Fresh Snowfall Blankets Himachal’s Higher Reaches, Disrupts Key Mountain Routes

The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh are draped in a white blanket since last night as fresh snowfall brought a spectacular transformation to the state’s mountainous landscapes, delighting tourists and locals alike.

Snowfall began suddenly yesterday, covering both ends of the Atal Tunnel Rohtang and blanketing the valleys of Lahaul and Pangi. While Kullu witnessed heavy rainfall, Lahaul recorded its second major snowfall of the season.

However, the wintry charm also brought disruptions. Vehicular movement has been suspended on several key routes, including NH-505 (Koksar–Losar), NH-3 (Koksar–Rohtang), and the Sachey Jot road in Chamba, following heavy snow accumulation. Rohtang Pass received nearly 15 cm of fresh snow, with Baralacha, Shikunla, and Kunzum Passes recording similar amounts.

In Chamba district, intermittent afternoon showers were reported, while higher peaks in Pangi, including Chask Bhatori, Sural Bhatori, and Bharmour’s Kali Chau and Mani Mahesh, received up to 7.6 cm of snow. The rain and snowfall has intensified the cold wave sweeping across the region.

Kangra district, meanwhile, experienced thunderstorms on Tuesday night but enjoyed clear skies yesterday.

According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, weather conditions are expected to remain clear and dry across the state from today till October 27.

However, a new western disturbance is likely to become active from the night of October 27, potentially bringing another round of rain and snowfall to Himachal Pradesh.