Kashmir Snowfall Updates (2024/2025)

The onset of snowfall in Kashmir marks the beginning of the winter season, bringing fresh snow across the valley’s high-altitude regions. Starting on November 11, 2024, the snowfall has transformed popular destinations and critical travel routes, creating both stunning winter scenes and challenges for commuters. This article provides real-time Kashmir snowfall updates, weather predictions, and essential travel information to keep you informed and help you to plan a perfect winter trip to Kashmir.

Latest Snowfall Updates in Kashmir (Updated: 14th December, 2024)

Snowfall Blankets Kashmir on 6 January 2025

Kashmir experienced another spell of snowfall, with significant variations across the region over the past 24 hours.

In North Kashmir, the higher reaches saw heavy snowfall, with Gulmarg and Gurez recording nearly 15 inches of wet snow. Some areas at higher altitudes reported accumulations of up to 2 feet. Plains in Kupwara district received 1 to 4 inches, while its higher elevations witnessed up to 1.5 feet of snow. Rainfall mixed with light snow was observed across other plains in the region.

Central Kashmir experienced rainfall transitioning into snowfall by evening. Srinagar city and nearby plains recorded 3 to 4 inches of wet snow.

In South Kashmir, Shopian reported 4 inches of snow in the plains and up to 1 foot at higher altitudes. Pulwama saw 1 to 3 inches of snow in the plains. Anantnag and Kulgam recorded minimal accumulation, ranging from 1 cm to 1 inch in the plains, with higher reaches receiving up to 1 foot.

Weather Updates:

Major roads, including the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, are operational, though Mughal Road and SSG Road remain closed.

Snowfall on 27th December 2024

South Kashmir

Anantnag: Heavy snow in plains (1–2 feet); highlands, including Kokernag and Qazigund, saw up to 2 feet.
Pulwama: Moderate snowfall, with Pampore receiving 10 inches and Tral up to 1 foot 3 inches.
Kulgam: Significant snowfall recorded; Aharbal and D.H. Pora reported over 2 feet.
Shopian: Snow accumulation of 1.5–2 feet, enhancing the beauty of its apple orchards.

North & Central Kashmir

Srinagar: Moderate snowfall of 8 inches transformed the city into a winter spectacle.
Ganderbal: Snowfall varied between 6 inches in Laar and 1 foot 2 inches in Zojila.
Budgam: Plains received 7–10 inches, while Yusmarg exceeded 2 feet.
Bandipora: Light snowfall; Gurez saw 5–6 inches.
Baramulla: Moderate snow; Gulmarg received 1 foot 3 inches, ideal for skiing and other winter sports.
Kupwara: Most areas received light snow under 3 inches.

Jammu Region

Kishtwar: Sinthan Top reported a remarkable 4 feet; lighter snowfall in the plains.
Rajouri: Budhal experienced 10 inches.
Doda: Snowfall between 2–4 inches in areas like Bhaderwah.
Ramban: Banihal recorded 5–8 inches.

High-Altitude Areas

Sinthan Top & Margan Top: Each recorded 4 feet of snow.
Peer Ki Gali & Baltal: Approximately 3 feet.
Daksum & Kapran: Around 2.5 feet of accumulation.

Chillai Kalan and Its Significance

This period, lasting from December 21 to January 29, is considered the harshest winter phase in Kashmir, characterized by heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. Snow during this time replenishes the glaciers that supply the region’s rivers and lakes, making it crucial for water resources.

Impact of Snowfall

Connectivity: Transportation was disrupted due to road closures and blocked highways, including the Jammu-Srinagar route.
Utilities: Some areas faced interruptions in power and water supply.
Tourism Boost: Destinations like Gulmarg, Yusmarg, and Sonamarg are drawing tourists for their snow-covered landscapes and winter sports.
Local Practices: Residents rely on traditional means like Pherans (woolen cloaks) and Kangris (fire pots) for warmth, and dishes like Harisa are popular to combat the cold.

This snowfall, among the heaviest in recent years in some areas, has significantly enhanced the region’s winter charm while presenting logistical challenges for daily life.

