Rohtang Pass closed to traffic until next year due to snowfall and black ice

Rohtang Pass, a key link between Kullu and Lahaul valleys in Himachal Pradesh, has been closed to traffic due to falling temperatures and the formation of black ice, which has made road conditions dangerous. The closure, effective immediately, follows light snowfall in the high-altitude areas of Lahaul Spiti, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Kullu districts.

Police asks people not to travel on Manali-Leh Highway

The Kullu administration ordered the closure of Rohtang Pass after an inspection found driving conditions unsafe. Along with this, police check-posts in Gulaba and Marhi, situated near the pass, have been shut down. Lahaul Spiti Police have issued a public advisory discouraging travel along the Manali-Leh highway, where similar risks from black ice have been reported.

Rohtang Pass to be reopened next year

Rohtang Pass, a major tourist destination, is expected to reopen for traffic only by May or June next year. Additionally, several high-altitude temples, situated above 3,000 meters, have been closed for the winter, and trekking routes leading to these sites have also been shut.

This seasonal closure marks the beginning of winter adjustments across Himachal Pradesh, affecting both tourism and local travel. Authorities are urging the public to adhere to safety advisories and avoid unnecessary travel in affected regions.