New Delhi: The fresh snowfall cast in the Himachal Pradesh has turned the valley into a winter wonderland with Shimla and Manali covered in fresh snow on December 23, 2024. The heaviest snowfall of the season has caused major traffic disruptions in Manali, leaving more than 100 vehicles stuck between Solang and the Atal Tunnel.
Officials said around 1,000 vehicles were caught in a massive traffic jam, and a rescue operation was launched to move about 700 tourists to safety. However, more than 100 cars are still stranded. The operation took time to clear, leading to huge traffic on the Atal Tunnel and people waiting for hours to reach and come back from Lahual Valley.
Atal Tunnel Weather and Snowfall Updates
The weather around the Atal Tunnel varies drastically depending on the season, and it is essential for travellers to stay informed about the latest conditions before planning a visit. Yesterday, the areas near Atal Tunnel witnessed heavy snowfall leading to shutdown and traffic near the tunnel.
With the season’s second snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, the tourists have thronged Manali, Shimla and other locations to celebrate Christmas and New Year with their loved ones, and calling it a ‘White Christmas’, with fresh spells of snowfall here.
The current temperature in Manali is -2 degrees Celsius, which chances of rain and snow showers in the valley.
Atal Tunnel Distance: From Manali, Delhi, Shimla, and Sissu
The Atal Tunnel is strategically located between Manali and Sissu, making it easily accessible from multiple parts of Himachal Pradesh and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the distances:
From Manali: The distance between Manali and Atal Tunnel is approximately 25 kilometres. It takes around 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on the road conditions and traffic.
From Delhi: The distance from Delhi to Atal Tunnel is approximately 550 kilometres. It typically takes around 12-14 hours to reach the tunnel by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. Travellers usually take the NH44 and NH3 routes via Chandigarh and Kullu.
From Shimla: Shimla to Atal Tunnel is around 245 kilometres. The journey from Shimla takes around 8-10 hours by road, passing through scenic locations like Kullu and Manali.
From Sissu: Sissu is one of the nearest towns to the Atal Tunnel, located just 10-12 kilometres away. It is accessible via the tunnel, offering visitors a seamless experience to travel between Manali and Lahaul.
Rohtang to Atal Tunnel: Journey Through India’s Longest Highway Tunnel
Before the Atal Tunnel was constructed for the Manali to Lahaul route, it was quite tricky to reach the destination with various hurdles, weather conditions and time as a major drawback for the same. During the winter months, snowfall and landsides made it impossible for travellers to pass the route and reach the destination. The opening of the Atal Tunnel in 2020 has drastically transformed this experience, providing a safer and more reliable route.
Travelling through the Atal Tunnel, you can feel the marvellous engineering of the people behind it, creating a wonder of 9.02 kilometres. A blend of high-altitude roads with cutting-edge infrastructure, created to witness the beauty of Sissu, Lahaul Valley like never before.
Exploring Attractions Near Atal Tunnel: Sissu, Solang Valley, and More
There are various places near the Atal Tunnel where one can stop for a picturesque view and create cherished memories in the snow-capped mountains.
Sissu: Located just a few kilometres from the Atal Tunnel, Sissu is a picturesque village in the Lahaul Valley. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows, Sissu is an ideal place to relax and unwind.
Solang Valley: Solang Valley, located near Manali, is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. Known for its skiing, paragliding, and other winter sports, Solang Valley is a hub for snow lovers. The valley offers breathtaking views of the mountains, making it a favourite stop for travellers coming from the Atal Tunnel.
Lahaul and Spiti: The Atal Tunnel makes it easier for tourists to access Lahaul and Spiti Valley, both known for their rugged terrain, monasteries, and unique culture.
Rohtang Pass: Although the Atal Tunnel bypasses Rohtang Pass, the area around the pass is still worth visiting, especially in summer when the snow begins to melt.
Atal Tunnel Latest News
The fresh snowfall in the valley on December 23, 2024, has created a bit of disturbance in the valley with heavy traffic in and around the Atal Tunnel, making it difficult for the travellers to mode. However, the Road Authorities have undergone the operation and are working to move the stranded vehicles and help those in need.
Fresh snowfall has turned Himachal Pradesh into a winter wonderland. Stay informed about Atal Tunnel weather updates, distances from key locations, and nearby attractions like Solang Valley and Sissu. Travel Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
