Shimla temperature and rain by month
These are IMD averages for 1991–2020. Individual days vary widely, and nights in a winter cold spell are far colder than the average low.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.3°C | 1.7°C | 80 mm |
| February | 10.3°C | 2.4°C | 83 mm |
| March | 14.5°C | 6.1°C | 79 mm |
| April | 19.8°C | 10.8°C | 58 mm |
| May | 23.0°C | 13.6°C | 82 mm |
| June | 23.8°C | 15.1°C | 192 mm |
| July | 21.3°C | 14.6°C | 328 mm |
| August | 20.5°C | 14.2°C | 351 mm |
| September | 20.4°C | 12.9°C | 165 mm |
| October | 18.9°C | 10.5°C | 30 mm |
| November | 15.4°C | 7.0°C | 14 mm |
| December | 11.9°C | 4.0°C | 26 mm |
When does it snow in Shimla?
Most of Shimla's snow falls in January and February, with smaller amounts in December and March. Long-term records average about 99 cm of snow a year, but in recent winters the town has often had only a few light falls, and some winters bring almost none. The record low is −12.2°C, set in December 1963.
If snow is the point of your trip, plan to go higher. Kufri, about 16 km away and a few hundred metres higher, and Narkanda, at about 2,700 m, get snow more often and keep it longer. Our snow guide for Manali and Shimla explains how to plan a trip that works even in a dry winter.
Shimla month by month
- January: the coldest month and the best chance of snow. Crisp, clear days between storms; roads to Kufri and Narkanda can close after heavy falls.
- February: still cold, with snow likely in the hills around town. Quieter than the New Year rush.
- March: thawing, with occasional late snow. Good value hotels.
- April: pleasant days, cool nights, rhododendrons in bloom. A very good month to visit.
- May: warm and sunny, and the start of the busy season as families escape the heat of the plains.
- June: the peak month for crowds; the monsoon usually arrives late in the month.
- July: heavy rain, mist and greenery. Landslides can block highways.
- August: the wettest month. Only if you're flexible and like the rain.
- September: rain easing, everything green, fewer people by the end of the month.
- October: clear skies and long views of the snow ranges. One of the best months.
- November: cool, dry and quiet, with the clearest air of the year.
- December: cold, with festive crowds at Christmas and New Year and a chance of snow late in the month.
Best time to visit Shimla, by trip type
- For snow: January to mid-February, and plan a day at Kufri or Narkanda.
- For families: April to June for warm days, or October for clear weather with fewer crowds.
- For honeymoons: December to February for a chance of snow, or March to April and October to November for mild weather.
- For the toy train and views: October and November, when the air is clearest.
- For lower prices: March, July to September (if you accept the rain) and November.
Driving to Shimla in each season
The highway from Chandigarh via Parwanoo and Solan stays open all year. In winter, the roads above Shimla to Kufri and Narkanda can ice up and close after snow, and only vehicles fitted for snow are allowed through when it's bad. In the monsoon, landslides are the main risk on the hill sections. Weekend traffic between Chandigarh and Shimla is heavy all year, so set off early.
What to wear in Shimla
In winter, pack thermals, a warm jacket, gloves and a woollen cap. From April to June, light clothes for the day and a sweater or jacket for evenings. In the monsoon, a rain jacket and shoes with grip for the steep lanes. You'll walk a lot in Shimla, so comfortable shoes matter in every season.
Frequently asked questions
Which month does it snow in Shimla?+
Mainly January and February, sometimes late December and March. Snow in town isn't guaranteed every year; Kufri and Narkanda are more reliable.
What is the best time to visit Shimla?+
April to June for pleasant weather, October and November for clear views and fewer crowds, and January to February for a chance of snow.
How cold is Shimla in December?+
IMD averages show highs near 12°C and lows around 4°C, with colder spells. The record low is −12.2°C.
Is there snow in Shimla in May?+
No, not in town. May is warm, with average highs around 23°C. For snow in May you'd need to go much higher, such as Rohtang above Manali.
Is it a good idea to visit Shimla in the monsoon?+
It's green and quiet, but July and August are very wet, with landslide risk on the roads. Allow extra time and stay flexible.
What should I wear in Shimla?+
Warm layers, a jacket, gloves and a cap in winter; light clothes plus a sweater for evenings in summer; a rain jacket in the monsoon. Always comfortable walking shoes.
