Climatic Zones of Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh exhibits a range of climatic zones primarily due to the significant variations in altitude caused by the Himalayas. The main climatic zones are:
- Subtropical Zone: Found in the lower elevations (below 2,000 meters), including the Outer Shivalik hills and lower valleys.
- Temperate Zone: Located between 2,000 and 3,500 meters.
- Alpine Zone: Areas above 3,500 meters.
- Arctic Zone: The highest regions, above 4,500 meters.
District-wise Climatic Influences and Rainfall
It’s important to note that most districts encompass multiple climatic zones.
- Bilaspur:
- Dominantly subtropical.
- High rainfall, influenced by the monsoon.
- Chamba:
- Climatic influence varies greatly from subtropical in lower valleys to alpine in higher altitudes.
- Rainfall varies significantly within the district; higher areas receive substantial snowfall.
- Hamirpur:
- Dominantly subtropical.
- High rainfall, primarily from the monsoon.
- Kangra:
- Subtropical in lower areas, temperate in mid-hills, and alpine in the Dhauladhar range.
- High rainfall, especially in Dharamshala.
- Kinnaur:
- Temperate to alpine, with some areas being dry and cold.
- Generally low rainfall, mostly snowfall.
- Kullu:
- Temperate in the main valleys, alpine in higher mountains.
- Moderate to high rainfall, with snowfall in higher regions.
- Lahaul and Spiti:
- Dry alpine to arctic.
- Very low rainfall; a cold desert region.
- Mandi:
- Subtropical in lower areas, temperate in mid-hills.
- Moderate to high rainfall.
- Shimla:
- Temperate, with alpine conditions at the highest elevations.
- Moderate to high rainfall, with significant snowfall in winter.
- Sirmaur:
- Subtropical to temperate.
- Generally high rainfall.
- Solan:
- Subtropical to temperate.
- Moderate to high rainfall.
- Una:
- Subtropical.
- High rainfall, primarily during the monsoon.
Additional Rainfall Facts
- Average rainfall in Himachal Pradesh: 152 cm.
- Highest rainfall: Dharamshala.
- Lowest rainfall: Spiti.