point of Manali. Tourists can see several feet deep snow at Rohtang pass. The snow at Rohtang is expected to last for one more month.
30 May 2023: Fresh snowfall in the higher reaches of Manali including Rohtang pass, Bhrigu, Hamta pass and some higher parts of Lahaul. While tourists are not allowed to these areas, they can see snow at Marhi and Lahaul (Koksar) and northern part of Atal tunnel.
25 May 2023: Tourists can see snow at Atal tunnel’s north portal, Koksar, Gramphoo, Marhi and Beas Nala near Manali. Rohtang pass is still closed for all kinds of vehicles.
05 May 2023: After recent snowfall, fresh snow is available at Dhundi and near Atal tunnel and Gulaba. Rohtang and Marhi also received fresh snow but these areas are inaccessible due to closure of the road.
22 April 2023: Rohtang pass is still closed for tourists, but they can see snow at Atal tunnel, Dhundi, Gulaba and Hamta.
19 April 2023: Atal tunnel, Solang, Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang pass, Lahaul valley and Hamta are getting fresh snow since morning. The snowfall is expected to last for next 24 hours. Tourists can see snow and snowfall at Solang valley. The road beyond Solang and Kothi has been closed for safety reason.
25 March 2023: Heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Manali while moderate snowfall near Atal tunnel, Dhundi and upper parts of Solang and Hamta. The region is still getting fresh snowfall.
8 March 2023: The upper parts of Manali inlcuding Dhundi, Atal tunnel, Gulaba, Hamta, Rohtang, Marhi and nearby areas are getting fresh snow. More snowfall is predicted in the next few days.
15 March 2023: Chances of fresh snowfall in the next five days in the upper parts of Manali including near Atal tunnel, Hamta, Gulaba and Lahaul valley.
12 March 2023: Tourists can see snow at Fatru (Solang), Dhundi, Atal tunnel and Lahaul valley.
4 March 2023: Upper parts of Manali including Solang, Atal tunnel, Dhundi, Gulaba, Kothi, Marhi, Rohtang pass and pards of Lahaul receieved fresh snow. Tourists can enjoy snow at Solang valley.
11 February 2023: Fresh snowfall in Manali, Solang Valley, Hidimba Temple, Vashisht, Solang Valley, Atal tunnel, Kothi, Hamta Pass, Rohtang pass and Lahaul-Spiti.
20 January 2023: Heavy snowfall in Manali and nearby areas. Solang valley (including ski slopes) have received 1.5 feet more snow today. Atal tunnel has received more than 2 feet more snow. Manali town received nearly 6 inches of fresh snow. Hamta pass, Kothi, Gulaba, Rohtang pass, Jalori pass, Bijli Mahadev and all the higher regions in Kullu-Manali have received fresh snow. There is prediction of more snowfall till January 26. So, if you want to see fresh snowfall, chances are more high on January 24, 25 and 26. But kindly don’t drive while it’s snowing. Be extra careful; follow police instructions and don’t go to the higher areas. As roads can remain block, you can book a hotel in lower places; or book on arrival.
14 January 2023: Manali received heavy overnight snowfall. Residents and tourists woke up to a thick blanket of snow outside on Saturday morning. Manali town received 30cm (1 foot), Solang valley received 60cm (2 feet) and Atal tunnel’s south portal received over 75cm (2.5 feet) fresh snow. Kothi, Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang, Hamta pass, Jalori pass and nearby areas also received heavy snow. Barshaini, Malana, Tosh and many other upper areas in Parvati valley also received fresh snow.
13 January 2023: Manali town received very light snow while Solang valley and Kothi received 15cm each. Atal tunnel received 30cm fresh snow. Marhi, Gulaba, Rohtang and other upper areas near Manali have experienced heavy snow. Snowfall continues.
12 January 2023: Heavy snowfall was reported from the south portal of the Atal tunnel near Manali while nearly 15cm of snow at Solang valley. Tourists were allowed to go upto Solang to enjoy snow. Atal tunnel is still closed due to heavy snowfall.
11 January 2023: Fresh snowfall occurring at Atal tunnel, entire Lahaul-Spiti district, Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang pass, Hamta, Jalori pass and places above Solang valley (at 3pm). The snow line is slowly descending to lower parts. Manali town is also expected to see overnight snowfall.
09 January 2023: Light snowfall at Atal tunnel, Dhundi, Sissu, Gulaba, Rohtang pass and upper parts of Manali. More snowfall in predicted in the next few days.
30 December 2022: All the higher places in Manali received fresh snow on Friday. Solang valley, Gulaba, Kothi, Palchan, Nehru Kund, Shanag, Burua, Hamta pass and nearby places have received light snow. Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang pass, Jalori pass and Atal tunnel have experienced heavy snowfall. The entire Lahaul valley has also received fresh snow.
29 December 2022: As of 5:30 PM, it’s snowing in Solang valley, Atal tunnel, Lahaul valley, Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang pass, Hamta pass and all upper parts of Manali. Manali town and nearby areas are likely to get snow at night time. More snow is expected in the next 72 hours. Avoid going isolated and upper parts as it can be risky. Don’t drive in snowy conditions until very important.
26 December 2022: Fresh but very light snowfall occured at south portal of Atal tunnel today. More snowfall predicted in isolated area of upper parts of the state including Lahaul-Spiti district on December 29 and 30.
