Kashmir in Winter: A Complete Snowfall Itinerary

When snow is most likely

Late December through February is Kashmir's snow window, with January typically delivering the heaviest and most reliable falls. Gulmarg, sitting higher than Srinagar, holds snow cover longest and is where most winter itineraries are built around.

"Late December through February is Kashmir's snow window, with January typically delivering the heaviest and most reliable falls."

The essential stops

Ride the Gulmarg Gondola's two stages up to Apharwat Peak for skiing or simply snow play, spend a night on a heated houseboat on Dal Lake, and take a slow drive out to Pahalgam's Betaab Valley, which turns near-silent under snow.

What to actually pack

Layered thermals, a proper down jacket rated for sub-zero temperatures, waterproof snow boots and sunglasses for the glare are non-negotiable. Srinagar city itself is milder than Gulmarg, so pack for the coldest stop on your route, not the average.