Manali White New Year: Fresh Snowfall Delights Tourists at Atal Tunnel

New Delhi, january 01, 2026: Nature has delivered a perfect New Year’s gift to thousands of travelers in Himachal Pradesh. As the clock struck midnight and the calendar turned to January 1, 2026, the higher reaches of the Kullu Valley, particularly the area around the Atal Tunnel, were blanketed in a fresh layer of pristine white snow.

Reporting from the stretch between Solang Valley and the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel, India Today’s Deputy Editor Aseem Bassi captured the moment the landscape transformed. While the main town of Manali remained relatively dry on New Year’s Eve, the weather shifted dramatically in the high-altitude zones, fulfilling the wishes of tourists who had traveled from across the country to witness a “White New Year.”

A Long-Awaited Winter Spectacle

For many visitors, the arrival of the snow was the highlight of their trip. Bassi reported that while tourists had “had a full party” on the eve of the New Year, there was a palpable sense of anticipation for the flakes to fall.

“We have come all the way from Hyderabad just for this,” said one excited traveler. “Seeing the fresh snowfall today makes the entire journey worth it. It’s the perfect start to 2026.”

The snowfall has brought immense cheer to visitors from states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Telangana, many of whom were seeing snow for the first time. The visual of the Atal Tunnel—an engineering marvel—surrounded by snow-capped peaks provided a dramatic backdrop for New Year photographs and videos.

Traffic and Safety Measures

The sudden influx of beauty has also brought logistical challenges. The Lahaul-Spiti and Kullu police have been working around the clock to manage the massive surge in traffic.

• Vehicle Influx: On New Year’s Eve alone, thousands of vehicles were reported to have crossed the Atal Tunnel.
• Safety Advisories: Authorities have cautioned drivers about slippery road conditions. Travel on certain high-altitude stretches, such as the Darcha-Shinkula road, has been restricted due to the deteriorating weather.
• Police Deployment: Over 1,000 personnel have been deployed across the region to ensure law and order and to assist tourists stranded in traffic snarls.

Impact on Local Tourism

Local hoteliers and business owners are celebrating alongside the tourists. After a relatively dry start to the winter season, this fresh spell of snow is expected to keep hotel occupancy high—currently hovering around 80-90%—well into the first week of January.

The IMD (India Meteorological Department) has predicted that light to moderate snowfall may continue in the higher reaches of Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur over the next 48 hours. This suggests that the “winter wonderland” experience will remain available for those arriving in the coming days.

Travel Tips for New Year Visitors

If you are planning to head toward the Atal Tunnel or Solang Valley this week:

1. Check Road Status: Always confirm with local authorities or your hotel before heading toward the tunnel, as heavy snow can lead to temporary closures.
2. Equip Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is fit for mountain driving and carry chains if possible.
3. Layer Up: Temperatures near the North Portal are significantly lower than in Manali town.

The fresh snow has not only boosted tourism but has also brought relief to local apple growers, as the moisture is vital for the upcoming crop season. For now, however, the focus remains on the joy of the flakes and the magical start to the year in the heart of the Himalayas.