Shimla and Manali, two of Himachal Pradesh’s most sought-after hill stations, have been transformed into winter paradises as a fresh spell of snowfall blankets the region. The snowfall has attracted a large influx of tourists, eager to experience the season’s charm, with popular spots like Kufri, Narkanda, and Solang Valley also covered in a thick layer of snow, making for perfect holiday settings.
The pristine white landscapes have excited visitors, who are making the most of the winter wonderland by engaging in various snow activities such as snowball fights, sledging, and taking in the scenic beauty. Many of the tourists have arrived from neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi to celebrate Christmas and New Year amidst the snow-capped mountains.
However, the heavy snowfall has come with its own set of challenges. Traffic in Shimla has been severely disrupted, especially on major roads like Cart Road and Mall Road, where congestion has reached a peak as vehicles struggle to navigate slippery conditions. In Manali, the situation is no different, with traffic snarls reported on routes leading to Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley, where the overwhelming number of tourists has caused significant disruptions to normal traffic flow.
Local authorities are actively working to mitigate the situation by clearing snow from key routes and managing traffic, but the high volume of vehicles, coupled with icy conditions, has led to considerable delays, frustrating many travelers.
Hotels in both Shimla and Manali are reporting near-full bookings, with tourists planning to stay for the New Year celebrations. The Meteorological Department has also forecast more snowfall in the coming days, which, while exciting for visitors, raises concerns over further traffic disruptions.
While the fresh snowfall has undoubtedly boosted tourism and added to the festive spirit, it has also highlighted the urgent need for improved traffic management and parking facilities in these popular tourist destinations. Visitors are advised to drive carefully, use snow chains, and follow local guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday experience.