Overview of Shimla
Shimla evokes dreamy images of green, white and blue. The ideal time to explore Shimla is from May to June and December to January when romance and beauty are soaked in every inch of the soil here. Clear blue skies in summer, sprinkles of powdery snow in the winter, and the spicy and earthy scent carried by pines, firs, cedars and oak trees. Be it the old Elizabethan architecture to town squares, charming cafes and loving locals, Shimla is truly a vacationer’s paradise.
The weather in Shimla is distinguished by certain changes. Summers see a massive influx of tourists who travel to the hill station seeking relief from the heat. Winters are perfect to attract people to enjoy the snow, making the magical atmosphere in the Christmas and New Year seasons to see Shimla capped in snow. Let’s share the details so that you can make an informed decision.
Peak Tourism Season – May to Mid-June/ December – January
Shoulder Season – September to October
Off-Season – Mid-July or Late September
Shimla in Winter (November – January)Shimla experiences an average of 25 degrees high to 4 degrees low during summer.
Shimla Weather – The hill station at this time of the year is magnificent. The main reason behind this is the winter season. The average temperature settles at around 8 degree Celsius and can drop to as low as 7 degree Celsius. Winters first spreads its cold fingers over Shimla in November and then slowly engulfs the entire hill station from December to January when it is at its coldest. Chilly winds whip their way through the Shimla sightseeing tour, dropping the temperature even further. Snowflakes dance their way to the ground until they settle into powdery masses.
How important it is to plan a Shimla trip in winter?
Every year Shimla tour in the winter season will let you discover the hill station and its various tourist attractions. Winter is the time to go shopping, discover the surrounding natural landscapes or wander through the top tourist landmarks. These include Viceregal Lodge, The Botanical Gardens, Kali Bari Temple, and Darlaghat. As the season gets colder, turn your eyes towards the slopes – where you can trek or ski whichever you like.
It is also the season when some mischief starts, like snowfall. Travellers can just lay back in the snow and make a beautiful snow angel or fight with snowballs. It is also time for the Shimla Winter Carnival with ice skating, skiing, snowman building and other cultural events to enjoy. One can celebrate traditional festivals like Bhoj Fair, Navratri, Diwali, Christmas and Lohri.
Reasons for visiting Shimla in Winters –
· Winter is a favorable time in Shimla for enjoying snow.
· Indulge in snow activities like skating, skiing, swirling, etc.
· Enjoy a warm hearty bowl of Shimla’s favorites like Chha Ghosht or Mash Dal in this weather will be delicious.
· Book your tickets and hotel accommodation in advance.
Shimla in Summers (March to June)
Shimla enjoys an average of 37 degrees high to 9 degrees low during summer. It is the time when the hill station is warmed by the sun rays. The heat is moderate and the weather is pleasant. The season almost begins like the Spring season, before transitioning into summer. Temperatures in Shimla hover between 16 to 18 degree Celsius. The snow melts away to reveal a shimmering Shimla – full of greenery and hillside views.
If you’re willing to indulge in celebrations of local festivities, well, summer has plenty of festivals to enjoy. Like Holi, Baisakhi and the Sipi Fair. One can also partake in the Shimla Summer Festival and bear witness to some great performances carried out by local and national artists.
Shimla in Monsoon (July to September)
Shimla experiences 32 degrees high to 17 degrees low during the monsoon season. The hill station is draped in sheet after intense rainfall and a dense curtain of humidity hangs over the hill station. Extreme rainfall washes the hill station, leaving the trees and hilly slopes verdant and shimmering. Shimla receives an annual 1400 mm of rain during the monsoon season.
Visiting Shimla during this time may let you find a great deal when it comes to hotel accommodations or travel prices in usual. If you’re on a budget, then this would be a perfect time to plan a trip and take benefit of the overall price drop.
Now that you know the ideal time to visit Shimla, you can make a decision accordingly. Each season has its highs or lows, pros or cons and your choice should be based on what activities you want to try or places you wish to see.