Experience snowfall in Kashmir and enjoy the poetic escapade
Jammu-Kashmir is undeniably a “Heaven on Earth”, for it writes poetry in white through the enchanting snowfall. Winter is the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall. Plan your trip during December and January and experience a chilling cold and snowfall in Kashmir.
Visit Kashmir in winter! A poetic escapade
Kashmir, aptly dubbed “paradise on Earth,” is undoubtedly one of India’s top tourist attractions. To enjoy snowfall in Kashmir, in addition to all of the other tourist attractions, you must plan a dynamic and eclectic schedule. Winter is the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall.
So brace yourself for chills and thrills, pack your best winter gear, and prepare to experience winter this year.
Best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall
Winter is the best season to see snowfall in Kashmir and witness the breathtaking beauty of the valley. The winters in Jammu and Kashmir begin in December with new snowfall and continue until the end of March, with the coldest month being January. January temperatures vary between -20C and 40C on average.
During this season, honeymooners and adventure enthusiasts indulge in romantic experiences, winter sports activities, and succulent Kashmiri cuisine, proving it to be the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall and snow-related activities.
How to reach Kashmir?
The magnificent valley of Kashmir is well-connected to the rest of the country through air, road, and rail. Here is how to reach Kashmir.
- By Air
Srinagar airport, presently called Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, is approximately 14 km from the city centre and is well-connected to all of India’s major cities. Additionally, Jammu has its airport, which is located 8 km southwest of the town. All major Indian airlines offer daily service to and from Jammu City.
- By Rail
The station closest to Srinagar is Jammu-Tawi Railway Station, which is around 300 km distant and trains daily to New Delhi. Banihal railway station, accessible by road from Jammu, is another alternative for getting to Srinagar. The Banihal train station provides excellent rail connections to Srinagar during summer.
- By Road
Jammu and Kashmir have excellent road connections and are accessible by vehicle. The National Highways 1 and 44 links Kashmir to India’s major cities. The Jawahar Tunnel connects Jammu to the Kashmir valley along this road.
J&K State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) buses also link Jammu to surrounding cities such as Patnitop, Srinagar, and Amritsar. Tourists can rent a private vehicle or jeep to reach Srinagar or Jammu.
Top 6 snow destinations that will enchant you and worth paying a visit during snowfall in Kashmir
1. Srinagar
If you seek a snowy winter vacation, no place on earth is more gorgeous than Srinagar. This capital of Jammu & Kashmir attracts worldwide visitors to watch the magnificent snowfall in Kashmir during winter.
Srinagar is adorned with breathtaking views. Imagine yourself on a Shikara ride on the picturesque Dal Lake, admiring the stunning scenery. Shalimar Garden, Nishant Garden, Chashmeshahi Garden, The Hari Parbat, Baramulla, Shalimar Bagh, Lal Chowk, Nehru Garden, Pari Mahal, and Tulip Garden are mind-blowingly beautiful.
For snow enthusiasts, the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall is between October and March.
2. Gulmarg
Gulmarg is highly recommended if you want to experience snowfall in Kashmir. Gulmarg in Kashmir is a snow heaven. It is the finest ski destination in India and the seventh largest in Asia.
The awe-inspiring snow-clad mountains of the Pir Panjal range, deep ravines, the high Apharwat Peak, and many hill forests are breathtaking. Gulmarg is an epicentre for winter adventure activities such as heli-skiing, snowboarding, and off-piste skiing, among others.
The highlight of your memories will be the breathtaking Gondola Ride which is the best experience. Gondola Trip is the second-highest cable car ride in the world and will take you past mountains, valleys, and clouds.
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Alpather Lake, Apharwat Peak, Tangmarg, Gulmarg Golf course, Khilanmarg, Lien Marg, and Seven Springs are among the most popular tourist sites in Gulmarg to visit during the winter. Winter is unquestionably the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall
3. Zanskar
Zanskar is endowed with breathtaking natural beauty. The renowned Chadar Trek, or the Frozen Zanskar Trek, is done on the frozen Zanskar River, which provides access to the Zanskar Valley and is one of the best forms to experience snowfall in Kashmir.
As it requires crossing a frozen river, this hike is both terrifying and breathtaking. Winter is the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall and this 20-day Zanskar trek when the river is most frigid.
4. Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a winter wonderland and one of the fantastic places to see snowfall in Kashmir. You can appreciate picturesque snow-covered mountains in the background, beautiful valleys, frozen lakes, and tranquil rivers. Pahalgam offers a variety of winter sports, including rafting, skiing, hiking, and sledging.
