Movies have done an exceptional job of creating an enchanting image of snow and snowfall. Playing in the cold, soft white material brings excitement that sends shivers down spines. Families, youngsters, and the elderly alike forget their age and engage in snowball fights, build snowmen, and even roll in the snow. India has few places where one can experience the joy of snowfall, and that is mostly possible during winter. Among the snow-blessed places in the country, Shimla holds a special place, not just for its snow but also for its stunning beauty. After enjoying the snow, you can explore the quaint hill town with a car on rent in Delhi.
So, pack your woollens, pull out those gloves and mufflers, and pick the perfect snow boots. Ready? Now you are all set for a snowfall adventure in Shimla. We have ideas for a few snow-related activities that you can look forward to in your Shimla Manali tour. Also, there are some lovely places you must visit to truly immerse yourself in the joy of snowfall here.
Try These Things to Celebrate the Winter in Shimla
Experience the winter magic by planning a visit to Shimla, where you can engage in all the exhilarating activities this hill station offers. Begin with a stroll along the Mall Road, indulging in local cuisine and shopping for handicrafts. Visit the iconic Christ Church and the Ridge for panoramic views. Explore the historical Viceregal Lodge and the Himachal State Museum. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Jakhoo Temple or indulge in skiing at Kufri. Enjoy a ride on the Shimla-Kalka toy train for breathtaking scenery. Complete your experience with a visit to the vibrant Lakkar Bazaar. Shimla promises a delightful blend of nature, history, and adventure which makes the winter vacation an awesome and super-rich experience for family, solo trip, couples, or group trips.
1. Walk Down Ridge Road
Let us say you planned the trip out of a sudden and forgot to pack enough warm clothes. In such a scenario, your first stop should be Ridge Road. This place is truly a sight to behold and is best experienced in person – no description can fully capture its charm, but we will try. The soft white carpet of snow provides the perfect backdrop for the many colourful little shops lining this famous walkway. Cute mufflers, colourful caps, and bright mittens are plentiful, and the warmth of the apparel is only matched by the warmth of the people selling these wares. If you are in search of cotton stoles or shawls, Ridge Road is the place to be. It is recommended to visit in January or later when Shimla is draped in snow.
2. Get on the Toy Train
The famous Kalka Shimla toy train ride is a delight in every season, and winter adds an extra layer of magic to the journey. As the train winds through the hills, the entire region is transformed into a kingdom of thick snow, creating a mesmerizing white landscape. Trust us; this is an experience worth cherishing in your memories. Although the train serves as a means of transportation from Kalka to Shimla, you can take the ride simply for the fun it brings.
3. Try Some Winter Sports
If you are a fan of adventure and thrills, then winter in Shimla is the perfect time for an exhilarating experience. From skiing and ice skating to paragliding and even heli-skiing, Shimla has it all. Each of these heart-pounding adventures is designed to thrill and excite you, and the only limitation is in your mind. How far are you willing to push yourself for the holiday of a lifetime? These activities are available throughout winter, starting from October and continuing later into the season.
4. Join in Shimla Winter Carnival
No one celebrates winter in Shimla quite like the locals do. The arrival of winter brings the town to life with a festival that adds a lot of cheer and excitement to the beginning of the new season. The winter carnival sees many people coming together to have fun in the snow. Both children and grown-ups jump and dance in the snow, revelling in the magic of the season. Do not be shy; join in the ice-skating, skiing, or snowman-making festivities. Besides these activities, the town also organises fashion shows and performances, which are some of the major attractions of this lively carnival.
5. Bring out the Kid in You
Whether you are travelling with family or friends, or on a solo trip, let the child within you enjoy the fun. Spend hours playing in the snow, building cute and creative snowmen, lying flat to make a snow angel, and as you do so, be sure to capture every single moment so that you can revisit your time in Shimla. These are just a few of our ideas, and we are confident that when you are there, you will discover even more to do.
Weather in Shimla
The winter season sets in the hills in October and lasts until February, transforming the town into a winter wonderland. With temperatures dropping to a minimum of -2°C, the air becomes cool and pleasant, creating a delightful atmosphere for everyone. While it can get quite chilly, these months are perfect for experiencing snowfall. The mesmerising views of the snow-covered peaks and stunning landscapes are truly worth witnessing. Beyond winter sports, what adds to the allure is the celebration of Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Conclusion
Shimla, the Queen of Hills, transforms into a winter wonderland that is simply breathtaking. While it serves as a haven for people in neighbouring states during the summer, its allure reaches new heights when snow blankets the capital in winter. This month is a delightful time to visit Shimla. The first half usually lacks snow, but the second half becomes a festive season. Regardless of whether you are a snow-lover or not, and whether skiing is on your agenda or not, a trip to Shimla in winter caters to all.