Kashmir winter advisory: Kashmir braces for Chillai-Kalan as Srinagar records season's coldest night

As Kashmir prepares for the harshest phase of winter, the 40-day-long Chillai-Kalan, temperatures across the valley have plummeted, intensifying the cold wave gripping the region. If reports are to go by, on Thursday night, Srinagar experienced its coldest night of the season so far, with the mercury dipping to - 6.2 degrees Celsius.

The frigid weather has led to the freezing of water supply lines in several parts of the city, as well as the edges of water bodies like the iconic Dal Lake.

In the southern part of the valley, Pahalgam—a key base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra—saw the temperature plummet to - 8.2 degrees Celsius, down from - 6.8 degrees the night before, according to the meteorological office. Gulmarg recorded a minimum temperature of - 6 degrees Celsius.


The coldest location in the valley was reported to be Konibal, a small hamlet on the outskirts of Pampore, where the minimum temperature plunged to a bone-chilling - 9.2 degrees Celsius. Other areas also recorded significantly low temperatures, with Qazigund, known as the gateway to Kashmir, at - 7.6 degrees Celsius, Kupwara in the north at - 6.5 degrees Celsius, and Kokernag in the south at - 5.8 degrees Celsius.


The prolonged dry spell has exacerbated common winter ailments like cough and colds, adding to the challenges faced by residents. The freezing conditions have also hampered water supply and daily routines, with many locals struggling to access essential services.

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The meteorological department has forecast mainly dry weather across the valley until December 26. However, there is a possibility of light snowfall in the higher reaches on the night of December 21-22. Another spell of light snowfall is likely between December 27 and the morning of December 28. Despite these brief interruptions, the cold wave is expected to persist, with temperatures likely to fall further in the coming days.


Chillai-Kalan, which begins on Saturday, marks the most severe phase of winter in Kashmir. Historically, this period is known for frequent snowfall and sub-zero temperatures that plunge to their lowest, often resulting in the freezing of rivers and lakes. The period will last until January 31, followed by Chillai-Khurd (small cold), a 20-day phase, and Chillai-Bachha (baby cold), a 10-day period.

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As residents brace for the harsh winter ahead, the valley’s natural beauty continues to attract tourists seeking the pristine, snow-covered landscapes of Gulmarg and Pahalgam.