After a long drawn dry spell, the first snowfall in the plains of Kashmir yesterday has brought unbridled good vibrations and the promise of a white Christmas this year. Schools and colleges are to remain closed during the cold season that will most likely extend into the new year.

The valley woke up last morning to a thick blanket of pristine snow in parts of the north and south of Kashmir, also the tourist spot of Gulmarg. Shopian town in the south recorded three inches of snow, and towns like Gulmarg, Damhal Hanjipora, Khag, Gurez and Yusmarg recorded about two inches of fresh snowfall.

Here are some breathtaking pictures from around the area: