The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has officially announced the winter vacation schedule for all Government Degree Colleges across the Union Territory. As per Government Order No. 497-JK(HE) of 2025, dated 23 December 2025, the decision has been taken in the interest of smooth academic administration and student safety during harsh winter conditions. The order applies uniformly to colleges falling under both Winter and Summer Zones of Jammu and Kashmir, with clearly defined timelines for each region.
The announcement of Winter Vacations in the Govt Degree Colleges of J&K provides clarity to students, teaching staff, and administrative authorities regarding academic planning, examinations, internal assessments, and winter preparedness. Colleges located in snowfall-prone areas of Kashmir Division and parts of Jammu Division will observe an extended break, while institutions in relatively milder summer zones of Jammu Division will follow a slightly shorter vacation period. The directive has been issued by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir through the Higher Education Department.
Join WhatsApp
Join Telegram
Nikon Scholarship Program 2025-26 >Supporting Aspiring Photographers with Funding and Opportunity
Division-wise Winter Vacation Schedule
The Government has categorized colleges based on Winter Zone and Summer Zone, ensuring region-specific scheduling that reflects ground realities.
Winter Zone Colleges – Kashmir Division
All Government Degree Colleges located in the Kashmir Division and classified under the Winter Zone will observe winter vacations for an extended duration due to severe cold and snowfall.
| Division | Vacation Start Date | Vacation End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Kashmir Division (Winter Zone) | 24 December 2025 | 14 February 2026 |
Winter Zone Colleges – Jammu Division
Several colleges in the Jammu Division fall under the Winter Zone due to similar climatic challenges. These institutions will follow the same vacation schedule as Kashmir Division colleges.
| Division | Vacation Start Date | Vacation End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Jammu Division (Winter Zone) | 24 December 2025 | 14 February 2026 |
Summer Zone Colleges – Jammu Division
Colleges located in relatively warmer areas of Jammu Division and categorized as Summer Zone institutions will observe a slightly shorter winter break.
| Division | Vacation Start Date | Vacation End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Jammu Division (Summer Zone) | 1 January 2026 | 10 February 2026 |
Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Government Order Issued | 23 December 2025 |
| Winter Vacation Begins (Winter Zone) | 24 December 2025 |
| Winter Vacation Ends (Winter Zone) | 14 February 2026 |
| Winter Vacation Begins (Summer Zone) | 1 January 2026 |
| Winter Vacation Ends (Summer Zone) | 10 February 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Are winter vacations applicable to private colleges in Jammu and Kashmir?
Winter Vacations in the Govt Degree Colleges of J&K apply only to Government Degree Colleges. Private institutions may follow separate schedules issued by their respective managements or affiliating universities.
Q2. Will online classes be conducted during winter vacations?
Online classes are generally not mandatory during winter vacations. However, colleges may issue specific academic instructions if required, especially for final-year students.
Q3. When will colleges reopen after winter vacations?
Colleges in Winter Zones are expected to reopen after 14 February 2026, while Summer Zone colleges will resume academic activities after 10 February 2026, subject to further notifications.
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://www.jk.gov.in |
