Snowfall in Kashmir

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Best time to see snow in Kashmir

Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth, is a breathtakingly beautiful valley located in the northern part of India. Known for its stunning landscapes, lush green valleys, and snow capped mountains, becomes even more beautiful during Snowfall. The beautiful valley is surrounded by majestic mountains and dotted with pristine lakes. During snowfall, Kashmir presents an entirely different look.

The lush green meadows of Kashmir is now completely covered under the thick blanket of snow which turns Kashmir into a winter wonderland.  During winter the famous Dal Lake freezes, and the whole Kashmir wears snowy blanket turning Kashmir into a peaceful and enchanting snowy paradise.

The best month to see the snowfall in Kashmir is January. During this month, Kashmir experiences heavy to very heavy snowfall. The month of January is also a part of the harsh winter period known as ‘Chilai-Kalan’.

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When Can You See Snow in Kashmir?

If you are planning to experience snowfall in Kashmir, the main snowfall season starts from December to February when popular destinations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam are covered in fresh snow. Snow begins falling in Kashmir from late November at higher altitudes like Sinthan top, Razdan top, Apharwat peak in Gulmarg, Zero point in Sonmarg, but the best time to see snow in Kashmir is during peak winter months from December to January.

You can see snow in Kashmir from December to March. Peak snowfall occurs in January and February, especially in Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam. These months are ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Snow remains in higher altitudes until early April.

When Does It Snow in Kashmir?

Snowfall in Kashmir typically begins in late November at higher altitudes like Gulmarg and Sonamarg, with the main season peaking between December and February. The heaviest snow usually falls in January, especially in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, which are top destinations for snowfall lovers. As winter progresses, temperatures drop, turning rain into snow, and the snow may continue sporadically into March depending on elevation and weather patterns.

Snowfall season in Kashmir

The snowfall season in Kashmir starts from December to February. But if the temperature goes down, snowfall can happen even in September or October. Last year (2024), the upper mountains of Kashmir received the season’s first snowfall in late September  month. The Apharwat peak in Gulmarg also receives the first snowfall during the month of September. Snowfall can also occur in Kashmir in the months of March or April. But the chances are very low.

The snowfall months in Kashmir typically start from December to March, during these months the valley is covered with a thick blanket of snow which presents mesmerizing and breathtaking views.

Landscape Photography of snowfall in kashmir

Best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall

If you are visiting Kashmir to experience and enjoy the snowfall. Then you should visit Kashmir during the months of  December to February . During these months the winter season in Kashmir is on its peak. The chances of snowfall is very high during these months. So, the best time to visit Kashmir to enjoy snowfall is from December to February . The whole Kashmir presents a mesmerizing and breathtaking view during these months

The best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall is from late December to early February, with January being the peak month for snowfall in Kashmir. During this period, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg receive heavy snowfall, offering peak winter experiences. Temperatures often drop below freezing, ensuring snow-covered landscapes ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
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Snow in Kashmir

Every year the valley of Kashmir witness snowfall especially during the winter months from December to February. This snowy season not only enhances the natural beauty of Kashmir but also provides an opportunity for winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy activities like skiing in Gulmarg and snowboarding.

January is the best month to visit Kashmir for snowfall. During this month, the temperature drops to -9 degrees Celsius in Srinagar, while in Gulmarg, it can drop even further to -15 degrees Celsius.

Srinagar snowfall

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the snowfall season of Kashmir. The houseboats on Dal Lake appear even more beautiful with the snow covered background. To enjoy snowfall in srinagar in December, you must visit Srinagar in the month of December or January. The main attraction of Srinagar, Dal Lake completely freezes during the period of ‘Chilai-Kalan,’ the harsh winter period in Kashmir.

2 person in white pants and black snow ski blades standing on snow covered ground during skiing in Gulmarg
SRINAGAR WEATHER

Time of snowfall in Kashmir LIVE

The time of snowfall can vary from year to year, depending on weather conditions. Snowfall can happen at any time during the months of October to March. During these months snowfall chances are high in higher altitude areas  like Apharwat peak in Gulmarg, Peer ki gali, Razdan top Gurez, Sinthan top and some other higher places. But If you are lucky you can enjoy the snowfall in Gulmarg, Sonamarg or in Pahalgam during these months. The plains of Kashmir receives snowfall during the months of December and January. This period is considered the harsh period of winter and is locally known as “Chilai Kalan”. So the best time for snowfall is from December to January.
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Fresh snowfall in kashmir

Landscape Photography of snowfall in kashmir

Are you looking for a fresh snowfall or see it live ? Your wait is over! Plan your visit in December, you will definitely going to experience the fresh snowfall at most hilly places. Get ready for play snow fights with your loved ones and join in a friendly competition to create the best snowman. Visit Gulmarg or Sonamarg to enjoy the season’s first snowfall. Gulmarg receives around 4 feet in of snow in March 2025. Apart from Gulmarg, you can also enjoy live snowfall in Sonmarg.

