Now, tourists can travel up to Zingzingbar beyond Darcha

The Lahaul and Spiti district administration has allowed tourists access up to Zingzingbar on the Manali-Leh national highway. The decision was taken after the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) cleared snow from the highway, which has now been made motorable up to Zingzingbar beyond Darcha.

Until recently, tourist movement along the Manali-Leh highway was restricted up to Dipak Taal beyond Darcha due to heavy snow accumulation and the ongoing clearing operation in the region. The newly opened highway stretch is expected to promote tourism, especially when the extended May holiday season and pleasant weather are drawing visitors to the scenic Lahaul valley.

The decision to open the road up to Zingzingbar was taken on the direction of Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana, who had urged the district administration to allow tourists access to more areas in the light of their increasing footfall. The district authorities reviewed the road condition and approved vehicular movement up to Zingzingbar, enhancing travel options for tourists visiting the high-altitude district.

Meanwhile, the BRO continued with its strenuous efforts to fully restore the Manali-Leh highway, particularly the crucial stretch via Baralacha La, which remains under heavy snow. The BRO officials expressed confidence that the highway would be fully operational up to Sarchu and onwards up to Leh by May 15, if the weather permitted. The opening of Zingzingbar is being seen as a positive step towards the full revival of one of India’s most iconic mountain highways, which connects Himachal to Ladakh and sees thousands of travellers every year. Hotels, homestays and travel operators in the region have welcomed the decision and are anticipating a rise in tourist arrivals in the coming days.

The Lahaul valley is witnessing tourist influx, with travellers eager to explore its pristine landscapes, snow-covered peaks and rich culture. The partial reopening of the Manali-Leh highway is likely to boost the local economy and support tourism-dependent livelihoods.