Best Time to Visit Kashmir: Winter, Summer & Monsoon

Key Highlight:

Kashmir Weather Update

• Best Time to Visit Kashmir
• Best Month to Visit Kashmir

      Summer in Kashmir (March – June)

• Places to Visit in Kashmir in Summer
• Activities In Kashmir During Summer

Winter in Kashmir (October – February)

• Places to visit in Kashmir during Winter
• Things to do in Kashmir in Winter

Autumn in Kashmir

• Places to visit in Kashmir in Autumn
• Activities in Kashmir during the Autumn Season

Chillai Kalan – Kashmir’s Harshest Winter

What to Expect During Chillai Kalan

• Where to Stay in Kashmir

Kashmir Weather Update: Snowfall in Kashmir

If you plan to visit Kashmir, it is no wonder that the best time to visit Kashmir is from March to August. Known as the “heaven of earth’ tourists specifically come here to experience the mesmerizing beauty of Kashmir. From March to August, you can witness two seasons here: Spring (March to early May) and Summer (early May to late August). During this time, every family member, from children to seniors, can immerse themselves in the stunning scenic beauty of Kashmir. Why wait, check out this guide to plan your next family trip to Kashmir. 

This year, on December 20th, Kashmir Valley woke up to an icy welcome after five decades, with the temperature falling below -8.5 degrees. This drop in temperature marks the start of Chillai Kalan or Mighty Cold. This phenomenon speaks more about Kashmiri local culture and folklore.

Chillai Kalan is the harshest winter period in Kashmir, lasting for 40 days from December 21 to January 31. This is part of the traditional Persian-based calendar system followed in the region. During Chillai Kalan:

Temperatures drop below freezing, especially during the nights, and the region experiences heavy snowfall. Water bodies like lakes and rivers, including parts of the famous Dal Lake, freeze due to the extreme cold.

Chillai Kalan is followed by Chillai Khurd (a milder 20-day period) and Chillai Bachha (a 10-day even milder phase). Despite the challenges, it’s a culturally significant and beautiful season for Kashmiris.

During Chillai Kalan in Kashmir, visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty and unique cultural practices of the region. Here’s what you can enjoy:

1. Snow-covered Landscapes

Witness Kashmir transform into a winter wonderland with snow-covered mountains, valleys, and houses. Popular spots like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg become even more enchanting with fresh snowfall.

2. Frozen Water Bodies

Lakes like Dal Lake partially freeze, offering a surreal experience. You might even see locals walking or playing on the frozen surfaces, depending on the thickness of the ice.

3. Traditional Kashmiri Warmth

Experience Kangri (a traditional firepot) used by locals to stay warm. It’s a portable and symbolic way to combat the extreme cold. Visit local homes to see how families use traditional bukharis (wood-burning heaters) for warmth.

4. Delicious Winter Cuisine

Relish Harissa, a traditional mutton-based dish served hot to provide warmth and energy during the cold months. Enjoy Kahwa, a flavorful saffron-infused tea, which is perfect for combating the chill.

5. Winter Sports and Activities

Skiing and snowboarding at Gulmarg are top attractions during Chillai Kalan. Gulmarg’s ski slopes are world-renowned. Take a ride on a shikara in Dal Lake amidst the snow-covered surroundings for a unique experience.

6. Festive Spirit and Local Customs

Locals adapt to the cold with unique traditions, such as storytelling and gathering around a fire. Handmade woollen products, such as Pashmina shawls and hand-knitted sweaters, are widely available, showcasing the region’s rich craftsmanship.

Chillai Kalan offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and adventure, making it a magical time to experience Kashmir.

Best Time To Visit Kashmir

Kashmir has a peak season and an off-season that impacts hotel and flight rates. For those seeking an ideal blend of pleasant weather and picturesque landscapes, the months from March to August are the best time to visit Kashmir. But in case you want to experience snowfall and witness Kashmir draped in a pristine white blanket, November to December would be the right time to visit Kashmir.

If you want to enjoy Kashmir when the flowers are in full bloom and the alpine meadows are at their greenest, try visiting between March and October. Having said that, it can get a bit crowded during these months, considering it is the peak tourist season. Kashmir experiences four major seasons, and the months of March to October cover spring, summer, and autumn.

Best Month to Visit Kashmir

The timeless beauty of Kashmir ensures that every season has its charm, making any time a good time to visit this destination. 
 
