Manali to Lahaul via Atal Tunnel
The 9.02 km-long Atal Tunnel has been a complete game-changer, providing year-round access to the once-isolated Lahaul Valley. Before its opening in 2020, the valley was cut off from Manali for about six months each year due to heavy snow on Rohtang Pass.
Now, you can drive from Manali's green valleys to the snow-draped landscapes of Sissu in Lahaul in about an hour. The highway leading to the tunnel's south portal is well-maintained, and the journey through the tunnel itself bypasses the treacherous Rohtang Pass. This makes the Manali-Sissu-Keylong corridor one of the most reliable options for experiencing a true Himalayan winter. While the tunnel remains open, be aware that heavy snowfall can cause temporary closures of the approach roads. Always check the daily status before you travel and be prepared for icy conditions, especially in the mornings.
Srinagar to Sonamarg via Z-Morh Tunnel
Another engineering marvel, the Z-Morh Tunnel, has opened up Sonamarg for winter tourism like never before. Operational since early 2025, this 6.5 km tunnel bypasses a treacherous, avalanche-prone zone that previously cut off access to the 'Meadow of Gold' during winter. The drive from Srinagar is a relatively short and incredibly scenic journey through the Kashmir Valley. While the highway itself is a priority route for clearance, the main benefit is the tunnel ensuring all-weather connectivity. This means you can reliably plan a day trip from Srinagar to witness Sonamarg's pristine snowfields, even in deep winter. However, beyond Sonamarg, the road towards Zoji La Pass and Ladakh remains closed during winter months. As with any mountain travel in winter, check for local advisories, as authorities may regulate traffic during heavy snowfall for safety.
Shimla to Narkanda on NH5
For those seeking a classic winter experience without venturing into extreme altitudes, the drive from Shimla to Narkanda is an excellent choice. This 65 km stretch on the Hindustan-Tibet Road (NH5) is a popular and generally well-maintained corridor. Narkanda, a charming town known for its apple orchards and ski slopes, receives moderate to heavy snowfall from December to February. Unlike more remote areas, it remains connected to Shimla throughout the winter. The drive itself is beautiful, winding through forests of pine and deodar. While heavy snowfall can cause temporary delays or closures, authorities are usually quick to clear this important highway. The route can get crowded with tourists, especially around Kufri, so expect some traffic during peak season. It's an ideal trip for first-time snow drivers or those looking for a comfortable yet scenic Himalayan winter escape.
Accessible Drives in Winter Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is actively promoting itself as a year-round destination, and several of its corridors are perfect for a winter drive. The route from Rishikesh towards Devprayag and further into Garhwal offers spectacular river views and well-paved roads. For snow-seekers, the roads to popular destinations like Mussoorie and Auli are maintained throughout winter. Mussoorie is a reliable weekend getaway from Delhi, offering a high chance of light snowfall in January. Auli is the state's premier skiing destination, and while a longer journey, the roads are kept open to facilitate winter sports tourism. The government is also opening new areas like Nelong Valley for winter tourism for the first time, signalling a broader push for winter accessibility. Still, drivers should remain cautious; fog on the plains and temporary blocks due to snowfall in the higher reaches are common, so flexibility is key.
