Srinagar: Fresh snowfall across the Kashmir Division has boosted winter tourism drastically. All the hotels and houseboats are fully booked for the month of January. According to government data, around 3 million tourists visited the Valley in 2024, breaking all the previous records, and the authorities now believe that the year 2025 is going to witness more tourist arrivals.
<o:p></o:p>The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has said that 2024 was one of the best tourist seasons in the Valley. The surge in the number of tourist arrivals was due to many factors, including adding more tourist attractions to the list. Jammu and Kashmir is now working to develop 75 new tourist destinations, 75 heritage and cultural sites, 75 Sufism and religious sites, and 75 adventure treks for attracting more tourists.
<o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;Also Read | </o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-questions-india-alliances-future-dissolve-bloc-if-8604714" rel="dofollow">Omar Abdullah questions future of INDIA alliance; 'dissolve bloc if..'</a><o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;As far as the number of tourists visiting the valley since January 2024, we have received very good numbers of tourists in lakhs. We are hoping that in the coming time, we will have much more, as we have had great snow already. We are also getting connected via railways, and we are expecting a huge increase in the tourism arrivals. We had a great flow from southeast Asian countries and also Europe. We get a lot of Russian tourists for skiing. As far as Khelo India games are concerned, it will be a great idea to boost the winter tourism. We have a great winter going on, and it is also time for promotion so that Kashmir becomes a tourist destination. Our main focus will be the train, as every stratum of the people will visit the valley,&rdquo; said Manzoor Pakhtoon, President, Houseboat Association.
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The total tourist footfall in 2024 was recorded at approximately 2.95 million, a notable rise from the 2.71 million visitors in 2023 and 2.67 million in 2022.
&nbsp;
There has also been a big increase in the foreign tourists&rsquo; arrivals. Compared to 37,000 foreign tourist arrivals in 2023, in 2024, 43,000 international visitors arrived in the Valley. The tourism industry is the second biggest industry in the Union Territory and adds around Rs 8,000 crore to the GDP.
<o:p></o:p><o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-sick-leave-champion-germanys-economic-woes-intensify-8604622" rel="dofollow">World&rsquo;s sick leave champion nation&rsquo;s economic woes intensify</a><o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s so cold here in Kashmir. We had seen these visuals in our dreams and are actually living a dream right now. It&rsquo;s so wonderful here, especially the weather. I am wearing so many layers, and I love doing it. We went to Gulmarg and Sonamarg, and we are now travelling in Srinagar. I will go back and tell our families and friends to come here,&rdquo; said Gorakh Bade, a tourist.
More tourists are arriving with fresh snow across all the higher reaches in the valley.<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p><o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-flags-off-pravasi-bharatiya-express-train-in-indias-odisha-these-are-the-destinations-it-will-cover-8604481" rel="dofollow">PM Modi flags off Pravasi Bharatiya Express train in India's Odisha; these are the destinations it will cover</a><o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s the real paradise on earth, we enjoyed it so much. We had heard of this but are now witnessing it in real life. It&rsquo;s just wonderful. We are very happy, and we will go back and tell our families, friends, and colleagues that they should also visit Kashmir. We have made so many videos in the snow,&rdquo; said Mangal Subhash, a tourist.
The government is now building eco-friendly infrastructure to standardise tourism products and services, and targeted marketing strategies are being employed to contribute significantly to J&amp;K&rsquo;s tourism potential.<o:p></o:p>

India News | Trending: According to government data, around 3 million tourists visited the Valley in 2024, breaking all previous records. The authorities now believe that 2025 is going to witness more arrivals.

Srinagar: Fresh snowfall across the Kashmir Division has boosted winter tourism drastically. All the hotels and houseboats are fully booked for the month of January. According to government data, around 3 million tourists visited the Valley in 2024, breaking all the previous records, and the authorities now believe that the year 2025 is going to witness more tourist arrivals. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has said that 2024 was one of the best tourist seasons in the Valley. The surge in the number of tourist arrivals was due to many factors, including adding more tourist attractions to the list. Jammu and Kashmir is now working to develop 75 new tourist destinations, 75 heritage and cultural sites, 75 Sufism and religious sites, and 75 adventure treks for attracting more tourists. Also Read | Omar Abdullah questions future of INDIA alliance; 'dissolve bloc if..' “As far as the number of tourists visiting the valley since January 2024, we have received very good numbers of tourists in lakhs. We are hoping that in the coming time, we will have much more, as we have had great snow already. We are also getting connected via railways, and we are expecting a huge increase in the tourism arrivals. We had a great flow from southeast Asian countries and also Europe. We get a lot of Russian tourists for skiing. As far as Khelo India games are concerned, it will be a great idea to boost the winter tourism. We have a great winter going on, and it is also time for promotion so that Kashmir becomes a tourist destination. Our main focus will be the train, as every stratum of the people will visit the valley,” said Manzoor Pakhtoon, President, Houseboat Association. Also Read | Chinese woman gives birth four hours after finding out she was pregnant The total tourist footfall in 2024 was recorded at approximately 2.95 million, a notable rise from the 2.71 million visitors in 2023 and 2.67 million in 2022. There has also been a big increase in the foreign tourists’ arrivals. Compared to 37,000 foreign tourist arrivals in 2023, in 2024, 43,000 international visitors arrived in the Valley. The tourism industry is the second biggest industry in the Union Territory and adds around Rs 8,000 crore to the GDP. Also Read | World’s sick leave champion nation’s economic woes intensify “It’s so cold here in Kashmir. We had seen these visuals in our dreams and are actually living a dream right now. It’s so wonderful here, especially the weather. I am wearing so many layers, and I love doing it. We went to Gulmarg and Sonamarg, and we are now travelling in Srinagar. I will go back and tell our families and friends to come here,” said Gorakh Bade, a tourist. More tourists are arriving with fresh snow across all the higher reaches in the valley. Also Read | PM Modi flags off Pravasi Bharatiya Express train in India's Odisha; these are the destinations it will cover “It’s the real paradise on earth, we enjoyed it so much. We had heard of this but are now witnessing it in real life. It’s just wonderful. We are very happy, and we will go back and tell our families, friends, and colleagues that they should also visit Kashmir. We have made so many videos in the snow,” said Mangal Subhash, a tourist. The government is now building eco-friendly infrastructure to standardise tourism products and services, and targeted marketing strategies are being employed to contribute significantly to J&K’s tourism potential.

