In U’khand, snowfall welcomes people on state’s maiden winter pilgrimage

Uttarakhand witnessed its first spell of snowfall this winter season with temperatures reaching sub-zero in Kedarnath, Munsayari and many other places. The onset of first-time winter pilgrimage incidentally coincided with snowfall in higher reaches, thus inviting tourists/pilgrims to visit and see Devbhoomi in its true colors. Auli in Chamoli district, famous for ice-skating, skiing and other adventure sports activities is covered with thick sheet of snow.  

Snowfall in the higher reaches of Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines on Sunday intensified cold conditions with moderate showers lashing most plain areas of Uttarakhand. This is good news for apple cultivators who were eagerly waiting for winter rainfall.

Hemkund Sahib, the religious shrine of Sikhs in Chamoli district received 5 inches of snowfall on Saturday night. Similarly, Radi in Uttarkashi district received three-inch snowfall. Mussoorie, Mukteshwar and Tehri are under the grip of intense cold waves.  

On Sunday, state capital Dehradun and its surrounding areas received showers in the wee hours forcing people to remain huddled inside their homes. Streets and main market Paltan Bazar wore a deserted look. Rajaji National Park also remained closed for visitors on account of inclement weather. Sun remained hidden behind the clouds, thus giving people no respite from icy cold winds. The met department has predicted continuous snowfall in the higher reaches and moderate rainfall in the plain areas in the next 24 hours.

Tourists reached Mussoorie in large numbers over the weekend in the hope of seeing snowfall.