December 11-13, 2024

The snowfall on December 11, 2024, in Jammu & Kashmir is linked to the La Niña effect, a weather phenomenon that intensifies cold and precipitation. This effect typically leads to lower temperatures and increased snowfall in the region. The La Niña impact has resulted in heavy snow accumulation, particularly in higher altitudes, creating challenging travel conditions. It is expected to continue influencing weather patterns, bringing more snowfall in the coming days, which could further enhance winter tourism in Kashmir.

December 5-6, 2024

Fresh Snowfall: A minor Western Disturbance brought fresh snowfall to high-altitude areas. Gulmarg saw an additional 5-8 cm of snow, while Sonmarg and Doodhpathri experienced a fresh white blanket.
Road Connectivity Issues: The Mughal Road and Bandipora-Gurez Road remained closed for traffic due to persistent snow accumulation. Efforts were underway to clear these routes.
Tourist Impact: The snowfall in Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Doodhpathri drew tourists for early winter sports and snow activities.

December 2-4, 2024

Dry Spell in the Plains: Srinagar and surrounding low-altitude areas reported cold but dry conditions, with clear skies leading to colder nights. The minimum temperature dropped close to 0°C in Srinagar, while sub-zero conditions prevailed in Pahalgam and Gulmarg.

November 30 to December 1, 2024

Higher Altitudes: Areas like Sonmarg, Gulmarg, and Tulail Valley received light to moderate snowfall, particularly in the evening of November 30 and early morning of December 1. This spell was part of a Western Disturbance.
Plains: Srinagar experienced trace precipitation, with overcast skies and a dip in daytime temperatures.

November 24-26, 2024

Higher Altitudes: Light snowfall was observed in regions like Sonmarg, Gulmarg, and the upper areas of the Pir Panjal range. These early snowfalls were scattered, with snow accumulation ranging from 2 to 4 inches in most locations.
Plains: Srinagar and nearby low-altitude areas experienced cold, dry conditions, with temperatures dipping into the low single digits. The minimum temperature in Srinagar hovered around 2°C, signaling the approaching winter.

November 27-29, 2024

Moderate Snowfall: A Western Disturbance brought moderate snowfall to higher altitudes, including Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and the upper reaches of the Bandipora-Gurez and Machil sectors. These areas received around 6-8 inches of fresh snow.
Srinagar: The plains saw trace amounts of precipitation, with temperatures dropping further to 0°C during the night.

Important Dates for Snowfall Prediction and Weather Patterns:

December 8-11, 2024: A Western Disturbance is expected to bring moderate snowfall in higher altitudes like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and areas around Zojila Pass. Light rainfall may occur in the Srinagar valley during this period. India Meteorological Department
December 15-16, 2024: Predicted another round of snowfall with colder temperatures due to intensified Western Disturbances. This period may also see disruptions in travel across mountain passes.
December 22-25, 2024: A significant dip in temperature is expected. Higher reaches could experience heavy snowfall, while the plains will likely face a severe cold wave. The possibility of road closures and disruptions is high during this period.
December 29-30, 2024: Dry weather with isolated cold wave conditions in parts of Jammu & Kashmir.
January 1-2, 2025: Cloudy weather with light snowfall expected in isolated areas.
January 3-6, 2025: Moderate to heavy snowfall anticipated in higher reaches, with light to moderate snowfall in several parts of Kashmir and scattered areas of Jammu. Travelers should stay informed due to potential icy roads and sub-freezing temperatures.

General Observations for December:

First Half of December: Light snowfall in high-altitude areas; dry and clear conditions in the plains.
Mid to Late December: Increased frequency and intensity of snowfall, especially above 2,000 meters, including tourist spots like Gulmarg and Sonamarg.

General Observations for January:

First Half of January: Light snowfall expected in high-altitude regions; intermittent dry and cloudy conditions in the plains.
Mid to Late January: Increased snowfall intensity in higher reaches, including popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, with chances of moderate snowfall in the plains. Temperatures likely to remain below freezing in many areas.

Snow Depth in Jammu & Kashmir (Valid till: 14th December, 2024)

For real-time updates, it is recommended to follow the official Kashmir Meteorological Department or the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Let me know if you’d like links or guidance on how to check their detailed forecasts.