24 December 2022: There are little chances of light snowfall in Lahaul-Spiti district and upper parts of Kullu, Kinnaur, Shimla, Mandi, Chamba and Kangra districts on December 25 and 26. Tourists can expect little snow near Atal tunnel.
19 Dec 2022: No chance of fresh snowfall in the next few days as the weather is completely dry/sunny. These days tourists can see snow at the north portal of Atal tunnel (1 to 1.5 hrs drive from Manali). However, there are some chances of fresh snowfall after 25 December for 3-4 days as a fresh wave of western disturbance is expected to hit the western Himalayas from 24 December.
14 Dec 2022: As Rohtang pass is closed for tourists, you can see snow at north portal of Atal tunnel (32 KM from Manali). Being dry weather, there are no 100% chances of snowfall in the next few days.
8 Dec 2022: Weatherman has predicted light snowfall in parts of Lahaul valley, Rohtang pass, Atal tunnel and nearby areas on Friday and Saturday (9 and 10 December).
20 Nov 2022: There is a lot of snow at Rohtang pass but the road is blocked and closed for traffic due to safety reasons. Tourists can see snow at Gulaba, upper parts of Solang, Atal tunnel and Lahaul valley. Follow local advisories and don’t put life in trouble if self driving.
14 November 2022: More snowfall at Rohtang pass, Marhi, Gulaba, Kothi, Atal tunnel, Solang valley and nearby areas. Rohtang pass received nearly 2-foot of fresh snow on Monday. South portal of Atal tunnel in Manali has received 1-foot fresh snow. Entire Lahaul valley has also received fresh snow.
02 November 2022: There are high chances of fresh snowfall at Rohtang pass and nearby areas on November 5 to 7. However, snowfall depends on local conditions like temperature and atmospheric pressure. Follow the local police’s guidelines as snow can make the roads extremely slippery and dangerous.
30 Oct 2022: Tourists can see snow at Rohtang pass, Baralacha pass and Shinkula pass. Kindly avoid travel in night time due to extreme cold and slippery road conditions.
12 Oct 2022: More snowfall occurred in the night time.
11 Oct 2022: Rohtang pass has witnessed fresh snowfall today. Marhi, Rahni Nala, Rahla fall and places above Gulaba including Bhrigu and Dashaur have received fresh snow.
16 July 2022: There is no snow at Rohtang pass, Baralacha pass, Hamta, Dhundi, Atal tunnel area, Sissu, Koksar or any other tourist place here. Snow is reachable only after hiking/trekking on the peaks. Fresh snowfall can occur anytime after September.
24 May 2022: Rohtang pass, Marhi, North portal of Atal tunnel and many parts of Lahaul valley including Sissu, Gondhla and Koksar experienced fresh snowfall.
24 April 2022: The high peaks around Manali are getting light fresh snow. However, the mid and lower parts did not get snow. Tourists can see snow at Koksar, near Sissu and Marhi these days.
14 April 2022: Now tourists can see snow at Marhi, Beas Nala, Rahla fall and upper Gulaba as Kullu administration today decided to allow tourist movement upto Marhi, just below Rohtang pass. Vehicles with valid permit will be allowed to go beyond Gulaba check post. Rohtang pass Permit can be booked online at website https://rohtangpermits.nic.in
13 April 2022: Rohtang pass, Marhi, Beas Nala, Gramphu, Baralacha pass, Darcha and nearby areas received fresh snow today. More snowfall expected in next 2-3 days.
12 April 2022: Tourists can see snow at North portal of Atal tunnel, Koksar and many parts of Lahaul valley. There is no snow at Solang valley, Kothi and near Manali town. Rohtang pass, Kothi, Baralacha pass, Shinkula pass and nearby places have several feet deep snow but are still closed for tourists.
19 March 2022: There is no fresh snowfall in recent days and weather is dry with bright sun. However, tourists can enjoy in a lot of snow at Solang, Atal tunnel, Kothi, Hamta pass in Manali and entire Lahaul valley. Rohtang pass has more than 10-foot deep snow but is not reachable these days.
28 February 2022: More snowfall predicted in upper parts of Manali including Solang valley, Atal tunnel, Kothi, Hamta pass, Rohtang pass on March 1 to 3.
24 February 2022: Manali, Solang valley, Kothi, Atal tunnel, Hamta pass, Rohtang pass, Gulaba, Old Manali, Palchan, Sissy and entire Lahaul valley received fresh snow.
12 February 2022: It’s crystal clear blue skies with good sun in day time. However, tourists can enjoy snow at Solang, Kothi, Hamta pass and nearby areas these days. Covered under thick blanket of snow, Atal tunnel and Rohtang pass are out of bounds for tourists due to safety and other technical reasons. Road to Rohtang pass is expected to open in late April. Areas near Manali town also have some snow.
30 January 2022: More snowfall is predicted after February 2. These days tourists can see snow at Solang valley, Kothi, Hamta, Nehru Kund, Palchan, Jalori pass and most parts in upper reaches. Atal tunnel is still closed for tourists due to the possibility of avalanches in the area. The road is also very slippery.
23 January: Manali, Solang, Atal tunnel, Kothi, Hamta, Rohtang pass, Shimla, Dalhousie, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Seraj (Mandi) and upper parts of Sirmaour and Kangra districts have received fresh snow. Many areas have received heavy snow.
9 January 2022: Manali, Solang, Kothi, Dhundi, Hamta, Atal tunnel, Tirthan, Shangarh, Jalori pass and nearby areas have received heavy snow.
