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Kashmir in Winter: Snow, Skiing in Gulmarg and What to Expect
Introduction
Imagine waking up on a houseboat to snow drifting onto Dal Lake, then riding a cable car above the clouds to the slopes of Apharwat Peak. Kashmir in winter is pure magic: a snow-covered wonderland of pine forests, frozen streams and cozy wood-paneled rooms warmed by traditional kangri fire pots.
For international travelers, especially those from countries that never see snow, a winter trip to Kashmir is often the highlight of their India holiday. This guide covers when to see snow, skiing in Gulmarg, what the rest of the valley is like in winter, a sample itinerary, and practical tips on staying warm and comfortable.
Kashmir Winter at a Glance
December | January | February | |
Srinagar day/night | 8°C / -2°C | 6°C / -2°C | 8°C / -1°C |
Gulmarg | Colder, usually well below freezing at night | Coldest month | Cold, deep snow base |
Snow | First heavy snowfalls | Best chance of fresh snow (Chillai Kalan) | Reliable snow cover |
Best for | Snow sightseeing, New Year | Skiing, snow play | Skiing, winter sports events |
The coldest 40 days, called Chillai Kalan, run from about 21 December to 31 January and bring the heaviest snowfall. Gulmarg's ski season usually runs from December to early March.
Skiing and Snow in Gulmarg
At about 2,650 m, Gulmarg is India's premier ski resort and one of the most affordable places to ski in Asia. Its long, powder-filled slopes attract beginners, families and experienced off-piste skiers alike. In February 2026, it hosted the snow events of the Khelo India Winter Games, including alpine skiing and snowboarding.
The Gulmarg Gondola in winter
Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdori): A ride of about 15 minutes to a wide, gentle bowl, ideal for beginners, snow play, and photos.
Phase 2 (Kongdori to Apharwat): Rises to about 3,980 m for spectacular Himalayan views and the advanced off-piste runs Gulmarg is famous for.
Booking: Tickets are sold online through the official J&K Cable Car Corporation portal. Book a few days in advance in peak season, as Phase 2 has far fewer tickets.
Weather closures: The gondola can pause during storms or high winds, so keep your Gulmarg day flexible.
Learning to ski
Beginners are well catered for. Certified local instructors offer lessons by the hour or day on the gentle nursery slopes near the base, and the government-run Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) in Gulmarg runs structured courses. Ski and snowboard gear can be rented locally.
Not a skier? No problem
Sledge rides pulled by local guides across the snowfields
Snowmobile rides on the open meadows
Building snowmen and snowball fights at Kongdori
Hot kahwa and pakoras in a mountain café with views of the slopes
Beyond Gulmarg: The Rest of Kashmir in Winter
Srinagar
Snow transforms Srinagar into a fairytale scene. Houseboats on Dal Lake are heated and cozy, and a winter shikara ride past snow-dusted gardens and mountains is unforgettable. On the coldest days, parts of the lake's edges can freeze. Visit the Mughal Gardens under snow, and warm up with harissa, a slow-cooked winter specialty sold in the old city's shops in the early morning.
Pahalgam
Pahalgam receives heavy snowfall, turning Betaab Valley and the pine forests along the Lidder River white. Some higher areas, such as Aru and Chandanwari, may be reachable only on foot or by pony after heavy snow, but the views from the town alone are worth the trip.
Sonamarg
With the Z-Morh tunnel open since January 2025, Sonamarg is now accessible in winter, offering vast snowfields and quieter slopes than Gulmarg. Roads can still close briefly after heavy snowfall.
Sample 6-Day Delhi and Kashmir Winter Itinerary
Delhi (1N) – Srinagar Houseboat (1N) – Gulmarg (2N) – Srinagar (1N)
Day 1: Arrive in Delhi
Arrive in Delhi and rest at your hotel. If time allows, enjoy the crisp winter afternoon at India Gate or Humayun's Tomb.
