Kashmir received its first significant snowfall of the season on Sunday as Chillai Kalan began, bringing relief after two months of unusually dry weather. The 40-day period marks the coldest phase of winter in the valley.
Mountains across the region turned white while plains experienced steady rainfall. Tourist destinations including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam reported snow accumulation by Sunday evening. Srinagar and other valley towns recorded intermittent rain throughout the day.
The snowfall ended a concerning dry spell that had lasted since early November. Officials said the precipitation deficit had caused rivers to recede and triggered multiple forest fires in recent weeks. The valley had recorded an 85 percent deficit in rain and snowfall this season, receiving just 6 millimeters against a normal average of 43 millimeters between November 1 and December 9.
What Chillai Kalan Means
Chillai Kalan runs from December 21 to January 31 each year. The Persian term translates to “major cold” and describes Kashmir’s most intense winter period. During these 40 days, temperatures typically remain several degrees below freezing at night.
“So far, it seems to be raining mainly in Srinagar and the plains. A few lower reaches of north and central Kashmir may receive light snowfall,” said a meteorological department official identified as Ahmad.
The period holds deep significance for Kashmir’s water resources and agriculture. Snow that falls during Chillai Kalan feeds the region’s glaciers and replenishes reservoirs that supply water through summer months. Farmers particularly value good snowfall as it indicates prospects for bumper apple crops.
Two shorter cold phases follow Chillai Kalan. Chillai Khurd, meaning “small cold,” lasts 20 days from January 30 to February 18. Chillai Bacha, or “baby cold,” runs for 10 days from February 19 to February 28.
Roads Close and Flights Cancelled
The snowfall disrupted transportation across Kashmir. Traffic authorities closed the Mughal Road, which connects the valley with the Pir Panjal region through south Kashmir. The Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri highway also shut down due to snow accumulation.
“Traffic is plying on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway on both sides amid heavy snowfall,” a traffic official said.
Authorities banned tempo travelers, passenger service vehicles, and vehicles carrying more than 10 passengers from traveling between Tangmarg and Gulmarg. Slippery mountain roads made the restrictions necessary for public safety.
Air travel faced significant disruptions at Srinagar International Airport. Fourteen flights were cancelled from early Sunday morning, including seven operated by IndiGo. An airport official attributed most cancellations to bad weather conditions.
“Travellers and transporters are advised to plan accordingly and follow traffic and administrative advisories,” the meteorological department stated in its advisory.
Five Inches at Gulmarg Resort
Gulmarg recorded nearly five inches of snow accumulation by Sunday evening. The ski resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district attracts thousands of tourists each winter season. Visitors and residents were seen enjoying the season’s first snowfall.
Sonamarg received two inches of snowfall by midday. Sadhna Top, the pass connecting Tangdhar sector along the Line of Control to the main valley, saw six inches of snow.
SSP Traffic Rural Ravinder Pal Singh issued specific guidelines for Gulmarg travel. “Passengers shall be allowed towards Gulmarg only in light motor vehicles equipped with anti-skid chains. No vehicle without proper anti-skid chains will be permitted from Tangmarg to Gulmarg,” Singh said.
Higher reaches of Kupwara, Bandipora, and Ganderbal districts may receive moderate to heavy snowfall, particularly during night hours, according to weather forecasts.
Temperature Readings Across Valley
Day temperatures dropped below normal across most parts of Kashmir due to the snowfall. The meteorological center recorded a maximum temperature of 6 degrees Celsius in Srinagar, while the night temperature settled at 4 degrees Celsius.
Gulmarg emerged as the coldest station. It recorded a maximum temperature of 3.4 degrees Celsius and a minimum of minus 1.5 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam in south Kashmir posted a maximum of 5.6 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 2.8 degrees Celsius.
The rainfall brought unexpected relief from sub-zero temperatures in valley plains. Precipitation pushed up mercury levels temporarily. However, forecasters predict dry and cold weather will return from December 23 to 30.
The weather department noted that rainfall and snowfall significantly improved air quality over the valley. “There has been improvement in AQI due to rainfall,” Ahmad said.
Tourism Hopes Rise With Snow
The Kashmir administration is banking heavily on snowfall to revive winter tourism. The sector suffered a major setback after the Pahalgam terror attack killed 26 people in April.
Tourist arrivals had declined sharply following the attack. Industry stakeholders view the season’s first substantial snowfall as crucial for attracting visitors during the peak winter tourism period.
The declining snowfall trend in Kashmir over recent years has raised serious concerns. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has proposed using artificial snow to support tourism, which serves as the valley’s economic backbone.
Last year’s Chillai Kalan offered little relief to valley residents. The period remained largely dry except for two brief spells of snow. This year’s onset broke a two-month dry spell that had intensified respiratory ailments such as cough and cold among residents.
Northern Railway announced positive news on Sunday. The first freight train to Kashmir arrived from Jammu, carrying grains from the Food Corporation of India. This development signals improving connectivity despite weather challenges.
Traditional Life During Winter’s Peak
Kashmiris embrace traditional practices during Chillai Kalan to cope with severe cold. The pheran, a long woolen cloak, becomes essential winter wear. This traditional garment provides warmth and comfort while reflecting the region’s cultural heritage.
People rely heavily on kangris, traditional earthen firepots filled with burning coal. The portable heating devices help residents stay warm during the coldest days. Indoor activities increase as outdoor work becomes difficult.
The period has historical roots dating to the Mughal era when Persian became Kashmir’s official language. Author and conservationist Hakim Sameer Hamdani explains that Sufis from Central Asia introduced the practice of confining oneself indoors during harsh winters. These spiritual practitioners would isolate themselves in shrines for reflection and meditation.
December 21 is celebrated as Pheran Day in Kashmir, marking the first day of Chillai Kalan. The celebration highlights traditional winter clothing and cultural practices that have sustained communities through countless harsh winters.
Looking Ahead at Winter Forecasts
The meteorological department forecasts increased snowfall and rain across the valley over the next 48 hours. This prediction has raised hopes among farmers, tourism operators, and residents who depend on adequate winter precipitation.
The prolonged dry spell earlier triggered a series of forest fires, particularly in north Kashmir. That region suffered the worst effects of the precipitation deficit. Fresh snowfall should reduce fire risks significantly.
Water supply lines in several parts of the valley face freezing during Chillai Kalan. The famous Dal Lake often freezes partially during this period. These recurring challenges require residents and authorities to maintain constant vigilance.
The traffic police control room issued advisories regulating vehicular movement on hilly roads across the valley. Motorists must confirm travel timings by contacting designated helpline numbers before starting journeys. The advisory emphasized that traffic on hilly roads would follow prescribed cut-off timings strictly.
Kashmir’s winter resilience depends on community preparedness, traditional wisdom, and modern infrastructure working together. The onset of Chillai Kalan tests this balance each year, reminding residents that nature’s rhythms continue to shape daily life in the valley.
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