Shimla Turns into a Winter Wonderland as Snowfall Delights Tourists
Shimla came alive on Monday as light snowfall blanketed the region, bringing a wave of excitement to locals and tourists alike. While the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh were treated to heavy snow, Shimla’s Ridge and Mall Road saw delicate snowflakes falling, adding magic to the already charming town. Popular nearby destinations like Kufri and Narkanda also received light snowfall, much to the delight of travelers who had been waiting for this winter spectacle.
This snowfall is the first in Shimla after a 15-day hiatus, the last one being on December 8. As soon as the snow started to fall, the town’s streets and scenic spots began filling with excited visitors eager to capture the snowy views.
Tourism Gets a Boost with Festive Vibes
Snowfall in Shimla during December is always a treat for tourists and a boon for the local tourism industry. With Christmas and New Year celebrations just around the corner, hotels and resorts in Shimla are reporting almost 70% occupancy. Travelers from across the country have flocked to the hill station, making the most of the picturesque weather and holiday cheer.
More Snow in the Forecast
According to the Shimla Meteorological Center, snowfall and rain are expected in various parts of the state over the next few days. The weather department predicts clear skies on December 25 and 26, but another round of snowfall is likely between December 27 and 29. While higher altitudes will experience more snow, the plains are expected to see rain.
An orange alert has been issued for cold wave conditions in low and mid-altitude areas from December 24 to 26. Dense fog is also anticipated in Mandi and Bilaspur districts during this period, adding to the winter chill.
Temperatures Drop Below Freezing in Several Areas
The mercury has dipped significantly across Himachal Pradesh, with six cities recording sub-zero temperatures on Monday. Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti was the coldest at a bone-chilling -10.2°C. Other regions also felt the icy grip of winter, with Samdho at -5.3°C, Kukumseri at -3.7°C, Kalpa at -2.5°C, and Rekong Peo at -0.4°C. Even Shimla recorded a chilly minimum temperature of 3.4°C, while Kufri stood at 0.7°C and Manali at 1.8°C.
The freezing temperatures have caused lakes and waterfalls in higher altitudes to freeze, creating mesmerizing natural ice sculptures. This has further added to the charm of these hill destinations, drawing even more visitors.
Shimla’s latest snowfall has transformed the city into a winter wonderland, making it a must-visit destination for holidaymakers looking to celebrate Christmas and New Year amidst serene, snowy landscapes.
