After three months Shimla and other tourist destinations witness first snowfall of season

January 23, 2026

Himachal Pradesh, which had been facing drought-like conditions for nearly three months, has finally received relief from the skies. Rain and snowfall have been occurring in the state since last night. This is the first snowfall of the season in the state capital Shimla, as well as in tourist destinations like Manali, Narkanda, Kufri, Chail, Dalhousie, and Kalpa, and in residential areas.

Heavy snowfall has been reported in several areas of Chamba, Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur. Strong winds have also been blowing since last night. A snowstorm in Shimla has added to people’s difficulties.

The recent rain and snowfall have brought smiles to the faces of farmers, horticulturists, tourism business owners, and tourists in the state. The Meteorological Center in Shimla has issued an orange alert for heavy rain and snowfall in several areas today. A yellow alert has been issued for other areas. The snowfall has disrupted roads and power supply in many areas, increasing people’s hardships.

First snowfall of the season in Shimla, traffic disrupted in the city

The first snowfall of the season has occurred in Shimla, the Queen of the Hills, and in the higher reaches of the district, while other areas have received rain. A snowstorm is also raging in several places, including Shimla. This snowfall, after months of drought, has brought great relief to farmers and horticulturists.

People shivered in the cold and walked to their destinations

Due to the fresh snowfall, vehicular movement towards Upper Shimla has been disrupted. Traffic came to a standstill on the Circular Road, the lifeline of Shimla, after 9 am. People shivered in the cold and walked to their destinations. The Chaupal-Deha road is closed, and power supply has been disrupted in many areas. Traffic is also disrupted on the Dhalli to Kufri road. The district administration has advised against unnecessary travel in these affected areas. Vehicles were stuck in the snow in Tolland and other areas of Shimla.

First snowfall of the season in Manali, tourists rejoice

The tourist town of Manali has received its first snowfall of the season. Tourists rejoiced at the sight of falling snowflakes. Heavy snowfall is occurring in Manali and surrounding areas, making road conditions unsuitable for vehicular traffic. The slippery conditions and reduced visibility increase the risk of accidents.