Your First Snow Trip: Kashmir from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kochi
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.
Quick answerFor a first snow trip from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad or Kochi, go in January or February. Most travellers fly to Srinagar via Delhi (check for direct seasonal flights). Plan 5 nights with an overnight in Gulmarg. Coming from 25–30°C to below freezing, pack thermals and rent snow boots and coats on the way to Gulmarg.
There is a special sound travellers from South India make when they see real snow for the first time. It is somewhere between a laugh and a gasp, and our drivers hear it every winter on the road to Gulmarg. Here is how to make sure that moment is everything you hoped.
When to go
- January and February: the most reliable snow. See when it snows in Kashmir.
- Late December: holidays and snow in a normal year, but crowded.
- Pongal, Sankranti and long weekends: popular; book early.
Getting there
- From Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kochi, most routes connect through Delhi; some cities have seasonal direct or one-stop options.
- Allow a full day for travel, and keep a buffer day on the way back for snow delays. See winter roads and flights.
- City guides: Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kerala.
Dressing for a 30-degree drop
- Thermals, a fleece and a warm waterproof jacket. See what to wear.
- Rent snow boots and long coats in Tangmarg rather than buying.
- Gloves and a cap from day one; the cold surprises everyone.
- South Indian food is available in Srinagar hotels on request, and dosa lovers will find a few spots.
A 5-night first-snow plan
- Arrive Srinagar, rest and acclimatise.
- Drive to Gulmarg, first snow, sledging; stay overnight.
- Gondola phase 1, more snow, back to Srinagar.
- Sonamarg or Pahalgam snow day.
- Srinagar: shikara, old city, shopping.
- Fly home.
What it costs
A mid-range 5-night land package is about ₹20,000–35,000 per person outside the festive week, plus flights. See winter trip costs.
Plan your first snow trip
We help first-timers with clothing lists, gear stops and heated rooms. Ask through Get My Travel Plan, or see the winter family trip guide.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Kashmir Tour Package from Tamil Nadu: How travellers from Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai and Tiruchirappalli reach Srinagar, the summer-vacation and snow seasons, food tips and costs.
- Kashmir Tour Packages from Every State of India: Travelling from any of India's 28 states? Find the fastest route to Srinagar, how many nights to plan, the best season for your region and a link to your state's full…
- Best Time to Visit Kashmir: Spring tulips, summer meadows, golden autumn chinars or deep winter snow: here is what each month in Kashmir is really like, and who it suits best.
Frequently asked questions
When can I see snow in Kashmir for the first time?
January and February are the most reliable months for snow, especially in Gulmarg.
How do I reach Kashmir from Chennai or Bangalore in winter?
Most travellers fly to Srinagar via Delhi. Check for seasonal direct or one-stop flights.
Do I need to buy snow clothes before the trip?
Bring thermals and a warm jacket. Snow boots and long coats can be rented near Gulmarg.