Tourists in Shimla, Manali, and other popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh are enjoying a picturesque white Christmas as fresh snowfall blankets the region. However, the weather has also caused significant disruptions. Over 200 roads, including three major national highways, are blocked due to heavy snow, with Shimla alone reporting 145 closures. Rescue teams successfully aided stranded travelers near the Atal Tunnel, but authorities continue to warn against unsafe travel conditions. In some areas, power outages have occurred due to damaged transformers, while snow-clearing machinery has been deployed across affected districts.
The influx of tourists has provided a boost to the local hospitality industry, with hotel bookings in Shimla surging by 30%, pushing occupancy above 70%. Meanwhile, Kashmir is facing even harsher winter conditions during its Chillai-Kalan period, characterized by extreme cold. Srinagar recorded a low of -6.6°C, while Pahalgam and Gulmarg dropped to -7.8°C and -7.4°C, respectively. Water bodies and supply lines have frozen, and slippery roads have disrupted connectivity in several areas.
The weather department predicts colder days ahead, with temperatures expected to drop further by up to three degrees through December 26. While the snowfall has brought joy to many, officials continue to advise caution, urging tourists to follow local advisories and avoid risky travel.
