Himachal Pradesh has once again come alive with tourist activity after fresh snowfall covered several hill regions, drawing visitors in large numbers to Manali and other popular destinations. The snowfall transformed the mountains into a scenic winter landscape, prompting tourists from nearby states to head towards the hills to experience the season’s charm.
Drone visuals from the Chandigarh–Manali Highway showed a long line of vehicles steadily moving towards Manali, reflecting the sudden surge in travel. The highway, a crucial route connecting the plains to Himachal’s tourist hubs, witnessed slow-moving traffic as families, couples, and groups of young travelers made their way uphill. Most of the vehicles were reported to be from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Chandigarh.
Despite the heavy rush, traffic remained largely under control. Local police and traffic personnel were deployed at key points to manage congestion and guide commuters. Officials confirmed that there were no major road blockages, although travelers were advised to remain patient due to the increased volume of vehicles.
Manali emerged as the most preferred destination following the snowfall. Hotels, resorts, and homestays reported a sharp rise in occupancy, with many nearing full capacity over the weekend. Tour operators also witnessed increased demand for snow-related activities, including skiing, snow play, and sightseeing in nearby high-altitude areas.
The administration issued advisories urging tourists to check weather updates and road conditions before traveling. Authorities also advised the use of snow chains where necessary and cautioned against night driving in higher reaches to avoid accidents. Emergency teams were placed on standby to respond to any unforeseen situation.
The tourist influx has brought much-needed relief to local businesses that depend heavily on the winter season. Hoteliers, taxi operators, shopkeepers, and adventure service providers welcomed the rush, calling it a positive sign for the state’s tourism-driven economy. If weather conditions remain favorable, officials expect Himachal Pradesh to witness a strong winter tourism season in the coming weeks.