WATCH: Leh turns into a white wonderland after fresh spell of snow

The snow transformed streets, rooftops and open landscapes, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures. Locals and tourists woke up to snow-covered surroundings.

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#WATCH | Leh, Ladakh | Leh turns into a white wonderland as it witnesses a fresh spell of snow. pic.twitter.com/mvKyxwjQY2

— ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2025

Chillai-Kalan begins in Kashmir

In Kashmir, snowfall in higher reaches and rain in the plains marked the beginning of Chillai-Kalan, the harshest 40-day winter period in the Valley. The cold phase, which began on December 21, is known for freezing temperatures and frequent snow spells.

According to officials, popular tourist destination Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district received around two inches of snow. Snowfall was also reported in Sonamarg along the Srinagar-Kargil highway, where it continued for several hours through the morning.

Sadhna Top, the mountain pass connecting the Tangdhar sector near the Line of Control to the Kashmir Valley, recorded moderate snowfall, with nearly six inches of snow accumulating since Saturday night.

Meanwhile, light to moderate rain was reported in Srinagar and other parts of the Valley. The rainfall continued intermittently throughout the day.