Best Time to Visit Kashmir

Summer in Jammu and Kashmir is a dreamy sight to behold, and it is irrefutably the best season to visit Kashmir. Summertime lasts from May to August in Jammu and Kashmir. It is the right time to bask in the sun with a pleasant climate surrounded by the towering Himalayas. The colourful flowers, lush green valleys, blue skies, picturesque streams, high-altitude lakes, and snowcapped mountains are enough to leave travellers in awe. The season sees a high influx of tourists, as it is the ideal time to opt for outdoor activities such as river rafting, trekking, ziplining, and boating.

• Temperature: 15°C – 30°C (day) and 0°C – 20°C (night)
• Festivals of the season: Tulip Festival, Sufi Festivals, and Amarnath Yatra
• Pros: Pleasant weather and accessible roads
• Cons: Overcrowded and more expensive

Spring in Jammu and Kashmir starts in March and extends till April and is ultimately one of the best time to visit Kashmir. Spring is a time when the place begins to look alive with explosions of colours and fragrance. As the snow slowly melts away, the temperature becomes bearable, and outdoor activities resume. Travellers usually consider this time to experience the lush valleys with comparatively fewer crowds. The flowers in full bloom make the vacation a completely worthwhile experience.

• Temperature: 10°C – 20°C (day) and 5°C – 10°C (night)
• Festivals of the season: Shikara Festival, Tulip Festival, and Holi
• Pros: Mild weather and beautiful flower blossoms
• Cons: Occasional rains and a few regions are still not accessible due to snow

Winter is an absolutely magical time that turns the place into a snowy wonderland. The months from December to February are a good time to visit Kashmir because it’s the only time to try skiing, snowboarding, and other bucket list snow activities. Jammu typically has a milder temperature compared to the Kashmir Valley. It’s also perfect for tourists and honeymooners expecting a cosy stay in the midst of snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes.

• Temperature: -2°C to 10°C (day) and can drop to -6°C in higher altitudes at night
• Festivals of the season: Lohri, Christmas, and New Year Celebrations
• Pros: Enjoy snowfall and snowsports
• Cons: Roads may be blocked and flights may get delayed due to weather conditions

Autumn in Jammu and Kashmir lasts from September to November, exuding the hues of yellow and orange. Autumn might not be the ideal time to visit Kashmir for adventure and outdoor activities, but it is still a great time to uncover its beauty without crowds. Activities will be available depending on the area and weather. A stroll through the meadows and valleys displaying the beauty of dried leaves is sure to make anyone fall in love with the place. It is also a wonderful time to go on treks and spend time outdoors.  

• Temperature: 10°C – 20°C (day) and 4°C – 10°C (night)
• Festivals of the season: Navratri & Durga Puja and Diwali
• Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices
• Cons: Days are shorter, and some adventure activities like river rafting are not available.

It is evident that all of these seasons are irresistible, but make sure to consider everything you want to experience to decide on your best month to visit Kashmir. Although Jammu and Kashmir is great year-round, it is safer to avoid the monsoon months. It is still beautiful at this time of year but has chances of unpredictable weather, severe rains, and road closures. Make sure to make informed decisions and have an incredible time at the heavenly destination.