Fresh Snowfall in Manali Draws Tourists; Paragliding and River Rafting Back in Full Swing

Hotel owners are offering special festive discounts on stays, meals, and tour packages.

The recent spell of snowfall near Manali has transformed the region into a winter wonderland, drawing visitors eager to experience snow-clad adventures just a few kilometers from Kullu town. For those planning to celebrate Diwali in the lap of the Himalayas, there’s even more reason to rejoice — Manali hotels are offering festive discounts of 25–30% on accommodation, dining, and tour packages, extending a warm welcome to travelers seeking both festivity and adventure.

Fresh snow in Gulaba, about 18 kilometers from Manali, has revived the valley’s charm. Snow activities like skiing and snowboarding are in full swing, while nearby destinations such as Dhundi, Sissu, Marhi, Koksar, and the north portal of the Atal Tunnel offer breathtaking mountain views and exhilarating snow sports — perfect for winter enthusiasts.

After a quiet Dussehra season, local hoteliers are hopeful. Business had dropped by 30–35% in September due to poor road conditions, but Diwali is expected to bring a surge in visitors, with bookings already reaching 60–70%. To add to the festive spirit, hotels are planning DJ nights and traditional Kullavi Nati dance performances, promising guests a lively and memorable celebration.

According to Hira Lal, President of the Himachal Pradesh Travel Agents Association, and Chairman Buddhi Prakash Thakur, advance bookings are pouring in from across India — especially from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Mumbai, West Bengal, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh. The influx of tourists is expected to help local businesses recover from the recent slowdown in tourism.

With clear skies and sunny weather over the weekend, the valley saw a sharp rise in tourist arrivals. Popular spots like Solang, Dhundi, and Sissu — along with both portals of the Atal Tunnel — were bustling with crowds. On Saturday alone, over 50 luxury buses and 400 tourist vehicles arrived in Manali, signaling a strong revival for the region’s tourism sector.

Paragliding and river rafting have also resumed post-monsoon, adding to the valley’s allure. Snow-capped peaks shimmer under the sun, and local guides, hoteliers, and shopkeepers are visibly upbeat as business picks up once again.

Meanwhile, the stunning snowfall around both ends of the Atal Tunnel has created a social media buzz. Pictures and videos of the snow-covered landscapes have gone viral, inspiring travelers to plan trips to Manali, Hamta, and Lahaul.

With adventure sports back in action, festive offers in place, and snow just a short drive away, Manali promises a magical Diwali and winter escape — where the warmth of celebration meets the chill of the mountains.