Uttarakhand has been enveloped in a thick blanket of snow as heavy snowfall over the past 36 hours has transformed the region into a breathtaking yet challenging winter landscape. Beginning late Wednesday and persisting through Thursday, the snowfall has covered the sacred Char Dham shrines and the highest peaks in pristine white, while relentless rains have pounded the lower regions.
Severe Disruptions Due to Snow and Freezing Temperatures
The intense snowfall has led to major travel disruptions, particularly with the closure of the crucial Badri-Kedar highway. The freezing conditions along the Kailash Mansarovar route have further intensified hardships, especially in the Kali River region of Gunji, Pithoragarh district, where temperatures have plummeted to an extreme -30°C.
Key tourist destinations such as Badrinath Dham, Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers have been significantly affected. In Auli, vehicle movement has been restricted beyond the TV tower due to deep snow accumulation, while in the Harsil Valley, the Gangotri highway remained blocked for eight hours between Sukki and Gangotri. The road to Gangotri Dham is only accessible up to the Harsil area and power outages have added to the difficulties, with electricity supply from Gangnani to Gangotri severely disrupted.
Heavy Snowfall Engulfs Kedarnath Dham
Kedarnath Dham, a revered pilgrimage site, has witnessed up to two feet of snowfall, adding to the already challenging winter conditions. While such severe weather temporarily halts regular activities, it also enhances the region’s mystic beauty, attracting adventure seekers and pilgrims alike.
Tourism in Auli: A Testament to Resilience
Despite the weather challenges, Uttarakhand remains a winter paradise for tourists. The post-New Year period usually sees a decline in footfall, but Auli continues to welcome visitors eager to experience its snow-covered landscapes. According to Deepak Dimri, in charge of the Auli chair lift, the number of daily visitors has dropped from around 1,000 before New Year to 500, yet the attraction remains steady.
This persistent influx of tourists underscores the region’s unyielding charm, even in harsh winter conditions. Although tourism has faced temporary setbacks due to road closures and extreme temperatures, Uttarakhand’s mesmerizing winter landscapes continue to draw visitors from across India. The state’s resilience and the enchanting beauty of its snow-covered peaks serve as a testament to its status as a premier winter destination.
