Himachal Pradesh experiences a temperate climate. The climate of Himachal Pradesh varies from sub-tropical in the lower hills to temperate in the middle hills and alpine in the higher hills. The average temperature in the state ranges from 10°C to 30°C. The state receives an average annual rainfall of 1,000 to 2,000 mm. The monsoon season is from June to September, and the winter season is from December to February.
The temperate climate of Himachal Pradesh is due to its location in the Himalayas. The Himalayas act as a barrier to the cold winds from Central Asia, which keeps the state warm in winter. The Himalayas also trap the moisture-laden clouds from the Bay of Bengal, which brings heavy rainfall to the state during the monsoon season.
The temperate climate of Himachal Pradesh is ideal for agriculture. The state is a major producer of fruits, vegetables, and cereals. The state is also home to a number of important tourist destinations, such as Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala.
The following are the other three options and their descriptions:
- Tropical climate: A tropical climate is a climate that is characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity. Tropical climates are found in the equatorial regions of the Earth.
- Arid climate: An arid climate is a climate that is characterized by low rainfall and high evaporation. Arid climates are found in the deserts of the world.
- All of the above (depending on location): The climate of Himachal Pradesh varies depending on the location. The lower hills experience a sub-tropical climate, the middle hills experience a temperate climate, and the higher hills experience an alpine climate.