Kashmir tourism hits new peak, tourist arrivals break all previous records

As the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days in the Kashmir Valley, starts today, the temperatures across Kashmir Valley and Ladakh have drastically dropped. As was predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department or IMD, the La Nina effect has multiplied the impact of cold in the Valley.

Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for&nbsp;many weeks, with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 8.5 degrees on Saturday (Dec 21), marking the coldest night since 1974, the year in which it had hit minus 10.3°C. The record for the lowest temperature remains minus 12.8°C, set on December 13, 1934. Saturday’s temperature stands as the third-lowest December reading in Srinagar since 1891.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kashmir-faces-severe-cold-wave-conditions-srinagar-records-seasons-lowest-temperature-at-62degc-785587">India: Kashmir faces severe cold wave conditions; Srinagar records season's lowest temperature at -6.2°C</a>

At minus 7.2°C, Kupwara recorded its lowest December temperature since 1998. The all-time record stands at minus 9.4°C, recorded on 31 December 1986. Overall, Saturday's temperature is the 9th lowest recorded in Kupwara district in December.

The cold wave across Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below the freezing point.&nbsp;

South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.3 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.6 degrees, while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10.4 degrees Celsius.

The world-famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.2 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort was at minus 8.8 degrees.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christmas-around-the-corner-and-paper-mache-decorative-pieces-are-in-demand-from-across-world-785561">Christmas 2024: Paper Mache decorative pieces made in Kashmir in demand across the world</a>&nbsp;

South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 10.3 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.4 and Baramulla at minus 6.2 degrees. &nbsp;

Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The town of Leh recorded a temperature of minus 12.5 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 14.3 degrees.

The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted La Nina effect, which means cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific.

This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns, leading to more rain and snow.

The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will be prolonged and&nbsp;very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow.

It forecast&nbsp;snowfall in the higher reaches on Saturday while plains might witness some rains.

As the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days in the Kashmir Valley, starts today, the temperatures across Kashmir Valley and Ladakh have drastically dropped.

As the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days in the Kashmir Valley, starts today, the temperatures across Kashmir Valley and Ladakh have drastically dropped. As was predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department or IMD, the La Nina effect has multiplied the impact of cold in the Valley. Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for many weeks, with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 8.5 degrees on Saturday (Dec 21), marking the coldest night since 1974, the year in which it had hit minus 10.3°C. The record for the lowest temperature remains minus 12.8°C, set on December 13, 1934. Saturday’s temperature stands as the third-lowest December reading in Srinagar since 1891. Also read | India: Kashmir faces severe cold wave conditions; Srinagar records season's lowest temperature at -6.2°C At minus 7.2°C, Kupwara recorded its lowest December temperature since 1998. The all-time record stands at minus 9.4°C, recorded on 31 December 1986. Overall, Saturday's temperature is the 9th lowest recorded in Kupwara district in December. The cold wave across Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below the freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.3 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.6 degrees, while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10.4 degrees Celsius. The world-famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.2 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort was at minus 8.8 degrees. Also read | Christmas 2024: Paper Mache decorative pieces made in Kashmir in demand across the world South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 10.3 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.4 and Baramulla at minus 6.2 degrees. Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The town of Leh recorded a temperature of minus 12.5 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 14.3 degrees. The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted La Nina effect, which means cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns, leading to more rain and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will be prolonged and very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow. It forecast snowfall in the higher reaches on Saturday while plains might witness some rains.

With start of 'Chillai Kalan,' Srinagar freezes at season's coldest night with minus 8.5 degrees

Kashmir, India
As the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days in the Kashmir Valley, starts today, the temperatures across Kashmir Valley and Ladakh have drastically dropped. As was predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department or IMD, the La Nina effect has multiplied the impact of cold in the Valley.
Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for many weeks, with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 8.5 degrees on Saturday (Dec 21), marking the coldest night since 1974, the year in which it had hit minus 10.3°C. The record for the lowest temperature remains minus 12.8°C, set on December 13, 1934. Saturday’s temperature stands as the third-lowest December reading in Srinagar since 1891.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kashmir-faces-severe-cold-wave-conditions-srinagar-records-seasons-lowest-temperature-at-62degc-785587">India: Kashmir faces severe cold wave conditions; Srinagar records season's lowest temperature at -6.2°C</a>
At minus 7.2°C, Kupwara recorded its lowest December temperature since 1998. The all-time record stands at minus 9.4°C, recorded on 31 December 1986. Overall, Saturday's temperature is the 9th lowest recorded in Kupwara district in December.
The cold wave across Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below the freezing point. 
South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.3 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.6 degrees, while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10.4 degrees Celsius.
The world-famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.2 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort was at minus 8.8 degrees.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christmas-around-the-corner-and-paper-mache-decorative-pieces-are-in-demand-from-across-world-785561">Christmas 2024: Paper Mache decorative pieces made in Kashmir in demand across the world</a> 
South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 10.3 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.4 and Baramulla at minus 6.2 degrees.  
Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The town of Leh recorded a temperature of minus 12.5 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 14.3 degrees.
The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted La Nina effect, which means cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific.
This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns, leading to more rain and snow.
The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will be prolonged and very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow.
It forecast snowfall in the higher reaches on Saturday while plains might witness some rains.

Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for many weeks now, with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 8.5 degrees



Kashmir, India As the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days in the Kashmir Valley, starts today, the temperatures across Kashmir Valley and Ladakh have drastically dropped. As was predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department or IMD, the La Nina effect has multiplied the impact of cold in the Valley. Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for many weeks, with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 8.5 degrees on Saturday (Dec 21), marking the coldest night since 1974, the year in which it had hit minus 10.3°C. The record for the lowest temperature remains minus 12.8°C, set on December 13, 1934. Saturday’s temperature stands as the third-lowest December reading in Srinagar since 1891. Also read | India: Kashmir faces severe cold wave conditions; Srinagar records season's lowest temperature at -6.2°C At minus 7.2°C, Kupwara recorded its lowest December temperature since 1998. The all-time record stands at minus 9.4°C, recorded on 31 December 1986. Overall, Saturday's temperature is the 9th lowest recorded in Kupwara district in December. The cold wave across Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below the freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.3 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.6 degrees, while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10.4 degrees Celsius. The world-famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.2 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort was at minus 8.8 degrees. Also read | Christmas 2024: Paper Mache decorative pieces made in Kashmir in demand across the world South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 10.3 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.4 and Baramulla at minus 6.2 degrees. Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The town of Leh recorded a temperature of minus 12.5 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 14.3 degrees. The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted La Nina effect, which means cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns, leading to more rain and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will be prolonged and very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow. It forecast snowfall in the higher reaches on Saturday while plains might witness some rains.

Srinagar, India
Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 6.2 degrees. The severity of the cold wave across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified further due to clear skies and no precipitation.
Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kuwait-among-indias-top-trading-partners-says-indian-foreign-ministry-ahead-of-pm-modis-historic-visit-785570">Kuwait among India's 'top trading partners' says MEA ahead of PM Modi's visit</a>
The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.1 degrees. The tourist resort of Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.2 degrees while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort saw the night temperature dip to minus 9 degrees.  
South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 9.5 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.3 and Baramulla was at minus 5.9 degrees.  
Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The Leh town recorded the temperature at minus 11.8 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 13.8 degrees. The coldest place in North India was Zojila with temperatures dipping to minus 24 degrees.
The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition to the La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow.
The MeT department has predicted the winter period to prolong and be very harsh in terms of temperature, rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley.
The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There are chances of snow from 21 December, but the weather will again be dry from December 23 which means a further dip in the temperature.

Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division.



Srinagar, India Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 6.2 degrees. The severity of the cold wave across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified further due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. Also read: Kuwait among India's 'top trading partners' says MEA ahead of PM Modi's visit The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.1 degrees. The tourist resort of Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.2 degrees while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort saw the night temperature dip to minus 9 degrees. South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 9.5 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.3 and Baramulla was at minus 5.9 degrees. Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The Leh town recorded the temperature at minus 11.8 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 13.8 degrees. The coldest place in North India was Zojila with temperatures dipping to minus 24 degrees. The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition to the La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted the winter period to prolong and be very harsh in terms of temperature, rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There are chances of snow from 21 December, but the weather will again be dry from December 23 which means a further dip in the temperature.

India: Kashmir faces severe cold wave conditions; Srinagar records season's lowest temperature at -6.2°C

Srinagar
Christmas is around the corner and we all are now seeing  decorative hanging on Christmas trees, walls and ceilings, But do we know where these Christmas balls and bells are made? Kashmir's famed paper mache artisans start making these decorative pieces months before the festival. Millions of paper Mache decorative pieces are sold to customers across the world just before Christmas.
Kashmir's award-winning paper mache artist Maqbool Jan has been making these Christmas decorations for decades. Every year he along with his family members are busy making these handmade paper mache products a few days before Christmas. The decorative products are exported to various countries in Europe, Asia and the United States.
Watch | Kashmir Shivers As Intense Cold Wave Tightens Grip
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/20/2012_kashmir_330pm_wion-1734692113-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2012_kashmir_330pm_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=289&tags=Kashmir cold wave" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
''Christmas is a very big festival and we get a lot of work during that period. We make Christmas Balls, bells, and other decorative pieces. We wait for this festival for months and start preparing months from the festival. If someone wants special designs, then we take orders six months before the festival. There are orders in Lakhs for these balls and bells. It's also about people gifting these items to each other. And I think the demand has increased by many folds in the last few years. We also have a local Christian population, and they also buy stuff during the festival. '' said Maqbool Jan.
The artists in the Kashmir Valley have introduced new designs in these decorative pieces. They are trying hard to grow the customer base across the world. The orders are sent to Europe, the US, Dubai and many other countries. The Artists say demand for these Items has increased manyfold in the last few years. Handmade products are a must-have in the West during Christmas.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-told-sc-to-dismiss-2611-attack-accuseds-petition-against-india-extradition-785558">US told SC to dismiss 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana's petition against India extradition</a>
''We take orders months before the Christmas festival. We have orders from various countries in the world. The West shows a lot of interest and demand for these products. We sent these Christmas decorative pieces to countries like Chile, London, France, Australia and America. We have kept special artisans fixed for the Christmas decorative pieces. '' said another artisan Muzaffar Hussain.
The centuries-old art is being revived by artists like Maqbool Jan and Muzaffar Khan, who make sure their items are loved by people across the world. They are also working towards helping the art form survive the tough times and emerge again in the Kashmir Valley.

