Munish Sood
MANDI: An unusual spell of warm and sunny weather in December, along with the absence of widespread snowfall, has significantly altered winter tourism trends in Himachal Pradesh this season. With snow eluding most traditional winter hotspots, tourists are now travelling far and wide in search of scenic destinations, bringing Shinkula Pass and its surrounding areas into focus as a new winter tourist destination. Located at 16,703 feet, Shinkula Pass connects the Zanskar region of Ladakh with the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh.
Until now, Atal Tunnel, Sissu and the Koksar region remained the main winter attractions for tourists. However, this season, clear skies and pleasant daytime temperatures have allowed visitors to explore Shinkula Pass and nearby areas, offering a fresh experience of the high Himalayas. The region’s stark mountain landscapes, open roads and panoramic views have attracted travellers looking for an alternative winter getaway.
Earlier this month, following sporadic weather changes and precautionary safety concerns, the district administration had temporarily restricted tourist vehicle movement towards Shinkula Pass. This decision had an adverse impact on tourism-related activities in Tod Valley, where local livelihoods are closely linked to seasonal tourism. Concerned tourism stakeholders approached local representatives seeking intervention.
Decision after MLA Anuradha Rana’s intervention
Zila parishad member Dorje Larje said that tourism entrepreneurs from Tod Valley urged local MLA Anuradha Rana to take up the matter with the authorities. Acting on their request, the MLA held discussions with the Lahaul-Spiti Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police. Following her intervention, the necessary notification was issued, and tourist movement towards Shinkula Top was restored, reopening the area for visitors.
Zila Parishad chairperson Veena Devi and Block Committee chairman Vipin Shashni said that tourism activities in and around Shinkula Top have regained momentum. They noted that the renewed tourist inflow has created fresh employment opportunities for local taxi drivers, homestay operators, hotel owners and food-van vendors, providing economic relief during the winter season.
Expressing happiness over the development, Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana, in a Facebook post, said that it was encouraging to see Shinkula Pass emerging as a winter tourism destination. She stated that favourable weather conditions and improved accessibility have opened new possibilities for tourism in high-altitude border areas.
The MLA added that promoting tourism in regions like Shinkula will strengthen the local economy, generate employment for youth and help showcase the natural beauty of Lahaul-Spiti to a wider audience, while ensuring that visitor safety remains a top priority.
Tourism observers believe that this winter marks a shift in travel patterns, driven by changing weather conditions. Even in the absence of heavy snowfall, clear winter days, scenic drives and less crowded destinations are drawing tourists towards off-beat regions like Shinkula Pass, indicating a gradual diversification of Himachal Pradesh’s winter tourism landscape.
