What to Pack for Kashmir Trip: Your Complete Travel Checklist
To ensure your journey to Kashmir is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, knowing exactly what to pack is crucial. Kashmir has four seasons: Spring (March – May), Summer (June – August), Autumn (September – November), Winter (December – February), so you need different type of clothing to explore each travel destinations in Kashmir. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, packing smartly will keep you comfortable and prepared for the diverse weather conditions. This guide will help you prepare for any season, ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable experience. Here you will get complete information about what to pack for Kashmir trip for Men, Woman and children.
Also check our Kashmir travel tip guide
Why Kashmir Needs the Right Planning for Clothes Packing
Packing the right clothes for Kashmir is important because Kashmir experiences unpredictable weather throughout the year. Temperatures can shift from warm sunshine to sudden cold winds or rain within a few hours especially in destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Doodhpathri and Yusmarg.
Proper planning ensures you stay comfortable, warm, and fully prepared for any climate without overpacking unnecessary items.
Right packing also helps you avoid last-minute shopping, extra luggage weight and unnecessary expenses on winter gear. When you pack strategically with proper layering options, waterproof clothing and comfortable footwear, your trip becomes smooth, enjoyable and hassle-free, no matter where you travel in Kashmir.
Check our what to pack for your Kashmir trip guide
For a detailed guide, check our Best time to visit Kashmir
Staying healthy during your Kashmir trip in important. For a complete guide check out Health & Safety Tips for Kashmir.
Understanding local customs in Kashmir ensures a respectful experience, check out Local Customs & Etiquette in Kashmir.
Managing currency and payments in Kashmir efficiently can help travelers avoid hassles, check our Currency & Payment Tips for Kashmir guide.
Staying connected in Kashmir is essential for navigation and communication, For a detailed guide, check out Internet & Mobile Connectivity in Kashmir.
Clothes to Pack for winter season in Kashmir (December to February)
December to February is the peak snowfall season in Kashmir, especially in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg. Temperatures range from –10°C to 8°C, so carrying proper winter clothing is essential to stay warm and comfortable. Heavy woollens, thermals and waterproof footwear are essential.
For Men
- Thermal base layers (upper and lower)
- Woollen sweaters, hoodies, or fleece jackets
- Heavy padded jacket / down jacket for extreme cold
- Woollen cap, beanie, muffler, or neck warmer
- Waterproof/insulated gloves
- Woollen socks + thick warm socks for added insulation
- Warm trousers, jeans, or fleece-lined pants
- Waterproof snow boots or trekking boots with good grip (avoid sneakers)
- Optional: Light wool scarf for extra warmth in Srinagar evenings
For Women
- Thermal innerwear (top + bottom) as the base layer
- Thick woollen sweaters or fleece pullovers
- Long padded coat / down jacket (mandatory for snow destinations)
- Woollen cap, muffler, and ear warmers
- Waterproof or insulated gloves
- Woollen socks paired with thick thermal socks
- Warm jeans, thermal leggings, or fleece-lined trousers
- Waterproof snow boots or warm winter boots (avoid regular sports shoes)
- Optional: Lightweight Pashmina/Shawl for Srinagar evenings
- Choose flat, anti-slip boots; avoid heels due to icy surfaces
Clothes to Pack for Spring season in Kashmir (March to April)
Spring in Kashmir is cool, colourful and extremely scenic, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. This is also the beautiful Tulip Season (mid-March to April). Days are usually pleasant and sunny, while early mornings and evenings can feel chilly.
For Men
- Light woollen sweaters or hoodies
- Full-sleeve T-shirts or casual shirts
- Jeans or trousers with a light jacket
- Comfortable sneakers or sports shoes
- Sunglasses and a cap for sunny afternoons
For Women
- Light woollen sweater or a warm cardigan
- Full-sleeve tops, shirts, or T-shirts for daytime
- Jeans, leggings, or trousers paired with a light jacket
- Shawl or stole (useful for evenings and while visiting shrines)
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Sunglasses for bright spring days
Clothes to Pack for Summer season in Kashmir ( May to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Kashmir, offering pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. While Srinagar stays warmer, hill destinations like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonmarg remain cool, especially during mornings and evenings. Light and breathable clothing is ideal, along with one extra layer for cooler regions
For Men
- Cotton shirts, polo T-shirts, or breathable casual wear
- Jeans, cotton trousers, or light travel pants
- Light jacket or hoodie for hill-station evenings
- Sunglasses, cap/hat & sunscreen for day outings
- Comfortable sports shoes or sandals
- Optional: Light scarf for sun protection or windy areas
For Women
- Lightweight cotton kurtis, T-shirts, or casual summer dresses
- Jeans, leggings, or breathable cotton trousers
- Light jacket or shrug for cooler evenings in Pahalgam, Gulmarg & Sonamarg
- Shawl or stole (useful for evenings, temple visits, or photoshoots)
- Sunglasses, cap/hat, sunscreen & a light scarf
- Comfortable footwear: sports shoes, sandals, or light trekking shoes
- Optional: Rent traditional Kashmiri attire for photos at Mughal Gardens, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, or Sonamarg
Clothes to Pack for Autumn season in Kashmir ( September to October)
Autumn in Kashmir is known as the Golden Season, when the iconic Chinar (Maple) trees turn beautiful shades of gold, crimson and copper. Temperatures stay between 10°C and 20°C, making the weather cool and pleasant during the day and mildly chilly in the evenings.
