Fresh snowfall blankets Kashmir, Gulmarg turns winter wonderland

The higher reaches of Kashmir, including the famed ski resort of Gulmarg, received a fresh spell of snowfall on Sunday, bringing cheer to tourists while intensifying cold wave conditions across the valley.

- AJAY JANDYAL

The snowfall led to the closure of key routes, including the historic Mughal Road connecting south Kashmir's Shopian with Rajouri and Poonch in the Jammu region, as well as the Sinthan Pass in Kishtwar, officials confirmed.

Tourists visiting Gulmarg in Baramulla district reveled in the season's first snow, with the picturesque resort transformed into a snow-covered spectacle.

Reports of snowfall also poured in from the Machhil and Bangus valleys in Kupwara district and the upper reaches of Bandipora district. The mountainous Pir Panjal range saw fresh snow as well, enhancing its winter allure.