Pallavi Sharma
Dharamshala: As winter tightens its grip on Himachal Pradesh, the big question on the mind of everyone, from tourists to hotel owners, is whether the hill stations will wake up to a magical white Christmas. With biting cold already settling in and temperatures dipping across regions, weather experts say the next few days will be crucial in deciding if snowfall will arrive in time for the festive season.
According to the Meteorological Centre-Shimla, the state will continue to experience dry weather for the next couple of days. However, a western disturbance is likely to become active around December 20 and 21, bringing light rain and snowfall to higher reaches.
Experts say isolated snowfall is possible in high-altitude areas of Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kullu, Kangra and Mandi districts. While widespread snowfall in popular hill stations is still uncertain, the system could lower temperatures further and increase the chances of fresh snow closer to Christmas.
Cold intensifies, plains colder than hills
Even before snowfall, the cold wave has made its presence felt. Mid-hill and plain areas recorded a fall of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in minimum temperatures, making districts like Una and Hamirpur colder than Shimla.
Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti remained the coldest place in the state, while several other locations in the hills and valleys experienced near-freezing nights. Weather officials say sustained cold conditions are favourable for snowfall if a strong system arrives.
Tourism industry prays for white Christmas
The tourism sector is watching the forecast closely. Hoteliers, traders and taxi operators in hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Kufri and Narkanda are hopeful that fresh snowfall will coincide with Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Many say a white Christmas could significantly boost last-minute bookings and footfall, which usually peak during the holiday season. Tourists, too, are praying for snowfall to experience snow-covered landscapes, while local businesses hope it will revive winter tourism after a dry spell.
“As Christmas draws closer, anticipation is building across Himachal’s hill towns. Will nature answer the prayers of tourists and traders alike? The coming days are expected to reveal whether the festive season will be painted white or remain dry and cold,” said a hotelier from Shimla.