This is also Kashmir’s harvest season, when saffron flowers bloom in Pampore, and the orchards overflow with apples and walnuts making it one of the most picturesque times to visit.
For Men
- Light woollen sweaters or sweatshirts
- Long-sleeve shirts or T-shirts with a jacket
- Jeans, chinos, or comfortable travel pants
- Sneakers or light trekking shoes
For Women
- Light woollen sweaters or warm cardigans
- Long-sleeve tops, shirts, or kurtis
- Jeans, leggings, or trousers paired with a light jacket
- Shawl or stole for cooler evenings or shrine visits
- Comfortable shoes or sneakers for walking
Can girls wear shorts in Kashmir
Yes, girls can wear shorts in Kashmir during the summer, especially in popular tourist areas like Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam. However, it’s generally recommended to choose modest options such as knee-length shorts, capris or long skirts, as Kashmir follows conservative cultural norms and has a Muslim-majority population.
When visiting religious sites, old city areas, or local villages, it’s best to keep shoulders and knees covered. Carrying a light shawl or stole is helpful for quick coverage whenever needed and ensures comfort as well as respect for local traditions.
Trekking or Adventure Travel
If you are planning activities like the Trekking in Kashmir, river rafting, Paragliding or snowboarding, don’t forget to pack these:
- Trekking shoes (ankle support)
- Hiking backpack (rain cover)
- UV protection sunglasses
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Energy bars/snacks
- Headlamp or torch
- Quick-dry clothing
- Reusable water bottle
Honeymoon or Family Trip
For romantic or relaxed trips, also include:
- Warm shawls or pashmina for dinners
- Smart casuals for houseboat or resort evenings
- Slippers or sandals for indoors
- A small first-aid kit
- Power bank, chargers
- Mild medications for motion sickness (esp. mountain roads)
Check our Honeymoon packages for Kashmir
General Packing Tips
- Always pack layered clothes—weather shifts fast in mountains.
- Avoid over-packing—woolens can be rented in Gulmarg or Sonmarg.
- Carry copies of ID proof and keep some cash (ATMs may be down in remote areas).
- Use a backpack over suitcases for ease in hilly terrain.
- Autumn mornings are pleasant but evenings can feel crisp. Carry one medium-weight jacket to stay comfortable while sightseeing or on Shikara rides.
- Even in summer, Kashmir’s hill stations can get chilly after sunset. Pack one light-to-medium jacket for unexpected temperature drops in higher altitudes.
- Spring weather in Kashmir can be unpredictable. Carry one medium-weight jacket for sudden cold winds or evening temperature drops.
Still Confused? What to Pack
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of clothes should I pack for a winter trip to Kashmir?
For winter (November to February), pack heavy woolen jackets, thermals, gloves, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, and moisturizer. Temperatures can go below zero, especially in Gulmarg and Sonmarg.
Is it necessary to carry snow boots for Kashmir?
If you’re visiting in winter or planning to go to snowy areas like Gulmarg, snow boots are highly recommended. You can also rent them locally at affordable rates.
What should I pack for Kashmir in summer?
Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a light jacket for cool evenings. Even in summer, places like Sonmarg and Pahalgam stay chilly.
Can I buy or rent winter clothes in Kashmir?
Absolutely. In tourist hubs like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, you can rent snow gear including jackets, boots, and gloves if you prefer to travel light.
Do I need to carry a power bank or charger?
Yes, especially for remote areas where power cuts are frequent. Also, keep a universal adapter and a fully charged power bank with you.
What kind of travel documents should I carry?
Always carry a valid ID, permits (if required for certain areas like Gurez or Keran valley).
Is it necessary to carry cash in Kashmir?
Yes, it’s advisable to carry cash as some remote areas and local markets may not accept card payments or have limited ATM access.