With the first snowfall in Jammu & Kashmir, a cold breeze sweeps the country, and the entire nation starts feeling the onset of winter. Being a tropical country, rarely do we ever see snowfall. This is where tourism comes in; the northernmost states call you to enjoy a magical snowy vacation this winter. Whether you’re planning your honeymoon visit, a trip with friends or a family holiday, Kashmir has a lot of popular as well as offbeat destinations to offer where you can take part in snow sports and snow fights. From valleys to mountains, pine forests to apple orchards, you’re guaranteed to have a great time this winter 2024.
Places To See Snowfall In Jammu & Kashmir This Winter
So, here is a list of the best cities, towns, offbeat countryside villages and flowery valleys which bloom with a pristine pearl-white beauty in the snowy season. For the adventure freaks, there are ski resorts and snowboarding available, and the wild-hearted would not want to miss the snow leopards.
- Srinagar
- Gulmarg
- Pahalgam
- Anantnag
- Kargil
- Sonmarg
- Kupwara
- Yusmarg
- Pulwama
- Betaab Valley
- Patnitop
- Aru Valley
- Hemis
- Poonch
- Kishtwar
1. Srinagar
Image Credit: Suhail Skindar Sofi for Wikipedia
One of the first stopovers while exploring the beauty of Kashmir is Srinagar – the biggest city in the region. It is one of the top places to experience snowfall in Kashmir. The place is enclosed by green mountains, which turn to white in the winters with abundant snowfall. The charming Dal Lake is located in Srinagar. The joy of taking a romantic boat ride in the beautiful lakes of Kashmir or staying in the best houseboats in Kashmir is incomparable. As the mercury starts to dip, the Dal Lake becomes partially frozen, reflecting the beauty of the snow-capped peaks for which reason Srinagar is also known as “the mirror to the mountains”. Srinagar has everything from boating, trekking, bird watching, and water skiing and is best visited during the time of snowfall in Kashmir.
Also Read: Srinagar In December
2. Gulmarg
Image Credit:Mohamad Talib Bhat for Wikimedia Commons
Gulmarg, popularly known as the “Meadow of Flowers”, might be comparable to the Garden of Eden in summer, but becomes a wintery wonderland in December to February. It is a treat to the eyes with its spread of vibrant flowers against snow-capped mountains as backgrounds. Gulmarg and Sonamarg are the most popular places to visit in Kashmir in winter for adventure enthusiasts who brave the sub-zero temperature to make the winter memorable. Hot air ballooning, skating, and heli-skiing are some very popular activities to take up while planning a trip to Kashmir in the snowy season. You’ll also see a lot of operators providing scenic cable car rides through the valley which is the perfect way to take in the sublime beauty of the snowscape of Gulmarg.
3. Pahalgam
Situated at an altitude of 2740 m and surrounded by dense forests, beautiful lakes and flower meadows, Pahalgam is a vision of heaven on earth. Pahalgam is popular for the snowfall festival that is conducted during the winter for tourists and locals. There are winter sports in which people can participate. There are artists, potters, photographers, musicians etc. showcasing their talents during this festival. Untouched by the trappings of civilization, Pahalgam offers myriad options for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts as well as spiritual seekers. When in Pahalgam, you must take out time to go for rafting, sledging and skiing. It might arguably be the best place to experience snowfall in Jammu Kashmir.
Related Post: Pahalgam In Winter
4. Anantnag
Adorned with lush gardens and freshwater springs, Anantnag is a heavenly destination. A great destination to see snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, the district is filled with many places of interest and particular hidden charms. From ancient temples to remains of historical places, local markets full of charm, and serene lakes, there is something for everyone. With the stunning Jhelum River located here, there is no dearth of natural beauty. Hence, the place offers quite a peculiar mixture of nature’s beauty with cultural heritage. Go skiing and snowfighting with your partner this winter to take full advantage of the snowfall of Kashmir.
5. Kargil
Image Credit: Thekargilwala for Wikimedia Commons
This is a picturesque historical little town that became popular during Operation Vijay, more well known among people as the Kargil War fought between Pakistan and India in 2009. Now, this town has emerged as a well-known holiday resort and attracts innumerable nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history freaks equally. Located amid the Suru Valley, Kargil is surrounded by enticing natural scenery, lush green fields, glacial rivers and arid mountain ranges that are a delightful sight altogether.
