As of January 18, 2026, the "Queen of Hills" is under a crisp winter spell. While Shimla town currently enjoys sunny intervals with temperatures around 11°C, a series of Western Disturbances is set to hit the region starting tonight, bringing a high probability of snow to the higher reaches of the district.

Upcoming Forecast: The Snow Cycle

• January 19 – 21: A gradual increase in cloud cover is expected. While Shimla town might see light rain or sleet, higher elevations like Kufri and Mashobra have a 30% chance of light snow flurries.

• The "Big Day" (Jan 22 – 23): Meteorological models predict a significant intensification. Thursday night into Friday is the primary window for heavy snowfall. Narkanda is expected to receive 10–15 cm of fresh snow, while Shimla Ridge could see its first proper "white carpet" of the season.

• Temperature Drop: Expect night temperatures in Shimla to dip to -1°C, while Narkanda will plunge to a freezing -6°C.

❄️ Top Snow Spots Near Shimla

If the main town remains dry, these nearby high-altitude zones are your best bet for finding snow:

🎒 Essential Packing List for Shimla & Narkanda

The combination of damp cold and wind in Shimla requires specific gear to stay comfortable:

1. Waterproof Footwear: Essential for walking on the Mall Road or Kufri slopes. Ensure your boots have rubber soles with deep treads to avoid slipping on "Black Ice."

2. The Wind-Shield: Shimla's Ridge is notorious for biting winds. A windbreaker or heavy parka is mandatory.

3. Woolen Accessories: High-quality merino wool socks, a beanie that covers your ears, and insulated gloves.

4. Skincare: The winter sun at high altitudes is harsh. Carry SPF 50+ sunscreen and heavy-duty moisturizer to prevent windburn.

⚠️ Safety & Travel Guide

A snow-covered Shimla is beautiful but requires caution:

• Avoid "Black Ice": Early mornings and late evenings are dangerous. Moisture on the roads freezes into invisible, slippery ice. Avoid driving before 9:00 AM in shaded areas like the Victory Tunnel or the Sanjauli stretch.

• Narkanda Road Connectivity: The stretch near Dhali and Kufri often gets blocked during heavy snow. If you are headed to Narkanda, ensure your vehicle has good tires, or better yet, hire a local 4x4 taxi.

• Stay Charged: Cold weather kills phone batteries instantly. Keep your phone in an inner jacket pocket close to your body heat and carry a high-capacity power bank.

• Emergency Contact: Keep the HP Tourism Helpline (0177-2625864) and the District Disaster Management (1077) numbers on speed dial.