Chillai Kalan has begun in Kashmir from the 21st of December 2025 to the 31st of January 2026, marking the start of the coldest and most intense phase of winter in the valley. As temperatures drop sharply and snowfall becomes more frequent, daily life shifts into a slower rhythm. From frozen mornings to snow-covered landscapes, Kashmir now enters its traditional 40-day period of extreme cold that defines winter across the region.
What is Chillai Kalan
Chillai Kalan is a Persian phrase literally meaning “major cold” or “grand forty”. It is the coldest phase of winter in Kashmir, lasting for 40 days and known as “the great cold” in Kashmiri. It is part of Kashmir’s traditional winter calendar, divided into Chillai Kalan(40 days), Chillai Khurd(20 days), and Chillai Bachha(10 days). This period aligns with the winter solstice, bringing prolonged cold and minimal sunlight. Snowfall is most frequent during Chillai Kalan, and weather officials often predict light to moderate snowfall across the valley during this time.
Why Chillai Kalan happens
Chillai Kalan marks Kashmir’s coldest winter phase, bringing intense freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and a dramatic slowdown of daily life.
Reasons –
- Kashmir’s bowl-shaped valley traps cold air flowing in from the Himalayas.
- Snow reflects most sunlight (albedo effect), preventing a temperature rise.
- Low sun angle and longer nights reduce natural heat during winter.
Life During Chillai Kalan in Kashmir
During Chillai Kalan, daily life in Kashmir slows down and adjusts to the extreme winter. People follow a calmer rhythm, shaped by cold days and long nights. Warmth, community, and tradition become central to everyday living.
- Schools and offices usually open late to avoid the harsh morning cold.
- Local markets stay active, filled with the warmth of bakeries and cups of noon chai.
- Homes are sealed with plastic sheets, and families gather around bukharis for heat.
- Houseboats on Dal Lake are covered with carpets and quilts for insulation.
Traditional winter essentials remain vital. Pherans are worn by all ages, kangris provide portable warmth, and wood-fired bukharis serve as the heart of Kashmiri homes, symbolising resilience through winter.
Chillai Kalan in Kashmir 2025–26 Dates
| Phase | Dates |
| Chillai Kalan | December 21, 2025, to January 31, 2026 |
| Chillai Khurd | January 31, 2026, to February 19, 2026 |
| Chillai Bachha | February 19, 2026, to March 2, 2026 |
Weather in Kashmir
Winter in Kashmir, especially during January, is defined by cold days and freezing nights. Weather conditions vary by region, with higher altitudes experiencing harsher cold and frequent snowfall. Cloud cover is common, adding to the winter chill across the valley.
- Srinagar: Around 6°C, mostly cloudy conditions
- Pahalgam: Nearly 9°C, cold with cloudy skies
- Gulmarg: Around -1°C, cloudy with chances of snowfall
- Sonmarg: Drops to -8°C, extremely cold with snow possibilities
Chillai Kalan’s impact on Tourism
As Chillai Kalan grips Kashmir, the valley turns into a snowy wonderland, driving a tourism experience boom. Skiing in Gulmarg, frozen rivers in Pahalgam, and misty mornings at Dal Lake attract winter travelers and adventure seekers. This 40-day cold spell offers serene landscapes, cultural immersion, and thrilling snow activities, making Kashmir a top seasonal destination.
How to Reach Kashmir
Reaching Kashmir is convenient, with multiple travel options available depending on comfort, budget, and season. Each route offers a different experience, especially during winter.
- By Air: The quickest way to reach Kashmir is by flying to Srinagar International Airport, located about 15 km from the city. It has regular flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Taxis and airport shuttles are easily available.
- By Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station, around 300 km from Srinagar. It is well-connected to cities such as Delhi and Amritsar. From Jammu, taxis, buses, and shared cabs take you through scenic mountain roads.
- By Road: Kashmir is accessible via National Highway 44. Buses and taxis operate from Jammu and Delhi. Winter road travel requires caution due to snow and weather conditions.
