Dal Lake last froze completely in 1965 when a jeep was even able to drive across its frozen surface
On December 21, Srinagar recorded its coldest night in at least 24 years, marking the season's coldest night and the lowest temperature ever recorded during the month of December in the last two decades.
Kashmir is currently experiencing an intense cold wave, marked by the onset of Chillai Kalan, the harshest period of winter from December 21 to January 30.
Various regions in Kashmir are facing extreme cold, with Shopian recording the lowest temperature at -8.8°C, followed by Pahalgam at -7.8°C and Anantnag at -8.3°C.
Despite the freezing conditions, tourism in Kashmir remains vibrant, with visitors flocking to experience winter sports in areas like Gulmarg and also enjoying the shikara ride in frozen dal lake.
The meteorological department predicts a further drop in temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees over the next few days, with light snowfall expected in higher reaches around December 27.