Overnight: Delhi
Day 2: Fly to Srinagar – Winter Houseboat Night
Take a late-morning flight, when Delhi's winter fog has usually lifted, to Srinagar. Check in to a heated houseboat on Dal Lake and enjoy a winter shikara ride as snow-capped peaks glow at sunset.
Overnight: Houseboat, Dal Lake
Day 3: Srinagar to Gulmarg (about 50 km / 1.5–2 hrs)
Drive to Gulmarg; in heavy snow, vehicles may need snow chains, which your driver will arrange. Ride Phase 1 of the Gulmarg Gondola to Kongdori for snow play, sledging or your first ski lesson.
Overnight: Gulmarg
Day 4: Skiing or Apharwat Peak
Spend a full day on the slopes: take a half- or full-day ski lesson, or ride Phase 2 to Apharwat for sweeping Himalayan views (weather permitting). End the day by a crackling fire at your hotel.
Overnight: Gulmarg
Day 5: Gulmarg to Srinagar
Return to Srinagar and visit the snow-covered Mughal Gardens and the old city. Shop for pashmina shawls and kangris, and try a warming cup of kahwa.
Overnight: Srinagar
Day 6: Srinagar to Delhi – Departure
Fly back to Delhi for your onward international flight.
Tip: In winter, allow at least 6–8 hours, or a full buffer night, between your Srinagar–Delhi flight and your international departure, in case of snow or fog delays.
Prefer a ready-made plan? Our Kashmir Splendors Tour Package and Delhi + Kashmir Tour Packages can be adapted for winter with an extra night in Gulmarg.
What to Expect in Kashmir in Winter
Cold: Nights are below freezing across the valley and much colder in Gulmarg. Hotels and houseboats use heaters, electric blankets, and traditional bukhari stoves; ask for a heated room when booking.
Roads: Main routes are cleared quickly, but snow can close roads for a few hours or longer after heavy falls. Travel with an experienced local driver.
Flights: Snow in Srinagar or fog in Delhi can delay or cancel flights. Morning and midday flights are more reliable, and a buffer day is essential.
Power cuts: Short power cuts are common in winter. Better hotels have generators.
Daylight: Days are short, so start sightseeing by 9 am and plan to be back at your hotel by dusk.
Connectivity: Many foreign and prepaid SIM cards from other Indian states do not work in Jammu and Kashmir; arrange connectivity in advance with our team.
Winter packing list
Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
Fleece or wool mid-layer
Insulated, waterproof down jacket
Waterproof snow boots with good grip
Woollen socks, gloves and a warm hat
Sunglasses or goggles for snow glare
High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
Moisturiser; the air is very dry
Power bank for phones in the cold
Tip: You can rent ski jackets, trousers, and boots in Gulmarg, so you don't need to carry bulky gear from home.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see snow in Kashmir?
January and February offer the most reliable snow. December brings the first heavy snowfalls, and Gulmarg often keeps its snow into March.
Is Kashmir too cold in winter for tourists?
It is cold, but very manageable with the right clothing. Srinagar averages around 6–8°C during the day and below freezing at night, and hotels and houseboats are heated.
Can beginners ski in Gulmarg?
Yes. Gulmarg has gentle nursery slopes, certified instructors and rental equipment. Many international visitors take their first ski lesson here.
Does the Gulmarg Gondola run in winter?
Yes. Both phases operate in winter, but services can pause in storms or high winds. Book tickets online in advance through the official portal.
Will snow affect my flights?
Heavy snow in Srinagar or fog in Delhi can delay flights. Choose morning or midday flights, and allow extra time before any international connection.
Experience Kashmir's Winter Wonderland with D Asia Travels
From snowy houseboat mornings on Dal Lake to your first run down the slopes of Gulmarg, a winter trip to Kashmir is unlike anything else in India. D Asia Travels plans winter tours with heated hotels and houseboats, experienced drivers used to snowy roads, flexible schedules,
and buffer days built in.
Ready for the snow? Explore our Delhi + Kashmir Tour Packages, browse our Kashmir tour packages, or plan a cozy winter escape with our Kashmir Honeymoon Packages.
