First Snowfall - NEWS Of KASHMIR

Season’s First Snowfall Graces Kashmir’s Higher Reaches, Marking Early Arrival of Winter

October 6, 2025 by NOK Desk

The higher reaches of Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Gurez, and other mountainous areas, witnessed the season’s first spell of snowfall this week, marking the early arrival of winter in the Valley.

Fresh snow blanketed several high-altitude areas such as Affarwat in Gulmarg, Sinthan Top in Anantnag, Zojila Pass, Gumri, Minimarg, and Razdan Top the gateway to Gurez Valley in Bandipora district.The light snowfall at Razdan Top began early Monday morning, lowering temperatures in the upper regions. However, officials said that traffic movement on the Bandipora Gurez road remained open.

Weather officials said that more rain and snow are likely in parts of Jammu and Kashmir from October 5 to 7 due to a western disturbance. Light rainfall was also reported in Srinagar and its adjoining areas, while intermittent showers were recorded across the plains of North and South Kashmir.

The fresh change in weather has brought delight to locals and tourists, who see it as the first sign of the approaching winter. Authorities, however, have advised commuters and travelers to remain cautious, especially in higher regions, as temperatures continue to drop and roads turn slippery. (KNS)

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Weather

Gulmarg Welcomes Season’s First Snowfall of 2025–26, Thrilling Tourists and Signalling Early Winter in Kashmir

October 3, 2025 by NOK Desk

The picturesque ski resort of Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir woke up to a wintry spectacle on Friday morning as light snowfall dusted its upper reaches overnight, marking the season’s first snow of 2025-2026. The unexpected early winter gift has thrilled tourists and locals alike, while signaling the onset of colder weather across the Kashmir Valley.

The snowfall, which began late Thursday evening and continued into Friday, primarily affected elevations above 2,650 meters, including the iconic Affarwat Peak (3,979 meters) and Sunshine areas. Lower regions of the valley experienced intermittent rain but remained largely dry. Nearby high-altitude destinations like Sonamarg and Gurez Valley also reported fresh snow on their peaks.

Chilly Temperatures and Tourist Delight

Temperatures plummeted across the region, with Gulmarg recording a low of -1°C and Srinagar dipping to 8°C. Eyewitnesses described the scene as “magical,” with social media platforms flooded by photographs and videos of snow-capped meadows transforming the “Meadow of Flowers” into a serene white canvas.

Local tour operator Rehana Begum shared with Grok News, “This early snow is a blessing for us. Tourists are already booking gondola rides to the upper reaches. It’s like nature’s invitation to winter adventures.”

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecasted light to moderate precipitation for higher reaches starting October 5-6, but the event arrived two days ahead of schedule. IMD Director Mukesh Srivastava confirmed, “This is an atypical early onset due to a western disturbance. More significant snowfall is expected from October 5-7, with accumulations of 2-2.5 feet over passes like Sinthan Top, Zojila, and Razdan Top.”

Implications for Tourism and Travel

Gulmarg, Asia’s highest ski destination and a tentative UNESCO World Heritage site, stands to benefit immensely from this prelude to the winter season. Full-fledged skiing typically begins in December, but the early snow has sparked optimism for an extended season. Adventure enthusiasts are flocking to the area for initial snow treks and photography.

However, authorities have issued travel advisories for high passes, warning of potential road blockages and urging motorists to check weather updates. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department advised visitors to “pack warm layers and monitor IMD alerts.”

Regional Weather Forecast

October 5-7: Heavy snowfall in upper reaches; possible flurries in Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Gulmarg.
Post-October 7: Dry spell likely, with gradual temperature recovery.
Long-term: Kashmir’s winter could see above-average precipitation, boosting water resources but challenging infrastructure.

This early snowfall underscores the unpredictable nature of Himalayan weather patterns, influenced by climate variability. As Gulmarg prepares for its peak tourist influx, the valley braces for a vibrant yet challenging winter ahead.

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News

First Snowfall of the Season Brings Relief and Disruptions Across Kashmir

December 28, 2024December 28, 2024 by NOK Desk

The plains of Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir experienced the season’s first snowfall on Friday, ending a prolonged dry spell and delighting locals and tourists alike. In areas such as Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar, snowfall also made an appearance, while Jammu plains saw widespread rains.

The snowfall disrupted several strategic routes, including the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Mughal Road, and Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri route to Ladakh. Many roads, like Kokernag-Marwah-Warwan, remain closed due to snow accumulation.

Tourists gathered at Boulevard Road near Dal Lake to enjoy the snowfall, capturing moments against the backdrop of Zabarwan mountains and houseboats. Areas in south and north Kashmir, including Shopian, Kulgam, Baramulla, and Bijbehara, also saw snow.

The Meteorological Department (MeT) reported snow and rainfall across various regions, with higher altitudes accumulating 12-18 inches of snow. Independent forecasters predicted substantial snowfall in some areas of south Kashmir, with light snow expected until early January.

Air Travel and Traffic Affected
Snowfall impacted air travel, with seven flights cancelled at Srinagar International Airport due to heavy snow and low visibility. Authorities have installed an advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS-II) to enhance winter operations, expecting minimal cancellations this season.

The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway was closed due to slippery conditions. Efforts are underway to clear snow, but thousands of vehicles remain stranded. Authorities are prioritising heavy vehicles and ensuring assistance for families and children in stranded cars.

Road Closures and Relief Efforts
In Ganderbal, heavy snowfall disrupted normal life, closing the Srinagar-Leh National Highway. Locals and tourists stranded in Sonamarg urged authorities to open the Z Morh Tunnel for safer travel.

The Mughal Road and routes connecting Kashmir to Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal region have been closed, with officials stating they will likely reopen by March or April.

Police in Ganderbal have set up emergency teams to assist locals and tourists in distress due to snowfall. Contact numbers for emergencies were made available for public use.

Farmers and Locals Welcome Snowfall
In Rajouri and Poonch districts of the Pir Panjal region, light snowfall brought much-needed relief after an unusually dry spell. Farmers expressed relief, noting improved groundwater levels and better health conditions.

While the snowfall brings scenic beauty and joy, authorities warn of potential landslides and slippery road conditions, urging travellers to exercise caution.