Himachal Pradesh News
Manali Sees Tourist Surge After Quiet Spell, Solang Nala and Atal Tunnel Draw Weekend Crowds
After a relatively lean period, the hill town of Manali has come alive once again. The streets are buzzing, hotel balconies are lit up, and the sound of laughter echoes through the Mall Road as tourists return in large numbers over the weekend.
After a relatively lean period, the hill town of Manali has come alive once again. The streets are buzzing, hotel balconies are lit up, and the sound of laughter echoes through the Mall Road as tourists return in large numbers over the weekend.
Popular attractions such as Solang Nala, Atal Tunnel, and the scenic Lahaul Valley have emerged as major hotspots. With snow gradually melting in lower-altitude areas like Solang and the south portal of the Atal Tunnel, tourists are now venturing deeper into Lahaul, with many travelling as far as Darcha to experience fresh snow and untouched landscapes.
Weekend Brings Manali Back to Life
Just a week ago, the town was witnessing only around 500–600 tourist vehicles from other states daily. However, by Friday, that number nearly doubled to 1,000 vehicles — a clear indication that tourism is picking up pace again.
The iconic Mall Road is packed every evening, while visitors are thronging spiritual and cultural landmarks like the Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Temple, Club House and the Manu Temple.
According to local tourism stakeholders, this sudden rise in footfall has brought renewed optimism.
Gajendra Thakur, State President of the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association, shared that tourism in Manali is “slowly getting back on track,” adding that advance bookings from honeymoon couples are already coming in for March.
Hotel Occupancy Climbs, Business Sentiment Improves
Hotel owners are equally hopeful. Weekend occupancy rates have now reached 50–60 percent, compared to much lower figures during the recent slowdown. Hoteliers say that inquiries and advance bookings for March indicate a promising start to the upcoming tourist season.
Meanwhile, although Koksar in Lahaul remains closed due to heavy snowfall, areas around the Atal Tunnel continue to witness heavy movement. In good news for travellers, picturesque Sissu in Lahaul Valley is expected to reopen for tourism activities, further boosting visitor interest.
On Saturday alone, more than 2,500 tourist vehicles reportedly reached Solang Nala and the Atal Tunnel area — a significant jump compared to previous weeks.
Snow Melting Fast – Limited Time for Snow Adventures
With temperatures rising, snow in Solang Nala is melting rapidly. Local business operators say tourists may have only about a week left to enjoy snow-based activities on the main Solang ground. However, higher-altitude areas such as Anjani Mahadev, Dhundhi and Gulaba still retain substantial snow cover, offering adventure lovers some more time to experience winter charm.
Tourism leaders believe this steady rise in tourist arrivals is a positive signal for Himachal Pradesh’s travel industry. Advance bookings for March have already begun, and if the current trend continues, Manali could witness a strong spring season ahead.
For locals whose livelihoods depend heavily on tourism, the return of visitors feels like a breath of fresh mountain air — a hopeful sign that Manali’s vibrant spirit is back.
