Shimla, March 30 (IANS): Thundershowers and snow on Monday lashed Himachal Pradesh, causing temperatures to drop sharply.

Shimla, which recorded a low of 8.2 degrees Celsius, experienced rain and hailstorm.

According to the Met Office here, precipitation across the state would continue till April 3 with chances of heavy rain at some places.

The majestic Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas surrounding Dharamsala wore a fresh blanket of snow, as did the nearby hills of picturesque tourist resort Manali.

"High-altitude areas of Lahaul and Spiti, Chamba, Kullu, Kinnaur, Sirmaur and Shimla districts have experienced moderate snow," a Met official said.

Keylong, the headquarters of Lahaul-Spiti, received 14 cm snowfall. It recorded a low of minus 0.3 degree Celsius.

Manali and Dharamsala towns experienced 52 mm and 35 mm rain. These towns recorded a low of 4 and 11.6 degrees Celsius respectively.

The official said the maximum temperture declined by six to seven degrees, while the minimum by two to three degrees.

Rain lashed lower areas of the state such as Palampur, Solan, Nahan, Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur and Mandi.