Best Time to Visit Kashmir: A Season-by-Season Guide

The short answer: April to June for mild weather and blooming gardens, July to September for trekking and fuller valleys, and December to February if you specifically want snow in Gulmarg. There isn't a single "best" month — it depends on what you want from the trip.

Spring (March–May)

Srinagar's Mughal gardens are at their best as tulips and other flowers bloom through April. Temperatures are mild in the city (10–22°C) but higher-altitude spots like Gulmarg and Sonamarg can still have leftover snow and be quite cold, especially in March.

Summer (June–August)

This is peak season for a reason — all roads and attractions are typically open, Pahalgam's valleys are fully green, and it's the main window for the Amarnath Yatra. Srinagar can get warm in the afternoons (up to 30°C) but evenings stay cool.

Autumn (September–November)

A quieter, often underrated season. Chinar trees turn gold and red through October, crowds thin out, and hotel rates are generally lower. Weather is stable through most of this window, with the chance of early snow from late November.

Winter (December–February)

This is when Gulmarg becomes a ski destination and Srinagar occasionally sees snowfall. Expect sub-zero nights and the need for heavy winter clothing. Some roads to remote areas like Gurez close entirely.

Our take

If this is your first Kashmir trip and you want the most reliable weather across Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam together, April–June or September–October are the safest windows. If snow is the priority, plan for Gulmarg specifically in January–February.