Shimla sees season’s first heavy snowfall, tourists flock to the hill town as Himachal reports rain and snow

Tourists revel in Shimla’s first snowfall of the season, as the hill town turns into a picturesque winter wonderland.

• Shimla turns into a winter wonderland after season's first heavy snowfall
• Tourism surges with higher hotel occupancy and visitors enjoying snowy landscapes
• IMD predicts more snow and rain; residents and tourists urged to stay cautious

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Have you ever wondered what Shimla looks like under a fresh blanket of snow? This winter, Himachal Pradesh’s capital is giving visitors a picturesque reason to find out.

Tourists are flocking to Shimla following the season’s first heavy snowfall, which has turned the hill town into a winter wonderland. Snowfall, which began intermittently over the past few days, has now covered the city and surrounding higher reaches, creating an ideal setting for snow enthusiasts and photographers.

The snow has not only delighted tourists but also enhanced the charm of the town, making it a must-visit winter destination.

Image: PTI

Heavy Snowfall and Rain Across Himachal Pradesh

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported widespread rain and snowfall across Himachal Pradesh over the last 24 hours. Temperatures in some regions remained above normal, while others saw a dip. The IMD recorded:

• Minimum temperatures rose by 3-5°C in low and high hill areas but fell by 2-3°C in mid-hill regions.
• Maximum temperatures remained largely above normal by 2-6°C.
• Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the coldest minimum at -4.2°C, while Neri in Hamirpur saw the highest maximum at 25.4°C.

Image: PTI

Significant rainfall was noted at Bharwain (25 mm), Amb (21 mm), Aghar (17.6 mm), Kandaghat (17 mm), Pachhad (15.3 mm), and Rajgarh (14 mm). Snowfall in higher reaches included Kothi (15 cm), Gondla (12 cm), Kukumseri (6.8 cm), Jot (6 cm), Saloni (5 cm), Manali (4.8 cm), Keylong (4 cm), Kufri (4 cm), and Shimla (0.6 cm).

The IMD also reported thunderstorms in Sundernagar, Kangra, Shimla, Murari Devi, and Jubbarhatti. Gusty winds were recorded at Narkanda (87 kmph), Kufri (67 kmph), Seobagh (65 kmph), and Mashobra (59 kmph).

Image: PTI

Weather Forecast: More Snowfall on the Way

The IMD has warned that weather conditions are likely to remain unstable in the coming days, with isolated to scattered rain and snowfall across the state. Heavy snow or rain is expected at isolated places on January 23. Thunderstorms with lightning and winds of 40-50 kmph are also likely in some regions. A fresh western disturbance is predicted to affect northwest India, including Himachal Pradesh, from January 26, potentially triggering more snow and rain.

Residents and tourists have been advised to stay cautious, especially in higher altitudes and wind-prone areas, due to snowfall, gusty winds, and rapidly changing weather conditions.

Image: PTI

Snowfall Boosts Tourism and Local Economy

The first major snow of the season has brought much-needed relief after nearly four months of dry weather. Orchardists and farmers, who were concerned about potential crop losses, are now hopeful for a good harvest season.

Tourism in Shimla has received a visible boost, with fresh snow covering the city and the upper areas of Narkanda, Kufri, Khada Pathar, Chaupal, Rohru, and Jubbal. Hotels and resorts are reporting higher occupancy, while tourists are enjoying snowball fights, photography, and the scenic winter landscapes.

For anyone planning a winter getaway, Shimla’s snowy charm is now at its peak. Whether it’s the joy of witnessing your first snowfall or exploring Himachal’s scenic beauty, this is the perfect time to experience the magic of the hills.