Snowfall In Shimla: Enjoy The Winter Chill In The Summer Capital Of British India This 2025
Breathtaking landscapes, colossal mountains, bustling markets, upscale hotels and restaurants, and pleasant weather all year round. Shimla has everything that makes it a popular retreat to beat the scorching summers of North India. With its peak tourist season during the summers, Shimla also witnesses a huge tourist footfall during the winter. This is because it is one of the few places in India that witnesses a subsequent snowfall. So, satisfy your craze for a white winter as you embark on a journey to witness snowfall in Shimla.
Snowfall Places In Shimla
Here are some experiences one should not miss during a snowfall in Shimla. Have a look at the best ones! Below are a few things you should know before planning your trip to Shimla. Read on and execute a well-planned trip with your loved ones.
1. Mall Road: Shop Till You Drop!
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Studded with numerous shops and eateries, The Mall Road is one of the best places to visit during the snowfall season in Shimla. Indulge in a heart-filling shopping experience as you walk past the town’s snow-covered street market. Tourists can also grab lip-smacking snacks from various eating joints across the road.
What To Buy: Handicrafts, wooden toys, artefacts, woollen clothes, caps, gloves, and other accessories
Attractions: The Ridge, Christ Church
Also Read: Himachal Pradesh In April
2. Kufri: Embark On A Sightseeing Tour
Also known as the ‘Snow Resort’, the picturesque hill station of Kufri is the best place to experience snowfall in Shimla in December. It is one of the most famous places near Shimla, where travellers can explore popular sights like the Himalayan National Park, Kufri Fun World, and Nagsons Amusement Park. During your stay here, enjoy the mesmerising view of snow in Shimla.
Distance From Shimla: 20 kilometres (approx.)
Attractions: Nagsons Amusement Park, Himalayan National Park
3. Winter Sports In Mahasu Ridge: Taste The Thrill
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One of the most arousing aspects of snowfall in Shimla in May is that it opens a window for numerous winter sports for tourists. Indulge in these thrilling activities to quench your thirst for adventure during your trip to Shimla. Ice Skating, skiing, and sledging are some of the best adventure sports for travellers.
Distance From Shimla: 17.5 kilometres (approx.)
Attractions: Kufri Ski Resort, Snow Kingdom, Indira Tourist Park
Related Post: Valleys In Himachal Pradesh
4. Jakhoo Peak: Climb Up To The Highest Peak Of The City
Jakhoo Peak is Shimla’s highest point, at 8,000 feet. It boasts tall Alpine trees, a colourful Temple, and a colossal statue of Lord Hanuman. This peak is a popular tourist attraction and one of the best places to witness heavy snowfall in Shimla.
Distance From Shimla: 4 kilometres
Attractions: Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, View Point
5. Mashobra: Explore The Picturesque Town
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If you are looking for peace and tranquillity during your trip to Shimla, head to the serene town of Mashobra. Situated at 7,700 feet, it is one of the best snowfall places in Shimla. Here, travellers can rest in the arms of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Distance From Shimla: 13 kilometres (approx.)
Attractions: Lakka Bazaar, Mahasu Devta Temple, Jakhu Temple
Related Post: Shimla In Winter
6. Green Valley: Indulge In An Unending Affair With Nature
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Green Valley is one of the most famous tourist spots in Shimla. It has also been used as a shooting spot in various Bollywood movies because of its lush green natural bounties. Visit this place during the snowfall period in Shimla to indulge in an eternal affair with nature and click pictures with a breathtaking backdrop of the extensive greenery of the valley. It is also one of the snowfall places in Shimla, which gets carpeted with a layer of white in the winter.
Distance From Shimla: 16 km
Attractions: Green Valley Art Gallery, Green Valley Library
7. Naldehra: Visit The Fascinating Town
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Situated approximately 25 kilometres from Shima, the mesmerizing hill town of Naldehra is one of the best places to witness snowfall in Shimla. It is home to the oldest 9-hole golf course in India and is also known for its luxurious resorts and picnic spots, where families can spend quality time together.
Distance From Shimla: 25 kilometers
Attractions: Chadwick Falls, Shali Temple
Related Post: Resorts In Shimla
Places To Stay During Snowfall In Shimla
Accommodation is an essential factor to consider when planning a trip. Here are some great options for a trip to Shimla.
1. The Cecil
The Cecil, Shimla, is a 5-star property in the Oberoi chain of hotels, which dates back to the British era. With colonial architecture, luxurious rooms, and opulent decor, it is one of the best places to stay during snowfall in Shimla 2025.
Address: Chaura Maidan Road, Shimla
Price/Night: Starts from INR 11,500 (double-sharing basis & tax excluded)
2. Radisson Hotel Shimla
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Overlooking the snow-clad Himalayan mountains, the Radisson Hotel, Shimla, is one of the best properties to stay in during snowfall in Shimla. It is the best 4-star hotel that provides all sorts of luxuries, such as a gymnasium, outdoor pool, spa centre, fine dining restaurant, and an upmarket bar.
Address: Goodwood Estate, Lower Bharari Road, Shimla
Price/Night: Starts from INR 10,500 (double-sharing basis & tax excluded)
Related Post: Amazing Things To Do In Shimla
3. Honeymoon Inn Shimla
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Are you planning a trip to witness snowfall in Shimla? Book your stay at Honeymoon Inn to cherish every moment of your trip in their cosy accommodations. It is one of the best hotels in Shimla, providing luxurious rooms and top-quality amenities at budget prices to make your trip even more memorable.
