A Guide To Pahalgam In Winter: What To Expect From A Wintry Trip To Kashmir

26 Oct 2021

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Winter months are the best times to plan your vacation to any of the cities in India. When it comes to planning such tours for Kashmir especially Pahalgam to enjoy the beauty of the extensive snow-clad landscapes it rather becomes an unmatched yet immensely mesmerizing experience for a lifetime. No other place in the Indian subcontinent is as enchanting and alluring as Pahalgam during the winter months.
One has to visit the hill station to truly understand the secret behind the ever-lasting attractiveness of Pahalgam in Kashmir. That is why this region is denoted with the metaphor—the Heaven on Earth.

Winters In Pahalgam

Winter conditions envelop the entire Pahalgam city from October to February. The temperature dips with the onset of winters and keep varying throughout the season. The temperature happens to fall to even minus figures which can become unbearable for many. The coldest period in Pahalgam is from 21st December to 30th January every year and it is known as the ‘Chilai Kilan’ in the local context. As someone who is truly fond of winters, you can make it a point to visit this city during this time period. The terrain and the mountain ranges all get covered with the snows making it a scene worth witnessing.

The popular misconception is that winters in Pahalgam is not a good time to stop by this place because of the unbearable weather conditions besides lack of facilities one might have to encounter. However, this is not a true perception provided one knows where to stay in Pahalgam, what to do there during the wintertime and many other specifics important tasks to keep in mind while visiting this city during the winter months. This particular guide is going to help you plan one of the most spectacular, picturesque and memorable winter trips to Pahalgam without you having to worry about any of these misconceptions. It’s high time you defy the myths and explore the region during the winters to its fullest.

Why Choose Pahalgam For Winter Vacation

First of all, Pahalgam is a vacation destination which is suitable for any kind of tourists, whether honeymoon or family vacations. For instance, if you are someone with an artistic inclination, then you will definitely find this city to be a haven for your artistic spirit. Writers, who suffer from the writers’ block or the photographers looking for some inspiration, all can find solace in this scenic city of Kashmir.

Solo travellers find Pahalgam an immensely suitable place because the footfalls during the winter months are less in the city. This means as a solo traveller you get to enjoy the places which are unexplored and give yourself the much-needed me-time as well amidst the natural exquisiteness of the mountains and the snow-laden landscapes you would like to delve into.

Apart from that couples would find this city as the ideal honeymoon destination to preserve their momentous romantic moments of life. Would it not be amazing to get a chance to unleash your romantic side in the charming snowy city of Pahalgam in Kashmir that becomes a cherishing for you which you would like to transmit to the future generation? Sipping hot tea, enjoying the striking sceneries and having loving conversations with your loved ones in Pahalgam during your tour will surely make your trip a meaningful one to remember.

Top Places You Must Visit Pahalgam

Your winter trip to the Pahalgam city will rather remain incomplete if you don’t visit the following places:

1. Baisaran Hills

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These hills in Pahalgam are covered with the pine trees which give the look of green carpet amidst the snow-capped mountain ranges surrounding the landscapes. The stunning views of the area are bound to be embedded in your mind forever.

Must Read: 5 Astonishing Places Near Pahalgam For You To Explore In The Valley!

Kashmir Tour Packages On TravelTriangle

2. Mamleshwar Temple

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This ancient temple in the city has been built in honour of Lord Shiva and it also consists of a sanctum decorated with gold. It makes this complex a worthwhile visit for sure.

3. Pahalgam Golf Course

To all golf enthusiasts who visit this city, the golf course is certainly a heavenly place because of the striking views of the blue sky beside the white mountains and the lush green trees one gets to witness in this area. A game or two in the Golf Course is enough to give you a memory of a lifetime.

4. Betaab Valley

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Based on the name of the popular Hindi film, Betaab, this valley is definitely worth a visit in Pahalgam because of its secluded surroundings, beautiful topography and the extensive green landscapes. It is a perfect spot for the romancing couples who are there for honeymoon.

5. Sheshnag Lake

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Situated in between the alpine meadows and the snow-capped mountains, the Sheshang Lake gives you an opportunity to witness the nature at its best as if nature’s bounty is before you to grab. This glacial lake is a must-visit place for all those who love to relax in the lap of nature.

Activities To Do In Pahalgam

Pahalgam becomes a hub of winter sports and several other activities during the winter months; therefore, wintertime remains a relevant one when it comes to planning a tour on such occasions. These are the things you can do in Pahalgam to ensure that your time remains enshrined in your mind:

1. Winter Sports

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If you go on a winter trip to Pahalgam and you don’t participate in the winter sports, then it will be a total waste of your money and time. So, you must take out time to go for rafting, sledging and skiing to enjoy all these activities with the like-minded individuals.

