If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful valleys of the Devbhoomi (land of the Gods) in Himachal Pradesh to escape the heat, then this news is crucial. These days, Himachal Pradesh is witnessing two distinct shades of nature. While high valleys like Lahaul-Spiti are blanketed in snow, temperatures in the plains have soared to over 36 degrees Celsius. This means you can experience both biting cold and sweat-inducing heat simultaneously.
On Sunday, the weather in the state’s high-altitude areas took a turn. Light snowfall was recorded in Koksar, Lahaul-Spiti district, sending a chill across the valley. Intermittent snowfall is also continuing on other high peaks in the state.
Tourist favourites Shimla and Manali remained overcast throughout the day on Sunday. Clouds lessened the sun’s heat, and temperatures dropped significantly. Shimla’s maximum temperature dropped by about 3.9 degrees, making the weather pleasant and cool by evening. In Manali, the mercury also dropped to 20.6 degrees Celsius, forcing tourists to resort to jackets and warm clothing.
Heat Torture in the Plains: Una Was the Hottest
In contrast to the snowfall in the mountains, Himachal’s lower and plain districts are reeling under intense heat. Una district was the hottest in the state on Sunday, recording a maximum temperature of 36.2 degrees Celsius. The scorching sun in the plains has left people in a miserable state.
In other cities, Barthi recorded a temperature of 34.3 degrees, Mandi 32.7 degrees, Nahan 32.1 degrees, and Sundernagar 31.7 degrees Celsius. Surprisingly, the state’s average minimum temperature remains about 2 degrees above normal, making nights feel warmer than before.
How will the weather be until April 25?
According to the Meteorological Department Centre in Shimla, the next few days will bring mixed results for tourists and locals.
April 20: Light rain and snowfall are expected in the higher elevations over the next 24 hours, while the lower elevations will remain sunny.
April 21 to 23rd: Clear weather is expected throughout the state. This is the best time if you are planning to trek or sightsee.
April 24th and 25th: The department has warned that a new Western Disturbance will become active on April 24. Due to this, heavy rain and snowfall are expected again in the higher elevations. The weather may remain inclement in many parts of the state on April 25 as well.
Minimum Temperature Report
While Una is sweltering, Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti remains the coldest place, recording a minimum temperature of 0.4 degrees Celsius. Other colder places include Tabo (4.6 degrees), Kalpa (6.4 degrees), and Sarahan (8.4 degrees). The night temperature in the capital, Shimla, hovered around 16.8 degrees Celsius.
Tourist Advice
If you’re heading to Manali, Rohtang, or Lahaul this week, be sure to pack heavy warm clothing, as temperatures could drop below freezing if a western disturbance becomes active. If you’re travelling via Una and Kangra via Chandigarh or Delhi, be prepared for daytime heat.