5 January 2022: Heavy snowfall in Manali, Rohtang pass, Lahaul Valley, Atal Tunnel, Solang valley and nearby areas. More snowfall predicted in next few days.
2 January 2022: Fresh snowfall forecast for Manali including Solang, Atal tunnel, Kothi, Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang pass, Lahaul valley, Hamta pass, Jalori pass and nearby areas in the next few days. At present tourists can see snow at north portal of Atal tunnel.
22 December 2021: More snowfall predicted in higher regions including Atal tunnel, Sissu and entire Lahaul valley, Rohtang pass, Hamta, higher reaches of Kinnaur, Shimla, Mandi, Kangra, Sirmaur and Chamba from December 23 to 27. The mid-hills of Himachal including Manali town is also expected to get moderate snow. However, a widespread heavy snowfall is predicted for December 26 and 27.
21 December 2021: Tourists can see snow at Dhundi, Atal tunnel, Sissu and other higher areas near Manali. Rohtang pass is closed for tourists.
17 December 2021: Manali town witnessed season’s second snowfall. Solang, Rohtang pass, Kothi, Gulaba, Marhi, Atal tunnel, Lahaul valley, sissu, Shangarh, Jalori pass, Hamta pass, Sethan and other higher regions of Kullu-Manali have received fresh snow.
6 December 2021: Manali town and Solang Valley received the first snowfall of the season today. Kothi, Palchan, Bahang, Dhungari, Old Manali, Vashisht also received fresh snow. Both the ends of the Atal tunnel have received 1.5 ft (45cm) snow while Solang received 9 inches (22cm) of snow. Rohtang pass, Marhi and Gulaba received approximately 2.5 ft, 2ft and 1.5ft snow respectively. Jalori pass has also received 3 inch snow. Hamta pass and Sethan are also covered with a white blanket. Sissu, Koksar, Keylong, Udaipur, Darcha, Jispa and Kaza also received snow.
3 December 2021: Snowfall at both ends of Atal tunnel, upper parts of Solang, Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang pass, Hamta pass, Koksar, Sissu, Keylong, Udaipur, Jispa, Darcha, Kaza and nearby areas. Tourist vehicles are not being allowed to go beyond Solang valley. Local 4X4 vehicles are being allowed to use Atal tunnel. More snowfall predicted on Sunday and Monday.
2 December 2021: Fresh snowfall at Rohtang pass, Marhi, north portal of Atal tunnel, Koksar, Sissu, Darcha and nearby areas. Considering the past events when tourists (who have no experience of driving on snow) went out of control (out of thrill and happiness) after watching the snowfall and got stranded near Atal tunnel when their vehicles started skidding on road, the tourist vehicles are not being allowed to go beyond Solang valley (taking precautionary measures).
30 November 2021: Snowfall predicted at Rohtang pass, Koksar, Sissu and Atal tunnel area in the next few days (December 1 to December 6).
21 November 2021: Himachal is reeling under dry weather conditions with no chance of snowfall in the next few days. While snow is available at Rohtang pass, tourists will not be able to see it from Monday onwards as Kullu administration has ordered to stop traffic movement on Manali-Leh highway beyond Kothi due to extreme cold and deposit of ice on the road surface at many places which can result in a mishap. The cold wave conditions during morning, evening and night time are prevailing.
7 November 2021: Currently it’s dry spell but Rohtang pass has enough snow for tourists. Tourists can visit Rohtang pass and enjoy the snow. Don’t go to upper parts, away from other tourists, as it can put you in trouble. Bring warm clothes and proper shoes.
22 October 2021: More snowfall predicted on higher reaches of Himachal including Rohtang pass, Marhi, many parts of Lahaul including north portal of Atal tunnel from October 23 to 25 and 27 to 29. These days tourists can see snow at Rohtang pass.
18 October 2021: Rohtang pass experienced more snowfall today. Rohtang has received over 25cm of snow in the last 36 hours. Marhi has also received some snow. North portal of Atal tunnel also received fresh snow. While Manali-Rohtang pass road has been closed for tourists, hundreds of tourists enjoyed fresh snowfall at north portal of Atal tunnel.
17 October 2021: Rohtang pass has received fresh snowl today. Snowfall is expected to continue till Monday evening. However, road to Rohtang can be blocked by administration for security reasons.
25 September 2021: The snow has melted away at Rohtang pass. Now tourists can see snow on the nearby peaks from a certain distance but cannot touch it as it’s too high at upper reaches.
23 September 2021: Rohtang pass receives another spell of snow today. The pass experienced light snowfall. Lucky tourists could enjoy the fresh snowfall.
13 September 2021: Rohtang pass has received first snowfall of the season. Rohtang is receiving snow since Sunday evening and it’s still continuing. The mighty pass has received nearly 10cm of fresh snow. As the lower regions are receiving heavy rains which have triggered some landslides, tourists are advised not to visit Rohtang on Monday. Or follow the travel advisory being issued by Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti administration.
13 June 2021: With the rise in temperature, there are a few chances of snowfall on the hills. Snow is not available at all the major tourist destinations. Snow is available only at Rohtang pass. Snow depth at some places near Rohtang has is 5 to 10ft. Unfortunately, administration is not issuing permits to visit Rohtang pass. Tourists reaching Manali are being left disappointed after they are returning back without visiting Rohtamg pass and watching the snow. The online permit system to visit Rohtang pass is expected to be opened in a few days.
