Uttarakhand is currently experiencing an intense snow spell that has significantly impacted the region. For the past 36 hours, the region has experienced heavy snowfall, leading to considerable disruptions in travel and daily life. The snow began falling late Wednesday last week and continued into Thursday, creating a thick white blanket over the state's picturesque landscapes. The four dhams of Uttarakhand—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—and the highest peaks in the Himalayas, are now blanketed with fresh snowfall. In contrast, the lower regions are facing relentless rain, which has added to the challenges of those trying to navigate the area. Travellers are advised to take safety precautions as the region adapts to these stunning yet disruptive weather conditions.
The recent heavy snowfall has resulted in severe disruptions across the region, prompting the closure of key transportation routes, including the crucial Badri-Kedar highway that connects several important religious and tourist sites. In addition, the freezing temperatures along the Kailash Mansarovar route have compounded travel difficulties, particularly in the Kali River region of Gunji, located in the Pithoragarh district, where temperatures have plunged, reaching -30 degrees Celsius.
This extreme weather has significantly affected access to several renowned tourist destinations, including Badrinath Dham, Hemkund Sahib, and the popular Valley of Flowers. Kedarnath Dham is also experiencing significant snowfall accumulating to as much as two feet in certain areas. As a result of the heavy snowfall, vehicle movement has been completely halted beyond the TV tower on the road leading to Auli, a popular skiing area.
Furthermore, the Gangotri highway experienced a remarkable closure lasting eight hours between Sukki and Gangotri due to heavy snow accumulation in the Harsil Valley, which is known for its picturesque landscapes. Currently, access to Gangotri Dham is restricted to the Harsil area, complicating travel plans for many.
To add to the challenges, the electricity supply from Gangnani to Gangotri has been severely disrupted due to the extreme weather conditions. It is imperative for travellers to remain informed about the changes in weather in the region, ensuring they take all necessary precautions for safety.
While it is common for tourist numbers to decline after the New Year celebrations, Auli stands out as a vibrant hub of activity, consistently attracting around 500 visitors each day. These tourists flock to the region to engage in various winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding, as well as to simply appreciate the serene and stunning vistas formed by the freshly fallen snow. The charm of the majestic mountains, combined with the peaceful ambiance of the snow-covered surroundings, makes this an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to embrace the beauty of winter.