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 which witnesses a subsequent amount of snowfall. So, satisfy your craze for a white winter as you embark on a journey to witness snowfall in Shimla.
Must-Have Experiences During Snowfall In Shimla
Here are some of the experiences that one should not miss during a snowfall in Shimla. Have a look at the best ones! Below that we have mentioned a few things that 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!
Studded with numerous shops and eateries, The Mall Road is definitely 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 snow-covered street market of the town. Tourists can also grab some lip-smacking snacks from various eating joints lined across the road.
What To Buy: Handicrafts, wooden toys, artefacts, woolen clothes, caps, gloves, and other accessories
Attractions: The Ridge, Christ Church
Must 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 to visit 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 kilometers (approx.)
Attractions: Nagsons Amusement Park, Himalayan National Park
3. Winter Sports: Taste The Thrill
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 that travellers can indulge in.
Suggested Read: 10 Valleys In Himachal Pradesh
4. Jakhoo Peak: Climb Up To The Highest Peak Of The City
Situated at an altitude of 8,000 feet, Jakhoo Peak is the highest point of Shimla. Boasting 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.
Attractions: Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, View Point
5. Mashobra: Explore The Picturesque Town
If you are looking for peace and tranquillity during your trip to Shimla, then head to the serene town of Mashobra. Situated at an altitude of 7,700 feet, it is one of the best snowfall places in Shimla where travellers can rest in the arms of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Distance From Shimla: 13 kilometers (approx.)
Attractions: Lakka Bazaar, Mahasu Devta Temple, Jakhu Temple
Suggested Read: 20 Resorts In Shimla
6. Green Valley: Indulge In An Unending Affair With Nature
Green Valley is one of the most famous tourist spots in Shimla that 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.
Attractions: Green Valley Art Gallery, Green Valley Library
7. Naldehra: Visit The Fascinating Town
Situated approximately 25 kilometres away from Shima, the mesmerizing hill town of Naldehra is one of the best places to witness snowfall in Shimla. This place is home to the oldest 9-hole golf course in India and is also known for its luxurious resorts, and picnic spots where one can spend quality time with their families.
Distance From Shimla: 25 kilometers
Attractions: Chadwick Falls, Shali Temple
Suggested Read: 20 Resorts In Shimla
Places To Stay During Snowfall In Shimla
Accommodation is an important factor to consider whenever planning a trip. Here are some great options that one can consider while planning a trip to Shimla.
1. The Cecil
The Cecil, Shimla, is a 5-star property of the Oberoi chain of hotels that dates back to the British era. Boasting of colonial architecture, luxurious rooms, and opulent decors, Cecil is one of the best places to stay during snowfall in Shimla.
Address: Chaura Maidan Road, Shimla
Price/Night: Starts from INR 11,500 (double-sharing basis & tax excluded)
TripAdvisor Ratings: 5/5
2. Radisson Hotel Shimla
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)
TripAdvisor Ratings: 4/5
Suggested Read: 29 Amazing Things To Do In Shimla
3. Honeymoon Inn Shimla
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 that provides luxurious rooms along with 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)
TripAdvisor Ratings: 4.5/5
Places To Eat At During Snowfall In Shimla
Listed below are some amazing places to eat at 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 along with 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
TripAdvisor Ratings: 4.5/5
Suggested Read: 8 Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In July
2. Cafe Sol
Looking for upmarket cafes during snowfall in Shimla? Head to Cafe Sol in Hotel Combermere. Providing enthralling views of the valley from its open-air sitting area, it is one of the best places which 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 the best places to eat during snowfall in Shimla. 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
TripAdvisor Ratings: 4.5/5
Suggested Read: 18 Awesome Things To Do In Kasol
Packing Essentials For Snowfall Season In Shimla
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 such as mobile chargers, portable chargers, USB, cameras, earphones, and portable speakers.
Best Time To Witness Snowfall In Shimla
While mid-December to January is the time when the probability of witnessing snowfall in Shimla is quite high, the snowfall season in Shimla may arrive early which adds more joy and beauty to the whole idea of your vacation. If not anything else, this will surely encourage tourists from all parts of the country to flock to this hill station and spectate the beauty of the town, which is now blanketed by thick layers of snow.
Suggested Read: Camping In Shimla
Average Temperature During Snowfall In Shimla
The temperature varies between 0°C to 10°C during snowfall in Shimla. The average temperature is on the higher side 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, Jakhoo Peak, and more such places.
Himachal Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Head to Himachal to witness lush valleys surrounded by snow-capped hills. Indulge in skiing, paragliding, and other adventure sports. Book holiday packages inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing, and meals to Shimla, Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala, and more.
Ideal Duration
Being a popular tourist hotspot of the country, Shimla boasts numerous tourist attractions which need a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights to be explored. If you are planning a trip to witness snowfall in Shimla then a weekend would be sufficient to traverse through this picturesque hill town. Travellers can also book a 2 night 3 days Shimla Tour Package which would help them to explore the town in a planned, and organised manner.
Further Read: Shimla Vs Manali Honeymoon: Which Is Better For You And Why?
Dreaming of a vacation in the mesmerising valley of Shimla? Book a customisable Shimla tour 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 the months of 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, woolens, and jewelry.
When can I see snowfall in Shimla?
The recommended time to see snowfall in Shimla is between the months of October and February. If you are looking for snow, then plan your visit to Shimla anytime between the said months. During this time you and your family can indulge in activities such as skiing and ice skating. The average temperature during these months ranges from 8°C to -2°C.
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