Climate of Himachal Pradesh
There is a huge variation in the climatic conditions of Himachal Pradesh due to variation in altitude. The climate varies from hot and sub-humid tropical in the southern low tracts, warm and temperate, cool and temperate and cold glacial and alpine in the northern and eastern high elevated mountain. Pollution is affecting the climate of almost all the states of India.
By October, nights and mornings are very cold. Snowfall at elevations of nearly is about and lasts from a December start to March end. Above lies perpetual snow.
The spring season starts from mid February to mid April. The weather is pleasant and comfortable in this season. The rainy season starts at the end of the month of June. The landscape lushes green and fresh. During the season streams and natural springs are replenished. The heavy rains in July and August cause erosion, floods and landslides. Of all the state districts, Dharamshala receives the highest rainfall, nearly about. Spiti is the driest area of the state, because it is enclosed by high mountains on all sides.
| Altitude | Up to | |||
| Type of area | Valley areas and foothills | Hilly and mountain ranges | Alpine zone | Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur range |
| Climatic conditions | Subtropical | Slightly warm temperature | Cool temperature with humidity | Dry and extremely cold conditions |
| Precipitation | ||||
| % of total geographical area | 30% | 10% | 25% | 35% |
| % of total cultivated area | 56% | 30% | 10% | 5% |