Srinagar – March 16, 2025 -After days of relentless rain across Jammu and Kashmir, the weather finally cleared on Sunday, March 16, 2025, drawing tourists back to the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar. The serene waters of the lake, framed by snow-capped mountains, once again became a hub of activity as visitors arrived to enjoy its beauty and tranquility following a period of inclement weather.
The Kashmir Valley had been under the grip of incessant rainfall and snowfall in higher reaches since mid-March, with Srinagar experiencing a significant drop in temperatures and persistent showers. On March 15, the city recorded a chilly 2.6°C with 94% humidity, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), while heavy precipitation disrupted daily life and travel across the region. However, the weather began to improve by Sunday morning, with the IMD forecasting clearer skies and a respite from the rain into the afternoon.
Tourists, eager to experience the charm of Srinagar after the downpour, wasted no time in heading to Dal Lake. The lake, a jewel of Kashmiri tourism, saw an influx of visitors boarding the colorful shikaras—traditional wooden boats—for leisurely rides across its shimmering waters. The sight of low-hanging clouds dissipating to reveal the stunning landscape was a welcome change, offering picture-perfect moments for travelers.
“It’s breathtaking,” said Priya Sharma, a tourist from Delhi, as she stepped onto a shikara. “We’ve been waiting for the rain to stop, and now that it has, this place feels like paradise again. The freshness after the rain makes it even more special.” Local boatmen, who rely heavily on tourism, expressed relief at the return of visitors. “The past few days were tough with the rain keeping people away, but today feels like a new beginning,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a shikara operator.
The recent weather spell had brought both challenges and charm to the region. While the plains of Srinagar saw continuous rain, higher areas like Gulmarg received fresh snowfall, delighting winter sports enthusiasts but complicating travel with road closures and landslides. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a vital lifeline, had faced temporary shutdowns earlier in the month due to snow accumulation and landslides, but efforts by authorities ensured connectivity was restored as conditions improved.
Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector, a cornerstone of the local economy, has been thriving in recent years. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently highlighted that the region welcomed over 2.35 crore tourists in 2024, a significant rise from 2.11 crore the previous year. With the government prioritising the promotion of destinations like Dal Lake, alongside adventure, cultural, and religious tourism, the region continues to solidify its status as a must-visit location.
As the sun peeked through the clouds on Sunday, the bustling activity around Dal Lake underscored its enduring appeal. From savouring local cuisine on houseboats to capturing the misty vistas, tourists embraced the opportunity to explore Srinagar at its finest. With the IMD predicting stable weather in the coming days, the region is poised for a busy season ahead, promising more unforgettable experiences for those drawn to its natural splendour.