31 May: Snow at Rohtang pass
7 May: Rain, snow likely
23 April: Snowfall in Manali town
22 April: Heavy snowfall
17 April: Snowall Prediction
17 April: Fresh snowfall
02 April: Snowfall prediction
22 March: Fresh snowfall
19 March: Snow and rain forecast
9 March: Snowfall prediction
4 March: Snowfall prediction
25 February: Weather pattern disappoints
23 February: Snowfall week
22 February: Snowfall forecast
10 February: Dry weather
3 February: More Snowfall
1 February: Snowfall
29 January: Light snowfall
25 January: Dry weather
23 January: Snowfall on hills
21 January: Snowfall likely on January 23 and 24
15 January: Dry spell continues
08 January: Sunny Days
05 January: Snowfall continues
28 December: More snowfall
24 December: Snowfall warning
19 December: Dry weather
12 December: Heavy snowfall
06 December: Heavy snowfall predictions
26 November: 3-foot snowfall at Solang
24 November: Snowfall continues in Himachal
23 November: Snowfall at Solang, Rohtang
16 November: Season's first snowfall in Manali
Tourists enjoy snow at Solang valley near Manali on Monday
15 November: More snowfall
2 November: Half foot snowfall at Rohtang pass
31 October: More snowfall at Rohtang pass
25 October: Season's first snowfall at Rohtang pass
22 October: Dry Weather
31 May: Snowfall continues
26 April: Snowfall on higher reaches
18 April: Snowfall at Solang and Rohtang
28 March: Moderate snowfall
11 March: Snowfall continues
5 March: More snowfall
17 February: Snowfall forecast
14 February: Dry spell continues
28 January: More snowfall in Manali
21 January: 20cm snowall at Manali
13 January: 15cm snowall at Solang
09 January: Manali freezes after snowfall
07 January: Heavy snowfall in Manali
06 January: Heavy snowfall warning
27 December: Snowfall likely on New Year eve
20 December: More snowfall
14 December: Overnight snowfall in Manali
13 December: 2.5-foot snowfall at Solang
12 December: Season's first snowfall in Manali
4 December: Tourists enjoy snow at Solang and Kothi
27 November: Solang valley gets snow
21 November: More snowfall
14 November: Snowfall at Rohtang pass
10 November: Manali-Keylong road to open on Monday
07 November: Season's first snowfall at Solang valley
03 November: Snow blocks Rohtang highway
9 October: Rohtang receives fresh snow
Update on January 24, 2021
Snow to elude Himachal in January
The popular tourist destinations of Himachal, including Shimla, Manali and Dalhousie, will not witness snowfall in January this season, much to the disappointment of both tourists and hoteliers.
While Lahaul valley has received heavy snow since Saturday, just before the two-month-long Snow Festival in the valley which is starting on Monday, rest parts of Himachal are still waiting for snowfall. As peak winter season has almost passed, there is possibility that most places in Himachal will not experience snowfall this season. According to meteorological department, there are no chances of cloud formation this whole month which means no snowfall.
“A western disturbance had hit Himachal on Friday. Now weather will remain generally clear in the next week with no chance of snow,” Shimla meteorological centre director Manmohan Singh said.
The higher reaches of Himachal have received good snow. The peaks will continue to receive snow till April. But the middle areas, which include the tourist resorts and major apple belts, receive snow only till February and in rare conditions in March. The middle areas have received just traces or have not received snow this season. Adequate snowfall in winter season ensures bumper tourism in summer season and storage of enough fresh water.
“Kufri and Solang have received little snow which will melt away in a few days. The winter season, which brought frequent spells of snowfall initially in higher areas, has been disappointing this year. Fortunately, tourists will be able to see snow at Gulaba after it disappears from lower areas,” a hotelier Rakesh Thakur said.
Thousands of tourists have thronged Himachal due to long weekend with hope to see snowfall. A few tourists could see snow at Solang and Kufri on Saturday but the weather left others disappointed. Taking advantage of Republic Day holiday, a large number of tourists entered Himachal on Sunday but there are almost no chance of snowfall on Sunday as western disturbance is moving away from the state.
Shimla, Manali and Dalhousie towns have received a little snow earlier this month which had disappeared in couple of days. The hoteliers are praying for at least one spell of heavy snowfall. However, according to met office, chances are very rare that their wish will be fulfilled very soon.
Update on January 09, 2020
Tourists have tough time as snow blocks roads in Manali
As heavy snowfall in Manali blocked all the roads here since Tuesday evening, thousands of tourists remained stranded in the roads for hours without meal and water.
While heavy snowfall brought joy to some tourists and farmers, it has also bought troubles with it. A large number of tourists got stuck between Kullu and Manali on Tuesday night as the road had become slippery after thick layer of snow deposited on the surface. While many tourists missed their buses, trains and flights, many had to walk on snow for hours to reach destination along with kids and elderly. Snowfall continued for the whole day on Wednesday and tourists got no relief.
The road became motorable from Kullu to Aluground, 5km from here, but vehicles could not move beyond it for the whole day. This resulted in long traffic jam and hundreds of tourist vehicles got stranded here. Many tourists parked their cars on the roadsides and searched for shelter to spend the night. Almost all the hotels, guesthouses and homestays between Kullu and Manali were fully occupied by tourists on Tuesday late night.
Nearly 40 tourist buses leaves Manali for Delhi and similar number of buses come to Manali from Delhi every day. The tourist buses could not come beyond Patlikuhal, 18km from here, and tourists were dropped in the mid-way. Similarly, thousands of tourists stuck in Manali had to reach Patlikuhal to catch their bus to Delhi.
