The key Chandigarh-Manali Highway (NH-3) reopened partially on Sunday for one-way traffic after a massive landslide near Pandoh, Mandi district, brought vehicles to a standstill for over 30 hours.
While the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) worked overnight to clear the debris, officials caution that travel to Himachal Pradesh remains risky as the monsoon continues to pound the region.
Chandigarh-Manali Highway Reopens: What Happened?
On Saturday evening, July 12, relentless monsoon rains triggered a landslide near Pandoh, completely blocking the road between Mandi and Kullu. The incident left hundreds of travelers stranded overnight, including families, honeymooners, and a wedding party en route to Manali.
“We heard a loud rumble and then everything stopped. Rocks and mud covered the entire highway within minutes,” said Shalini Mehta, a tourist from Delhi who was heading to Kasol.
Another stranded driver, Rajinder Thakur from Bhuntar, told RealYatra, “The BRO and police worked all night. We finally started moving this morning, but the road is narrow and slippery.”
By noon on Sunday, one lane was cleared, and light vehicles were allowed to move under police supervision.
Current Status of Chandigarh-Manali Highway Traffic
- Highway Status: Open for one-way traffic only at Pandoh
- Night Travel: Strongly discouraged due to poor visibility and unstable ground
- Other Roads: Over 150 rural and interior roads in Mandi, Kullu, Banjar, and Seraj Valley remain blocked
- Delays: Travelers should budget an extra 2–4 hours of journey time
Is It Safe to Travel on the Chandigarh-Manali Highway Now?
Authorities say it’s possible, but with caveats.
“We are letting vehicles through in a controlled manner during daylight. People should avoid venturing off main roads and refrain from nighttime travel,” said Mandi SP Sakshi Verma.
She added that offbeat routes to Shoja, Jalori, Barot, and Banjar remain dangerous and inaccessible.
If you must travel, stick to Kullu, Bhuntar, and Manali town proper and avoid deep interior stays or treks for now.
Monsoon Warnings Remain in Effect
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Alert for July 13–17 in Mandi, Kullu, and Kangra.
Flash floods, fresh landslides, and road cave-ins remain likely in high-altitude and forested areas.
“Travelers must check the weather forecast daily and inform family or hotels of their route,” advised BRO official Major Amit Rana.
Alternate Routes and Advice
For those coming from Delhi or Chandigarh:
- Use the main NH-3 via Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali.
- Avoid Shimla–Jalori Pass, Banjar, and Seraj Valley — currently impassable.
- If possible, postpone treks, riverside camping, and interior travel until after July.
Chandigarh-Manali Highway Monsoon Travel Tips
Travel between 6 AM – 5 PM only
Book stays in Manali town or Bhuntar, not remote homestays.
Carry offline maps, power banks, and emergency numbers.
Use BSNL or Jio SIMs for better mountain coverage.
Don’t attempt hiking, camping, or road trips during active rain.
When Will the Chandigarh-Manali Highway Be Fully Safe Again?
The monsoon in Himachal typically weakens after August 10, making late August and September much safer for sightseeing, treks, and offbeat exploration. Clearer skies and stable roads also make it ideal for workations and long stays.
On-Ground Coverage: Follow for Updates
RealYatra is tracking live updates from hotel owners, taxi operators, and locals across Himachal.
For the latest road visuals, advisories, and monsoon-safe travel guides, follow us on Instagram @RealYatra.