Manali sees tourist boom over weekend, advance bookings for March surge

After a relatively slow spell in recent weeks, the hill resort of Manali witnessed a noticeable surge in tourist activity this weekend. From Manali to Lahaul valley, popular destinations were abuzz with visitors eager to experience the lingering winter charm and snow-covered landscapes.

With snow gradually melting in Solang valley, Fataru and the South Portal of the Atal Tunnel, tourists have increasingly been heading towards Lahaul valley. Visitors have been seen exploring scenic spots such as Sissu and even reaching Darcha. The authorities have indicated that key destinations in Lahaul, including Koksar and Sissu, will reopen for full-fledged tourism activities from March 1, further boosting travel prospects.

Weekend-special rush, in figures

On Friday alone, more than 2,500 tourist vehicles were reported at Solang valley and Atal Tunnel in Rohtang, a significant increase compared to last week’s daily average of 500–600 vehicles.

By the weekend, the number of incoming vehicles from other states had nearly touched 1,000 per day in Manali. However, the heavy inflow also led to traffic congestion at several points, with tourists reportedly stranded in jams for hours.

Apart from snow destinations, prominent attractions such as Hadimba Devi Temple, Vashisht Temple, Manu Temple and the Mall Road area saw vibrant crowds, especially during the evening hours. Adventure seekers thronged locations like Anjani Mahadev Temple, Gulaba and Hamta to enjoy snow-based outdoor activities.

Fresh snowfall offers good photo opportunity

The weather added to the excitement. While bright sunshine prevailed through the morning yesterday, snowfall began around 3 pm in higher reaches. Fresh snowfall of over three inches was reported at Rohtang Pass, Shinku La, Baralacha Pass and Kunzum Pass.

As snowflakes fell, many tourists returned to Manali, while a few stayed back to capture the picturesque moments.

Tourism stakeholders upbeat

Hotel occupancy has also shown encouraging signs, touching nearly 60 per cent over the weekend. According to Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association’s state president Gajendra Thakur, tourism in Manali is gradually returning to normal. Advance bookings for March, particularly from honeymoon couples, have already begun.

Tourism Corporation Deputy General Manager BS Aukta noted that weekend occupancy was nearing 50 per cent, reflecting steady recovery. Travel Agents Association of Himachal Pradesh Chairman Budhi Prakash Thakur also confirmed a rise in advance reservations for March.

Tourism stakeholders remain optimistic that with improving weather conditions and the reopening of key destinations, March will mark a stronger revival for the Kullu-Manali tourism industry.