Atal Tunnel reopens, tourists head for Lahaul’s frozen charm

After remaining closed due to heavy snowfall and extreme winter conditions, the Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh National Highway has once again been opened for tourist activities, triggering a massive influx of visitors toward the Lahaul Valley in tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti.

The strategically important tunnel had been blocked for nearly four days following heavy snowfall on January 23, 24 on the region, which rendered the highway unsafe for normal traffic.

Acting swiftly, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) carried out snow clearance operations and successfully restored connectivity through the Atal Tunnel, initially allowing only emergency services to operate. However, keeping public safety in mind, the local administration had imposed restrictions on tourist movement beyond Solang Nala toward Lahaul valley.

Two days ago, after a detailed assessment of weather conditions and road safety, the Manali administration lifted the restrictions and permitted tourist movement beyond Solang Nala up to the Atal Tunnel and further into Lahaul Valley, strictly allowing 4x4 vehicles only. Since then, a large number of tourists have been thronging toward the tunnel and popular destinations such as Sissu, eager to witness the breath-taking winter landscape.

Tourists from different parts of the country are arriving in Manali and heading toward the snow-covered Lahaul valley to experience frozen rivers, pristine white meadows and panoramic mountain views. The reopening has brought a wave of excitement among travellers who had been waiting from January 23 to access the region after prolonged weather disruptions.

Local tourism stakeholders, including hoteliers, taxi operators and tour guides, have welcomed the decision. The renewed tourist flow is expected to provide a much-needed economic boost to the region, where livelihoods heavily depend on seasonal tourism, said Hem Raj Sharma, a tourism stakeholder in Manali.

Authorities have made comprehensive traffic management arrangements and deployed personnel at key points to regulate vehicle movement. Tourists have been advised to follow safety guidelines strictly, use only suitable vehicles, and stay updated on weather advisories. Officials have also cautioned travellers to cooperate with traffic police and avoid unnecessary halts on snow-covered stretches.

The Atal Tunnel located at an altitude above 10,000 feet, plays a vital role in maintaining all-weather connectivity between Manali and Lahaul-Spiti. Its reopening has once again opened the gateway to the serene winter beauty of Lahaul valley, bringing relief to locals and delight to tourists alike.

Atal Tunnel: Gateway to winter wonderland Lahaul valley