Dharamshala temperature and rain by month
IMD averages for 1991–2020 for Dharamshala. McLeod Ganj is typically a few degrees cooler, and colder still at Naddi, Dharamkot and Triund.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16.0°C | 5.9°C | 84 mm |
| February | 17.8°C | 7.3°C | 128 mm |
| March | 22.5°C | 10.7°C | 111 mm |
| April | 26.9°C | 14.8°C | 66 mm |
| May | 30.8°C | 19.0°C | 72 mm |
| June | 30.9°C | 20.5°C | 279 mm |
| July | 27.5°C | 19.7°C | 859 mm |
| August | 26.6°C | 19.2°C | 942 mm |
| September | 26.8°C | 17.8°C | 378 mm |
| October | 25.6°C | 14.2°C | 53 mm |
| November | 22.0°C | 10.2°C | 19 mm |
| December | 18.4°C | 7.1°C | 37 mm |
The monsoon: very wet
Dharamshala gets about 3,000 mm of rain a year, most of it in July and August, when monthly totals approach 900 mm. Downpours can last for days, the mountains disappear into cloud, trails like Triund become slippery and landslides can block roads. It's green and atmospheric if you like rain, but not the time for treks or views.
Snow in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj
Lower Dharamshala rarely sees settled snow. In McLeod Ganj and the villages above it, such as Bhagsu, Dharamkot and Naddi, snow and sleet fall on some winter days, mostly from late December to February. The Dhauladhar peaks behind the town are white for much of the year, and Triund is often snowbound in winter. For guaranteed snow underfoot, plan a winter trek with a local guide or head to higher ground.
Dharamshala month by month
- January: cold, clear days and the best chance of snow in McLeod Ganj. Snow on Triund.
- February: still cold, with some rain or snow; Losar, the Tibetan New Year, often falls in February or March.
- March: warming, blossom, and clear views. A very good month.
- April: warm days, cool nights, and treks open. Excellent.
- May: warm in lower Dharamshala, pleasant in McLeod Ganj; busy with visitors from the plains.
- June: hot in the lower town; pre-monsoon showers by the end of the month.
- July: monsoon arrives in force. Very wet.
- August: the wettest month. Only if you're flexible.
- September: rain easing, everything lush; treks reopen late in the month.
- October: clear, crisp and green: one of the best months for views and Triund.
- November: dry, cool and quiet, with sharp mountain views.
- December: cold, with a chance of snow late in the month.
Best time to visit Dharamshala, by trip type
- For sightseeing and views: March to June and October to November.
- For Triund and other treks: April to June and October to November.
- For snow: late December to February in McLeod Ganj and higher villages.
- For cricket: check the HPCA stadium's fixture list; matches are usually outside the monsoon.
- For lower prices: July to September and January to February, outside holidays.
What to pack
In spring and autumn, light layers for the day and a warm jacket for McLeod Ganj evenings. In winter, thermals, a down jacket, gloves and waterproof boots. In the monsoon, a good rain jacket, an umbrella and quick-drying shoes with grip, since the lanes of McLeod Ganj become streams in heavy rain.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Dharamshala?+
March to June and October to November, for clear views, pleasant weather and open treks.
Does it snow in Dharamshala?+
Rarely in the lower town. McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu, Dharamkot and Naddi get some snow or sleet in winter, mostly late December to February.
Can we visit Dharamshala in July or August?+
Yes, but it's the heavy monsoon, with around 900 mm of rain a month. Treks and views are poor and roads can be blocked.
How cold is McLeod Ganj in December?+
Cold, especially at night. Lower Dharamshala averages lows around 7°C in December; McLeod Ganj is a few degrees colder.
Is October a good time for Dharamshala?+
Yes. It's one of the best months: clear skies, green hills after the monsoon and good trekking.
Which is the best month for the Triund trek?+
April to June and October to November. Winter brings snow, and the monsoon makes the trail slippery.
