Fresh snowfall in Bhaderwah (Jammu’s Doda district) on January 7, 2026, ended a two-month dry spell, providing a much-needed boost to tourism in the area. However, the cold wave affecting much of North India led to extended winter breaks in schools across Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Key Highlights
- Snowfall Update: Fresh snow recorded at Guldanda and Chattargalla passes in Bhaderwah.
- Punjab Schools: Winter break extended until January 13, 2026 due to dense fog and cold wave.
- Rajasthan Schools: Schools in Jaipur, Sikar, and Alwar will remain closed until January 10.
- Noida and Ghaziabad: School closures extended for students up to Class 8 until January 5.
- Delhi: Winter vacation continues until January 15, as scheduled.
Main Report
Bhaderwah Becomes a Winter Wonderland
The picturesque town of Bhaderwah, located in the Chenab Valley, received a fresh blanket of snow on January 7, 2026, bringing relief to the local tourism industry, which had been experiencing a slump due to a prolonged dry spell. Snowfall was particularly visible at Guldanda (9,555 ft) and Chattargalla (10,500 ft), with tourists flocking to experience the winter wonderland.
Hundreds of vehicles were seen heading towards Guldanda, where the snow-covered peaks provided a perfect backdrop for tourists eager to experience the season’s first snow.
For the local hoteliers in Bhaderwah, this fresh snowfall has sparked optimism that winter tourism will be revived, with increased bookings expected in the coming days.
North India Experiences a Cold Wave
As a severe cold wave continues to grip the plains of North India, several state governments have acted swiftly to ensure the safety of schoolchildren.
Punjab
In Punjab, the Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains confirmed that schools will remain closed until January 13, 2026, due to dense fog and cold wave conditions. The announcement applies to both government and private schools in the region.
Rajasthan
In Rajasthan, districts such as Jaipur, Sikar, and Alwar have extended the winter holidays for primary and upper primary students until January 10 due to the cold wave. Schools are expected to reopen on January 11, 2026.
Noida and Ghaziabad
In Noida and Ghaziabad, the cold day conditions have led to school closures for students up to Class 8 until January 5, 2026, to ensure safety amid the ongoing cold wave.
Delhi
In Delhi, winter vacations for schools are set to continue until January 15, 2026, following the academic calendar. The cold wave has led to additional concerns, but the official school reopening remains on schedule for January 16.
Official Statements
Punjab Education Minister, Harjot Singh Bains:
“In view of the severe cold and fog, holidays in all government, aided, recognized, and private schools in Punjab are extended till 13th January 2026. Schools will reopen on 14th January.”
Tourist in Bhaderwah:
“It is like a dream come true. We came from Maharashtra hoping to see snow, and Bhaderwah did not disappoint!”
(This statement was gathered from various social media sources documenting tourists’ experiences in Bhaderwah.)
FAQs
A1: Fresh snowfall has been recorded in Bhaderwah (Guldanda and Chattargalla passes) as of Jan 7, 2026.
A2: Yes, schools in Punjab have extended winter holidays till January 13, 2026 due to the severe cold wave.
A3: Schools in Noida (up to Class 8) are closed till January 5, 2026, due to the ongoing cold wave.
Transparency Note:
Weather updates and snowfall reports are based on IMD (Indian Meteorological Department) reports and local news. School holiday extensions are confirmed from official government statements issued on January 7, 2026.
