Mid-June marks the beginning of the monsoons in Himachal Pradesh and its affair with the rainfall continues till the month of September. Many popular tourist destinations in Himachal receive a heavy downpour during the monsoons. Owing to its hilly terrain and mountainous topography; some of the top tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh become difficult to reach during this season due to the region’s susceptibility to landslides, flood-like situations, and road blocks. Nevertheless, the rainy season does not see low tourism in Himachal Pradesh. Travellers across the country plan trips to the state owing to its incredible beauty and well-built roads.
The state receives an average rainfall of around 3400 mm. The district of Kangra receives the maximum rainfall; its most important city Dharamshala gets completely soaked in the rain during this time while the high-altitude northern regions of the state like Lahaul and Spiti, which fall in the Rain-shadow region of the Himalayas, hardly receive any rainfall. Monsoon is also the ideal time to visit the cold desert of Spiti Valley and treat your eyes to the majestic sights of the high-altitude destinations of Kaza, Hikkim, Komic and Langza among other places.
With temperatures ranging between 14°C and 21°C, Himachal Pradesh offers a cool and very pleasant climate during this time. Its landscapes get adorned with thick vegetation and the rains enhance the charm and splendor of its many mountains and hill stations, making it a very attractive place to visit during the monsoons. The rains clear the atmosphere and make this place a photographer’s delight.
Although most adventure activities are prohibited during the monsoons but some places like Dharamshala, Kullu, Narkanda and Solang Valley offer tourists the chance to experience few thrilling activities like monsoon trekking and bird watching. One can also enjoy the celebrations of festivals like the 7-day Minjar Festival in Chamba and La Darcha Fair, Fagli and Pauri in Lahaul & Spiti.