Winter Holiday Packages in Kashmir
Snow in Gulmarg and Pahalgam, the cold, and how to plan a winter trip to Kashmir.
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Seasonal
Best time
December to February
Sections
4
Updated
October 2026
Kashmir in winter
Kashmir is at its most dramatic in winter, with snow in Gulmarg and Pahalgam, a quiet Dal Lake and warm houseboats. It is also cold, with temperatures often below zero at night.
Check current travel advisories before you finalise plans.
What to expect
Gulmarg
Skiing, the gondola and sledding; gondola tickets sell out at peak times.
Pahalgam
Snow-covered meadows and quiet river views.
Srinagar
Houseboats with heaters, and a very cold Dal Lake. Occasional freezing of the lake margins.
Sonamarg
Often cut off by snow during mid-winter.
Risks to plan around
- Flight delays or cancellations due to snow.
- Road closures on the Jammu–Srinagar highway.
- Power cuts and cold in some hotels; ask about heating.
Planning
- Keep two buffer days.
- Choose hotels with proper heating.
- Book Gulmarg gondola tickets early.
- Carry thermals and good boots.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kashmir safe in winter?
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Check advisories; snow and road closures are the main practical risks.
When does it snow?
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From December to February, with variation.
Is Sonamarg open?
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It may be closed in heavy snow.
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