-
Kashmir has stepped into the harshest phase of its winter season, known as Chillai Kalan, a 40-day period of intense cold that began on December 21 and will persist until January 31. This frigid stretch, renowned for its freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy nights, sets the tone for the rest of winter. Following Chillai Kalan comes Chillai Khurd (the “small cold”), lasting 20 days, and Chillai Bachha (the “baby cold”), a 10-day phase, extending winter’s frosty grip into March. The term Chillai Kalan, rooted in Persian, aptly captures the season’s severity, translating to “Major Cold.” The upper elevations of Kullu-Manali and Lahaul-Spiti districts have been blanketed with fresh snowfall, while the lower areas in both regions are experiencing light drizzle. Overcast skies have dominated the day in Mandi district, leading to a significant drop in temperatures. For tourism-dependent businesses in Kullu and Manali, the snowfall brings renewed hope, as more snow could offer a much-needed boost to the struggling tourism sector, drawing visitors to the picturesque region.
-
A shikara rests along the icy shores of Dal Lake on a frigid winter morning in Srinagar, Saturday, December 21, 2024. The onset of Chillai Kalan, Kashmir’s 40-day period of the harshest winter, began with a chilling record as Srinagar recorded its coldest December night in 50 years, plunging to a bone-numbing minus 8.5 degrees Celsius, according to the meteorological department. (Photo: PTI)
-
A pair of moorhens navigate the icy expanse of Dal Lake on a frosty winter morning in Srinagar, Saturday, December 21, 2024. The arrival of Chillai Kalan, Kashmir’s 40-day spell of the harshest winter, began with a historic chill as Srinagar recorded its coldest December night in 50 years, with temperatures plummeting to a freezing minus 8.5 degrees Celsius, according to the meteorological department. (Photo: PTI)
-
An elderly vendor braves the biting cold along the partially frozen banks of Dal Lake on a frosty morning in Srinagar, Saturday, December 21, 2024. The onset of Chillai Kalan, Kashmir’s harshest 40-day winter phase, marked a historic freeze, with Srinagar recording its coldest December night in 50 years as temperatures plunged to minus 8.5 degrees Celsius, according to the meteorological department. (Photo: PTI)
-
Tourists enjoy the beauty of fresh snowfall in Shimla on Monday, December 23, 2024, as the hill station transforms into a winter wonderland, drawing visitors to its snow-covered landscapes and chilly charm. (Photo: PTI)
-
Ice hockey enthusiasts showcase their skills at Lakkar Bazar in Shimla on Saturday, December 21, 2024. The lively game amid the winter chill adds a vibrant touch to the season, attracting spectators to the iconic skating rink. (Photo: PTI)
-
Amidst a picturesque blanket of fresh snowfall, visitors enjoy a serene walk through Shimla on Monday, December 23, 2024. The winter wonderland atmosphere enchants tourists, adding charm to the hill station’s scenic beauty. (Photo: PTI)
‘Biggest scam in India’: Angel investor rips into insurance companies after Niva Bupa denies Rs 61 lakh claim to a family
