Autumn in Kashmir: A Season of Magic and Beauty
Autumn in Kashmir
Autumn in Kashmir, locally called Harud, is one of the most magical times to visit the valley of Kashmir. The autumn season in Kashmir is famous due to the Chinar tree, which turns into reddish golden creating a perfect view for photography and Instagram reels. The iconic Chinar trees, especially in Mughal Gardens like Nishat Bagh, Naseem Bagh and Shalimar Bagh showcase breathtaking fall colors, making them a must see attractions.
The cool and pleasant weather is perfect for sightseeing whether you are taking a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, exploring the saffron fields of Pampore at harvest time or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air. Often referred to as the Golden Season of Kashmir, autumn beautifully combines natural beauty, cultural richness and outdoor activities making it an unforgettable experience for traveler.
Autumn season in Kashmir
There are four seasons in Kashmir: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. All the four seasons of Kashmir presents a unique and picturesque view of Kashmir. The Autumn season in Kashmir starts from the month of September and continues until the end of November. Autumn in Kashmir changes the valley into a canvas of vibrant colours, as the chinar trees starts turn a fiery red and orange.
Autumn is also a time of harvest in Kashmir, and the farmers starts gathering their crops of apples, walnuts and other fruits and vegetables. During the autumn season in Kashmir , the markets are filled with fresh apples and walnuts, making it the perfect time to indulge in the finest Kashmiri produce. As the Autumn arrives the weather starts getting cooler. Evenings feel a bit cold, making it nice to wear comfy clothes. The autumn in Kashmir is also known as “The golden season of Kashmir“. The autumn months in Kashmir include September, October and November.
Also check: How to book online cab in Kashmir
Our Top Services
Book your online cab service in Srinagar with just a few simple steps. Reserve your cabs in Kashmir here
These floating heavens offer an unforgettable accommodation experience in Srinagar Kashmir. Book Houseboat in Srinagar here.
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir at your own pace with the freedom of self-drive. Book self drive car in Srinagar.
A shikara ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar is a must-have experience for any visitor to Kashmir. Book your shikara ride here
Explore the beauty of the Kashmir with our best Kashmir tour packages, offering scenic landscapes, houseboat stays, and unforgettable experiences in paradise
Autumn in Srinagar
Autumn in Srinagar is a truly magical sight. The famous chinar trees add a touch of red and orange, making everything look like a beautiful painting. One of the best ways to enjoy Autumn in Srinagar is to take a shikara ride to Chaar chinar. You can also visit Mughal gardens in Srinagar which presents a different view during Autumn season in Kashmir.
Also Read : Kashmir great lakes trek
When does Autumn start in Kashmir
Autumn in Kashmir starts in late September, right after the monsoon ends. The season lasts until early November and is marked by the golden color of chinar trees and cooler temperatures ranging between 12°C and 20°C. Farmers also call this the harvest season as crops like rice and apples are collected.
Weather in Autumn Season in Kashmir
During the autumn season in Kashmir, the weather is pleasantly cool with daytime temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C and nights becoming crisp and chilly. The air feels fresh and the skies remain mostly clear, making it one of the most beautiful seasons in Kashmir to explore.
Why Autumn in Kashmir Is the Best Season to Visit
Autumn is the best season to visit Kashmir because chinar trees turn golden and red, creating breathtaking landscapes. The weather is cool and pleasant, making travel comfortable. It is also harvest season for apples and saffron, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh produce. Photography and sightseeing peak during this period.
Whether you are traveling with your family or as a honeymoon couple, the autumn season in Kashmir creates the perfect environment to enjoy special moments. The golden yellow Chinar leaves falling on the ground make the Kashmir Valley look magical and provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable photoshoot.
What are the main highlights of autumn in Kashmir?
Chinar Trees: The famous Chinar trees in the Kashmir Valley display a spectacular transformation during the autumn season in Kashmir, with leaves turning golden, copper and crimson painting the valley in warm mesmerizing hues.
Dal Lake: A Shikara ride on Dal Lake offers visitors stunning reflections of the red and gold Chinar trees, creating a picture perfect experience in autumn in Kashmir Valley.
Pampore Saffron Fields: The bloom of saffron flowers in Pampore during October and November is a highlight of the season, adding vibrant colors to the beautiful seasons in Kashmir.
Mughal Gardens: Iconic gardens like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh become even more enchanting with the vibrant autumn foliage, making them must visit spots for travelers exploring autumn in Kashmir.
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir in the Autumn Season
During summer tourist prefer to visit Mughal gardens in Srinagar and take a rest underneath the chinar trees. However when Autumn arrives in Kashmir the golden leaves of chinar trees creates a romantic atmosphere and attract lots of tourists especially photographers, couples and nature lovers.
To enjoy the beauty of fall in Kashmir and discover new things, here are some great places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir during autumn.
Naseem Bagh in Autumn
Naseem Bagh, also known as the Garden of Breezes, is a Mughal garden located on the western shore of Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the oldest Mughal gardens in Kashmir. Naseem Bagh is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Naseem Bagh is famous for its majestic chinar trees. During Kashmir fall season, the ground of this garden is carpeted with red and brown leaves from chinar trees, presenting a perfect view to relax and admire nature.
Nishat Bagh (Nishat Garden)
Nishat bagh is one of the most beautiful Mughal garden in Kashmir. Nishat bagh is also known as the “Garden of bliss”. During the season of autumn in Kashmir, Nishat garden presents a view full of beautiful and vibrant colours. The garden is filled with a stunning mix of red, yellow, and orange leaves, resulting in a beautiful and pleasing scene for the eyes. Nishat bagh is the second largest Mughal garden in Kashmir.
