Pallavi Sharma
Dharamshala: Defying the winter chill usually associated with mid-December, Dharamshala on Wednesday (December 17, 2025) recorded its warmest December day on record, raising concerns among residents even as the tourism industry keeps its fingers crossed for a turnaround in weather ahead of Christmas.
The hill town registered a maximum temperature of 26°C, the highest ever for December, surpassing the previous record of 25.4°C set in 2010, according to data from the Meteorological Department. The unusually warm conditions stood out sharply against the seasonal norm, especially as nearby higher reaches continue to witness colder nights.
The rise in temperature has dampened the winter feel in Dharamshala and adjoining McLeodganj, a globally known destination and the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile. Home to the Dalai Lama, McLeodganj attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists every year, particularly during the Christmas and New Year period.
Despite the warm spell, hoteliers remain optimistic. With tourist footfall already picking up, those in the hospitality sector are hopeful that an approaching western disturbance may bring snowfall to higher reaches, lending the region a much-awaited “white Christmas”. “Snowfall around Christmas would significantly boost bookings and extend tourist stays,” said a local hotelier in McLeodganj.
Dharamshala, often referred to as the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh, holds cultural, spiritual and strategic importance. Apart from being a major tourist hub, it serves as the administrative centre of Kangra district and is a gateway to several popular hill destinations in the Dhauladhar range.
Weather experts say fluctuating temperatures are becoming increasingly common during winters, with warmer days interspersed with sudden cold spells. The Meteorological Department has indicated the possibility of rain and snowfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh later this month, which could bring some relief from the unseasonal warmth.
