UV Index in Shimla, India

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Shimla, India, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. The UV Index provides vital information about solar radiation levels, indicating when protection from UV rays is necessary, particularly during those peak hours of exposure. With Shimla's cool climate (Cwb), many might underestimate their susceptibility to sun damage, but the area's high UV readings, especially between 10 AM and 1 PM, reveal a different story. Being informed about UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing the risk of harmful effects from the sun's rays. Stay vigilant and protect your skin!

Hourly UV Index in Shimla

The UV Index today displays a dynamic pattern, peaking at a striking 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling the strongest sun exposure of the day. Early risers will enjoy a low UV of just 2 at 7:00 AM, but as the sun ascends, the index climbs sharply, reaching 10 by 10:00 AM and hitting 12 at 11:00 AM. As the afternoon unfolds, it gradually dips to 9 at 2:00 PM and then decreases further to 6 by 3:00 PM. By the evening, the UV Index drops significantly, plummeting to 1 at both 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, and falling to 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay safe and protect your skin during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:004moderate30 min
09:007high25 min
10:0010very high15 min
11:0012extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Shimla

Seasonal changes in UV exposure can significantly affect both visitors and residents. From January to February, the UV Index starts at 6, categorized as high, with a burn time of 25 minutes. As spring approaches, March sees a rise to a very high index of 10, reducing safe exposure time to 15 minutes. The peak of UV intensity occurs in the summer months, where April through August exhibit extreme levels, particularly with indices of 11 to 13 and burn times dropping to just 10 minutes. September and October transition back to very high levels, with indices of 10 and 8, allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. As we approach winter, November returns to a high index of 6, and December settles at a moderate level of 5 with a burn time of 30 minutes. Given this data, it is crucial for everyone to take protective measures, especially during the extreme months of April through August, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Shimla, India

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Shimla. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6710111312131310865
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Shimla, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Shimla UV Index with Other India Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Shimla compares to other major locations across India. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Shimla's solar exposure compared to other cities in India. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Delhi UVI56910101012129855
Shimla6710111312131310865
Mumbai UVI89101111121313111077
Ahmedabad UVI78101211121313111076
Hyderabad UVI1011121113131514131188
Bengaluru UVI111313141314141414121110