The higher mountain regions of Himachal Pradesh received the first snowfall of the season on Sunday, marking the early arrival of winter in the hill state. Areas such as Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti were covered in a white blanket of snow, while several other districts witnessed light to moderate rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the maximum temperature across Himachal dropped significantly in the last 24 hours, remaining below normal for this time of year.
According to the IMD’s Shimla office, the weather has turned cold and cloudy after a strong western disturbance brought widespread rain and snow to the state’s upper reaches. The popular tourist areas around Manali, Atal Tunnel, and Rohtang Pass experienced fresh snowfall on Sunday. The Kullu district administration has now suspended vehicular movement to Rohtang Pass, advising commuters and tourists not to attempt travel through the route due to slippery roads and low visibility.
The snow has transformed the Dhauladhar mountain ranges in Kangra district into a scenic landscape of white peaks. However, icy winds from these snow-covered mountains have reached the lower valley areas, bringing a noticeable chill. Residents in Kangra, Mandi, and Kullu districts reported that temperatures fell sharply, signalling the onset of winter.
Reports from various parts of the state, including Kinnaur and Chamba, indicated moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and strong winds. The IMD stated that an “appreciable fall” in daytime temperatures was recorded during the last 24 hours, as the average maximum temperature across Himachal remained below normal.
Many local farmers have welcomed the early snow and rain, as it helps in maintaining soil moisture levels essential for rabi crop preparation. However, the cold and wet weather has also affected normal life in several regions, disrupting road travel and local transport.
The Meteorological Department has issued weather warnings for the next few days. According to the forecast, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in parts of the state on October 6, while light to moderate rain will continue in many areas till October 8. An orange alert has been sounded for the districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi for October 6, indicating the likelihood of heavy rainfall.
In addition, a yellow alert has been issued for Una, Hamirpur, Sirmaur, and Lahaul-Spiti, warning of possible heavy rain and thunderstorms. For October 7, the IMD has also predicted thunderstorms and lightning in several districts.
Officials said that the maximum temperature in the state is likely to fall by 2 to 6 degrees over the next two days. The minimum temperature, however, will remain steady for 24 hours before falling gradually by 2 to 3 degrees over the following three to four days. After that, both day and night temperatures are expected to rise slowly as the weather becomes clearer.
Despite the cold conditions, the IMD said that dry weather is likely to prevail across most parts of Himachal during the later part of the week, offering some relief from continuous rain.
Meanwhile, the snowfall has boosted excitement among tourists, especially in Manali and Keylong, where the first snow of the season always draws attention. Local hotels and guesthouses have already started receiving booking inquiries from visitors eager to experience the snow-covered landscapes. Tourism officials said they expect a rise in footfall during the upcoming festive season if the weather remains stable.
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However, the authorities have advised travellers to check local advisories before visiting high-altitude regions, as roads may remain closed temporarily due to ice formation and landslides. The Atal Tunnel, which connects Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti, witnessed heavy snow accumulation, prompting officials to restrict movement for safety reasons.
With the arrival of snow in the mountains, residents in hill towns like Manali, Kaza, and Kalpa have already started preparing for the cold months ahead. Woollen clothing, heating devices, and firewood are in high demand. In lower regions such as Dharamshala, Palampur, and Solan, rain and chilly winds have replaced the warm sunshine of the previous week.
The early snowfall has also raised hopes for a good tourist season during the upcoming winter months. Many travel operators believe that this early snow will attract more visitors to Himachal’s hill stations. “The first snow always brings excitement,” said a hotel manager in Manali. “If the weather remains stable, we expect many tourists in November and December.”
Environmental experts, however, have urged authorities to monitor the impact of early snowfall on mountain ecology and road safety. They noted that sudden temperature changes and heavy rainfall can increase the risk of landslides and road blockages, which are common during such transitions between monsoon and winter.
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