- Videos of fresh snowfall in North India have gone viral since January 23, sparking winter travel interest
- Heavy snow has disrupted life in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand
- Travellers are advised to check weather updates, avoid night travel, plan bookings and pack for extreme cold
Videos of fresh snowfall blanketing popular hill destinations across North India have taken social media by storm since January 23, drawing admiration, awe and an unmistakable surge of winter wanderlust. From tree-lined roads disappearing under pristine white layers to tourists cheering as snowflakes fall thick and fast, these visuals have turned timelines into virtual winter postcards. The scenes, shared from destinations across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir, arrive after long dry spells in several regions, making the snowfall feel even more magical for travellers and locals alike. But beyond the cinematic frames lies a more complex reality.
Heavy snowfall has also disrupted daily life, blocked crucial roads, triggered power outages and prompted repeated travel advisories from authorities. As more travellers may consider heading north to chase snow this long weekend, officials are urging caution, preparedness and responsible travel amid rapidly changing weather conditions.
On The Ground: What's Happening Across Snow-Hit States
In Himachal Pradesh, intense snowfall over the past few days has led to widespread disruption. Hundreds of roads, including key national highways connecting high-altitude regions such as Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, have remained closed due to heavy snow accumulation. Power supply and water services have also been affected in multiple districts, with restoration work underway but dependent on weather conditions. Higher reaches have reportedly received several feet of snow, making clearance slow and labour-intensive. Authorities have repeatedly advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel, especially towards snowbound passes and interior roads.
Jammu & Kashmir witnessed a spell of heavy snowfall that temporarily shut down the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway: the Valley's primary all-weather link with the rest of the country. Thousands of vehicles, including those carrying essential supplies, were stranded as road conditions turned dangerously slippery. Large-scale clearance operations, supported by the Army and disaster response teams, helped evacuate stranded travellers and provide food, shelter and medical aid. While weather conditions have since improved and flight operations at Srinagar airport have resumed, several interior and high-altitude roads remain closed until declared safe.
In Uttarakhand, the season's first major snowfall covered pilgrimage towns, ski destinations and hill stations across Garhwal and Kumaon. Places such as Auli, Kedarnath, Badrinath and Mussoorie saw thick snow cover, drawing tourists outdoors even as road access to some areas was suspended. Continuous rain and snow damaged power lines in parts of the state, while key approach roads to popular tourist spots were closed as a precaution. The administration has urged travellers to postpone non-essential journeys, particularly to higher elevations, as weather alerts remain in place.
What Travellers Should Keep In Mind Before Heading To Snowy Destinations
1. Check advisories before and during travel:
The weather in the hills can change rapidly. Always monitor official weather forecasts, local administration advisories and road status updates before starting your journey and throughout your stay.
2. Be cautious about road travel:
Snowfall can make roads slippery within hours due to fresh accumulation or black ice. Self-driving is best avoided unless you have prior experience driving in snow and are equipped with snow chains. Hiring local drivers familiar with mountain terrain and winter conditions is safer than navigating unfamiliar routes on your own, especially in high-altitude or remote areas.
3. Avoid night travel in hilly regions:
Visibility drops sharply after sunset in snowbound areas, and emergency assistance may be limited. Daytime travel reduces risks significantly.
4. Confirm accommodation arrangements:
Power outages, heating disruptions and water shortages are common during heavy snowfall. Reconfirm bookings and amenities with hotels or homestays before arrival.
5. Pack for extreme cold and disruptions:
Insulated footwear, waterproof outer layers, gloves, medicines, power banks and basic emergency supplies are essential, as access to shops and services may be restricted.
6. Follow local instructions strictly:
Road closures, barricades and travel restrictions are implemented for safety. Ignoring them can endanger not just travellers but also rescue personnel.
7. Travel responsibly:
Avoid risky behaviour for social media content and respect the fragile mountain environment. Remember that civic services may already be under strain in some places.
There's no denying the allure of freshly fallen snow. The viral videos capturing North India's snowy transformation reflect that magic perfectly. For travellers, the key lies in balancing curiosity with caution. With thoughtful planning, respect for advisories and an understanding of on-ground conditions, winter travel can remain both memorable and safe.
