Himachal’s mountain peaks turn white as season’s first snowfall arrives

Himachal Pradesh’s higher mountain regions experienced fresh snowfall on Wednesday, while several lower areas received rain, leading to a noticeable dip in temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) office in Shimla said that light to moderate rain and snowfall were recorded at many isolated places during the past 24 hours. The fresh spell of snow brought cheer to locals and tourists, who gathered at scenic spots like Rohtang Pass near Manali to enjoy the wintry views.

According to IMD data, Koksar in the Lahaul-Spiti district recorded the highest snowfall, with 11.4 centimetres. The region’s weather turned extremely cold, especially in the tribal and upper hill areas. Tabo, located in the Spiti Valley, recorded the lowest temperature at -0.7° Celsius, while Kukumseri stood at 0.4°C, Keylong at 1.8°C, and Kalpa at 4.9°C. The weather department said that though minimum temperatures at many places were near normal, some areas saw readings 2–5 degrees higher than usual.

The rainfall figures showed that Kothi in Kullu district recorded 23 mm of rain, followed by Manali with 12 mm, Bharmaour 11.5 mm, Keylong 6 mm, Bhuntar 3.6 mm, and Kukumsheri 1.2 mm. Officials said that the rainfall and snow together marked the return of winter-like conditions to Himachal’s high-altitude regions.

The snow has been a welcome sight for locals who depend on tourism, especially in Kullu-Manali, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur districts. Many hotel owners, taxi drivers, and shopkeepers expressed hope that the fresh snow would attract more visitors in the coming weeks. “After the October snowfall, we expect tourist bookings to rise sharply, especially during the Diwali holidays,” said a hotel operator from Manali.

Snow returns after two years in Keylong

Meteorologists noted that this was the second snowfall of the season in Himachal Pradesh. The first had been recorded on October 5. This time, several upper regions like Keylong, Koksar, Tabo, and Kunzum Top witnessed fresh flakes, giving the valleys a white makeover. Interestingly, this October snowfall was the first in Keylong after two years. IMD officials confirmed that the region had last seen snow in October 2022, while both 2023 and 2024 passed without any early-season snow.

“The snowfall in October after a two-year gap is a good sign for the region’s winter season,” said an IMD official from Shimla. “It helps boost tourism and replenishes water sources in the higher altitudes.”

For local residents in Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, snowfall also means preparing for colder days ahead. Many villages have started stocking food and fuel supplies as roads could soon become slippery or blocked. However, as of now, most key routes — including the Manali-Leh highway and roads connecting Spiti Valley — remain open, though authorities have advised caution while travelling.

IMD officials added that dry weather is likely to prevail in the state until October 28. “We do not expect any major change in the maximum temperatures over the next two to three days,” an official said. “However, the minimum temperatures may fall slightly by about 1–2°C.” This means colder nights are expected in the coming week, especially in Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, and Kinnaur districts.

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Tourism gets a boost as winter nears

The snowfall has once again turned Himachal’s tourist destinations into popular winter getaways. Rohtang Pass near Manali, a favourite among visitors, saw crowds of tourists enjoying the snow-covered slopes and taking photographs. Tour operators in Manali, Solang Valley, and Kaza reported a rise in bookings immediately after news of the snowfall spread on social media.

The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department also expects a surge in visitors. “This fresh snowfall before the festive season will attract a large number of domestic tourists,” said a tourism official in Kullu. “Hotels are already receiving inquiries for Diwali and early winter holidays.”

Local businesses that depend on tourism, such as souvenir shops, ski rental outlets, and cafes, are preparing for increased footfall. For residents of the upper hills, snowfall marks the beginning of the main tourist season, which often continues until early February.

The changing weather has also encouraged photographers and nature lovers to visit lesser-known spots in Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur. With the clear skies and snow-capped peaks, many areas have turned into perfect locations for winter photography.

Meanwhile, the IMD has urged people to stay alert and dress warmly, especially during mornings and evenings when temperatures drop sharply. Farmers have been advised to protect their crops from frost in the coming days, particularly in high-altitude valleys where early cold waves could affect winter vegetables.

The early snowfall this year has lifted the spirits of the people of Himachal Pradesh. While tourists are enjoying the breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains, residents are welcoming the cooler weather that signals the arrival of winter. As the festive season approaches, the blend of white peaks and green valleys is expected to make Himachal one of India’s most sought-after destinations once again.