Best Snow destinations to enjoy in Kashmir

Kashmir is located in the Himalayan region and receives heavy snowfall in witners. During winter season Kashmir becomes a paradise for snow lovers and there are many amazing destinations to enjoy snow in the region. Here are some of the best snow destinations to enjoy in Kashmir:  Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Doodhpathri, Yusmarg, Srinagar, Sinthan top, Gurez valley.

Best Months to see snowfall in Kashmir

December
The real winter magic starts from December when the first snowflakes cover the mountains and valleys. Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg receive consistent snowfall, while Srinagar starts experiencing light snow towards the end of the month. Temperatures range from -2°C to 10°C, and Dal Lake begins to freeze in parts.

January
The peak snowfall in Kashmir is during January. This is the coldest month of the year and the whole valley looks like a white paradise. It is the best time for adventure lovers who want to try skiing, snowboarding, or a ride on the famous Gulmarg Gondola. If you dream of experiencing thick snow all around you, then January is the perfect month to visit. During this month temperatures dropping as low as -9°C to 4°C.

February
February is another great time to see snow in Kashmir. The weather becomes a little clearer compared to January and you can still enjoy heavy snowfall in places like Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Pahalgam. The sunshine during the day makes it more comfortable to explore while still enjoying the winter charm. Tourists love this month because it combines pleasant weather with snowy landscapes.

March
By March, the snow begins to melt in lower areas like Srinagar, but higher regions such as Gulmarg, Sonmarg and upper Pahalgam still remain covered in snow. This makes March a unique time to experience both snow at higher altitudes and the beginning of spring blossoms in the valley.

Is there snow in Kashmir in May

No, there is generally no snowfall in Kashmir during May month, as this is when winter transitions to spring and snow has completely melted from lower elevations. However, snow can still be seen at higher altitudes such as Apharwat Peak (Gondola second phase), Sinthan top, Razdan pass.

Is there snow in Kashmir in October

In Kashmir, snowfall in October is very uncommon but not impossible, especially in higher elevations of Kashmir. While the lower valleys such as Srinagar typically enjoy crisp autumn without snow, places like Gulmarg gondola second phase, Gurez Valley’s Razdan Pass, Sonamarg, sinthan top and other alpine areas can occasionally receive light snow by mid to late October. On rare occasions, such as in late October, higher reaches have been dusted with snow, especially during active western disturbances. However, consistent snowfall does not occur until later in the year, with December marking the true start of the snow season.

Snow in Gulmarg

To enjoy Gulmarg snowfall, you should visit Gulmarg in December or January. In January Gulmarg receives heavy snowfall. During the snow season , Gulmarg becomes a snowy paradise for skiing lovers and snowboarding lovers. The famous Gulmarg ski resort becomes the main attraction for winter sports enthusiasts. Gulmarg is famous for its powdery slopes, making it a paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

The famous Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, provides breathtaking views of the snow covered peaks. Now you can also enjoy Helicopter ride in Gulmarg.

Fresh snowfall in Gulmarg

fresh snowfall in gulmarg
GULMARG WEATHER

Snowfall in Pahalgam

Pahalgam is another famous tourist destinations where you can enjoy the snowfall. The chances of snowfall in Pahalgam begin from the month of November. To enjoy the Pahalgam snowfall you should visit Pahalgam in the months of December or January. Interestingly, you can even enjoy snow in Pahalgam in April, particularly in the upper regions of Pahalgam.Book JKTDC huts in Pahalgam.

PAHALGAM WEATHER

Snowfall in Sonmarg

Another beautiful destination where you can experience the true magic of snowfall is Sonamarg. The snow in Sonamarg transforms the lush green meadows into a winter wonderland, covering the entire region with a shiny blanket of snow. The best time to enjoy Sonamarg snowfall is during the months of December and January. Zero point in Sonamarg is the place where you can enjoy the snow in Sonmarg in May. You can do snow sledging , snow biking at Zero point in the months of April or May.

You can also enjoy fresh snowfall in Sonamarg, as Sonamarg receives its first snowfall of the season on November 11, 2024. There is also a prediction of snowfall from 15 November to 17 November 2024.

SONAMARG WEATHER
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FAQ's

The chances of snowfall in April are very low.

The chances of snowfall in Kashmir starts from November to March. In December and January the snowfall chances are very high.

Yes, there is a good chance of snowfall in  February month for Kashmir.

The snowfall time in Kashmir begin from the month of December and lasts till the end of March.

January is the month with a high chance of snowfall in Kashmir.

The snowfall in Kashmir usually starts from November month. And  on 11 November some tourist places in Kashmir like Sonmarg, Gulmarg phase 2 and Zero point  received fresh snowfall .

In the month of January the chances of snowfall is very high. Gulmarg receives heavy snowfall during the months of December and January.