Kashmir's award-winning Paper Mache artist Maqbool Jan has been making these Christmas decorations for decades and every year he along with his family are busy months before Christmas to make these handmade Paper Mache products.



Srinagar Christmas is around the corner and we all are now seeing decorative hanging on Christmas trees, walls and ceilings, But do we know where these Christmas balls and bells are made? Kashmir's famed paper mache artisans start making these decorative pieces months before the festival. Millions of paper Mache decorative pieces are sold to customers across the world just before Christmas. Kashmir's award-winning paper mache artist Maqbool Jan has been making these Christmas decorations for decades. Every year he along with his family members are busy making these handmade paper mache products a few days before Christmas. The decorative products are exported to various countries in Europe, Asia and the United States. Watch | Kashmir Shivers As Intense Cold Wave Tightens Grip ''Christmas is a very big festival and we get a lot of work during that period. We make Christmas Balls, bells, and other decorative pieces. We wait for this festival for months and start preparing months from the festival. If someone wants special designs, then we take orders six months before the festival. There are orders in Lakhs for these balls and bells. It's also about people gifting these items to each other. And I think the demand has increased by many folds in the last few years. We also have a local Christian population, and they also buy stuff during the festival. '' said Maqbool Jan. The artists in the Kashmir Valley have introduced new designs in these decorative pieces. They are trying hard to grow the customer base across the world. The orders are sent to Europe, the US, Dubai and many other countries. The Artists say demand for these Items has increased manyfold in the last few years. Handmade products are a must-have in the West during Christmas. Also read | US told SC to dismiss 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana's petition against India extradition ''We take orders months before the Christmas festival. We have orders from various countries in the world. The West shows a lot of interest and demand for these products. We sent these Christmas decorative pieces to countries like Chile, London, France, Australia and America. We have kept special artisans fixed for the Christmas decorative pieces. '' said another artisan Muzaffar Hussain. The centuries-old art is being revived by artists like Maqbool Jan and Muzaffar Khan, who make sure their items are loved by people across the world. They are also working towards helping the art form survive the tough times and emerge again in the Kashmir Valley.

Christmas 2024: Paper Mache decorative pieces made in Kashmir in demand across the world

Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 6.2 degrees. The severity of the cold wave across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified further due to clear skies and no precipitation.

Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kuwait-among-indias-top-trading-partners-says-indian-foreign-ministry-ahead-of-pm-modis-historic-visit-785570">Kuwait among India's 'top trading partners' says MEA ahead of PM Modi's visit</a>

The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.1 degrees. The tourist resort of Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.2 degrees while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort saw the night temperature dip to&nbsp;minus 9 degrees. &nbsp;

South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 9.5 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.3 and Baramulla was at minus 5.9 degrees. &nbsp;

Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The Leh town recorded the temperature at minus 11.8 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 13.8 degrees. The coldest place in North India was Zojila with temperatures dipping to minus 24 degrees.

The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition to&nbsp;the La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow.

The MeT department has predicted the winter period to&nbsp;prolong and&nbsp;be very harsh in terms of temperature, rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley.

The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There are chances of snow from 21 December, but the weather will again be dry from December 23 which means a further dip in the temperature.

Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 6.

Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 6.2 degrees. The severity of the cold wave across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has intensified further due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are recorded below freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. Also read: Kuwait among India's 'top trading partners' says MEA ahead of PM Modi's visit The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the temperature at minus 9.1 degrees. The tourist resort of Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.2 degrees while the Shopian district was the coldest in the valley at minus 10 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6 degrees and Sonamarg Tourist resort saw the night temperature dip to minus 9 degrees. South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 9.5 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 7.3 and Baramulla was at minus 5.9 degrees. Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The Leh town recorded the temperature at minus 11.8 degrees, while Kargil was at minus 13.8 degrees. The coldest place in North India was Zojila with temperatures dipping to minus 24 degrees. The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition to the La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted the winter period to prolong and be very harsh in terms of temperature, rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There are chances of snow from 21 December, but the weather will again be dry from December 23 which means a further dip in the temperature.

Christmas is around the corner and we all are now seeing &nbsp;decorative&nbsp;hanging on Christmas trees, walls and ceilings, But do we know where these Christmas balls and bells are made? Kashmir's famed paper mache artisans start making these decorative pieces months before the festival. Millions of paper Mache decorative pieces are sold to customers across the world just before Christmas.

Kashmir's award-winning paper mache artist Maqbool Jan has been making these Christmas decorations for decades. Every year he along with his family members are busy&nbsp;making&nbsp;these handmade paper mache products a few days before Christmas. The decorative products are exported to&nbsp;various countries in Europe, Asia and the United States.

Watch |&nbsp;Kashmir Shivers As Intense Cold Wave Tightens Grip

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''Christmas is a very big festival and we get a lot of work during that period. We make Christmas Balls, bells, and other decorative pieces. We wait for this festival for months and start preparing months from the festival. If someone wants special designs, then we take orders six months before the festival. There are orders in Lakhs for these balls and bells. It's also about people gifting these items to each other. And I think the demand has increased by many folds in the last few years. We also have a local Christian population, and they also buy stuff during the festival. '' said Maqbool Jan.

The artists in the Kashmir Valley have introduced new designs in these decorative pieces. They are trying hard to grow the customer base across the world. The orders are sent to Europe, the US, Dubai and many other countries. The Artists say demand for these Items has increased manyfold&nbsp;in the last few years. Handmade products are a must-have in the West during Christmas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-told-sc-to-dismiss-2611-attack-accuseds-petition-against-india-extradition-785558">US told SC to dismiss 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana's petition against India extradition</a>

''We take orders months before the Christmas festival. We have orders from various countries in the world. The West shows a lot of interest and demand for these products. We sent these Christmas decorative pieces to countries like Chile, London, France, Australia and America. We have kept special artisans fixed for the Christmas decorative pieces. '' said another artisan&nbsp;Muzaffar Hussain.

The centuries-old art is being revived by artists like Maqbool Jan and Muzaffar Khan, who make sure their items are loved by people across the world. They are also working towards helping the art form survive the tough times and emerge&nbsp;again in the Kashmir Valley.

Christmas is around the corner and we all are now seeing decorative hanging on Christmas trees, walls and ceilings, But do we know where these Christmas balls and bells are made?

Christmas is around the corner and we all are now seeing decorative hanging on Christmas trees, walls and ceilings, But do we know where these Christmas balls and bells are made? Kashmir's famed paper mache artisans start making these decorative pieces months before the festival. Millions of paper Mache decorative pieces are sold to customers across the world just before Christmas. Kashmir's award-winning paper mache artist Maqbool Jan has been making these Christmas decorations for decades. Every year he along with his family members are busy making these handmade paper mache products a few days before Christmas. The decorative products are exported to various countries in Europe, Asia and the United States. Watch | Kashmir Shivers As Intense Cold Wave Tightens Grip ''Christmas is a very big festival and we get a lot of work during that period. We make Christmas Balls, bells, and other decorative pieces. We wait for this festival for months and start preparing months from the festival. If someone wants special designs, then we take orders six months before the festival. There are orders in Lakhs for these balls and bells. It's also about people gifting these items to each other. And I think the demand has increased by many folds in the last few years. We also have a local Christian population, and they also buy stuff during the festival. '' said Maqbool Jan. The artists in the Kashmir Valley have introduced new designs in these decorative pieces. They are trying hard to grow the customer base across the world. The orders are sent to Europe, the US, Dubai and many other countries. The Artists say demand for these Items has increased manyfold in the last few years. Handmade products are a must-have in the West during Christmas. Also read | US told SC to dismiss 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana's petition against India extradition ''We take orders months before the Christmas festival. We have orders from various countries in the world. The West shows a lot of interest and demand for these products. We sent these Christmas decorative pieces to countries like Chile, London, France, Australia and America. We have kept special artisans fixed for the Christmas decorative pieces. '' said another artisan Muzaffar Hussain. The centuries-old art is being revived by artists like Maqbool Jan and Muzaffar Khan, who make sure their items are loved by people across the world. They are also working towards helping the art form survive the tough times and emerge again in the Kashmir Valley.

In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. During the cordon and search operation, terrorists opened fire on the forces, which led to&nbsp;a gunbattle.

The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate and heavy&nbsp;fire. "Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress," the army said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj7p7qI9rKKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgYEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-braces-for-severe-and-harsh-winter-with-la-nina-impact-780883" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-braces-for-severe-and-harsh-winter-with-la-nina-impact-780883&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj7p7qI9rKKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgYEAE">Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact</a>

According to sources, two security forces soldiers have been injured in the initial gunfight in the area. They have been evacuated and taken to the Army's base hospital. Security forces are carrying out a massive search operation in the area. Meanwhile, the identities of the terrorists have not been ascertained&nbsp;yet as the operation still continues.

Watch:&nbsp;India: Cold Wave To Continue Across Kashmir Valley, IMD Predicts Moderate Fog Conditions in Delhi

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Security has now been put on high alert across Southern Kashmir districts including Kulgam, Shopian, Anantnag and Pulwama.

In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district.

In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. During the cordon and search operation, terrorists opened fire on the forces, which led to a gunbattle. The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate and heavy fire. "Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress," the army said. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact According to sources, two security forces soldiers have been injured in the initial gunfight in the area. They have been evacuated and taken to the Army's base hospital. Security forces are carrying out a massive search operation in the area. Meanwhile, the identities of the terrorists have not been ascertained yet as the operation still continues. Watch: India: Cold Wave To Continue Across Kashmir Valley, IMD Predicts Moderate Fog Conditions in Delhi × Security has now been put on high alert across Southern Kashmir districts including Kulgam, Shopian, Anantnag and Pulwama.

Security forces gun down five terrorists in India's Jammu-Kashmir, two soldiers injured

Srinagar, India
In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. During the cordon and search operation, terrorists opened fire on the forces, which led to a gunbattle.
The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate and heavy fire. "Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress," the army said.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwj7p7qI9rKKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgYEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-braces-for-severe-and-harsh-winter-with-la-nina-impact-780883" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-braces-for-severe-and-harsh-winter-with-la-nina-impact-780883&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj7p7qI9rKKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgYEAE">Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact</a>
According to sources, two security forces soldiers have been injured in the initial gunfight in the area. They have been evacuated and taken to the Army's base hospital. Security forces are carrying out a massive search operation in the area. Meanwhile, the identities of the terrorists have not been ascertained yet as the operation still continues.
Watch: India: Cold Wave To Continue Across Kashmir Valley, IMD Predicts Moderate Fog Conditions in Delhi
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Security has now been put on high alert across Southern Kashmir districts including Kulgam, Shopian, Anantnag and Pulwama.

The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam.