As only four-wheel drive vehicles were able to cut through deep snow on road, most of such vehicles which included private number vehicles, took advantage of the helplessness of the tourists by charging extremely high fare. Most vehicles charged Rs five thousand to ten thousand to cover distance of just 18km. As tourists had no choice, they even travelled in jeeps that are meant for goods.
Given the worsening situation, district police came into action and deployed jawans on Kullu-Manali national highway and nearby areas. Police started challaning vehicles for overcharging tourists and vehicle movement towards Manali was stopped completely.
Kullu SP Gaurav Singh said, “Vehicular movement has been stopped beyond green tax barrier at Aluground as road is slippery and unsafe beyond this point. Volvo buses are being stopped at Patlikuhal. Tourists can move towards Manali in four-wheel drive vehicles. To ensure that tourists have no trouble, a team of police and assistant RTO has been constituted which is checking overcharging. 14 such vehicles were challaned for Rs 13,800 in the evening.”
Manali has received over 60cm snow since Tuesday evening and snow accumulation at Solang valley is over 90cm. Over 50 roads in Kullu are blocked and over 300 transformers are shut, plunging many regions into darkness. The electricity board employees were trying to restore power amid the heavy snowfall. The Manali-Solang road is also blocked and tourists mostly spent the day at their hotels. The snowfall that started on Tuesday was continuing till Wednesday late evening.
Local youth lend helping hand to tourists in distress
Update on January 07, 2020
Heavy snowfall brings both happiness and trouble in Himachal
Heavy snowfall crippled life in many districts of Himachal as traffic remained suspended on over 500 roads, extreme cold conditions forced residents to stay indoors, electricity lines crippled in many areas and traffic crippling on many national highways on Tuesday.
This is the first widespread and heavy snowfall of the season that bought both trouble and joy to the people. Solang and Kothi in Manali received over 60cm snow and Manali town received 25cm snow. State capital Shimla, Dalhousie, Kalpa and Keylong received 15cm each. Some high altitude areas have received over 90cm snow in the last 24 hours.
Over 1,000 tourists had stranded after snowfall at Solang valley of Manali on Monday night. They were rescued in the late night by police and local residents.
Tourists enjoy snowfall in Manali
Vehicles had started to slip on the Kullu-Manali and Shimla-Kufri highways on Tuesday evening. A large number of tourist vehicles had stuck in the traffic as vehicles were not moving on slippery road. Many tourists were walking on foot to reach their destinations.
Given the seriousness of the matter, Manali police have restricted tourist movement beyond Bahang, 5km from here. Tourists are asked to enjoy snowfall at their hotel or near the town.
In Shimla, the administration is struggling to keep the city’s roads open by spreading sand on snow. Chopal, Theog, Rohru, Kumarsen and many other major roads of Shimla are still blocked. The Anni-Kullu highway is also blocked at Jalori pass.
The power transmission lines in many parts of the state have snapped while many transformers are shut, plunging villages into darkness. Dozens of water schemes have also damaged, resulting in water shortage in higher areas.
While snow has brought problems with it for some people, it brought happiness among tourists, hoteliers, farmers and fruit growers of the state. Thousands of tourists enjoyed snowfall in Manali, Shimla, Kinnaur, Dalhousie and many other tourist destinations.
Administrations in Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Chamba, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti have issued an advisory to residents and tourists not to venture close to avalanche and landslide-prone areas.
According to Shimla meteorological centre director Manmohan Singh, the mid and high hills of state will continue to get snow and rain till the next 24 hours. “The weather will clear up after Thursday for a couple of days and another western disturbance will hit the state that will bring more rain and snow,” he said.
Update on January 06, 2020
Coldest night of Manali at minus 5 degrees C, snowfall warning issued
, snowfall warning issued
The residents of Manali on Sunday woke up to frozen water pipes as the town witnessed the coldest night of the season at minus 5 degrees Celsius. The tourist town is on an alert as meteorological centre has predicted heavy snowfall in next 48 hours.
Surprisingly, Manali received only some traces of snow but lower parts of Kullu district have received 5 to 15cm of snow in the last 36 hours. The region experienced mild snowfall in the night time but the weather cleared up in the midnight resulting in an extremely chilly night. Water sources were frozen and all the things under open sky were found to be covered under a layer of ice and frost.
The bright sunshine in the morning provided some relief to the residents but dark clouds were hovering over the sky till the noon and the rest of the day was again very chilly. According to officials from electricity board, Manali had need of 20 megawatt of electricity until mid December which is the peak load of last year but the dip in temperature caused more demand of the power which has reached 26 megawatt.
Thousands of tourists staying in Manali are enjoying the cold climate here. The tourism event Winter Carnival is also continuing amidst bone chilling cold here. The cultural programmes and winter queen beauty pageants are being organized till 10pm every day.
Keylong recorded lowest of minus 11.6 degrees C followed by Kalpa (-7.5), Kufri (-5), Dalhousie (-1.2), Shimla (-0.7) and Dharamshala (2.2). Temperature at Kaza in Spiti is below minus 25 degrees C. The sources of Beas and Satluj have also started to freeze. The Chenab river in Lahaul-Spiti is covered with ice at some places where water flow is slow.
Shimla meteorological centre director Manmohan singh said the minimum temperature has decreased by 2 to 3 degrees C in the last 24 hours. He said the mid and high hills of the state will get heavy snow in next two days.
