Shimla Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Shimla.
Climate overview of Shimla
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 29°C (84°F) in June, while winters cool to 14°C (57°F) in January.
Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1553 mm (61 in) per year. July is the wettest month and November the driest. The city also experiences distinct dry (October to December) and wet (July to September) seasons, with warm summers and mild winters. May is the sunniest month, averaging 10.0 hours of sunshine per day.
Shimla Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Shimla - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Shimla
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to moderate in Shimla. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in June, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 14°C (57°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) in June to around 1°C (34°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Shimla
Shimla has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1553 mm (61 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, July it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 357 mm (14 in) of precipitation, recorded across 15 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month November brings less rainfall, with 20 mm (0.8 in) over a single rainy day. For more details, please visit our Shimla Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
Sunshine Hours in Shimla
While the amount of sunshine in Shimla varies throughout the year, all seasons offer their own charm. Enjoy up to 10.0 hours of daily sun in May, and experience slightly darker atmosphere in August, with about 6.6 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Shimla by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Shimla.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 88%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 47%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Shimla
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: April, May, October and November
- Warmest weather: May and June
- Most sunshine: May
- Fewest rainy days: October, November and December
- Wettest months: June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (October to December) and wet (July to September) seasons, with warm summers and mild winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Shimla
What is the best time to visit Shimla?
April, May, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Shimla. In contrast, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Shimla has distinct dry (October to December) and wet (July to September) seasons, with warm summers and mild winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Shimla?
Daytime highs range from 14°C (57°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in June. Nighttime lows range from 1°C (34°F) to 20°C (68°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Shimla get?
Annual rainfall is around 1553 mm (61 in). July is the wettest month with 357 mm (14 in), while November is the driest with 20 mm (0.8 in).
How sunny is Shimla?
Shimla receives around 2,963 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 300 hours, while August is the cloudiest with just 198 hours. Overall, Shimla enjoys abundant sunshine.
Shimla 3-Day Forecast
Shimla on the map
Shimla is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
A paradise called Andaman Islands
Though officially Indian, the Andamans are nearer Myanmar, Indonesia, and Thailand, resulting in amazing, budget-friendly white-sand beaches.
The 5 most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh
Explore Ladakh's spiritual essence through its incredible Buddhist monasteries. See architectural wonders, rich traditions, and serene landscapes in this guide.
Sleeping under the stars and riding camels in Rajasthan
A desert safari in Jaisalmer is definitely one of the highlights during a visit to India. Spending a night in the desert is a great adventurous bucket list experience.
Avoid mass tourism on an eco boat in the backwaters of Kerala
We can tell you now how you can avoid being surrounded by tourists and at the same time minimize your impact on the environment.