Tip: Always keep in mind the instructions given by the trainers in order to make the most of the sports activities you are doing.

2. Trekking

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Trekking through the picturesque and awe-inspiring places in Pahalgam can give you the wonderful memories of Kashmir exploration to cherish. Trekking destinations which are popular in Pahalgam are Betaab Valley, Sheshang Lake, Aru Valley, Baisaran Hills, Tulian Lake.

3. Pony Rides

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To visit the glacial areas, pony rides are absolutely necessary and also enjoyable ones to not to miss out. Just take a pony ride and take in the beauty and serenity of the surrounding area of Pahalgam.

Tip: Just ensure you bargain and reduce the rates for the pony rides. Don’t get duped into paying more on such occasions.

4. Fishing

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Those of you who are not fond of sports can opt for fishing activity in the River Lidder and relax seeping in the solace and serenity of the area. Along with that, fishing will also help you with your blood circulation, so it is a healthy activity to do in Pahalgam during a wintertime tour.

Popular fishing activity: Trout fishing

5. Picnic Or Camping

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Since the footfall during the winters is extremely less in Pahalgam, it is the most appropriate time to go picnicking or camping in the gorgeous places in Pahalgam. Away from the hustle and bustle of life, Pahalgam offers you numerous types of opportunities to unwind during the picnic or camping activities.

Tip: Opt for this activity in October or November as in the later winter months, snowfall might make it difficult for you to camp or have a picnic outdoors.

Snowfall Festival In Pahalgam

Pahalgam is known for the snowfall festival that is conducted during the winters for the 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. The snowfall festival brings to life the ancient cultures and the traditions of Kashmir in the best possible manner. So make sure that if you want to enjoy this festival, then you should customise your travel plan accordingly.

Where Can You Stay In Pahalgam?

Since the temperature conditions can really get low, it is important that you make a comfortable and appropriate accommodation arrangement for your vacation here. The hotels situated in Pahalgam are well-equipped and maintained too. They are always full therefore you must get your booking done well in advance. You can avail winter packages offered by the best of the best hotels in this city. Doing thorough exploration will prove helpful for you to enjoy the better yet affordable deals.

Another affordable and interesting accommodation option in Pahalgam, especially for the couples or solo traveller is to hire the private huts of the locals in this area. You can approach any of the locals for renting their private huts if you are staying for a longer duration here.

How To Reach Pahalgam In Winters

By Flight: Taking a flight to Srinagar Airport which happens to be the closest airport to the city from any other city of India is highly convenient. All major airlines provide flight options which are cheaper as well.

By Train: For a more affordable option, you can opt for a train to Jammu Tawi which is the nearest train spot to Pahalgam. And, then you can take a rented taxi/cab to the city.

By Bus: If you happen to be visiting Pahalgam from any of the cities in Kashmir than you even have an option of travelling via buses. Both private and government bus ply on various routes.

By Car: Apart from that taking your own road trip to this beautiful city will also be not a bad option. However avoiding this travel option would be best to avoid getting stuck in the snow-laden roads, until you are an expert and your vehicle is sturdy.

Further Read: 10 Magnificent Lakes In Kashmir That You Must Check Out

We hope this holistic guide helps you and you are able to plan an unforgettable trip to Pahalgam in Kashmir during the winters. Just go for it to enjoy this place to the best by defying the common perception that Kashmir is unbearable during the wintertime. Get your itinerary customised to save time, energy and of course ensure maximum exploration in minimum investment.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Pahalgam In Winter

When is the snowfall season in Pahalgam?

It is during the months of December and January that snowfall is highest in Pahalgam and if you wish to indulge in the snow-fighting and other snow-related activities then plan your trip accordingly.

What are things to carry for a winter trip to Pahalgam?

The must-have necessities that you should pack for your winter trip to Pahalgam include:
1. Warm and protective winter clothing
2. Thick blankets
3. Medical kit
4. Snow boots/trekking shoes

For how many days can I plan a trip to Pahalgam in Winter?

The winter months are from October to February. So, you can plan your trip in any of these months. Around 4-5 days are enough for having a relaxing vacation in this city. But for those looking for more inspiration and have the capacity to withstand the dipping temperatures can stay for a longer duration too.

Apart from winter, what is the best time to visit Pahalgam?

If you want to avoid visiting the place in winter then you can plan a trip during the summer months as well like say in the months of March-July.