Chillai Kalan in Kashmir

▲ Kashmir Tour Packages Taxi Winter guide 21 December to 31 January: the 40 coldest days of the Kashmir winter. By Ahmad Suhail

What is Chillai Kalan?

Chillai Kalan is the 40-day peak of winter in Kashmir, from 21 December to 31 January. It is followed by Chillai Khurd (20 days) and Chillai Bachha (10 days), when the cold slowly eases.

What to expect

Dates 21 December to 31 January Srinagar Cold days; nights often well below zero Snow Likely, but it varies from year to year

What to wear

Thermals, a warm jacket, cap and gloves A pheran, the long Kashmiri woollen cloak Waterproof shoes with a good grip on ice

Travel tips

Try Harissa, a slow-cooked mutton breakfast sold in winter Gulmarg Cars need snow chains beyond Tangmarg after snowfall Buffer Keep a spare day: snow can close roads or delay flights

Why go in Chillai Kalan?

Chillai Kalan Best chance of deep snow in Gulmarg and Pahalgam Frosty mornings on Dal Lake Kangri, pheran and harissa: winter as locals live it Spring and summer Green valleys and flowers Milder weather, all roads open Busier and pricier at hotels

Getting there

Fly into Srinagar, or take the train from Katra to Srinagar. The Jammu–Srinagar highway can close for a day or two after heavy snow, so check before you travel.

Plan a winter trip

Taxi with driver from ₹2,000 a day ✆ Enquire on WhatsApp Read the full guide Read next: Kashmir in February 2027: Snow, Skiing a… → kashmirtourpackagestaxi.com Open the guide