Srinagar, India In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. During the cordon and search operation, terrorists opened fire on the forces, which led to a gunbattle. The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate and heavy fire. "Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress," the army said. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact According to sources, two security forces soldiers have been injured in the initial gunfight in the area. They have been evacuated and taken to the Army's base hospital. Security forces are carrying out a massive search operation in the area. Meanwhile, the identities of the terrorists have not been ascertained yet as the operation still continues. Watch: India: Cold Wave To Continue Across Kashmir Valley, IMD Predicts Moderate Fog Conditions in Delhi × Security has now been put on high alert across Southern Kashmir districts including Kulgam, Shopian, Anantnag and Pulwama.

Srinagar, India
The harshest period of cold called ''Chilai Kalan'' is yet to start in the Kashmir Valley but the continuing dip in temperatures has led to severe cold wave conditions across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The sub-zero temperatures in the valley have led to the freezing of many water bodies.
Drung Waterfall close to Gulmarg has frozen completely and turned into a movie scene from the Film Frozen. Hundreds of tourists are visiting the area to witness the unique scene of the frozen waterfall and the whole place looks no less than a winter wonderland.
''It's very nice here and I come from Rajasthan. And this frozen waterfall is so amazing to look at and we are enjoying the cold. It's very lovely here and Kashmir is so beautiful and only when you visit you realise how beautiful it is. We have only seen these things in film and Kashmir in reality is much more beautiful", said Sharaddha Amita, a tourist.
Watch: India: Bone-Chilling Cold Wave Engulfs Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh
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The Drung has been recording temperature of minus 12 degrees and the intensity of cold has led to the freezing of many water bodies across the Valley. While the locals have been eagerly waiting for the cold wave conditions to subside, the tourists visiting the region are enjoying every bit of it.
Drung Frozen Waterfall has become a major tourist attraction and is being flocked by tourists to witness the natural spectacle. It has turned into a mesmerising sight, particularly capturing the attention of vloggers and content creators. The waterfall has become a must-see destination for tourists this winter.
''This frozen waterfall is so good.  I belong to Rajasthan and I travel a lot, I have seen Himachal and many other places which have snow but the experience we have had here is very different, unique and beautiful. People should come here and the frozen waterfall behind me in Drung Valley is so unique and I have seen such a waterfall for the first time. I will tell everyone that they should come and visit Kashmir,"' said Anand, a tourist.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjEztf2_7CKAxWSqFYBHc0uN4YQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/braving-severe-cold-these-farmers-jump-into-frozen-lake-to-harvest-lotus-stem-783495" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/braving-severe-cold-these-farmers-jump-into-frozen-lake-to-harvest-lotus-stem-783495&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEztf2_7CKAxWSqFYBHc0uN4YQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Braving severe cold, these farmers jump into frozen lake in Kashmir to harvest lotus stems</a>
The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition in the region to the La Nina effect, which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted a prolonged winter, which is going to be very harsh in terms of dropping temperature as well as rain and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley.
The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There on chances of snow will increase with the weather again turning dry from December 23, which means a further dip in the temperature.

Drung Waterfall close to Gulmarg has frozen completely and turned into a movie scene from the Film Frozen. Hundreds of tourists are visiting the area to witness the unique scene of the frozen waterfall and the whole place looks no less than a winter wonderland.



Srinagar, India The harshest period of cold called ''Chilai Kalan'' is yet to start in the Kashmir Valley but the continuing dip in temperatures has led to severe cold wave conditions across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The sub-zero temperatures in the valley have led to the freezing of many water bodies. Drung Waterfall close to Gulmarg has frozen completely and turned into a movie scene from the Film Frozen. Hundreds of tourists are visiting the area to witness the unique scene of the frozen waterfall and the whole place looks no less than a winter wonderland. ''It's very nice here and I come from Rajasthan. And this frozen waterfall is so amazing to look at and we are enjoying the cold. It's very lovely here and Kashmir is so beautiful and only when you visit you realise how beautiful it is. We have only seen these things in film and Kashmir in reality is much more beautiful", said Sharaddha Amita, a tourist. Watch: India: Bone-Chilling Cold Wave Engulfs Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh × The Drung has been recording temperature of minus 12 degrees and the intensity of cold has led to the freezing of many water bodies across the Valley. While the locals have been eagerly waiting for the cold wave conditions to subside, the tourists visiting the region are enjoying every bit of it. Drung Frozen Waterfall has become a major tourist attraction and is being flocked by tourists to witness the natural spectacle. It has turned into a mesmerising sight, particularly capturing the attention of vloggers and content creators. The waterfall has become a must-see destination for tourists this winter. ''This frozen waterfall is so good. I belong to Rajasthan and I travel a lot, I have seen Himachal and many other places which have snow but the experience we have had here is very different, unique and beautiful. People should come here and the frozen waterfall behind me in Drung Valley is so unique and I have seen such a waterfall for the first time. I will tell everyone that they should come and visit Kashmir,"' said Anand, a tourist. Also read: Braving severe cold, these farmers jump into frozen lake in Kashmir to harvest lotus stems The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition in the region to the La Nina effect, which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted a prolonged winter, which is going to be very harsh in terms of dropping temperature as well as rain and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There on chances of snow will increase with the weather again turning dry from December 23, which means a further dip in the temperature.

Cold wave leads to freezing of key water bodies in India's Jammu & Kashmir

The harshest period of cold called ''Chilai Kalan'' is yet to start in the Kashmir Valley but the continuing&nbsp;dip in temperatures has led to severe cold wave conditions across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The sub-zero temperatures in the valley have led to the freezing of many water bodies.

Drung Waterfall close to Gulmarg has frozen completely and turned into a movie scene from the Film Frozen. Hundreds of tourists are visiting the area to witness the unique scene of the frozen waterfall and the whole place looks no less than a winter wonderland.

