Artificial Snowfall Brings Back Winter Charm at Atal Tunnel, Reviving Tourism in Lahaul Valley.
Shimla:
An unusually prolonged dry spell this winter left the Kullu–Manali and Lahaul–Spiti regions without their much-awaited snowfall, posing a serious challenge to the tourism-driven local economy. With snow being the main attraction for winter visitors, the absence of natural snowfall led to disappointment among tourists and a noticeable drop in footfall across popular destinations.
In a creative response to this challenge, tourism entrepreneur Amit Thakur has introduced an innovative artificial snowfall experience to restore the winter appeal of Lahaul Valley. Thakur, who owns Lapiti Café at Sissu near the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel, has installed snow-making machines that allow visitors to enjoy a snow-like experience immediately after crossing the tunnel into Lahaul.
The machines use advanced technology that combines water and compressed air. High-pressure pumps release ultra-fine water droplets through specialized nozzles, which freeze instantly in the cold mountain air, forming ice particles that fall gently to the ground—closely resembling natural snowfall.
“This initiative is aimed at preserving the winter experience when nature falls short,” Thakur said. “Tourists travel here with the hope of seeing snow, and artificial snowfall helps ensure they leave with unforgettable memories set against the stunning Himalayan landscape.”
The initiative has received positive feedback from tourists and local tourism stakeholders. Hotel owners, café operators, taxi drivers, and small business owners across the Kullu–Manali and Lahaul–Spiti regions noted that the lack of snowfall had severely impacted livelihoods this season. The artificial snow installation has helped reignite tourist interest, providing much-needed support during an otherwise slow winter period.
Local tourism representatives say such innovative efforts are essential to sustaining tourism amid increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. While the region continues to hope for natural snowfall, the artificial snowfall attraction near the Atal Tunnel has already become a major draw, keeping the spirit of winter tourism alive in Lahaul Valley.
