As winter deepens, Kashmir is battling one of its harshest cold spells of the season, with temperatures plunging well below freezing across the Valley and Ladakh. The extreme chill has disrupted daily life, frozen water bodies, and pushed residents to rely heavily on heating systems.
Dras, often called the coldest inhabited place in India, once again lived up to its reputation as temperatures dropped to a biting -18.1 degrees Celsius, marking the lowest reading in the region.
Kashmir Temperature Right Now?
Several parts of the Kashmir Valley recorded sub-zero temperatures, reflecting the severity of the ongoing cold wave. Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, emerged as the coldest place in the Valley at -5.8 degrees Celsius.
Other key locations also saw sharp drops. Gulmarg recorded -4.2 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam dipped to -4.8 degrees Celsius. In south Kashmir, Shopian touched -4.7 degrees Celsius, and Pulwama settled at -4.3 degrees Celsius.
Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded a minimum of -2.6 degrees Celsius, while the Srinagar airport registered -3.48 degrees Celsius, affecting early morning operations.
Why is Ladakh the Coldest Region in India?
Ladakh remains the coldest part of the country during winter. Leh town recorded a minimum temperature of -9.9 degrees Celsius, while Kargil saw -9.2 degrees Celsius. Dras remained the coldest spot, with mercury dropping sharply overnight.
The freezing temperatures have led to icy roads, frozen water pipelines, and increased demand for electricity and heating fuel.
What is Chillai Kalan and why does It Matter?
Kashmir is currently in the grip of Chillai Kalan, the coldest and harshest phase of winter. This 40-day period began on December 21 and is known for intense cold, frozen lakes, and frequent snowfall in higher reaches.
The first days of Chillai Kalan already brought snowfall to elevated areas, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. Locals prepare for this phase every year, knowing it tests both infrastructure and endurance.
Will It Snow in Kashmir on New Year?
The Meteorological Department has offered some relief and excitement with its latest forecast. Snow and rain are likely during the New Year period, raising hopes among tourists and locals alike.
“Generally cloudy with possibility of light Rain/snow at many places. Few middle & higher reaches of North & Central Kashmir may receive moderate snowfall,” said MeT Srinagar.
Can Snow Revive Kashmir Tourism?
The snowfall forecast has renewed optimism in the tourism sector. After recent security concerns and a sharp decline in tourist footfall, stakeholders believe fresh snow during the New Year could attract visitors back to ski resorts like Gulmarg and scenic spots like Pahalgam.
Hotel owners and tour operators are hopeful that winter sports, snow festivals, and holiday travel will help revive local businesses.
What Lies Ahead for Kashmir Residents?
While tourists may welcome snow, residents brace for tougher days ahead. Power demand is rising, water sources are freezing, and mobility remains a challenge. Still, for many in Kashmir, winter is not just a season—it is a way of life shaped by resilience and adaptation.
As the New Year approaches, all eyes remain on the skies, waiting for snow that could bring both beauty and relief.