Related Post: Ladakh In Winter
6. Sonmarg
Image Credit: Wikiditot for Wikipedia
Sonamarg is one of the first places to receive fresh snowfall in Kashmir. As the name suggests, this ‘Meadow of Gold’ is a very significant natural and tourism centre. Endless streams of gorgeous flowers and undulating paths amid rolling hills are some of the great attractions of Sonamarg. The beauty of Sonamarg is breathtaking, but one must take care to listen carefully to their instructors at all times, keep trekking maps on them, and keep up with news of avalanches and heavy snowfalls. It always pays to be well-prepared. You can also visit the many lakes of Sonmarg – Gangabal Lake, Satsar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Vishnasar Lake, etc. It is a place that is worth adding to your travel itinerary.
7. Kupwara
One of the best-hidden places to visit to see snowfall in Kashmir in 2024 is Kupwara. With stretches of green valley, crystal rivers, gorgeous villages, and historic places, this northern district of Kashmir is ideal for all kinds of travellers. Located about 80 km away from Srinagar, Kupwara’s distinctive charm lies in its several picturesque valleys like Bangus Valley and Lolab Valley. It is an ideal spot for a warm cozy cabin stay amid the natural splendour of Kashmir. Go on hot chocolate dates with your significant other, enjoy the snowfall of Jammu and Kashmir, and forget that a world exists outside of this one perfect moment.
Related Post: Kupwara In Kashmir
8. Yusmarg
Yusmarg, Kashmir, is a gift of nature, and its beauty is mesmerising. The meadows are covered by green grass with flowers of all different colours, and sheep and horses are seen feeding. The pine forest surrounding the snowy mountains of the Pir Panjal range provides a beautiful view. Yusmarg is another one of the top destinations best suited for experiencing snow in Kashmir. Visit the local villages and try the local delicacy, Kasmiri Wazwan. You must not forget to also visit Nil Nag Lake, a charming place perfectly suited for a picnic or a romantic sunset boat ride.
9. Pulwama
About 40 km from Srinagar, Pulwama is the “rice bowl of Kashmir”. It is a quaint village that is not just agriculturally important to the state’s landscape, but a picture-perfect place ideal for a wintery honeymoon. Vast fields of saffron, paddy, and apple orchards make up the countryside opposite the snow-capped mountains and hills. Due to the altitude and the proximity to the Himalayas, Due to proximity to the Himalayan ranges, Pulwama experiences a lot of snowfall during winter. The temperatures generally range between 3 to 7 degrees Celsius. Pack yourselves some warm clothes, and enjoy snowfall in Kashmir to the fullest.
Related Post: Pulwama Travel Guide
10. Betaab Valley
What could be a better place for a snowy honeymoon getaway than a place called Betaab Valley? Originally called the Hajan Valley, it got this name from the 1983 Amrita Gill and Sunny Deol starrer film which was shot here. A marvellous destination for seeing snowfall in Jammu Kashmir, the valley is surrounded by towering mountains, lush green meadows, and pine forests, all of which are covered under one or two layers of snow. When you take in the surreal beauty of the place, you get the feeling that you have somehow been transported inside a glittering snow globe. Go for a picnic at the riverside, try your hand at activities like snow sledging and pony rides, and there are also many hiking trails for the bold of heart.
11. Patnitop
From witnessing the stunning views from Nathatop to trekking the trails of Billoo Ki Powri, Patnitop is a hidden gem in Kashmir surrounded by magical mountains and lush greenery. A great place to observe snowfall in Kashmir 2024, Patnitop must be your go-to destination if you’re looking for an offbeat vacation without tourists crowding. The majestic sky-high Himalayas loom over you as you go for a hike among the snowy woods. You can enjoy your favourite snow sports in Patnitop. Returning from a Kashmir vacation without partaking in snowy adventure activities is almost like a sin. Enjoy an adventurous and romantic vacation while experiencing fresh snowfall in Kashmir.
Related Post: Places To Visit In Patnitop
12. Aru Valley
Located 12 km from Pahalgam, Aru Valley is a picturesque place in Kashmir and perhaps the world. The valley boasts meadows, pine trees, and clear streams where visitors can enjoy a one-of-a-kind vacation experience. The valley serves as a base camp for several treks and lakes, including Tarsar Lake and Kolhoi Glacier. There are plenty of super pretty places in the valley to take pictures, and excellent places to rest and go picnicking with your family. The Lidder River passes through the Valley, a beautiful meadow famous for its trout and crystal-clear water.
