Fresh snowfall attracts tourists to Lal Chowk’s clock tower

Idrees Bukhtiyar
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28 Jan 2026

Srinagar, Jan 27: The historic clock tower at Lal Chowk Tuesday witnessed an unusually large rush of visitors as fresh snowfall blanketed Kashmir, transforming the city center into a winter postcard and drawing tourists and locals alike to not just an iconic landmark but an emerging selfie point. From early morning, scores of people, especially tourists from various parts of the country, were seen thronging the Ghanta Ghar area, clicking photographs, filming reels, and soaking in the festive winter atmosphere as snow-covered streets and surrounding buildings added to the charm of Lal Chowk. Despite the biting cold, the mood remained upbeat, with laughter, snowball fights and excited chatter filling the air. Tourists visiting from different parts of the country said experiencing snowfall at the heart of Srinagar was a memorable moment. “This is my first time in Kashmir, and seeing snowfall at Lal Chowk feels surreal,” said Ankita Sharma, a tourist from Delhi, while taking a selfie. “We have seen this place so many times on television, but being here amid snow is completely different and beautiful.” Another visitor, Amit Singh from Mumbai, said the clock tower looked even more majestic after the snowfall. “The entire area looks magical. Snowflakes falling around the clock tower make it feel like we are in a movie scene. It’s cold, but totally worth it,” he said, adding that the hospitality and calm atmosphere of the city impressed him. Local shopkeepers and vendors said the rush brought a welcome boost to business. “Whenever it snows, tourists come out in large numbers, and Lal Chowk becomes lively again,” said a shopkeeper near the clock tower. Meanwhile, authorities deployed additional personnel to manage traffic. Despite slippery roads, people continued to gather at the landmark well into the evening, making the clock tower once again the centre of attraction in Srinagar after the fresh spell of snowfall across Kashmir.