Best Places to See Snow in Kashmir (and When to Go)
Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Yusmarg and even Srinagar itself: where the snow is most reliable, how to get there in winter, and which places are closed.
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Quick answerFor reliable snow, go to Gulmarg (late December to March), then Sonamarg (year-round road access since the Z-Morh tunnel opened in 2025) and Pahalgam. Srinagar gets occasional snowfalls, usually in January. January and February are the most reliable months.
Every winter, thousands of Indian families fly to Kashmir with one goal: snow. Not a light dusting, but the kind you can fall into backwards and make an angel in. Here is where to find it, and how to plan so the snow does not find you stuck on a closed road.
Where to go
| Place | Snow season | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| Gulmarg | Late Dec–Mar | Deepest, most reliable snow; skiing; Gulmarg Gondola |
| Sonamarg | Dec–Mar | Dramatic peaks; road access year-round since the Z-Morh tunnel |
| Pahalgam | Dec–Feb | Snowy pines along the Lidder |
| Yusmarg | Dec–Feb | Quiet snowy meadows; check the road |
| Srinagar | Occasional, mostly Jan | Snow on houseboats and Mughal gardens |
Gurez is cut off by road in winter, and several high spots are on the district closure lists for 2026, so stick to the places above.
When to go
- Late December: snow is likely in Gulmarg but not guaranteed; Christmas week is busy.
- January–February: the most reliable snow everywhere.
- March: still snowy up high, sunnier days.
Winter travel tips
- Keep a buffer day: flights and roads can be delayed by snow.
- Snow chains or a local 4x4 may be needed beyond Tangmarg and in Pahalgam.
- Rent snow boots and coats in Gulmarg or Tangmarg; check the fit.
- Choose heated rooms. Read our winter guide and packing list.
Things to do in the snow
Sledging, skiing, snowmobiles and the Gondola. See our sledging guide, snowmobile guide and skiing guide.
Plan it into your trip
A winter 5 nights 6 days package with two Gulmarg nights is the classic snow trip. Tell our team your dates through Get My Travel Plan.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Your First Snow Trip: Never seen snow? A first-timer's guide for travellers from South India: when to go, how to fly, what to wear coming from a warm city and a 5-night snow plan.
- When Does It Snow in Kashmir?: When the first snow usually falls in Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam and Srinagar, which months are most reliable, and how to plan a trip around snow.
- Sonamarg in Winter: Sonamarg used to shut for winter. Since the Z-Morh tunnel opened in January 2025, the "meadow of gold" has become a snowfield you can drive to.
- Pahalgam in Winter: Snow-heavy pines, a half-frozen river and very few crowds. What Pahalgam is like from December to February, what is open, road access and where to stay warm.
- Kashmir Tour Package from Kerala: From backwater houseboats to Dal Lake houseboats. How Keralites reach Srinagar from Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram or Kozhikode, when to see snow, and costs.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best place to see snow in Kashmir?
Gulmarg has the deepest and most reliable snow, usually from late December to March.
Does it snow in Srinagar?
Occasionally, usually a few times in winter, most often in January.
Is Sonamarg open in winter?
Road access has been year-round since the Z-Morh tunnel opened in January 2025, though heavy snow can close the road briefly.
Which month is best for snow in Kashmir?
January and February are the most reliable.
Still have questions about your Kashmir trip?
Our Srinagar-based team answers on WhatsApp, usually within minutes.