Pahalgam has also been attracting travellers, artists, and poets from all over the world since it is renowned for its annual snowfall celebration held in winter. The festival is the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall and to get a sneak peek at the Kashmiri way of life. It is a photographer’s delight and a popular destination for honeymooners.
Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Sheshnag Lake, Baisaran Hills, and Tulian Lake are among Pahalgam’s most popular hiking sites.
5. Yusmarg
Image Credits- deccanherald.com
Yusmarg, located west of the Kashmir Valley, is one of the most incredible tourist destinations. Frozen streams, snowy pine forest walks, and towering mountains surround Yusmarg, making it a veritable dreamland. Charari Sharief, Sang- e -Safed, Dudh Ganga, Nilang Lake, and Pakherpora Shrine are among the most popular wintertime tourist destinations in Yusmarg.
6. Sonmarg
Sonmarg is also one of the most incredible places to witness snowfall in Kashmir. It is located at an elevation of 2730 meters. Beautiful snow-capped mountains in the background, the hypnotising Sindh River, a pony ride to the Thajiwas Glacier, breathtaking views of the Kashmir landscape, and an incredible snowfall will brighten your day. Sonmarg is the place to begin one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimages, the Amarnath Yatra.
Zero point in Sonmarg is also the finest location for sleigh riding. Vishansar Lake, Nilagrad River, Zoji La Pass, Thajiwas Glacier, Shutkari Bridge, Krishnasar Lake, and Baltal Valley are some of the most popular wintertime tourist destinations in Sonmarg, making it the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall.
Check out some great winter activities you may engage in to chase the blues away! 17 amazing travel experiences to warm up your winter
Top 7 amazing things to do during snowfall in Kashmir
1. Shikara ride
Take a romantic boat trip in Kashmir’s beautiful lakes or stay in the gorgeous houseboats on partially frozen lakes to revel in fairytale-like scenery that will make you feel euphoric.
It’s a great couple’s activity. In addition to relaxing and enjoying views of the snowy mountains and environs, you can also visit floating markets, drink freshly brewed Kahwa, and ride a shikara. If you’re lucky, you can even experience snowfall in Kashmir while riding a shikara.
2. Skiing & heli-skiing
Kashmir offers Heli-skiing, the best version of skiing that delivers the exhilaration of sliding down a mountain. It is India’s sole heli-skiing destination. In this adventurous sport, one flies to the peak via helicopter and then skis down an impassable slope offering spectacular views of snowy peaks.
3. Cable ride
Gondola rides in Gulmarg take you over 4,000 meters above sea level and provide spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, valleys, meadows, and other natural environments. This exhilarating gondola ride is one of the best manners to encounter snowfall in Kashmir.
Winters are the best season to visit Kashmir for snowfall and the unrivalled Gondola rides in Gulmarg, home to the world’s second-highest lift-served ski resort.
4. Sleigh riding
Remember Santa Claus riding place slay riding his sleigh? Kashmir offers sleigh riding, which is the latest winter sport. Sleighs are wooden toy cars that run on the snow where one person pulls the sleigh by rope while another enjoys the trip.
Gulmarg and Sonmarg offer me riding sleigh riding for kids and adults to experience snowfall in Kashmir. Enjoy the snowflakes while you glide along the snow-covered slopes on your sleigh.
5. Camping
Kashmir’s best adventurous activity is camping at high altitudes, which requires courage. Camping in Kashmir includes views of breathtaking meadows, lakes, and snow-capped mountains, along with an experience of living in the lap of nature without modern facilities. Winter camping will give you a chance to enjoy snowfall in Kashmir.
6. Ice skating and ice hockey
Image Credits- kashmirhills.com
Kashmir’s winter temperatures plummet below zero during winter freezing the lakes and ponds, making them ideal for ice skating and ice hockey in India. Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam are popular ice skating and ice hockey destinations if you want to experience something more thrilling in winter with snowfall in Kashmir.
7. Snow Festival
Snow Festival is one of Kashmir’s top winter attractions and the finest period for witnessing snowfall in Kashmir. Pahalgam and Gulmarg celebrate this festival in January.
This three-day festival is full of adventure sports like cycling, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snow biking, with the latest addition of baseball. During the snow festival, you can also experience the vibrant Kashmiri culture and delectable cuisines.
Read more on how the majestic beauty of Kashmir welcomes you on board!
Visit Kashmir in winter! A poetic escapade
Kashmir, aptly dubbed “paradise on Earth,” is undoubtedly one of India’s top tourist attractions. To enjoy snowfall in Kashmir, in addition to all of the other tourist attractions, you must plan a dynamic and eclectic schedule. Winter is the best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall.
So brace yourself for chills and thrills, pack your best winter gear, and prepare to experience winter this year.