''It's very nice here and I come from Rajasthan. And this frozen waterfall is so amazing to look at and we are enjoying the cold. It's very lovely here and Kashmir is so beautiful and only when you visit you realise how beautiful it is. We have only seen these things in film and Kashmir in reality is much more beautiful", said Sharaddha Amita, a tourist.

Watch:&nbsp;India: Bone-Chilling Cold Wave Engulfs Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh

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The Drung has been recording temperature of&nbsp;minus 12 degrees and the intensity of&nbsp;cold has led to the freezing of many water bodies across the Valley. While the locals have been eagerly waiting for the cold wave conditions to subside, the tourists visiting the region are enjoying every bit of it.

Drung Frozen Waterfall has become a major tourist attraction and is being flocked by tourists to witness the natural spectacle. It has turned into a mesmerising sight,&nbsp;particularly capturing&nbsp;the attention of vloggers and content creators. The waterfall has become a must-see destination for tourists this winter.

''This frozen waterfall is so good. &nbsp;I belong to Rajasthan and I travel a lot, I have seen Himachal and many other places which have snow but the experience we have had here is very different, unique and beautiful. People should come here and the frozen waterfall behind me in Drung Valley is so unique and I have seen such a waterfall for the first time. I will tell everyone that they should come and visit Kashmir,"' said Anand, a tourist.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjEztf2_7CKAxWSqFYBHc0uN4YQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/braving-severe-cold-these-farmers-jump-into-frozen-lake-to-harvest-lotus-stem-783495" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/braving-severe-cold-these-farmers-jump-into-frozen-lake-to-harvest-lotus-stem-783495&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEztf2_7CKAxWSqFYBHc0uN4YQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Braving severe cold, these farmers jump into frozen lake in Kashmir to harvest lotus stems</a>

The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition in the region to&nbsp;the La Nina effect, which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted a prolonged winter, which is going to be&nbsp;very harsh in terms of dropping temperature as well as rain&nbsp;and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley.

The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There on&nbsp;chances of snow will increase with the weather&nbsp;again turning&nbsp;dry from December 23, which means a further dip in the temperature.

The harshest period of cold called ''Chilai Kalan'' is yet to start in the Kashmir Valley but the continuing dip in temperatures has led to severe cold wave conditions across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The harshest period of cold called ''Chilai Kalan'' is yet to start in the Kashmir Valley but the continuing dip in temperatures has led to severe cold wave conditions across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The sub-zero temperatures in the valley have led to the freezing of many water bodies. Drung Waterfall close to Gulmarg has frozen completely and turned into a movie scene from the Film Frozen. Hundreds of tourists are visiting the area to witness the unique scene of the frozen waterfall and the whole place looks no less than a winter wonderland. ''It's very nice here and I come from Rajasthan. And this frozen waterfall is so amazing to look at and we are enjoying the cold. It's very lovely here and Kashmir is so beautiful and only when you visit you realise how beautiful it is. We have only seen these things in film and Kashmir in reality is much more beautiful", said Sharaddha Amita, a tourist. Watch: India: Bone-Chilling Cold Wave Engulfs Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh × The Drung has been recording temperature of minus 12 degrees and the intensity of cold has led to the freezing of many water bodies across the Valley. While the locals have been eagerly waiting for the cold wave conditions to subside, the tourists visiting the region are enjoying every bit of it. Drung Frozen Waterfall has become a major tourist attraction and is being flocked by tourists to witness the natural spectacle. It has turned into a mesmerising sight, particularly capturing the attention of vloggers and content creators. The waterfall has become a must-see destination for tourists this winter. ''This frozen waterfall is so good. I belong to Rajasthan and I travel a lot, I have seen Himachal and many other places which have snow but the experience we have had here is very different, unique and beautiful. People should come here and the frozen waterfall behind me in Drung Valley is so unique and I have seen such a waterfall for the first time. I will tell everyone that they should come and visit Kashmir,"' said Anand, a tourist. Also read: Braving severe cold, these farmers jump into frozen lake in Kashmir to harvest lotus stems The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition in the region to the La Nina effect, which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted a prolonged winter, which is going to be very harsh in terms of dropping temperature as well as rain and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather till December 21. There on chances of snow will increase with the weather again turning dry from December 23, which means a further dip in the temperature.

