First Snowfall Blankets Lahaul Valley, Turns Chandra.Valley into a Winter Wonderland.
SISSU, OCTOBER 15: Lahaul Valley woke up to the first snowfall of the season on Thursday, as snowflakes transformed parts of the picturesque Chandra Valley into a magical winter landscape, catching tourists and local residents by surprise.
Sissu village, located about five kilometres short of the Atal Tunnel on the Manali side, witnessed the season’s first snowflakes, bringing an unexpected winter charm to the valley.
The snowfall turned the surrounding mountains and landscape into a captivating spectacle, with tourists stepping out to enjoy the rare seasonal treat.
While snow had not accumulated significantly in the lower parts of the valley by 11.20 am, higher-altitude areas experienced heavier snowfall.
Reports indicated that around two to six inches of snow had accumulated in parts of the higher reaches, including Chandratal, Kunzum Pass and adjoining areas.
The fresh snowfall, however, disrupted road connectivity across the high-altitude stretches. Traffic movement on the Koksar–Chhatru–Kunzum Pass–Kaza route was affected, while the Darcha–Surajtal–Baralacha Pass–Sarchu–Leh route was also blocked due to snowfall.
Within Lahaul Valley, vehicle movement continued on the Manali–Atal Tunnel–Sissu–Keylong–Jispa–Darcha highway, although motorists were advised to exercise caution as snowfall and wet road conditions increased the risk of skidding.
“The weather remains overcast, and snowfall is continuing,” said local resident Prem Katoch, describing the changing weather conditions in the valley.
An unexpected treat for tourists
For tourists visiting Lahaul in mid-October, the snowfall has come as a pleasant surprise. The sudden change from relatively dry conditions to a snow-covered mountain landscape has offered visitors an opportunity to experience the early winter charm of the Himalayan region.
Sissu and the surrounding Chandra Valley, known for their dramatic mountain scenery, are particularly attractive during snowfall, when the landscape takes on a different character.
The fresh snow has added to the excitement among visitors, many of whom had not expected to witness the season’s first snowfall during their trip.
However, the changing weather also calls for caution. The Lahaul and Spiti district administration and police have alerted tourists and local residents to drive slowly and remain vigilant on slippery roads.
Travellers heading towards high-altitude passes and remote areas have been advised to remain cautious in view of the snowfall and disrupted road connectivity.
Potato harvesting yet to begin
The snowfall has also arrived at a time when potato harvesting in the valley is yet to begin. The impact of the changing weather on agricultural operations remains to be seen as farmers prepare for the harvest.
With snowfall continuing and the weather remaining overcast, conditions across the valley are expected to remain challenging, particularly on high-altitude roads.
For visitors, the first snowfall has brought a glimpse of Lahaul’s winter beauty. For motorists and residents, however, it is also a reminder that weather conditions in the high Himalayas can change rapidly, making road safety and timely travel information essential.
