Sunshine brings tourists, but winter rain stays away in Himachal
Old photo. Used for indicative purpose only
Shimla, Dec 22,
As Himachal Pradesh enters the final week of 2025, winter rain and snow have virtually vanished from the state, capping a year-end marked by an extraordinary precipitation deficit. Official data shows that December so far (Till Dec 22) has recorded near-zero rainfall across almost all districts, with most regions registering a 100 per cent shortfall against normal levels. From the lower plains of Una, Bilaspur and Hamirpur to hill districts such as Shimla, Kullu and Kinnaur, precipitation has remained absent, while even Lahaul and Spiti has seen only negligible rainfall. This dry spell has followed a weak November, extending concerns over a steadily shrinking winter precipitation window in the western Himalayas.
The outlook from the India Meteorological Department offers little immediate relief. The IMD has forecast below-normal rainfall over most parts of Himachal Pradesh during December, while the broader winter season from December 2025 to February 2026 is expected to remain warmer than usual. Both maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to stay normal to above normal across most regions, reducing the probability of sustained snowfall in popular tourist destinations such as Shimla, Manali and Kufri. While cold wave conditions may occur more frequently in parts of the lower hills and plains, including Solan, Una, Bilaspur and Sirmaur, these are not expected to be accompanied by widespread rain or snow activity.
The prevailing weather pattern has created a stark contrast for the hill state. Clear skies, extended sunshine and stable road conditions have strengthened tourist inflows during the Christmas and New Year period, reinforcing Himachal’s winter tourism appeal. At the same time, the absence of rain in the lower regions and snow in the higher reaches has raised serious concerns for agriculture, horticulture and water security. Winter precipitation is vital for groundwater recharge, spring flows and soil moisture ahead of the rabi and apple seasons. As 2025 draws to a close, Himachal stands at a climatic crossroads, enjoying short-term tourism gains while confronting the long-term implications of a winter that has largely failed to arrive.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
