Gulmarg/Srinagar: The prayers of thousands of tourists and locals have been answered. As the sun rose on the first day of 2026, the upper reaches of Kashmir, including the famous ski resort Gulmarg, woke up to a mesmerizing blanket of fresh white snow.
While Srinagar city remains dry but freezing, the Meteorological Department (MeT) has issued a significant weather forecast that will bring cheer to winter sports enthusiasts but might disrupt connectivity.
1. Fresh Snowfall in Tourist Hotspots
- Gulmarg: Received approximately 3 to 4 inches of fresh snow overnight, turning the slopes perfect for New Year skiing.
- Pahalgam & Sonamarg: Also reported light to moderate snowfall, creating picture-perfect scenes for New Year travelers.
- Tourist Rush: Hotels in Gulmarg are reporting 100% occupancy. “It is a dream come true to see snowfall on Jan 1st,” said Rohit Verma, a tourist from Mumbai.
2. The Forecast: “Western Disturbance” Approaching
According to the MeT Director, a feeble Western Disturbance is currently active, but a Stronger System is approaching.
- Jan 1 – Jan 2: Generally cloudy with light snow in higher reaches.
- Jan 3 – Jan 5 (Major Alert): A strong active Western Disturbance is expected to hit J&K.
- Impact: Moderate to Heavy Snowfall is predicted in plains (including Srinagar) and heavy snow in upper reaches.
- Disruption: There is a high chance of flight cancellations and highway closure on Jan 4 and 5.
3. ‘Chilai Kalan’ Shows Its Teeth: Night Temps Drop
The 40-day harsh winter period ‘Chilai Kalan’ is in full swing.
- Srinagar: Recorded a low of -5.2°C last night, freezing water taps and parts of Dal Lake.
- Qazigund & Shopian: Recorded lows of -6.0°C, making it the coldest night of the season so far.
4. Avalanche Warning Issued
The J&K Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued a “Medium Danger” avalanche warning for the districts of Kupwara, Bandipora, and Ganderbal above 2400 meters.
- Advisory: Locals and tourists are advised not to venture into back-country ski areas without a guide.
FAQs
Currently (Jan 1 morning), it is dry and cold in Srinagar. However, light snowfall is expected in the city starting late night on January 3rd.
Yes. As of now, visibility is clear at Srinagar Airport, and flights are operating on schedule. However, travelers flying on Jan 4th should keep a check on the status.
Yes, the Gulmarg Gondola is fully operational. Phase 1 and Phase 2 are open, but long queues are expected due to the New Year rush.
Disclaimer
Weather forecasts are dynamic. Please check the latest bulletin from IMD Srinagar before planning travel to remote areas.
Also Read:
- NH-44 Alert Jan 1: Jammu-Srinagar Highway One-Way Today! Slippery Near Banihal – Check Cut-off Timing
- Srinagar Power News: New Smart Schedule from Jan 1 – Check Your Area’s Timing
- New Year Gift: Commercial LPG Prices Slashed on Day 1 of 2026; PNG Rates Also Cut – Check Latest Rates
- Travel Chaos: 50+ Trains Delayed, Flights Stuck as Fog Hits North India – Check List
- Vaishno Devi Yatra Alert: Massive New Year Rush, New RFID Rules & Weather Update – Check Before You Go