13. Hemis
Hemis is a small village 40 km southeast of Leh. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, it is one of the best places to visit in Kashmir in the summer. The place is popularly known for its national park which houses rare and wonderful species of animals like snow leopards, Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolves, Eurasian brown bears, red foxes and Bharals, all the animals you’d see in a snowy ecosystem. The place is blessed with rich flora as well. The jungles spread around the village and snow-capped mountains looming over you overwhelm your senses with joy and astonishment. The Hemis Monastery is another great place to visit while you’re visiting here. The annual Hemis Cultural Festival is also held on the monastery grounds. Hemis is therefore the perfect place to observe snowfall in Kashmir and all aspects of nature in its raw elegance.
Related Post: Hemis National Park
14. Poonch
Poonch is undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful and must-visit places in Kashmir for seeing snow. The lush green meadows, the view of snow-capped mountains, and the eighteenth-century Poonch Fort combine to weave a panorama that makes you weak in the knees. The seven lakes of Girgan Dhok have to be on your itinerary, alongside many religious shrines like Baksh Sahib and Gurudwara Nangali Sahib. The place easily lends itself to tourism since it has so many places of natural, religious, and aesthetic significance. Sprawling across an area of 7,500 sq. m, the glorious Poonch Fort is a decadent piece of Mughal architecture. So, you must visit this little slice of heaven during the time of snowfall in Kashmir at all costs.
15. Kishtwar
Like Hemis, Kishtwar is another place in Jammu & Kashmir that wows animal lovers. It is home to Kishtwar National Park which is spread over an area of about 400 square kilometres of rough steep gorges and lovely meadows. In the national park, you’ll see animals like snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears, Kashmir stag/hangul, and the Himalayan musk deer. Possessing great scenic beauty, varied biodiversity, and challenging treks; Kishtwar is a Mecca for wildlife and nature lovers. Fragrant and tall pine and deodar trees in the snowy landscape of Kishtwar remind one of the exotic European settings for romantic Bollywood songs from the 2000s.
Related Post: Places To Visit In Kashmir
Best Time To Visit To See Snowfall In Kashmir
Image Credit: Nadeem iqbal 84 for Wikimedia Commons
If you wish to see snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, then this is certainly the best time for you to visit and you must plan a trip during the winter months of December to February. Kashmir and its flowery fragrant valleys are a year-round destination, but during the winter the place turns into a wintery wonderland. The temperature can go into the negative degrees (up to -10 degrees during peak winter in January), so make sure to pack warm clothes and take protective measures.
How To Reach Jammu and Kashmir
By Air: Jammu airport is connected to various parts of India through a flawless flight network. Domestic flights from cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Srinagar, and Goa have credible connectivity to Jammu. Furthermore, the Srinagar International Airport has an even wider reach and can connect you to destinations globally.
By Road: Jammu and Srinagar are connected via the National Highway NH1. One can access the J&K state corporation buses or take a taxi. A road trip in a rented vehicle or a car is also a brilliant idea to enjoy all the scenic spots and landscapes along the journey.
By Train: The railways are one of the most comfortable and affordable modes of transport. Jammu-Tawi Station is the nearest railway station from Jammu, the winter capital of J&K, situated 6.7 km from the city centre. Regular express trains from Jammu to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Trivandrum run efficiently.
You May Also Like To Read: Winter In Kashmir
So, now you know all the best snowy destinations to visit to celebrate the icy season. Adventures plenty await you in Jammu & Kashmir this winter. Visit the above-mentioned paradisiacal destinations and have the time of your life. We hope this was a helpful resource for planning a great trip to Kashmir.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Snowfall In Jammu And Kashmir
Is there snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir?
Yes, it snows in Jammu and Kashmir every year. Since the region is located at an altitude of 1500 meters to 5000 meters, it gets frigid up in the mountains and beautiful strands of snow start falling come December.
Which month is there snowfall in Kashmir?
Snowfall happens in Kashmir all through December to February. Often you’ll see early snowfall in the month of November as well in some part of the region.
Can we see snow in Srinagar?
Yes, Srinagar see snow in the winter season. The city turns quite gorgeous under blankets of snow in November to February.
Which place is best for snow in Kashmir?
The very best places to experience snowfall in Kashmir are the amazing trinity of tourist hubs - Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Gulmarg. Srinagar is the popular choice too, but there are many offbeat and smaller cities that one can visit and enjoy a tranquil time in snowfall season.
Is there snowfall in Pahalgam?
Yes, there is a lot of snowfall in Pahalgam. The city is popular as a snowy tourist attraction with services available for cable car rides through the snow-capped mountains and facilities for snow sports like snowboarding, skiing, and sledging.
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Abhay Kumar is a graduate of English Literature. Writing is both his hobby and his passion. He writes academic research articles as well as poetry and short fiction. He loves reading science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, and translated fiction. He also loves traveling and writing about himself in the third person.
