Himachal
Pradesh has a varied topography and its rugged terrain ranges from an
altitude of 450 meters above sea level to an altitude of 6500 meters
above sea level. Thus, climate in Himachal is also varied. The diverse
topography results in extremes of temperature, sometimes even in the
diurnal range of temperature. However, its location near the mountainous
ranges lends it a favorable weather and climate. The days are quite
pleasant while the nights are usually chilly. The best time to visit
Himachal is during spring season that extends from mid-Feb to mid-April.
At this time, the climate is pleasant, comfortable and mild.The lower regions in the southern Himachal that range between altitudes of 450 to 900 meters above sea level have sub-humid tropical climate. The regions that lie within 900 to 1800 meters above sea level have warm temperate climate while regions that lie between 1900 to 2400 meters above sea level have cool temperate climate. High mountain regions on the north and east of Himachal have an altitude of 2400 to 4800 meters above sea level and have cold alpine and glacial climate.
Summers
Himachal Pradesh has summers that extend from March to June. Most regions of Himachal Pradesh experience high temperature ranges, with the exception of the regions located in high altitudes. There may be occasional showers but otherwise, the temperature usually remains high.
Monsoons
There may be rains at the end of June and the whole scenery comes alive with the downpour. Springs and streams swell with water once again. But the heavy rains in July and August are dangerous too as they are known to cause floods, landslides and erosions. Dharamsala receives the highest rainfall in Himachal (about 3400 mm) and Spiti receives the least in the entire state (below 50 mm).
Winters
Winters are cold and there is heavy snowfall from December to March in areas that are situated at an altitude of 3000 m and above. The regions that are at an altitude above 4500 m have snow all the year round. The temperatures can drop bone-numbingly low and if you are planning to visit Himachal Pradesh at this time, it is advisable to bring sufficient amount of woolens.
