Kashmir woke up to a gentle yet refreshing shift in its winter rhythm on Monday as overcast skies offered some respite from the biting cold that has gripped the valley for days. According to officials, several higher reaches, including regions near the Minimarg area close to Zojila Pass along the Srinagar–Kargil highway, received a light spell of fresh snowfall—adding a pristine layer to the already scenic landscape.
The cloud cover that lingered over the valley through Sunday night acted like a natural blanket, pushing the minimum temperatures up by nearly two degrees across several districts.
In Srinagar, the mercury rose from a frigid –4.4°C to –1.9°C, marking a noticeable improvement. However, the chill remained uncompromising elsewhere. Baramulla, known for its colder nights, dipped to –4.7°C, making it the coldest spot in the valley during the same period.
Qazigund—often referred to as the ‘gateway to Kashmir’—recorded a low of –1.0°C, while Kupwara in the north settled at –3.2°C. In contrast, Kokernag in South Kashmir experienced milder conditions at 0.2°C, reflecting a slight but encouraging rise.
Tourist hotspots also saw temperature shifts. Pahalgam registered –0.4°C, warming up by more than five degrees compared to the previous night. Gulmarg, the famed skiing resort, recorded 0.3°C, an increase of two degrees—promising better conditions for visitors and winter sports enthusiasts.
As winter deepens, the valley continues to witness its timeless cycle of snow, chill, and breathtaking beauty. And beneath the numbers and forecasts, one reality remains constant: Kashmir’s weather is more than a report—it’s a story lived by its people every single day. A reminder of resilience, warmth, and the quiet magic of a land that continues to captivate hearts across the world.
