India, Dec. 21 -- The higher regions of Kashmir witnessed a fresh spell of snowfall with rainfall in the plains as the Chillai-Kalan, the 40-day harshest winter period, began on Sunday.

Snowfall was reported from several areas, including Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Sadhna Top. Light rainfall began in Srinagar and elsewhere in the valley overnight and continued intermittently, news agency PTI reported.

Visuals from Sonmarg showed tourists enjoying the snowfall as the entire region was covered with a blanket of white snow.

In Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora, authorities have closed the 86-km Gurez -Bandipora road amid the heavy rainfall. They have also advised the travellers to avoid unnecessary journeys. Deserted roads and snow-covered homes wer...