Sandakphu sees snowfall again

SNS, DARJEELING. 22 APRIL 21 : Sandakphu area, around 61 km from Darjeeling town, experienced snowfall this afternoon. The area standing at a height of 3536 metres saw around six inches of snow accumulating there.

According to the Singalila Land Rovers' Association (SLRA) general secretary, Chandan Pradhan, vehicles are going only up to a place called Chauri Chowk, around 3 km below Sandakhpu.

"There are tourists there with four vehicles carrying them there yesterday. Five more vehicles filled with tourists went there today, but it is unsure if they will return or trek the 3 km route to Sandakhpu. as vehicles cannot go above Chauri Chowk," Mr Pradhan said.

The Association runs a syndicate of Land Rover vehicles that is known for negotiating rough and steep terrain. "Similarly tourists interested in coming back have to trek 3 km downhill and vehicles will bring them from there," he said.

The last time Sandakhpu experienced snowfall was on the night of 13 March and 30 January this year.

Nearer home, Darjeeling town witnessed heavy rainfall in the morning today.

Snowfall around Darjeeling town was last seen at Tiger Hill, around 12 km away from here, and standing at a height of 2,560 metres in February 2020.

On the other hand, Darjeeling town witnessed snowfall for a brief period on 29 January, 2019.