A tourist’s video from Manali has sparked an unusual online debate after he claimed that local guides were scamming visitors by offering skiing on a very small, artificially collected patch of snow, despite there being no natural snowfall in the area. The video, which has now gone viral, shows tourists trying to ski on a narrow strip of snow, while the surrounding landscape looks dry and rocky.

The clip has divided social media users. While some called it an obvious scam, others said it was a reminder for tourists to check weather and seasonal conditions before planning a trip.

ALSO READ

What the tourist claims in the video

In the video, the tourist films what he describes as a skiing spot in Manali, where only a small amount of snow can be seen spread over the ground. “I’m in Manali and look how these people have scammed tourists like us. They have simply thrown around a handful of snow, there’s no snow around us except this one small patch,” the tourist said speaking from behind the camera.

As he speaks, he moves the camera left and right to show the surroundings. The visuals reveal dry land, rocks and almost no snow beyond the tiny area where tourists are gathered. The video also clearly shows that the skiing space is extremely limited, with just a narrow stretch of snow visible and most of the slope completely bare.

Social media reacts with jokes and questions

The video drew mixed reactions online. Some users agreed with the tourist’s views and accused local operators of misleading tourists who had come expecting a proper snow experience.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) sarcastically commented, “This is what happens when you get ski resort tickets from temu”.

Another user commented, “Tourists want snow, local guys are providing snow. Free market win”.

One more comment surfaced, where a user wrote, “Ppl travel to click pictures these days, very few of them actually go to cherish the actual experience”.

Others, however, felt it was not a scam but a lack of planning by tourists. Several users pointed out that Manali does not get snowfall all year round and said visitors should check the season before travelling. 

ALSO READ

“This is the boomer style tourism which is doomed anyway. Even in this day and age they are relying on some scammy driver and tour operator instead of simply doing a bit of research,” a user wrote on X.

One more user added, “I have seen this in Switzerland too. Ski slopes are maintained like this worldwide. Nothing wrong”.