The huge spread of snow partially clouds the views of some houses.

Sakeena Banday, Gulf Today

The Kashmir Valley has begun receiving snowfall, which will definitely give a fillip to the tourism industry in the region.

The 40-day long period of harsh winter cold, locally known as the 'Chillai Kalan', will end on January 31.

The biting cold of 'Chillai Kalan' starts from December 21.

A fresh spell of snowfall with strong icy winds rocked Kashmir on Sunday.

The fresh bout brought cheer to winter sports lovers and tourists.

When there is snow around, a snow fight is bound to happen, no matter what your age or even building a snowman.

The weather office has forecast widespread snowfall in many areas of the valley on Sunday and Monday with heavy snowfall at isolated places.

Traffic on the Srinagar-Jammu highway has been halted because of snow accumulation in the Jawahar Tunnel sector of the highway.

A general view of Gulmarg.

As the night sky remained overcast, minimum temperatures improved throughout J&K and Ladakh.

Srinagar had minus 1.5˚C, Pahalgam also had minus 1.5˚C while Gulmarg had minus 5˚C as the minimum temperature.

Leh town of Ladakh had minus 12.7˚C, Kargil minus 16.6˚C and Drass minus 22.4˚C as the night's lowest temperature.

Jammu city had 11.7˚C, Katra 9.5˚C, Batote 1.5˚C, Banihal 0.5˚C and Bhaderwah 0.6˚C as the minimum temperatures.

Kashmir is a wonderful idea to visit, especially for those wishing to experience teeth chattering temperatures and snow for the first time.

Tourist spots like Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Gulmarg promise a lot of fun in the snow and ensure you fly home with snowcapped memories imprinted in your mind’s eye.