Can We Visit Kashmir During Chillai Kalan?
Absolutely! Kashmir during Chillai Kalan (Dec 21–Jan 31) is a magical winter experience, perfect for travelers who love snow, serenity, and breathtaking landscapes. Here are the top destinations and activities to explore:
- Gulmarg: Enjoy skiing, gondola rides, and snow-covered pine forests.
- Pahalgam: Discover frozen rivers, quiet meadows, and peaceful surroundings.
- Dal Lake: Witness partially frozen waters, morning mists, and reflections under soft winter sunlight.
- Sonamarg: Explore Thajiwas Glacier’s surreal snowy landscapes (weather permitting).
- Gurez Valley: Known for pristine nature, the Kishanganga River, Habba Khatoon Peak, traditional wooden houses, trekking, and the historical Silk Route significance.
- Aru Valley: Famous for scenic meadows, Kolahoi Glacier, and nearby Tarsar and Marsar Lakes.
- Betab Valley: Nestled between Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges, known for lush meadows, snow-capped peaks, Lidder River, and Bollywood fame from the movie Betaab. Ideal for sightseeing, photography, horse riding, and trekking.
Kashmir’s Chillai Kalan transforms these places into a winter wonderland worth experiencing.
Must-Try Food in Kashmir
Kashmiri winters call for rich, warming, and aromatic dishes. From traditional drinks to hearty stews and indulgent desserts, these foods keep the cold at bay while celebrating Kashmir’s culinary heritage.
- Kahwa: A fragrant green tea with saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and crushed nuts. Perfect for chilly evenings, aiding digestion and warming the body.
- Harissa: Slow-cooked mutton and rice with fennel, cinnamon, and cardamom. A hearty winter staple served with tandoori bread for sustenance in extreme cold.
- Shab Deg: Turnips, minced meat balls, and mutton slow-cooked overnight in a sealed pot with saffron and almonds. Intensely flavorful and perfect for cold nights.
- Shufta: A sweet blend of dried fruits, fried paneer, ghee, and sugar syrup, enriched with warming spices. Ideal for energy and indulgence in winter.
- Wangan Hachi: Sun-dried aubergines cooked with moong dal and tamarind, offering a tangy, warming dish when fresh vegetables are scarce.
- Kashmiri Rajma: Red kidney beans in a creamy yogurt-based gravy. Served with rice, it provides a hearty and satisfying cold-weather meal.
- Gushtaba: Delicate meatballs in a creamy, tangy yoghurt gravy (yakhni). Traditionally part of Wazwan, it’s a warming, indulgent winter dish.
With Chillai Kalan in full swing, Kashmir offers a rare winter spectacle, blending serene snow-covered landscapes, thrilling activities, and rich local traditions. From skiing in Gulmarg to peaceful valleys and misty lakes, travelers can experience the valley’s unique charm. This 40-day cold spell transforms Kashmir into an unforgettable winter paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Chillai Kalan occurs annually in Kashmir. This 40-day period marks the coldest phase of winter, beginning around December 21 and ending January 31. It brings extreme cold, frequent snowfall, and defines the valley’s winter traditions.
Absolutely! Travelers can visit Kashmir during Chillai Kalan (Dec 21–Jan 31). Snow-covered landscapes, skiing in Gulmarg, frozen rivers in Pahalgam, and serene lakes offer a magical winter experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
In Kashmiri, Chillai Kalan is known as “the great cold.” It represents the harshest 40 days of winter, emphasizing extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and the traditional winter lifestyle across the Kashmir valley.
The 40-day winter in Kashmir is called Chillai Kalan. It is followed by Chillai Khurd (20 days) and Chillai Bachha (10 days), forming the valley’s traditional three-phase winter calendar.
Chillai Kalan 2025–26 runs from December 21 to January 31. Chillai Khurd lasts from January 31 to February 19, and Chillai Bachha lasts from February 19 to March 2, completing Kashmir’s traditional winter cycle.