Mumbai: Shimla and its surrounding areas have been transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland after receiving the season’s first snowfall, marking an unusually early start to winter after decades.
On Sunday evening, December 8, Shimla, along with popular nearby tourist spots like Kufri and Fagu, experienced light snowfall, much to the delight of residents and visitors. The Meteorological Department noted that this is the earliest snowfall Shimla has seen in decades, breaking a long-standing pattern of delayed winter conditions.
The snowfall comes as a blessing for farmers and fruit growers, alleviating concerns caused by an extended dry spell. For the tourism sector, this rare early snowfall has sparked optimism for a booming season, as visitors are drawn to Shimla’s snow-clad charm and nearby destinations.
Shimla’s early snowfall has rekindled its allure as a classic winter getaway, bringing joy to locals and paving the way for a lively tourist season.
Weather in Shimla today
Today, Shimla recorded a minimum temperature of -1°C, with the maximum expected to reach up to 11°C.
Throughout the day, temperatures are anticipated to remain around 6°C.
Winds are blowing at a speed of 3.86 km/h, with gusts reaching 3.54 km/h at a direction of 259 degrees.
Shimla weather: 10-day forecast
The weekly forecast for Shimla predicts varying temperatures:
Tuesday, 10th: Sunny with a high of 9°C and a low of -1°C.
Wednesday, 11th: Sunny, high of 12°C and low of 0°C.
Thursday, 12th: Sunny, high of 11°C and low of -2°C.
Friday, 13th: Sunny, high of 13°C and low of 0°C.
Saturday, 14th: Mostly sunny, high of 15°C and low of 2°C.
Sunday, Dec 15: Mostly sunny with a high of 17°C and a low of 3°C.
Monday, Dec 16: Sunny skies, temperatures ranging from 16°C to 3°C.
Tuesday, Dec 17: Mostly sunny with a high of 15°C and a low of 1°C.
Wednesday, Dec 18: Partly sunny with a high of 13°C and a low of 1°C.
Shimla snowfall today
For the first time in several decades, Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, along with its nearby tourist destinations, experienced the season’s inaugural snowfall on Sunday evening with the hospitality sector anticipating an influx of tourists.
WATCH snowfall in Shimla on December 8-9:
Snow-covered #Shimla this morning! A good snowfall across the state last night, with many areas experiencing snow after a long time.
#HimachalPradesh pic.twitter.com/ADrvvvchCx
— Nikhil saini (@iNikhilsaini) December 9, 2024
Confirmed, we have snowfall in Shimla!!!
Thank god, there is hope yet for all the crops and the trees!#shimla #himachalapradesh #snowfall pic.twitter.com/9NZNEsZ5P7
— Sidharth Shukla (@sidhshuk) December 8, 2024
If you’re planning a trip, now is the ideal time to visit and witness the city blanketed in snow. Experiencing snowfall is often considered a must-have experience at least once in a lifetime, and there’s no better place than Himachal Pradesh to make it happen.
Delhi to Shimla distance
Delhi to Shimla distance by road is 411.8 km via NH 5 and takes approx. 8 hours 24 minutes.
Alternatively, visitors can take a train from Delhi to Kalka and then continue their journey on another train from Kalka to Shimla.
For air travel, Shimla is connected via Jubbarhatti Airport, located approximately 22 km from the town. A direct flight operates daily, with a travel time of around 1 hour 30 minutes. Being a popular tourist spot, flight prices tend to fluctuate frequently, so booking well in advance is advisable to secure better rates and avoid last-minute price surges.
Delhi to Shimla bus
Several bus services also operate on this route, ensuring a comfortable journey thanks to the well-maintained roads. Operators such as HRTC, City Land Travels, Himachal Tourist (Volvo buses), and Northern Travels offer services, with the typical pick-up point being Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate and the drop-off point at Shimla ISBT Tutikandi. The journey by road generally takes between 7 to 10 hours.
With temperatures dropping, Shimla offers the perfect backdrop for a cosy and picturesque getaway.
Travel tips for Shimla
Plan for Shimla by packing warm clothes, booking transport in advance, and checking the weather forecast for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Carry warm clothing such as layers, thermal wear, and waterproof jackets are essential.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring hilly terrains.
Keep sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm.
Carry a power bank and extra batteries for your devices.
Book hotels in advance. Consider staying in nearby areas like Kufri or Chail for a quieter experience.
Opt for the scenic toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla for a unique experience.
Don’t miss trying Himachali delicacies like Siddu, Chana Madra, and Babru.
Explore Mall Road for street food and local cafes. Mall Road and Lakkar Bazaar are great for souvenirs like woollen clothes, wooden crafts, and jewellery.
Bargain where appropriate to get the best deals.
Shimla is a blend of colonial charm and natural beauty, offering something for every traveller. Plan wisely and enjoy the serene landscapes and warm hospitality of this hill station!
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