Kokernag garden in Autumn
Kokernag garden is a beautiful botanical garden located in district Anantnag. The garden is known for its lush green lawns, majestic chinar trees, and crystal clear streams. In the Autumn season , the Kokernag botanical garden is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. The natural beauty of this garden makes it a perfect destination during the autumn season in Jammu and Kashmir.
Dachigam National park in Autumn
Dachigam National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s captivating scenery, particularly during Kashmir autumn season when the leaves of chinar trees transform into vibrant shades of fiery red and orange. Don’t forget to visit Dachigam Park when you visit Kashmir during the autumn season. You can hire a cab in Srinagar to reach Dachigam national park.
Shalimar Bagh in Autumn
Shalimar garden is the most famous and beautiful Mughal garden in Srinagar. It is also the largest Mughal garden in Kashmir. The shalimar garden is a eye catching location surrounded by tall chinar trees and many colourful flowers. In the autumn season in Kashmir , shalimar garden turns into a magical place, the leaves of chinar trees turn a fiery red and orange, creating a stunning contrast with the blue sky and white clouds. The garden is filled with the sweet sounds of bird.
Chaar Chinar in Autumn
Chaar chinar is a beautiful place located in the middle of Dal Lake Srinagar. The island is named for the four majestic chinar trees that stand at its four corners. A shikara ride to Chaar chinar is the best thing to do in Kashmir autumn season. As the sun sets ,the sky turns pink and orange, making Chaar Chinar even more enchanting and peaceful.
Pampore Saffron fields
During the autumn season in Kashmir, the fields of Pampore transform into a vibrant sea of purple as the saffron flowers bloom. Visitors and saffron enthusiasts flock to the town to admire its breathtaking beauty and to learn about the delicate and traditional process of saffron harvesting.
Pampore, famously known as the “Saffron Town of Kashmir,” is located about 14 km south of Srinagar. It is renowned for saffron cultivation because of its ideal soil and climate.
Activities to do in Autumn in Kashmir
Autumn in Kashmir offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. During the autumn season in Kashmir valley, travelers can indulge in a variety of activities:
- Sunrise or sunset shikara rides on Dal and Nigeen Lakes, with golden Chinar reflections and calm water perfect for photography.
- Garden walks and photo sessions at Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal and Naseem Bagh’s Chinar avenues.
- A visit to Saffron fields in Pampore (late October to early November) with farm tours, Kahwa tastings and curated shopping for authentic strands.
- Apple and walnut orchard experiences on the way Gulmarg and Pahalgam to including seasonal tasting and farm side tea.
- Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1) for panoramic autumn vistas, meadow strolls and golden hour photography on the golf course side.
- Old Srinagar heritage walk including areas like Zaina Kadal, Jamia Masjid, Shah-e-Hamdan and artisan clusters for papier-mâché, carpets and walnut woodwork.
- Houseboat stays on Dal or Nigeen with early morning floating market visits and lakeside chai at dawn.
- Wetland birdwatching at Hokersar and Anchar as migratory species start arriving in late autumn.
- Enjoy traditional Wazwan dinner, noon-chai and fresh bakarkhani, with seasonal specialties after cool evenings.
- Countryside drives through Pampore, Awantipora and Verinag Kokernag springs for spring side gardens and fall toned boulevards.
Autumn in Kashmir is truly one of the most beautiful seasons in Kashmir, offering experiences that combine relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Tourist Rush During Autumn Season in Kashmir
The autumn season in Kashmir is considered one of the most beautiful seasons in Kashmir, attracting travelers seeking serene landscapes and vibrant foliage. Compared to the busy summer months, the autumn months in Kashmir see a moderate tourist rush making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter and more relaxed visit.
Popular destinations like Mughal gardens Srinagar, Gulmarg, valley of Pahalgam and Pampore experience a steady flow of tourists, especially on weekends, but crowds are generally manageable. This allows visitors to enjoy autumn in Kashmir valley from the golden Chinar trees and saffron fields to scenic lakes and trekking trails without feeling overwhelmed.
Overall, autumn in Kashmir offers the perfect balance of breathtaking natural beauty and a pleasant with less crowded travel experience.
Which season in Kashmir called the golden season of Kashmir
Autumn is called the golden season of Kashmir. From late September to November, the Chinar trees turn crimson, yellow and golden, transforming the valley into a vivid landscape. The season is known for its clear skies, crisp air and breathtaking fall colors that attract photographers and travelers.
Some candid images of Autumn in Kashmir
FAQ's
Autumn in Kashmir usually begins in late September and lasts until November, with the peak months for foliage and scenic beauty being October and November.
Some top spots include Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg and the Pampore Saffron Fields. These destinations showcase the golden Chinar leaves and colorful landscapes.
The autumn season in Kashmir valley features mild, pleasant days and chilly evenings. High-altitude areas like Gulmarg or Sonmarg can experience early snowfall, so layered clothing is recommended.
Tourist rush during autumn is moderate compared to the summer season. Popular destinations see steady visitors, but overall, autumn in Kashmir offers a peaceful travel experience.
Yes, pack layered clothing, light woolens, sweaters, comfortable shoes, and warmer wear for higher altitudes to stay comfortable during autumn months in Kashmir.
Visitors can enjoy Shikara rides on Dal Lake, trekking, nature walks, photography, saffron field visits in Pampore and local cultural experiences.
The autumn season is called “Harud” in Kashmiri Language.
The months of September, October and November is considered the golden season of Kashmir.
The four seasons in Kashmir are Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
The temperature in Kashmir in autumn is very pleasant during day time, but in the morning and evening you will feel little bit cool.
The autumn in Kashmir is little bit cool in early October, and the temperature gradually decreases as winter approaches
The month of October falls in the autumn season, with daytime temperatures ranging between 12 to 20 degrees. However, mornings and evenings are chilly
