Kashmir in winter is a different country: white meadows, frozen waterfalls, steaming Kahwa and Harissa for breakfast. It's magical and cold, and it rewards travellers who plan for both.
Key takeaways
- December to February brings snow to the hill stations and freezing nights.
- Chillai Kalan, the coldest 40 days, runs from late December to late January.
- Keep a buffer day for road closures after heavy snow.
- Choose hotels with reliable heating; it matters more than stars.
Weather
From December to February, days are cold and nights freeze across the valley. Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam get the heaviest snow. Kashmiris call the harshest 40 days, from late December to late January, Chillai Kalan.
What's open
- Gulmarg: the heart of winter Kashmir, with skiing, sledging and the Gondola.
- Pahalgam: snowy and quiet; side valleys may be partly closed.
- Sonamarg: the road can close after heavy snow; check before going.
- Srinagar: open as usual; Dal Lake's edges can freeze in cold spells.
Things to do
- Ski or take a lesson in Gulmarg.
- Sledge rides and snow play.
- Gondola rides above snowfields.
- Harissa breakfasts and Wazwan dinners.
- Winter photography: frozen waterfalls and chinar silhouettes.
Practical tips
- Heating: confirm heaters, hot water and electric blankets; 4-star hotels are more reliable in the hills.
- Roads: snow can close the Jammu–Srinagar highway and mountain roads; keep a buffer day and flexible flights.
- Clothing: thermals, a down jacket, waterproof boots, gloves and a woollen cap. See our Kashmir packing list.
Winter trips
Our Kashmir winter tour package and 5-star winter snow tour are built around the snow. Forecasts: India Meteorological Department.
Last updated:
About the author: Written and checked by the Travel Wiki planning team, who arrange Kashmir and Ladakh trips every week from Srinagar and Bijbihara.