The region changes with every season. Any time you visit will be a unique and memorable experience; the place is snow-covered heaven in winters, transforming into a vibrant paradise in the summer months. One visit to Kashmir is never really enough and every season is an opportunity to discover something unique and explore different locations. Kashmir’s beauty and diverse topography can make any season the best season to visit Kashmir.

Here’s a breakup of the experiences you will have in Kashmir during different seasons and places that you can visit in these seasons to plan your vacation accordingly: 

Summer in Kashmir 

The summer season begins in March and lasts until the beginning of June. It is the best time to visit Kashmir because the climate is ideal for sightseeing; it is neither too hot nor too cold. The temperature during the day ranges from 15 °C to 30 °C. The mornings are pleasant, making it an ideal time for exploration and long walks. Kashmir looks beautiful in the months of summer, mostly because the snow has melted over the valley, leading to a perfect panorama.

Places to Visit in Kashmir in Summer

It is a must to visit Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg during summer. Other places that you can visit are Gurez valley, Sinthan Top, Sonamarg, Bangus , Yusmarg, Zojila Pass. Summer is also when pilgrims visit Vaishno Devi and Amarnath.

Activities In Kashmir During Summer

As most of the places are open during summer you can visit the offbeat places and also go for trekking during this time.

Winter in Kashmir 

This is the peak season in Kashmir for snowfall, when winters begin. The temperature can touch 0 °C in November and December. However, there is a reason why winter can be the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall. The beautiful snowfall starts in the month of December and lasts up to March. The entire valley remains covered in a cold blanket of snow and is a treat for those who love this phenomenon.

Places to visit in Kashmir during Winter

A few places that are magnificent during winters are Pahalgam, Yusmarg, Srinagar, Sonamarg

Things to do in Kashmir in Winter

If you love winter sports and activities such as skiing, skating, and snowboarding, you will have the time of your life! Don’t miss out on a cable car ride for the best view of the snow-covered hills. The temperature during winters ranges from anything between -2 °C to 12 °C. January is usually the coldest month.

Autumn in Kashmir

There is an onset of rain in July. The monsoon is not very heavy here. So while it may not be popular as the best time to travel Kashmir, but people do visit during this time for off-season discounts on flights and hotels. The valley looks beautiful at this time and you can walk through the meadows and listen to the raindrops. It is indeed a visual treat to visit Kashmir during this period.

Places to visit in Kashmir in Autumn

A few places that you must visit if you want to visit Kashmir during the autumn seasons are Naseem Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chasmasahi, Pari Mahal.

Activities in Kashmir during the Autumn Season

Apple-picking is a fun and rewarding activity, so ensure you include this in your itinerary. The valley will be lush green, and it is the best time for photographers to visit Kashmir to capture the stunning red leaves of Chinar trees. There are a lot of travellers who love to visit Kashmir during the rains, mainly for peace and serenity. 

ALSO READ: Top 8 Places To Visit In Kashmir With Family

Where to stay In Kashmir

There is no specific month that is the best time to visit Kashmir because it is a visual treat all through the year. No matter the season you choose, you are guaranteed to have a memorable experience here. There are numerous Srinagar resorts that are known for the ideal location and excellent hospitality, but Club Mahindra Kashmir House Boat Srinagar needs a special mention. The hospitality will give you the real feel of Kashmir and will make your holiday worthwhile. It offers the best views at all times. The resort is an affiliate known best for excellent interiors and hospitality of the staff. It even has two in-house restaurants where you will be served authentic Kashmiri delicacies made from fresh produce.

You can also enjoy a comfortable stay in a houseboat in Srinagar by Club Mahindra and enjoy the stunning view of Dal Lake. Out of all the Srinagar resorts, nothing beats the experience of staying in a houseboat and waking up to the stunning sunrise. Club Mahindra is undoubtedly one of the best Kashmir resorts and offers excellent service and hospitality. The resort is ideally located and equipped with modern amenities. You can enjoy a comfortable stay in a houseboat with your friends and family.

ALSO READ: Kashmir Tourism: A Detailed Guide For Family Trips To Kashmir

Go through the numerous Club Mahindra reviews online to gain insights into the experience of guests who enjoyed their houseboat stay. Once you are done reading, plan a memorable family vacation to Kashmir!

No matter when you visit Kashmir, staying at Club Mahindra Resorts ensures an unforgettable experience. Enjoy breathtaking views, authentic Kashmiri hospitality, and exclusive benefits with a Club Mahindra Membership. Make your Kashmir trip truly special with the comfort and luxury that Club Mahindra offers year-round.