Season’s first snowfall at Sandakphu

REZA PRADHAN

DARJEELING,: The first snowfall of this winter season was witnessed at Sandakphu this month, with fresh snowfall again reported on Tuesday morning, just two days after the previous spell.

Located about 61 km from Darjeeling at an altitude of 3,636 metres, Sandakphu, which falls under the Singalila range, did not receive any snowfall in December and January. The season’s first snowfall has come towards the end of February.

Singalila Land Rover Association coordinator Anil Tamang said, “Snowfall had taken place on February 22, but it melted before it could accumulate. Today, snowfall started around 10.30 am and continued for over two hours. Apart from the upper reaches like Phalut, snowfall can be seen up to Kalpokhri, about 6 km below Sandakphu.”

The association, which has around 120 members, is the only body providing vehicles to the Sandakphu area. Earlier, only Land Rovers operated on the route as they were the only vehicles capable of negotiating the terrain. However, with parts of the route now motorable, Bolero vehicles are also being used.

Tamang said vehicles were currently operating up to Chauri Chowk, around 3 km below Sandakphu, with comparatively less snowfall reported at Kalpokhri.

“Tourists wishing to return are being asked to walk till Kalpokhri, with hotel staff assisting them. From Kalpokhri, vehicles are bringing them down. Those heading uphill today are being advised either to halt at Tumling or return,” Tamang said.

As a precautionary measure, tourists travelling to Sandakphu are being advised to carry minimal luggage. Those choosing to stay back have been requested to send a major portion of their luggage down with staff members so that they do not face difficulties if stranded.

On Monday, ten vehicles ferried tourists to Sandakphu, with another ten vehicles heading there on Tuesday. Each vehicle carries four to five tourists. Tamang added that Sandakphu is currently crowded, with a significant number of trekkers as well.

“With snow still falling, it is difficult to predict the extent of accumulation. A clearer picture will emerge by tonight. As most days currently see sunshine, the snow may melt easily. However, if heavy snowfall leads to road blockages, our team will assist in reopening routes to help tourists descend,” he said, adding that assistance is also received from the SSB stationed there and the BDO office if required.

Tamang further said Sandakphu is fully booked for the Holi holidays beginning March 4.

Meanwhile, as snowfall blanketed Sandakphu, temperatures in Darjeeling town dipped to around 8°C during the day, accompanied by rainfall and brief spells of hail.

While Sandakphu receives snowfall every year, Darjeeling town rarely experiences it. Tiger Hill last witnessed snowfall in January 2022, while Darjeeling town saw brief snowfall in December 2021, though without significant accumulation.