Around 3-4 families together will be traveling to Shimla and then Kullu and Manali during October. We will have 4 kids with us who are between 5 years to 10 years old. How is the weather during the month of October in these areas? Will there be any snow as the kids are looking forward to playing in the snow? How many days do you recommend staying at each destination?
If you want an honest opinion I would suggest that you delay your trip for another month or two, because chances of snow will be very less. Other than that it is a good time to go. I would recommend you spent at least 3 days at each destination.
Hello and welcome to the forum! Let's highlight the weather during October in these three areas: Shimla. Ideally, Shimla can be visited all-year round except the monsoon season. During October, the weather in Shimla is quite pleasant. It's actually one of the peak seasons of Shimla, from October to November. You can definitely enjoy sightseeing and doing activities as the weather is mildly cold and bearable. Temperatures range from 7°C to 20°C. You would still need wool clothing though as nights can be especially chilly. Kullu. Another destination with great climate all-year round. However, the best months to visit it are from September to June. October is equally pleasant with the beginning of winter season. At the peak of winter season, temperature can go as low as 0°C or even lower than that. Manali. During October, medium snowfall can be expected in Manali. Although in Rohtang Pass, snow can be quite heavy at times so it's best to avoid that place. Yes, there will be snow but unfortunately, it can be dirty, hardened and not good for playing with. Fresh snowfall occurs at the peak of winter months which is from December to January. During October, you won't find much snow to play with. You can allot at least two days each for each destination. Three days for each would be more than enough to explore the areas and the attractions in it. Shimla to Kullu is about 230 kms from each other so a half day would be required already to travel the distance. Kullu to Manali is just 40 kms from each other so it's just an hour ride away. Two days (per destination) should be enough to thoroughly explore each of the destinations and do some activities in there. I hope this helps!