What Is Chillia Kalan all about?
Chillai Kalan or Chillia Kalan, the harshest winter period in Kashmir is all set to kick off from December 21. For the unversed, Chillai Kalan is a Persian term that means major cold. The 40-day period brings lot of hardships for Kashmiris as the temperature drops considerably leading to the freezing of water bodies, including the famous Dal Lake here
During these 40 days, the chances of snowfall are the highest and the maximum temperature drops considerably. The minimum temperature in Valley hovers below the freezing point.
Srinagar reaches minus 5.8, Pahalgam minus 7.4 and Gulmarg minus 5.5 as the minimum temperature on most of the days. Drass town of Ladakh reaches minus 19.0, Leh minus 18.0 and Kargil minus 11.5 as the nights lowest temperature most of the nights. Jammu city may go upto 3.2, Katra 4.2, Batote 1.7, Banihal 3.0 and Bhaderwah minus 1.8 as the minimum temperature
While Chillai Kalan will end on January 31, the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir with a 20-day-long Chillai Khurd (small cold) and a 10-day-long Chillai-Bachha (baby cold)
Chillai Kalan: 40-Day Harsh Winter Period In Kashmir To Kick Off From Dec 21
Chillai Kalan: The 40-day period brings lot of hardships for Kashmiris as temperature drops considerably leading to the freezing of water bodies, including the famous Dal Lake here.
During these 40 days, the chances of snowfall are the highest and the maximum temperature drops considerably.
Tourists all over the world are exited to visit Kashmir during this period to enjoy the daily snowfall and freezing Dal Lake. Activities like Skiing, Snow Skating, Gondola Ride, Sledging, Snow Biking and much more
Tour Plan
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT SRINAGAR
You will meet our representative at the Airport and you will be transferred to hotel where you will proceed for check-in, overnight stay at Hotel. After check in at Hotel you will proceed to Srinagar and visit important sights of Srinagar City – Mughal Gardens, Hazratbal Shrine, Shankaracharya temple
DAY 2: Day Trip To Sonmarg
Sonamarg is 100 Kms from Srinagar, Situated at 8,950 fts above sea level, Sonamarg is one of the smallest resort in Kashmir lying in the heart of gorgeous valley carved by river sindh,also known as “Golden Meadow”this place gets its name 'Son' meaning golden, from the bloom of yellow crocuses that fill this valley in the spring.The whole mountain range here is covered by glaciers. Water falls from these in silver sheets. A forest rest house and a tourist hut between Sonamarg and Thajiwas have excellent views and then return to Srinagar and stay overnight at a Hotel in Srinagar
DAY 3: SRINAGAR TO GULMARG
It was discovered as a tourist destination by the British in the 19th century. Prior to that, Mughal emperors vacationed in the Gulmarg valley which is about 03 KMS long and up-to 01 km wide. It is exquisitely situated in a pine surrounded basin of the Pir Panjal range at an altitude of 2,730 meters above sea level and one of the most famous tourist destinations of Kashmir
DAY 4: GULMARG TO PAHALGAM (138 Kms/Approx. 4 hrs)
you will be driven from Gulmarg to Pahalgam,en-route visit Saffron fields of Pampora, see the beautiful countryside, lots of rice fields and Awantipora ruins on the way, Later continue your drive to Pahalgam through the pine forest, the confluence of the streams flowing from the river Lidder & Sheshnag Lake which are famous for their scenic beauty. Awantipora Ruins (1100 years Old Temple) - Built in 09th century AD by King Avantivarman and dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Situated 29kms from Srinagar, the temple ruins at Awantipora represent some of the finest examples of architecture of this region. Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds) – It is a resort set in a pristine village lying next to the Lidder River. Once a humble shepherd’s village with breathtaking views.
DAY 5: PAHALGAM TO SRINAGAR (54 Kms/Approx. 2 hrs)
After early breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven from Pahalgam to Srinagar on arrival to proceed for check-in at houseboat. Srinagar (Lake City) – It is at once a collection of images: It tells the story of love of the Mughal Emperors for this paradise like vale with deep green rice fields, rivers, gardens in bloom and lakes rimmed by houseboats, where lush wild gardens of lotus and water-lily grow amidst bustling lanes. Afternoon enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride on the lake – Its one of the most soothing & relaxing aspects of a holiday in Kashmir.
DAY 6: DEPARTURE
After breakfast, transfer to Srinagar Airport for departure to next destination.