Sadhna Top: 13-14 inches of fresh snow recorded, causing disruptions in traffic.
Razdan Pass: 8-10 inches of snow, leading to temporary closure of the Bandipora-Gurez road.
Sinthan Top: Heavy snowfall with 14-15 inches, making travel difficult in this high-altitude region.
Gulmarg (Phase 2): 10 inches of snow, enhancing its appeal for winter sports enthusiasts.
Peer Ki Gali: 10-12 inches of fresh snow accumulation, adding to the winter charm.
Kilshay Top: 10-12 inches of fresh snow accumulation, adding to the winter charm.
Baltal and Pahalgam: Light snowfall of 4-6 inches, drawing early winter tourists.
Sonamarg: 10-12 inches of snow, increasing its scenic beauty.
Machil Sector: 8-10 inches of heavy snow, complicating access but enhancing its winter allure.
Z Gali: 10-12 inches of snow reported, making this high-altitude pass a slippery but picturesque transit point.
Zojila Pass: 12 inches of snow, making this strategic link treacherous for travelers heading to Leh.
Margan Top: 10-11 inches of snow, isolating Warwan Valley from the rest of Kashmir.
Firkiyan Pass: 6 inches of fresh snow, making this route challenging and temporarily cutting off access to Tangdhar.
Chowkibal Pass: 4-5 inches of snow in the Lolab region, complicating logistics but adding to the beauty.
Aharbal Pass: 4-5 inches of fresh snow, attracting trekkers despite icy trails.
Tragbal Meadow: 4-5 inches of snow, creating a magical landscape near Razdan Pass.
Sedow Top: 2-3 inches of snowfall, a serene yet icy location off the Mughal Road.
Kolahoi Glacier Base: A fresh 8 inch layer, challenging trekkers venturing into the glacier region.
Minimarg Pass: 9 inches of snow, turning this lesser-visited pass into a winter spectacle.
Tral Top: 3-4 inches of snow, enhancing the beauty of this relatively quiet destination.
Chiranbal Top: 4-5 inches of snow, transforming this offbeat gem into a pristine white escape.

Weather Forecast: Kashmir Braces for Severe Winter Due to Intensifying La Niña Phenomenon from mid-December

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar forecasts improved weather by December 28 afternoon, with light snow/rain in parts of Jammu & Kashmir. Dry conditions are expected on December 29-30, light snow from January 1-2, and moderate snow January 3-6, 2025. Travelers are advised to follow traffic updates due to sub-freezing temperatures and icy roads.

Kashmir is expected to experience a harsher winter this season due to the La Niña climate phenomenon. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the region will likely face colder temperatures, heavy snowfall, and above-normal precipitation, with these conditions intensifying from mid-December (15th December, 2024). La Niña, which is marked by cooler-than-usual sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, leads to significant shifts in weather patterns. This typically results in colder winters and increased snowfall in regions like Kashmir, as observed in previous years.

Bandipora-Gurez Road (via Razdan Top)- Current Status: Closed
Mughal Road (via Peer Ki Gali)- Current Status: Closed
Srinagar-Leh Highway (via Zoji La Pass)- Current Status: Open

Travel Advisory and Tips for Visitors

If you plan to visit Kashmir during this snowfall period, here are some essential tips:

Check Road Status: Contact local authorities or visit the Kashmir Weather Forecast updates to confirm road conditions. Essential numbers include:
- District Control Room/PCR Bandipora: 9596767430, 7006526985
Carry Winter Essentials: Ensure you have warm clothing, emergency food supplies, and a fully charged phone.
Follow Official Advisories: Pay attention to weather warnings and updates from the J&K Police and local administration.

Impact on Tourism and Local Life

The early snowfall in Kashmir is a boon for winter tourism, attracting visitors to popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. However, it also brings challenges for residents and travelers, especially in terms of road accessibility and supply chain disruptions.

Real-Time Updates on Kashmir Snowfall

This article will provide continuous Kashmir snowfall updates, including weather forecasts, road conditions, and the best spots to witness the snow. Bookmark this page and stay informed about the latest snowfall developments across Kashmir’s high-altitude regions.