A tourist in Manali has exposed winter sports being conducted on trucked-in ‘fake snow,’ sparking outrage and amusement online. Are hill stations really the snowy wonderlands they promise, or is this a clever winter tourism trick?
Manali ‘snow scam’ video goes viral
Manali: A tourist visiting Manali recently recorded a video showing winter sports activities being conducted on artificially imported snow, sparking widespread reactions on social media. The footage, which has gone viral, reveals tourists skiing on small patches of trucked-in snow while the surrounding terrain remained dry and rocky.
In the video, the tourist can be heard saying in Hindi, “Finally, main aapko dikhata hoon ki Manali mein kaise snowfall ho rahi hai. Dekhiye saamne, yeh log barf utha kar truck mein laaye hain, yahan daal rahe hain aur phir logon se activity karwayenge”
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(“Finally, let me show you how snowfall is happening in Manali. Look in front of you these people have brought snow in trucks, are dumping it here, and then making people do activities on it”).
The visuals clearly show the contrast between the small artificial snow patches and the dry, rugged ground surrounding them. Tourists were seen engaging in skiing and other winter activities, unaware of the setup.
The video has drawn both amusement and criticism from viewers. Many users made humorous remarks, referencing green-screen effects and comparing the snow to ice lollies sold for a few rupees. Others expressed disappointment, with one viewer stating, “I really feel very ashamed just by looking at it.” Several social media users suggested visiting locations like Kashmir or Rohtang Pass for a more authentic snow experience.
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The incident has raised questions about the authenticity of winter tourism experiences in Manali. Experts say such practices may affect visitor trust and could tarnish the reputation of popular hill stations if left unchecked.
Manali continues to attract tourists for its scenic landscapes and winter sports. However, this incident serves as a reminder for travelers to verify the authenticity of activities before participating. Authorities and tourism operators may need to ensure transparency to maintain the credibility of the region’s winter tourism offerings.