Kullu administration has issued an advisory regarding heavy snowfall in the district till January 8. Kullu additional district magistrate Akshay Sood said the district is likely to receive heavy rain and snow. “All the government departments have been directed to be prepared with necessary equipments at identified hazard areas. General public and tourists would be prevented from venturing close to avalanche and landslide prone areas,” he said.
Update on December 20, 2019
More snowfall on Himachal hills
After few warm sunny days, the high peaks of Himachal on Friday experienced another spell of snowfall while lover parts received showers of rain.
Lahaul valley, parts of Kinnaur and upper Manali also received fresh snow. Keylong received 5cm snow and Koksar in Lahaul received about 10cm snow. Rohtang pass is also receiving heavy snow since Thursday evening. Over 10ft of snow is expected to be accumulated on the pass. Kalpa in Kinnaur and Gulaba in Manali also received some snowflakes.
After some pleasant sunny days in last few days, the day temperature in the state has again dipped sharply. The maximum day temperature in the state is 6 to 7 degrees C below the normal temperature during this time of the season. At minus 6 degrees C, Keylong was the coldest in the state.
The meteorological centre, Shimla, has predicted more rain and snowfall on mid and high hills of the state in next 24 hours.
Update on December 12, 2019
Himachal hills wear white mantle; season’s first snowfall in Manali
The tourist town of Manali on Thursday witnessed first snowfall of the season, much to the delight of tourists and hoteliers. Many other parts of Himachal are also receiving fresh snowfall since morning.
Rohtang pass has received over 60cm of fresh snow. Keylong in Lahaul (15cm), Solang in Manali (40cm), Manali (10cm), Kalpa (20cm), Kufri (10cm), Dalhousie (5cm), Jalori pass (45cm) have worn a white mantle and the snowfall is still continuing. Higher peaks of the state have received very heavy snow.
While Manali experienced first snowfall of the season, some parts are lashed by very heavy snowfall. Shimla town also witnessed some snowflakes. Entire Lahaul-Spiti district, upper parts of Kullu, Shimla, Kinnaur, Sirmour, Chamba, Kangra and Mandi district are getting snow since Thursday morning. Met Centre has predicted more snowfall in the next 24 hours. The intense cold waves have gripped the entire Himachal.
The tourists at Manali, Kufri and Dalhousie enjoyed the fresh snowfall all day. In Manali, tourists were seen screaming out of thrill at their hotels. A large number of tourists thronged Solang valley to see the fresh snowfall. But as over 40cm of snow accumulated in the valley and vehicles started to stuck, all tourist vehicles came back to Manali. Many tourists thronged Mall Road of Manali to enjoy the snowfall.
Tourists enjoy fresh snowfall in Manali
Manali deputy superintendent of police Sher Singh Thakur said tourist movement beyond Palchan had been stopped due to safety reasons. “We have warned tourists not to go to higher places,” he said.
The snowfall has blocked dozens of roads of the state. The Manali-Keylong highway which was opened to traffic on Monday after efforts of two weeks by Border Roads Organization has again blocked after heavy snowfall at Rohtang pass and the Lahaul valley. The Anni-Kullu highway has blocked after snowfall at Jalori pass. Snowfall in many parts of Chamba district including Jot and Sach pass have affected traffic on many routes. Traffic is crippled in upper Shimla, most parts of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur district.
The vehicles started slipping on the snow accumulated on the road in many parts of Manali in the evening. A Himachal Roads Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus carrying a large number of passengers from Dharamshala to Jyuri slipped on the snow at Narkanda. The passengers had a narrow escape as a bus collided with a parapet. In a similar case, nearly 20 passengers had a narrow escape as HRTC bus running on Baag-Haripurdhar route skidded on the snow. The driver managed to control the bus and prevented it from falling into a deep gorge.
Tourists enjoy fresh snowfall at Mall Road Manali
The snowfall and rain have come as a boon to the farmers and fruit growers. Snowfall and low temperature are mandatory for good crop in cold belt of the state.
The hoteliers are also happy that Himachal has enough snow in store where tourists can enjoy the snow. Snow is the backbone of tourism in Himachal Pradesh. Hoteliers expect an increase in tourist inflow in coming days.
According to meteorological centre, Shimla, mid and high hills of the state will receive more snow and rain in the next 24 hours. “The day temperature in the state is 2 to 3 degrees below the normal temperature during this time of the season,” he said.
Update on December 4, 2019
BRO takes another chance to clear snow from Rohtang pass
Manali: Entire Lahaul valley is completely disconnected by road from other parts of the state since November 25 when Rohtang tunnel was closed for vehicular movement due to continuing concrete works and Rohtang pass witnessed very heavy snowfall. Thousands of tribals are now waiting for the opening of the Rohtang pass highway.
The Border Roads Organization (BRO), which has cleared snow from Rohtang pass to connect valley at least three times in November, is again clearing snow from the highway. Every time the road is cleared of snow, another spell of snowfall blocks it. BRO jawans are taking another chance to clear snow from the highway. In three days, the organization has cleared snow till Marhi from Manali side while its machines have moved beyond Koksar in Lahaul. The highway is expected to open to chosen all-wheel-drive vehicles in two or three days.
A BRO official said they decided to clear snow from the highway for the convenience of the residents of Lahaul valley. “Our jawans and machines are working hard to clear a thick layer of snow under adverse conditions. Working in chilly weather with the possibility of avalanche and landslide is very difficult. We shall keep the highway open as soon as it will be possible,” he said.
