SHIMLA, Dec 25 : The absence of snowfall on the iconic Rohtang Pass has cast a muted shadow over Christmas celebrations in Himachal Pradesh, with tourists travelling nearly 150 kilometres from Manali to Shinkula Pass in search of snow.
While Manali, Shimla, and Dharamshala witnessed bright sunshine, clear skies, and clean mountain air, the much-awaited white cover remained largely elusive at traditional snow points, altering tourist movement patterns this winter.
According to the latest road status issued by Lahaul and Spiti Police, most high-altitude and strategic routes have been closed due to slippery conditions and black ice, rendering them unsafe for vehicular traffic. The Darcha-Sarchu (NH-003) and Gramphoo-Rohtang stretches remain closed till further orders, while Gramphoo-Lossar via Kunzum Top is also shut. The Darcha-Shinkula road has been opened only for 4×4 vehicles fitted with snow chains, and that too up to designated safe zones. However, key lifeline routes such as Keylong-Darcha, Keylong-Atal Tunnel, Atal Tunnel-Manali, Kaza-Lossar, and Sumdo-Kaza are currently open under clear weather conditions.
With Rohtang closed, a recent light snowfall at Shinkula Pass has offered a ray of hope, drawing tourists eager to experience snow, though access remains limited and regulated. Authorities continue to caution travellers against venturing onto closed routes.
Despite winter carnivals being organised, tourist presence in Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala remains thin compared to previous years. Hoteliers in Shimla have expressed concern over a noticeable dip in routine Christmas and New Year footfall, calling it a major departure from traditional seasonal trends.
Air quality, however, has been a bright spot. Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala are currently enjoying good to satisfactory AQI levels, with clear air and pollution-free conditions adding to the natural appeal of the hill stations. Yet, this advantage has not translated into higher arrivals.
Tourism stakeholders attribute part of the slowdown to limited air connectivity. Infrequent flights to Shimla, Kullu (Bhuntar), and Dharamshala (Gaggal) airports have deterred high-end tourists, leaving airport taxi operators and premium cab services largely idle during what is otherwise considered peak season.
With hopes pinned on a fresh western disturbance around the New Year, hoteliers and tour operators are cautiously optimistic that snowfall in the higher reaches may still revive winter tourism in the days ahead.
(UNI)
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