Weather in Dharamshala

Planning a trip or simply interested in the weather in Dharamshala? Here you will find up-to-date weather data, forecasts, and charts to keep you informed of all changes.

The climate in Dharamshala is characterized by a noticeable change of seasons and can generally be described as temperate with a distinct monsoon influence. The weather here offers variety throughout the year, which is important to consider when planning a trip to this corner of India.

Several seasons are clearly distinguished in Dharamshala. Winter, covering the months from December to February, is quite cool, with average temperatures around 5-7°C, and night frosts are not uncommon. Spring, from March to May, brings gradual warming, making the weather pleasant for walking and exploring. Summer, which lasts from June to September, is warm, with average temperatures around 20-22°C. However, it is the summer months, especially July and August, that are the peak of the monsoon season. During this period, Dharamshala receives a significant amount of rainfall, and there are very many rainy days, making these months the wettest of the year.

Autumn, falling in October and November, is considered one of the best times to visit. At this time, the monsoon rains cease, and dry, clear weather sets in with comfortable temperatures that gradually decrease, heralding the arrival of winter. Thus, when planning a visit, it is worth considering both temperature fluctuations and the pronounced rainy season in summer.

The climate in Dharamshala is characterized by noticeable seasonal temperature changes. Throughout the year, one can observe both cool winter months and a warm, humid summer. The coldest month is usually January, when the average temperature is about 5.1°C, and night-time minimums can drop to 0.6°C. Conversely, June is the hottest month with an average temperature of 21.9°C and maximum daily values reaching 26.5°C. July and August are also very warm, with average temperatures slightly lower, around 21.8°C and 21.6°C respectively.

The summer period in Dharamshala, which covers the months from May to September, brings warmth, and in peak months such as June, July, and August, high humidity due to monsoon rains. Average daily temperatures in June can reach 26.5°C, while in July and August they hold at the level of 24.2°C - 24.4°C. A characteristic feature of July and August is the large number of days with precipitation (31 and 30 days respectively), which creates a sensation of increased humidity, despite the fact that the peak heat occurs in June. May and September are transitional months with pleasant warm weather; average maximum temperatures in these months are 25.3°C and 23.4°C respectively.

Winter in Dharamshala, from December to February, is quite cool. January stands out as the coldest month, with average minimum temperatures around 0.6°C and maximum daily temperatures around 9.6°C. December and February are slightly milder, with average temperatures of 6.8°C and 7.3°C respectively. Night frosts are possible during these months. Noticeable daily temperature fluctuations are observed throughout the year. For example, in April, the difference between the average maximum (21.9°C) and average minimum (10.0°C) temperature is almost 12°C. This difference is somewhat smoothed out in the rainiest months, such as July (a difference of about 5.2°C), due to constant cloud cover and precipitation, but remains significant in drier periods.

In the city of Dharamshala, a pronounced seasonality in the distribution of precipitation is observed throughout the year. The climate here is clearly divided into a wet monsoon period and a drier season, which is typical for the foothills of the Himalayas.

The main volume of precipitation falls during the summer months, forming a distinct rainy season. July and August are the wettest months: in July, an average of 13 mm of precipitation falls, and it rains almost every day (31 rainy days); in August, the amount of precipitation is 10 mm with 30 rainy days. June and September are also characterized by a significant amount of precipitation (4 mm and 5 mm respectively) and a large number of rainy days (20 and 23 days), framing the peak of the monsoon. During these months, rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged.

The dry season in Dharamshala falls on the period from October to April. The driest months are October and November, when only 1 mm of precipitation falls each, and the number of rainy days is minimal – 7 and 6 days respectively. Winter months – December, January, and February – are also distinguished by low precipitation levels (from 2 to 4 mm), however, the number of days with precipitation ranges from 5 to 11. Given the low temperatures during this period, especially in January (average temperature 5.1°C, minimum 0.6°C), winter precipitation may fall in the form of snow. Spring months, such as March and April, bring slightly more precipitation (3 mm and 2 mm), but with relatively frequent, albeit light, rains (about 11 days with precipitation).

When planning a trip to Dharamshala, it is important to choose your wardrobe wisely, as the weather here can be quite changeable throughout the year. The key principle is layering. Light items that can be combined will allow you to feel comfortable both in the cool morning hours and during the warmer daytime. Be sure to take comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as Dharamshala is located in a mountainous area and involves walking. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses will be useful at any time of the year, but are especially important from spring to autumn.

The winter months, from December to February, are quite cold in Dharamshala: the average temperature ranges from 5°C to 7°C, and at night it can drop to 0.6°C - 2°C. During this period, you will need warm sweaters, a fleece jacket, an insulated and preferably windproof jacket, a hat, a scarf, and gloves. Spring (March-April) and Autumn (October-November) are transitional seasons. During the day, the temperature can rise to 16-21°C, but evenings and nights remain cool (6-11°C). Therefore, layered clothing, including a light jacket or sweater, will be very handy. Although the amount of rainfall during these periods is small, a light waterproof jacket or umbrella may be useful in case of rare rains, especially in March, April, and November, when there are from 6 to 11 rainy days.

The summer period, roughly from May to September, coincides with the monsoon season, the peak of which occurs in July and August. The temperature in these months is comfortable, averaging 20-22°C, but be prepared for high humidity and frequent rains – in July and August, almost every day can be rainy. It is extremely important to bring a high-quality raincoat or waterproof jacket, a sturdy umbrella, and possibly waterproof shoes or quick-drying sandals. Clothing made of light, breathable, and quick-drying materials will be the best choice. Do not forget insect repellent, which is especially relevant during the wet season. Even in the warm months, a light cardigan or shawl will be useful for evening walks or visiting monasteries where more modest clothing is required.