However, tourists will not be allowed to go to Rohtang pass due to threats like blizzards, extreme cold, possibility of slipping of vehicles on the ice, avalanches and landslides. Tourists can see snow at Solang valley, Fatru, Anjani Mahadev, Kothi and Gulaba in Manali.
Update on November 21, 2019
Nine tankers dare to supply fuel to Lahaul; one stranded at Rohtang
While no vehicle is daring to ply frozen Manali-Rohtang highway and when all oil companies refused to ferry diesel for Border Road Organization (BRO), Indian Oil Corporation Ltd sent its nine oil tankers to Lahaul, of which one has stranded at Rohtang pass.
Active blizzards and continuing fresh snowfall has covered the highway with thick layer of snow. BRO was in dire need of diesel to stock at its Stingri and Udaipur stations so that its machines keep working in winter season. According to officials, they contacted all the companies to supply them fuel but all refused. Finally, Indian Oil Corp Ltd agreed to send its nine bowsers.
“Eight bowsers successfully crossed Rohtang pass over to Lahaul valley on Wednesday but one has stuck in snow near Rohtang pass,” 38 Border Road Task Force commander Col Uma Shankar said. He added that Indian Oil Corporation, despite knowning rough weather conditions at Rohtang, helped the organization in the national interest. I personally congratulated its officials and the courageous drivers,” he said.
The Manali-Keylong highway has again blocked due to fresh snowfall at Rohtang pass. BRO has cleared snow from the highway multiple times after snowfall in last few days but another spell of snowfall blocks it. A large number of vehicles, mostly trucks ferrying apple from Lahaul to Kullu, had stranded in Lahaul for a long time which were evacuated on Wednesday. Taking precautionary measures, traffic movement towards Rohtang has been stopped. BRO will try to evacuate stranded bowser after weather condition improves.
Update on November 19, 2019
Avalanche, blizzards hit Rohtang, Keylong freezes at minus 6.4 degrees C
While western disturbances are set to bring more snow to Western Himalayas in next few days, the current crystal clear sky has triggered blizzards, avalanches and intense cold at Rohtang and Lahaul valley.
At minus 6.4 degrees Celsius minimum temperature and 4.8 degrees C maximum temperature, Keylong in Lahaul has frozen completely. The temperature is even below at Koksar and Rohtang pass. The night temperature of Manali on Monday slipped to 1.4 degree C and it was 8.6 degrees C in Shimla. At 2 degrees C, Kalpa in Kinnaur also recorded a sharp fall in night temperature.
The snow covered mountains under sunny sky have resulted in high velocity winds at Rohtang pass which have activated blizzards. The power snow is flying everywhere making it difficult for Border Roads Organization to clear snow from the highway which is blocked since November 14. A few vehicles are still stuck near Rohtang pass since then.
38 Border Road Task Force commander Colonel Uma Shankar said the BRO jawans encountered a small avalanche near Rohtang on Monday. “We had cleared the snow till Rahni nullah on Monday, snow has again covered it. High velocity winds are bringing snow on the highway and undoing our efforts. Temperature is too low. We are still continuing with the work,” he said.
As Rohtang pass is closed for all for six days, a bus service was started across Rohtang tunnel to provide relief to residents in emergency. But, taking advantage of the service, a large number of people are applying for the service and many are not getting the seat. Meanwhile, tourists are not being allowed to go beyond Gulaba.
Update on November 14, 2019
Heavy snowfall warning in HP, snow blocks Rohtang again
A day after Manali-Keylong highway was opened to vehicular traffic, another spell of snowfall at Rohtang pass has blocked the highway. Some vehicles also got stuck near the pass and were sent back to lower altitude on Thursday evening.
The meteorological centre, Shimla, has issued warning of snowfall on high peaks of Himachal in the next 24 hours. Kullu, Mandi and Lahaul-Spiti district administrations have sounded alert and requested residents and tourists not to go to the higher areas. The high altitude areas including many parts of Lahaul valley are receiving snow since the afternoon on Thursday. A large number of vehicles from Manali and Lahaul traversed Rohtang but a few got stuck in the snow.
The Border Roads Organization (BRO) officials requested administration to stop movement of the vehicles for safety reasons in the afternoon when vehicles started slipping on the road. The officials said fresh snow has covered the road and driving has become extremely dangerous. The visibility on the pass too had decreased to dangerous level. Some supply trucks had also stuck near Rahni nullah. The vehicles were brought down to lower altitude after pushing them one by one.
Two rescue posts on either side of Rohtang – one at Koksar and another at Marhi – have also been established on Thursday. The posts will start functioning from Friday. Each post includes mountaineers-cum-rescue experts, police, radio operator, medical officer, cook and helper. The rescue posts will control traffic movement towards Rohtang pass and will not allow people to go towards the pass during bad weather conditions. They will also monitor the movement of the pedestrians and will carry out rescue operation in case of emergency. All the vehicles and pedestrians will have to ensure registration in the both the posts before and after traversing the pass to ensure nobody is in stuck at the pass.
Manali sub-divisional magistrate Raman Gharsangi said tourist vehicles are not being allowed to go towards areas under snowfall. “Police, BRO, PWD and all other departments are on alert. No vehicles would be allowed to go towards Rohtang on Friday,” he said.
As the Lahaul valley has again cut off from rest part of the state and people are having trouble in travelling to other districts, a delegation of Congress officials from the valley forwarded a memorandum to deputy commissioner at Keylong. They demanded bus service across the Rohtang tunnel twice in a week and asked to start heli-ambulance service for the patients.
