Minimum Temperatures Drop Sharply Across Kashmir Valley: Time to Layer Up in Tradition
By: Javid Amin | 10 November 2025
As the chill of early winter tightens its grip over the Kashmir Valley, the familiar sight of woolen pherans, namda wraps, and steaming cups of noon chai returns. With temperatures plunging below freezing, Kashmiris are embracing not just the warmth but also the timeless elegance of their traditional winter wear.
According to the Meteorological Department, Srinagar recorded its first sub-zero temperature of the season at −0.1°C, while Pahalgam and Shopian dipped further to −3.2°C. The cold wave is expected to intensify in the coming days as a western disturbance looms over the region.
As winter deepens, dressing warm isn’t just about comfort — it’s about carrying forward centuries of cultural heritage. Here are five must-have Kashmiri winter outfits that blend tradition, craftsmanship, and modern style to help you stay cozy this season.
01. Pheran — The Iconic Woolen Cloak of Kashmir
No winter wardrobe in Kashmir is complete without the pheran — a flowing, loose-fitted cloak that defines Kashmiri winters. Traditionally made of thick wool or tweed, the pheran allows ample layering underneath, making it both practical and elegant.
Why it’s essential:
The pheran is designed to trap heat efficiently while allowing easy movement, making it perfect for long, cold days indoors or outdoor errands amid snow.
Modern twist:
Contemporary designers are reinventing the pheran with embroidered borders, pastel shades, and structured silhouettes. Women’s pherans now feature intricate aari or tilla work, while men’s versions are increasingly tailored for a sleek, semi-formal look.
Pair with:
Thermal inners, warm trousers, and the traditional kangri — a clay firepot carried under the pheran — for unbeatable warmth.
Also Read | Unlocking the Secrets of Kashmiri Cuisine: The Magic of Dried Cockscomb Flower (Mawal)
02. Namda Shawl or Blanket Wrap — The Felted Comfort
The namda is a lesser-known gem of Kashmiri craftsmanship — a handmade felted wool blanket traditionally used for floor seating but equally cozy when worn as an oversized wrap.
Why it’s essential:
Namdas are thick, insulating, and known for their ability to retain heat. They’re ideal for evening gatherings, outdoor bonfires, or morning chai rituals on a frosty porch.
Style tip:
Use a namda shawl as a draped outer layer over a plain pheran for a rustic-chic look. Many local artisans now produce embroidered namdas, adding a splash of color to your winter ensemble.
Cultural note:
Namda-making is a centuries-old craft from Anantnag and Baramulla, offering sustainable employment to Kashmiri artisans — buying one supports a living heritage.
03. Kashmiri Woolen Gloves & Socks — Handcrafted Warmth
When temperatures drop below zero, hands and feet suffer first — which is why hand-knit woolen gloves and socks are winter staples in every Kashmiri household.
Why it’s essential:
These accessories are made from pure sheep wool or pashmina blends, offering natural insulation and breathability unmatched by synthetic materials.
Local touch:
Look for designs featuring paisley motifs, snowflake embroidery, or color-blocked stripes — motifs inspired by Kashmir’s artistic heritage.
Pro tip:
Pair your gloves and socks with moisturizing creams or balms to protect your skin from the dry winter air, a common issue in the valley’s sub-zero climate.
04. Insulated Boots with Kashmiri Embroidery — Style Meets Function
The snow-covered streets of Gulmarg and Pahalgam demand sturdy, waterproof boots — but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style.
Why it’s essential:
Insulated boots protect against frostbite and offer traction on icy surfaces, especially crucial during heavy snowfall in December and January.
Style tip:
For a fashionable fusion, opt for boots adorned with Kashmiri embroidery or suede panels. These handcrafted details reflect the region’s rich design culture while keeping your outfit unique.
Travel note:
If you’re planning a Kashmir snow holiday, pack high-ankle boots with wool lining — essential for skiing, trekking, or just strolling through Gulmarg’s white meadows.
Also Read | Saffron, Spice & Everything Nice: Your Ultimate Guide to Kashmir’s Iconic Dishes & Hidden Gastronomic Gems
05. Woolen Cap or Karakul Hat — The Finishing Touch
No winter outfit is complete without head warmth, and Kashmir offers two iconic choices — the woolen beanie and the karakul hat.
Why it’s essential:
A significant portion of body heat is lost through the head, so covering up is vital during freezing mornings and late evenings.
Cultural edge:
The karakul cap, made from fine lambskin, adds a regal touch and has been worn by statesmen and elders across the Valley for generations. The beanie, on the other hand, suits casual wearers and younger crowds looking for comfort with a modern vibe.
Pair with:
Wool mufflers or embroidered scarves for a complete Kashmiri winter look.
Weather Snapshot: Chill Deepens Across the Valley
The cold wave has officially set in.
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Srinagar: −0.1°C (first sub-zero reading of the season)
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Pahalgam: −3.2°C
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Shopian: −3.2°C
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Gulmarg: hovering around −2°C, expected to dip further
The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast clear but frigid nights, with a likelihood of snowfall in higher reaches by mid-November. Locals are preparing for Chillai Kalan — the 40-day harshest winter phase starting December 21.
Also Read | What Is Guchhi Mushroom? Price, Cultivation & Cultural Heritage of the Himalayan Treasure
Living the Kashmiri Winter — Beyond Fashion
Winter in Kashmir isn’t just a season — it’s an emotion woven in wool and warmth. From sipping salted noon chai beside a bukhari (wood stove) to wearing hand-embroidered shawls, every act of staying warm carries a cultural meaning.
Tourists visiting during winter can experience this tradition firsthand — whether through a houseboat stay on a frozen Dal Lake, a ski trip in Gulmarg, or simply exploring Srinagar’s winter bazaars lined with pherans, rugs, and shawls.
Shop Authentic Kashmiri Winterwear Online
Don’t wait for the snow to fall — bring the warmth of Kashmir home today.
Explore the finest collection of winter pherans, shawls, namdas, and accessories on:
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🌐 www.kashmirstore.in — Your online destination for authentic Kashmiri craftsmanship.
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🌐 www.kashmirbazar.in — A marketplace connecting artisans directly with you.
Conclusion: Embrace the Chill, Kashmiri Style
As temperatures dip, Kashmir’s winter fashion rises to the occasion — layered, local, and full of life. These five essential outfits don’t just shield against the cold; they tell the story of a valley where tradition and resilience walk hand in hand.
So, this season — wrap up, stay warm, and wear Kashmir with pride.
“In every thread of a pheran, there’s a story — of survival, of warmth, and of home.”
