Dharamshala, July 1 -- After five-day delay from its normal onset date, the southwest monsoon advanced into parts of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, covering several areas of the hill state.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Shimla, said the monsoon has covered the entire Kinnaur district; most parts of Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti districts; many parts of Shimla and Mandi districts; and some parts of Sirmaur and Kangra districts.

Officials said conditions are favourable for the monsoon to advance over the remaining parts of the state during the next two to three days.

Last year, the monsoon entered the state on June 20 and covered it entirely by June 24. In 2024, it arrived on June 27 and spread across the state by June 29. Over the p...