Manali's Atal Tunnel: Your Passport to Exciting New Adventures in Lahul and Spiti
Located in the far reaches of the Trans-Himalayas, Lahul-Spiti is a district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Lahul-Spiti is located in the Greater Himalayas, which are characterised by barren, rocky mountains. One of the world's highest populated locations, the district sits at an elevation of between 3,000 to 4,000 metres above sea level. Manali's Atal Tunnel now allows visitors to see snowfall, partake in adventure activities, and learn about the region's rich cultural legacy in formerly inaccessible areas of Lahul and Spiti.
Manali and the Lahul-Spiti valley in Himachal Pradesh are connected by the 9.02-kilometer-long Atal Tunnel, named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. In addition to cutting down on travel time between Manali and Lahul-Spiti, this tunnel has also served to split traffic between Rohtang and Lahul. Now, both Rohtang and Baralacha can provide tourists with snow in the summer months of June and July.
The average annual temperature falls between -15 degrees C
elsius and 25 degrees Celsius, making the climate subarctic to alpine. In the winter, when temperatures often drop below freezing, the area becomes a paradise for those who like the white stuff. Himalayan black bears, leopards, snow leopards, musk deer, and a plethora of avian species are just a few examples of the region's distinctive flora and wildlife.
The Atal Tunnel not only connects travellers to the snowy peaks of Lahul-Spiti, but also to the lowlands of Lahul and Spiti, which have not been well explored until recently. These valleys are home to a rich cultur
al history, including numerous historic monasteries, temples, and traditional villages, as well as stunning vistas of the Himalayan mountains.
There are snowy mountains, glaciers, verdant valleys, and winding rivers throughout the area. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are common on the Beas River, which has its source in the Rohtang Pass and flows through the city of Manali. Pine, cedar, and deodar trees form extensive woods in the neighbouring hills, making them ideal for hiking and trekking.
Travellers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience will appreciate Lahul-Spiti's arid and rocky landscape. It's a great place to go hiking, with multiple routes to choose from such the Pin Parvati Pass, Hampta Pass, and Spiti Valley. Chandratal Lake and Suraj Tal Lake are only two of the many stunning bodies of water in the region.
Finally, the completion of the Atal Tunnel in Manali has made it easier for visitors to go to Lahul-Spiti, where they may enjoy winter sports, exciting outdoor pursuits, and the region's rich cultural legacy. Lahul-Spiti is a must-see for nature lovers and adventurers due to its unusual geology, diversified flora and wildlife, and difficult terrain. So, get packing, for you're about to embark on an expedition to Lahul-Spiti.