Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], February 11: Jammu and Kashmir continues to experience a persistent winter chill, with Srinagar and several other towns under the grip of inclement weather. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), temperatures remain low, with rain or snow anticipated, intensifying the cold conditions.
On Tuesday morning, Srinagar recorded a temperature of 4.6°C. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 14°C, with the minimum forecasted to be 4°C, accompanied by the possibility of rain or snow. Despite the cold, Dal Lake in Srinagar saw a large number of tourists, drawn to the region to experience its winter beauty.
In other parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the IMD recorded the following temperatures: Gulmarg at -3.9°C, Pahalgam at 1.6°C, Banihal at 5.2°C, and Kupwara at 3.9°C.
The cold weather hasn’t deterred outdoor activities; on Monday, Indian Army personnel conducted patrolling operations in the upper reaches of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, ensuring security in the region amid thick snow and plummeting temperatures.
The region’s winter charm was also showcased during the ‘Lal Draman Winter Festival-2025,’ organized in Doda district by the District Administration and the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department on February 9. The festival attracted thousands of visitors, including tourists, locals, officials, and media. Held in Lal Draman, a picturesque meadow in Doda, the festival celebrated the winter season, offering visitors a taste of the cultural richness and natural beauty of the region.
The event also highlighted the vibrant culture of Lolab Valley in Kupwara district, which was central to the festival’s celebrations. The festivities featured thrilling activities and aimed to promote the region’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.
This festive occasion follows the extreme winter conditions of Chillai Kalan, which started on December 21 and ended on January 31. This 40-day period is characterized by sub-zero temperatures, heavy snowfall, and frozen water bodies. During Chillai Kalan, water bodies like Dal Lake often freeze, adding to the region’s winter allure, but also disrupting daily life due to the severe cold.
- India Meteorological Department (IMD) – Provided weather forecasts, revealing low temperatures and the possibility of rain or snow in the region.
- Tourists – Despite the chill, tourists continue to flock to Dal Lake and other scenic locations to enjoy Jammu and Kashmir’s winter beauty.
- Indian Army – Conducted patrolling operations in the Doda district to ensure security during the harsh winter conditions.
- District Administration and Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department – Organized the Lal Draman Winter Festival-2025, which attracted thousands of visitors to the picturesque Lal Draman meadow.
- Lolab Valley, Kupwara District – Featured in the winter festival, showcasing its cultural and natural beauty, attracting a significant number of visitors.