New Year Snowfall in Dalhousie Brightens Spirits While Shimla and Manali Disappoint Tourists

As Himachal Pradesh entered the New Year, Dalhousie experienced a light snowfall, creating a picturesque winter scene, while popular tourist spots Shimla and Manali remained dry, disappointing many visitors. The Meteorological Centre has forecast clear weather ahead but warns of dropping temperatures and potential fog. Travelers are advised to exercise caution in high-altitude areas, particularly around Lahaul-Spiti, where light snowfall continues. Read on for detailed weather updates and travel advisories.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 16:36 IST

Snowfall in Dalhousie and Dry Conditions in Shimla and Manali

Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA: As Himachal Pradesh welcomed the New Year, some regions experienced a break from the prolonged dry spell, yet the much-anticipated snowfall was absent in popular tourist destinations like Shimla and Manali, leaving many visitors disheartened. In contrast, Dalhousie greeted 2026 with a light dusting of snow, momentarily transforming the hill town into a winter wonderland and boosting the morale of the Chamba area.

On Thursday night, scattered rain and snow were reported in various parts of the state. Areas in Una and Bilaspur experienced rainfall, while the higher elevations of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur saw light snowfall. However, Shimla and Manali, which attracted large crowds eager for a snowy New Year, remained dry, prolonging the wait for both tourists and locals.

Weather Conditions and Forecast

Light Snowfall in Higher Regions, Rain in the Plains

Snowfall was noted around the Atal Tunnel, Koksar, and adjacent areas of Lahaul-Spiti on Wednesday, with fresh snow continuing in some locations on Thursday. Dalhousie and Churah in the Chamba district experienced the season's first light snowfall along with rain, providing a brief winter spectacle.

Cloudy weather dominated several districts, including Mandi, Shimla, Hamirpur, Kangra, Chamba, Kullu, and parts of Kinnaur. While Una and Bilaspur received rain, Dharamshala experienced light drizzle from the afternoon. Despite these scattered weather events, the popular destinations of Shimla and Manali remained dry, dampening the New Year festivities for tourists hoping for snowfall.

Upcoming Weather Predictions

Clear Weather Expected, Cold Temperatures to Intensify

The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has predicted generally clear weather across the state starting January 2 for the following week. While light rain or snowfall may occur in isolated areas on January 1, no significant western disturbances are anticipated afterward.

The department has also issued a warning regarding a further drop in minimum temperatures, forecasting a decrease of 2-4 degrees Celsius in mid and higher hill regions and 2-3 degrees in lower and plain areas over the next 24 hours. A yellow alert has been issued for dense fog, mist, and cold wave conditions in various parts of the state throughout the upcoming week.

Travel Advisory for Lahaul-Spiti

Advisory for Travelers in Lahaul-Spiti

Meanwhile, the Lahaul-Spiti police reported ongoing light snowfall near Gondhla and around the Sissu police station area. An advisory has been issued urging tourists and commuters to exercise caution while traveling through high-altitude routes.

The police have advised travelers to check the latest weather and road conditions before setting out and to avoid unnecessary travel during snowfall, especially near the Atal Tunnel and surrounding areas.