Ladakh sees unseasonal August snowfall during monsoon

The sudden weather change across Ladakh has caused a sharp drop in temperatures and it experienced its first major snowfall of the season in August.

Officials have described it as an unusually early onset of winter, with snowfall reported in Leh, Kargil, and Drass.

Prominent mountain passes, including Pensi-la in Zanskar and Khardung La—one of the world’s highest motorable roads—received significant snowfall.

Due to slippery and snow-covered roads, authorities temporarily closed access to Khardung La, warning of unsafe travel conditions.

In Leh district, heavy rain was also recorded, with the Yourting observatory logging 47 mm of rainfall on August 25—the highest for the month since 1973, according to the Meteorological Centre Ladakh.

Officials have urged both residents and tourists to avoid high-altitude roads until conditions improve. Travellers are advised to carry warm clothing and check official updates before planning journeys.

Khardung La, at over 17,500 feet, is a crucial link between Leh and the Nubra and Shyok valleys.

Snow also fell during the Suru Summer Festival in Ladakh’s Suru Valley, surprising visitors and attendees. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju was present at the event, which continued despite the unseasonal weather.

First time in my life I've seen so much snowfall in August! Attended the Vibrant Suru Summer Festival at Namsuru Village in Suru Valley, Kargil, Ladakh, along with Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Shri @KavinderGupta ji; Chairman/CEC LAHDC @drajaffer & other esteemed… pic.twitter.com/zFPhhRmcRj

— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) August 27, 2025