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New Delhi: Unpredictable weather disrupted travel plans for hundreds of tourists after parts of major tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh were blocked due to heavy snowfall, leaving people stranded on roads. Popular tourist spots such as Shimla, Manali, and Kullu were choked with vehicles, with tourists left clueless about their itineraries in the snow-laden hill stations.
In Manali, people struggled to travel even short distances as roads were covered with one to two feet of snow, while black ice had also formed at several places. Traffic disruptions led to chaotic situations, with people stuck inside their cars and hotel bookings exhausted.
Tourists were forced to walk long distances in biting cold as road connectivity remained blocked for nearly 7–8 kilometres. Those trying to reach Manali could not arrive on time and had to trek almost 10–20 kilometres, carrying luggage through snow-covered lanes. Meanwhile, those attempting to leave the area were stuck in traffic between Manali and Patli Khol.
Several stranded tourists shared their ordeal, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Bunty, a taxi driver from Chandigarh, said the situation was distressing. “We have been stuck here since yesterday. The passengers are helpless, without food or drinking water. No JCB or assistance has arrived yet. The roads should have been cleared when the snowfall started,” he said, as quoted by news agency ANI.
A tourist from Gujarat said he and his family were forced to spend the night inside their car. “There is no food or public toilet facility nearby. We have moved barely 200 metres since yesterday. The administration should take action,” he added.
The situation also affected local residents. Shivbiyas, a resident of the hill station, said many tourists spent the night in their vehicles despite weather warnings. “The traffic has been jammed for more than 24 hours. People are crying, and many are feeling unwell due to the cold,” he said.
Meanwhile, authorities have instructed tourists to avoid unnecessary travel during snowfall, warning that sudden weather changes can make roads extremely slippery. Travellers have been advised to check local advisories, use snow chains where required, and avoid night driving in snowbound areas.
