HP sees rare April snowfall

While most of northern India reels under intense heatwave, parts of the state are witnessing an unusual weather pattern, with temperatures plunging below zero and fresh snowfall recorded in late April. Tourists escaping the scorching plains are being welcomed by a winter-like landscape in Manali and nearby high-altitude areas.

Rohtang Pass, Shinkula and Baralacha La have received intermittent snowfall, with temperatures falling well below freezing. In Koksar in Lahaul and Spiti, visitors were seen enjoying a thick blanket of snow. “In the plains, temperatures are soaring above 40°C, but here in Manali’s upper reaches, it’s sub-zero,” said Tashi and Tenzin, local tourism operators in Koksar. On Saturday, Gramfu, about four kilometres from Koksar, also saw fresh snowfall, delighting travellers who trekked in to experience the rare April chill.

Tourist arrivals have surged over the weekend, with thousands heading to the region to witness the stark contrast in weather. “The heat back home was unbearable. This feels like another planet,” said Gaganpreet, a visitor from Punjab, who was seen building a snowman under bright morning sunshine that later turned into cloudy flurries.

However, authorities have advised restrictions for visitors on April 29, when access beyond Nehru Kund will be limited due to the visit of the President. Manali Sub-Divisional Magistrate Gunjeet Singh Cheema said tourists could instead explore nearby destinations such as Hamta, Mata Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Rishi Temple, Naggar, Kullu and Manikaran.

For now, the rare snowfall offers a striking escape for heat-weary travellers.