Address: The Mall, Near CM House, Bemloi, Shimla
Price/Night: Starts from INR 5,500 (double-sharing basis & tax excluded)
Places To Eat At During Snowfall In Shimla
Listed below are some fantastic places to eat on a trip to Shimla. Have a look!
1. Eighteen71 Cookhouse And Bar
Indulge in a top-notch fine dining experience during snowfall in Shimla at Eighteen71 Cookhouse And Bar. This upmarket restaurant is known for its dazzling ambience and extensive multi-cuisine menu. Savour authentic Indian food and various other cuisines at this restaurant during your trip to Shimla.
Location: Hotel Willow Banks Shimla, Near Tourism Lift, Shimla
Timings: 8 am to 10:30 pm
Related Post: Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In July
2. Cafe Sol
Looking for upmarket cafes during the season of snowfall in Shimla? Head to Cafe Sol in Hotel Combermere. With its open-air seating area offering enthralling views of the valley, it is one of the best places to serve lip-smacking Indian, Mughlai, Chinese, Thai, and Continental cuisines.
Location: Hotel Combermere, Opposite Tourism Lift, Mall Road, The Mall, Shimla
Timings: 10 am to 11 pm
3. The Restaurant, Oberoi Cecil
Located inside the Cecil Hotel, The Restaurant is one of Shimla’s best places to eat during snowfall. This restaurant boasts of an opulent ambience and a scrumptious 4-course menu that includes culinary delights from local Himachali, pan-Indian and International cuisines.
Location: Chaura Maidan Road, Shimla
Timings: 10 am to 11 pm
Related Post: Things To Do In Kasol
Packing Essentials For Snowfall Season In Shimla
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While planning a trip during snowfall season in Shimla, one has to keep in mind the acute weather conditions of the place. So, here’s a list of the essential items that one must carry while visiting Shimla during snowfall:
- Jackets, woollen t-shirts, and warmers to protect your body from the chilly winds.
- Long boots, warm socks, and woollen gloves and caps.
- Winter creams to protect your skin.
- Necessary medicines for motion sickness, cough, and cold.
- Technical stuff includes mobile chargers, portable chargers, USB, cameras, earphones, and portable speakers.
Best Time To Witness Snowfall In Shimla
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Winter season is the best time of snowfall in Shimla. While the probability of witnessing snowfall in Shimla is relatively high from mid-December to January, the snowfall season may arrive early, adding more joy and beauty to the whole vacation experience. If nothing else, this will surely encourage tourists from all over the country to flock to this hill station and admire the beauty of the town, which is now blanketed by thick layers of snow. Your best bet is to visit in January, in which month snowfall in Shimla is at its most frequent.
Related Post: Camping In Shimla
Average Temperature During Snowfall In Shimla
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The temperature varies between 0°C to 10°C during snowfall in Shimla. The average temperature is higher at the time of snowfall but drops sharply when it stops. This is because of the freezing winds that blow throughout the region.
Tourists can enjoy the chilly winters at popular spots in and around Shimla, such as Mall Road, Kufri, Scandal Point, and Jakhoo Peak.
Himachal Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Head to Himachal Pradesh to witness lush valleys surrounded by snow-capped hills. Indulge in skiing, paragliding, and other adventure sports. Book holiday packages that include airport transfers, cabs, a resort, sightseeing, and meals to Shimla, Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala, and more.
Snowfall Period In Shimla
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Shimla is a popular tourist hotspot in the country. It boasts numerous tourist attractions requiring at least three days and two nights to explore. If you are planning a trip to witness snowfall in Shimla, a weekend would be sufficient to traverse this picturesque hill town. Book your tickets for January and February, which is the time of snowfall in Shimla. Travellers can also book a two-night, three-day Shimla Tour Package, which will help them explore the city in a planned and organised manner.
You May Also Like To Read: Shimla Vs Manali Honeymoon
Are you dreaming of a vacation in the mesmerising valley of Shimla? Book a customisable trip to Shimla with TravelTriangle to witness snowfall in Shimla and explore its nearby tourist destinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Snowfall In Shimla
Which month is best for Shimla and Manali?
If watching snowfall in Shimla is not the aim, one can visit Shimla and Manali during summertime too, during April and May.
What can I buy in Shimla?
There are a plethora of things that you can buy in Shimla like handicrafts, wood articles, woollens, and jewellery.
When can I see snowfall in Shimla?
The recommended time to see snowfall in Shimla is between October and February. If you are looking for snow, plan your visit to Shimla anytime between the months. During this time, you and your family can indulge in skiing and ice skating activities. The average temperature during these months ranges from 8°C to -2°C.
Which month is coldest in Shimla?
January is the coldest month in Shimla, with an average temperature of 8 degrees Celsius, and the minimum temperature reaching as low as -7 degrees.
How far is Shimla from Kufri by road?
Kufri is not far from Shimla, located only at a distance of 16 kilometres, which takes about half an hour by road.
Which month Shimla is crowded?
March to June is the peak tourist season in Shimla, and it is during this time that the climate is pleasant and you'll so many tourists out and about.
Is Kufri better than Shimla?
While Shimla has a lot more attractions to offer than Kufri, Kufri is ideal for those who want to avoid big crowds and seek a tranquil retreat.
Can one see Snowfall in Shimla in January?
Yes, one can absolutely see snow in shimla in January. It snows every January without fail.
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Abhay Kumar is a graduate of English Literature. Writing is both his hobby and his passion. He writes academic research articles as well as poetry and short fiction. He loves reading science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, and translated fiction. He also loves traveling and writing about himself in the third person.