Manali, April 4
Fresh snowfall continued to cover high-altitude areas around Manali and the Atal Tunnel Rohtang on Saturday, even as April began, bringing temperatures down sharply and drawing large crowds of weekend tourists to the popular hill station. While the plains of north India are already warming up with the approach of summer, the higher reaches of the Kullu-Manali valley tell a completely different story. Light to moderate snowfall was recorded through the day around the Atal Tunnel and nearby peaks, while the lower stretches of the valley received steady rainfall, keeping the entire region cool and overcast.
The district administration, keeping public safety in mind, imposed vehicle restrictions on the route toward the Atal Tunnel. Two-wheel drive vehicles have been permitted only up to Solang Nala, while movement beyond that point is currently allowed only for Four Wheel Drive vehicles.
The wintry conditions, however, did nothing to dampen tourist enthusiasm. Mall Road in Manali remained lively and crowded through the weekend, with visitors soaking in the rare April chill and the snow-dusted mountain views around the valley.
Local tourism traders Hira Lal Rana and Gagan Awasthi said the fresh snowfall on surrounding peaks has created an atmosphere that is drawing visitors in good numbers. Both expressed confidence that this extended winter feel would benefit the tourism industry in the weeks ahead.
“Weekend footfall has been very encouraging, and we are hopeful that the coming tourist season will be one of our better ones,” they said.
With snow still visible on the higher peaks and the holiday season approaching, Manali looks set to welcome a strong wave of tourists in the coming weeks.
