Short answer: Harsil (2,620 m) is mild in May and June, wet and landslide-prone in July and August, clear and cool from September to early November, and snowbound from December to February. Nights are cold in every month, so bring a warm layer even in summer. Late September to mid-October has the most reliable weather.
Harsil temperature by month
Typical ranges for the valley floor. Mountain weather varies year to year - treat these as a guide, not a forecast.
| Month | Day | Night | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5-10 °C | Below 0 °C | Snow likely; road can close after heavy falls |
| February | 6-11 °C | Below 0 °C | Deepest snow of the year |
| March | 10-15 °C | Around 0 °C | Thaw; late snow possible |
| April | 14-19 °C | 3-6 °C | Orchards in blossom; valley wakes up |
| May | 18-23 °C | 7-10 °C | Gangotri open, yatra crowds |
| June | 20-25 °C | 10-13 °C | Warmest month; busy |
| July | 18-23 °C | 12-14 °C | Monsoon - heavy rain, landslides |
| August | 18-22 °C | 12-14 °C | Monsoon - avoid travel |
| September | 17-21 °C | 7-10 °C | Rain clears; apple harvest |
| October | 13-18 °C | 2-6 °C | Clearest skies; best month |
| November | 9-14 °C | Around 0 °C | Cold, quiet; Gangotri closes after Diwali |
| December | 6-11 °C | Below 0 °C | First snow, usually late in the month |
Does it rain a lot in Harsil?
Most of the year's rain falls in July and August. That is when landslides close sections of the Gangotri road, sometimes for days, and the peaks stay hidden in cloud. This valley has seen its worst disasters in the monsoon, including the August 2025 flash flood at Dharali, a few kilometres up the road. We advise guests not to travel in July and August.
When is the best weather in Harsil?
Late September to mid-October. The monsoon has cleared, the air is sharp, the snow peaks are fully visible and the apple harvest is on. May and June are also pleasant and are the season for the Gangotri pilgrimage, but the valley is crowded. Read our best time to visit Harsil guide for the full picture.
What to pack for Harsil weather
- Summer (May-June): light layers by day, a fleece for the evening, sun protection.
- Autumn (Sept-Nov): a proper jacket - nights fall to low single digits by October.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): thermals, down jacket, gloves, boots with grip. See Harsil in winter.
- Any month: a rain shell. Mountain weather turns in an hour.
Weather decides the drive more than distance does. Before you travel, check our how to reach Harsil guide, then ask us what the valley is doing this week. When you are ready to book, compare Harsil Village Resort.
Frequently asked questions
What is the temperature in Harsil now?
It depends on the month: roughly 18-25 °C by day in May and June, 13-18 °C in October, and below freezing at night from December to February. Ask us for the current conditions before you travel.
Is Harsil cold in summer?
Days are pleasant in May and June, around 18-25 °C, but nights drop to about 7-13 °C, so carry a warm layer.
When is the monsoon in Harsil?
July and August. Heavy rain causes landslides on the Gangotri road, and travel in these months is best avoided.
What is the best weather month for Harsil?
October, followed by late September. The skies are clearest, the rain is over and the crowds have gone.