Update on November 13, 2019
After tribals agitate for not letting enter tunnel, Rohtang pass opens to traffic
A day after hundreds of tribals shouted slogans against the government and administration after they were not allowed entry into under-construction Rohtang tunnel till midnight, 110 vehicles traversed snow covered Rohtang pass after putting lives at risk on Wednesday.
Citing risk to life, Rohtang tunnel management didn’t allow entry to over 50 vehicles on Tuesday. In the midnight, they started shouting slogans against the state government, their MLA and administration. The tribals, including many elderly and women, did not go back and kept insisting to allow them under sub-zero temperatures without meal. Finally, they were allowed to use the tunnel but tunnel management has made it clear that they will allow only emergency cases.
Border Roads Organization (BRO) had cleared snow from Manali-Rohtang-Keylong highway on Monday evening. But as a thin layer of snow and ice is still covering the road, a large number of vehicles had to return back to Lahaul after failed attempt to negotiate the steep slippery road from Koksar to Rohtang pass. Just 12 all-wheel drive vehicles successfully reached Manali. On Wednesday, 110 vehicles from either side managed to traverse Rohtang pass.
Manali sub-divisional magistrate Raman Gharsangi said 78 vehicles went from Manali side to Lahaul while 32 vehicles came from opposite side. “Police and BRO personnel are helping vehicles in crossing the pass safely. We have requested people to use this route only in case of emergency. There is forecast of more snowfall in coming days. We shall again close the road in such circumstances,” he said.
Rohtang is still covered under 2 to 3ft of snow. BRO has cleared snow to accommodate one vehicle at a time. So, one way traffic arrangement has been made at the pass. The road is very slippery and vehicles are not getting enough traction to move ahead. The road is steep with dozens of hairpin bends. There is always risk of vehicles to slip into gorges. Blizzards, high velocity winds and extreme cold are other challenges.
A BRO official said the vehicles were skidding on the road due to its icing and were having trouble in getting traction. “Till last report, the vehicles had reached near Rohtang pass and were on way to Koksar,” he said.
Update on November 04, 2019
Heavy snowfall at Rohtang pass disconnects Lahaul valley
Heavy snowfall at Rohtang pass and nearby areas left the Lahaul valley disconnected from rest of the state since Sunday evening. Many people and vehicles have also stuck in the valley.
Border Roads Organization (BRO) official claimed that they have cleared snow from the Manali-Rohtang-Keylong highway by Monday evening but driving on the slippery road is still a big risk. As temperature too has dipped below freezing point after the snowfall, the road surface has turned ice.
The higher reaches of Himachal are getting snow since Sunday morning. Traffic movement on Manali-Rohtang-Keylong highway was stopped in the Sunday afternoon. The region experienced heavy snowfall overnight. Both Baralacha pass and Rohtang pass have received over 40cm of snow.
The snow line has descended below 9,000ft. The lower regions of Gulaba and the portals of Rohtang tunnel also received some snow. While Koksar village of Lahaul received about 15cm snow, most villages of the valley woke up to a thin layer of snow.
A large number of people who were on the other side of Rohtang have stuck since Sunday. Similarly, a large number of residents of Lahaul are still in Kullu for winter shopping. Bringing relief to the people, BRO started clearing snow from Rohtang on Monday morning.
Manali sub-divisional magistrate Raman Gharsangi said traffic on Rohtang road came to standstill after around 1.5ft of snowfall. “Opening of the highway will totally depend on weather conditions and inputs from BRO officials. All vehicles including tourists are not being allowed beyond Gulaba. Public safety is our priority,” he said.
Hundreds of tourists who had left Manali for snow point to see snow on Monday had to return back from Gulaba. 400 diesel and 154 petrol engine vehicles had booked permit to go to Rohtang pass on Monday after paying Rs 500 as permit fee and Rs 50 as environment compensation. A total of Rs 3,04,700 were paid by the vehicles to be able to cross Gulaba check post. As there is no provision of refunding the amount, the taxi operators and tourists were disappointed.
BRO commander at 38 Border Road Task Force, Col Uma Shankar, said the jawans with help of machines have removed snow from Rohtang on Sunday evening. “Manali-Keylong link is open. Civil administration has been informed that vehicles can be allowed to move,” he said.
Comments
Is Covid Negative Report required to enter Himachal ? Are there any queues at the borders or police checking at multiple stops ? Any other documents required to enter Himachal if any please do tell.
Hi, I am planning to visit Manali from 18th-22nd December,2020 to experience snowfall. Any chances of snowfall at Rohtang pass or Solang valley?
Also, are the tourists spot closed at this time?
What would be the best place to stay, so that snowfall might be experienced at hotel?
Thanks in advance!
what about the roads ?? I have heard about NH3..but I have never been to manali bcz I am affraid of these narrow roads..I really want to see snow..So I will stop at any point where there is snow. Will I get to see snow without getting on to those narrow roads ??
Any chances of current snowfall manali till 21 dec?
Is there any chances of snowfall in manali till 21 dec 2020
I am planning to visit
Manali from 28th December to 03rd Jan. Could you please help with the weather during that period? So well carry the items accordingly
Hello, we are planning a trip to Manali from Chandigarh on 25th of december. Is the highway safe to drive during this time? Also, how is the weather in Manali now? Can we expect to see some snowfall during 25th to 29th december? Thanks in advance.