Kashmir is known to be mesmeric no matter which season it is. Every season is important and effective in its way. No season is less essential than the others. The peaceful passage of one season allows the other to bloom. The winter in Kashmir begins with ‘Chillai-Kalan,’ which lasts forty days from December 21 to January 31, is followed by the ‘Chillai-Khurd,’ which lasts twenty days, and finally the ten-day ‘Chillai-Bacha,’ which lasts ten days. The first forty days and nights are extremely cold, with bone-chilling cold blasts, and the snowfall is substantial during this time because it freezes and lasts longer.
In winter Kashmir transforms into a white carpeted paradise. From December to March, Kashmir is in a separate zone; as the temp decreases, the beauty of Kashmir increases. The snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes add more charm to the mesmerizing beauty of Kashmir. Various items are specifically designed for use in the winter to protect the body from the cold weather. Bukhari’s are used to keep the houses warm. People in the houses wear Pheran and Kangris to stay warm. The water in the pipes, faucets, and lakes freezes. In the winter, people in Kashmir enjoy winter sports such as ice skating and skiing. During the winter, people’s food and lifestyles undergo significant changes to accommodate climate changes and adjust to the winter weather while remaining warm
Here are a few famous and well-known items that you must try during winter in Kashmir
Phiran/Pheran-
It is a traditional dress worn by both men and women in Kashmir. It rose to existence in the late 1800s. Phiran is made of Wool which is used to keep the body warm. The name ‘Phiran’ comes from the Persian language and means ‘shirt.’ The length of Phiran used to be up to feet, but it has recently been decreased to knees. to retain heat from the Kangri in the winter, and its relaxed fit allows the tradition of sitting on the floor.
Kangri-
Kangri is an earthen pot filled with hot coals that are placed beneath garments and blankets to keep the body warm. Kangri is composed of moulded earthen pots with two arms made of wicker sticks to provide support, making it an ideal portable hand warmer during the winter.
Noon Chai-
Sheer Chai is the popular name for it. It is a Kashmiri traditional tea that is an important element of the Kashmiri breakfast. Green tea leaves, baking soda, and milk are used to make it. It’s pinkish and comes with a milk cream (malai) and dry fruit topping. It’s often prepared in a copper vessel called a Samovar.
Kahwah/ Qahwa-
It’s a Kashmiri green tea brewed with saffron and dried fruits, primarily almonds. This tea is typically consumed after a meal. Kehwa aids in the digestion of food. It also aids in the treatment of colds and coughs.
Walnut-
Walnut is the most popular dry fruit during the winter months in Kashmir due to its numerous benefits. It is high in vitamin E and antioxidants, which aid with cholesterol management. It also contains a lot of Omega-3 fatty acids. It also aids in the control of diabetes and the reduction of blood pressure.
Honey:
When winter hits in Kashmir, the demand for Kashmiri honey rises. Honey, which is high in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, may be the answer to many of your winter concerns. Adding honey to your diet results in better immunity.