Srinagar
It is for the first time in the history of Independent India that Kashmir Valley would be connected to the rest of the country via rail link. The Srinagar-New Delhi rail link has been in the making for the last 20 years and finally, the time has come for Srinagar to be connected to New Delhi via rail. 
According to government sources, the Vande Bharat train service from New Delhi to Srinagar will be inaugurated on January 26, 2025.
Kashmiri people have been waiting for decades for the Srinagar-New Delhi rail link. Since the announcement of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav saying a historic milestone has been achieved by completing the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link, there has been cheer among every community in the Valley, from businessmen to students, and from tourists to non-local workers.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-heavy-snowfall-in-kashmir-brings-cheer-among-tourists-turns-valley-into-winter-wonderland-782646">Also read: India: Heavy snowfall in Kashmir cheers tourists, turns valley into winter wonderland</a>
The tourist stakeholders have been the happiest with the news of the rail link between Srinagar-New Delhi as Kashmir Valley is a tourist destination, and the maximum impact of having a rail link will be on this industry. 
Kashmir Valley is waiting for a tourist boom after the start of the service, as it would be a cheap and easy mode of transport while coming to the Valley.
''This is a welcome step and a historic development; it was our long-pending demand that we should get train connectivity from all metro cities. Budget tourism wasn't possible, and those tourists were not able to come here. It's a dream of everyone to come to Kashmir once in their life. It's a great step and will boost tourism and many other sectors. We are very hopeful that it will help the tourism sector. The train won't only have one season but also all other seasons, including winter, summer, spring, and autumn. Our national highway is beautiful, and people love to take the route, and with the train coming, it will be one of the best journeys of their lives to take, '' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, the president of Houseboat Association.
The business community of the Kashmir Valley and outside has also welcomed this step. 
Most business people believe that it will be one of the biggest game changers in the history of Jammu and Kashmir and will take business and tourism to new peaks.
Watch | Harvesting Lotus: Kashmir's Freezing Tradition Of Resilience
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''With the start of the Vande Bharat train from New Delhi to Srinagar, there will be a boom of tourism here and more and more crowds will come, and this place is a heaven. When the train service starts, we will get more and more people here, and we will be able to give more service, and since the budget will come down with the train, more people will choose to come here. And it's a very peaceful place,'' said Irshad Kapadia from Gujarat.
The 800 km long railway track from Srinagar to New Delhi would be covered within 13 hours of travel time. The railway track that runs on the most difficult terrain of the Himalayas will have more bridges and tunnels than any other railway track in the whole of India. The track will have around 931 bridges and 38 tunnels. It also includes the longest train tunnel, the Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel, measuring 11.21 km, and also the world's highest bridge over the Chenab River, with a height of 359 metres, making it higher than the Eiffel Tower of Paris.
The tourists coming to Kashmir Valley have welcomed the step and said that having a train service to Srinagar would mean affordable travel for the middle class.
''I think it will be great, and having another option to come to this place is going to be better for tourism. Getting more people and not everyone wants to come in a plane and not everyone would be able to come in a bus, so adding a third option is good for the area and tourism,'' said Snape, a tourist.
Security remains one of the major concerns for the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir for the rail service. Most of the security arrangements have already been put in place on the track with two wings of security, Railway Police Security (RPF) and General Railway Police (GRP), are fully dedicated to the security of railway stations and tracks. There will be CCTV connectivity at every station, every tunnel, and every bridge.
These will be controlled round the clock by railway and security officials in several sub-control rooms.

According to government sources, the Vande Bharat train service from New Delhi to Srinagar will be inaugurated on January 26, 2025.



Srinagar It is for the first time in the history of Independent India that Kashmir Valley would be connected to the rest of the country via rail link. The Srinagar-New Delhi rail link has been in the making for the last 20 years and finally, the time has come for Srinagar to be connected to New Delhi via rail. According to government sources, the Vande Bharat train service from New Delhi to Srinagar will be inaugurated on January 26, 2025. Kashmiri people have been waiting for decades for the Srinagar-New Delhi rail link. Since the announcement of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav saying a historic milestone has been achieved by completing the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link, there has been cheer among every community in the Valley, from businessmen to students, and from tourists to non-local workers. Also read: India: Heavy snowfall in Kashmir cheers tourists, turns valley into winter wonderland The tourist stakeholders have been the happiest with the news of the rail link between Srinagar-New Delhi as Kashmir Valley is a tourist destination, and the maximum impact of having a rail link will be on this industry. Kashmir Valley is waiting for a tourist boom after the start of the service, as it would be a cheap and easy mode of transport while coming to the Valley. ''This is a welcome step and a historic development; it was our long-pending demand that we should get train connectivity from all metro cities. Budget tourism wasn't possible, and those tourists were not able to come here. It's a dream of everyone to come to Kashmir once in their life. It's a great step and will boost tourism and many other sectors. We are very hopeful that it will help the tourism sector. The train won't only have one season but also all other seasons, including winter, summer, spring, and autumn. Our national highway is beautiful, and people love to take the route, and with the train coming, it will be one of the best journeys of their lives to take, '' said Manzoor Pakhtoon, the president of Houseboat Association. The business community of the Kashmir Valley and outside has also welcomed this step. Most business people believe that it will be one of the biggest game changers in the history of Jammu and Kashmir and will take business and tourism to new peaks. Watch | Harvesting Lotus: Kashmir's Freezing Tradition Of Resilience × ''With the start of the Vande Bharat train from New Delhi to Srinagar, there will be a boom of tourism here and more and more crowds will come, and this place is a heaven. When the train service starts, we will get more and more people here, and we will be able to give more service, and since the budget will come down with the train, more people will choose to come here. And it's a very peaceful place,'' said Irshad Kapadia from Gujarat. The 800 km long railway track from Srinagar to New Delhi would be covered within 13 hours of travel time. The railway track that runs on the most difficult terrain of the Himalayas will have more bridges and tunnels than any other railway track in the whole of India. The track will have around 931 bridges and 38 tunnels. It also includes the longest train tunnel, the Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel, measuring 11.21 km, and also the world's highest bridge over the Chenab River, with a height of 359 metres, making it higher than the Eiffel Tower of Paris. The tourists coming to Kashmir Valley have welcomed the step and said that having a train service to Srinagar would mean affordable travel for the middle class. ''I think it will be great, and having another option to come to this place is going to be better for tourism. Getting more people and not everyone wants to come in a plane and not everyone would be able to come in a bus, so adding a third option is good for the area and tourism,'' said Snape, a tourist. Security remains one of the major concerns for the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir for the rail service. Most of the security arrangements have already been put in place on the track with two wings of security, Railway Police Security (RPF) and General Railway Police (GRP), are fully dedicated to the security of railway stations and tracks. There will be CCTV connectivity at every station, every tunnel, and every bridge. These will be controlled round the clock by railway and security officials in several sub-control rooms.

Srinagar-New Delhi connectivity via railway link to be launched on Jan 26

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