Shimla: As hundreds of residents and visitors gathered to greet 2025 on New Year’s Eve, Shimla’s famous Ridge—known for its expansive vistas and festive charm—became a center of action.

But since the present Winter Carnival was postponed after a nationwide time of sorrow, the mood was more muted this year. Visitors’ laughter, dancing, and friendship filled the ridge despite the subdued festivities, demonstrating a combination of pleasure and resiliency.

Visitors flocked to Shimla from nearby states like Delhi, Punjab, Chandigarh, and Haryana to feel the winter cold of the “Queen of Hills.” Although many were disappointed that there was not as much snow as they had hoped for, the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful surroundings made up for nature’s lack of supply.

Haryana traveler Lucky Singh encapsulated the feelings of other visitors who had anticipated a cold getaway but were delighted by the unique experience of ringing in the New Year amid Shimla’s ancient grandeur.

“Even though we traveled from Haryana in the hopes of seeing snow, Shimla’s splendor and the atmosphere on the Ridge are unparalleled. “It’s an unforgettable New Year’s celebration,” Lucky Singh said.

Panchkula resident Satnaam expressed his admiration for Shimla’s winter atmosphere, emphasizing the city’s charm in spite of the lack of snow.

“Even without snow, the chilly temperature is ideal for festivities. Being here on the Ridge is beautiful, and Shimla has a whole different atmosphere,” Satnaam said.

Gagan, a Ludhiana tourist, thought about the Ridge’s lively atmosphere and how it became a festival-like destination for tourists.

“The music, lights, and happy crowd more than make up for the snow we were hoping for. Gagan said, “The Ridge feels like a huge celebration ground.”

Madan, who was traveling from Delhi, thanked everyone for the experience and pointed out that Shimla’s allure was not limited to its snow but also to its vibrant environment and classic attractiveness.

“Shimla never lets you down. “This is a memorable way to start the year,” Madan added, adding that snow would have been the cherry on top.

Shimla’s Ridge showed the city’s vitality and capacity to unite people, even if the scope of the festivities was affected by the nationwide grief. Cheers filled the ancient plaza as the clock struck midnight, signaling a hopeful beginning to 2025 among the tranquility of the Himalayas.