Kashmir’s harsh winter period ‘Chillai Kalan’ begins; records coldest night of the season – See PHOTOS

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‘Chillai Kalan’, the coldest and harshest winter period in the Kashmir valley begins today. During this 40-day period, the Himalayan valley remains under the grip of intense cold wave conditions. This is also the time when Kashmir receives the highest snowfall. The valley is enveloped in a blanket of snow, and and the partially frozen pine trees add to the surreal beauty of the place. (Image: PTI)

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At minus 3.4 degrees Celsius, Srinagar on Tuesday recorded the coldest night of the season so far as the mercury settled below the freezing point across Kashmir Valley. (PTI Image)

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During this 40-day period in Kashmir, nights are chilly with temperatures reaching below-freezing points and day temperatures thrive in the single digits. (PTI Image)

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The snow that falls during this time period freezes and lasts longer and adds to the glaciers of the Valley and replenishes the perennial reservoirs that feed the rivers, streams and lakes in Kashmir during the months of summer. (PTI Image)