If Kashmir is often called ‘heaven on earth’, you have Mughal emperor Jahangir to thank for this observation. Best time to visit Kashmir is during the months of March to August. Tourists come to Kashmir valley so they too can witness this ‘heaven on earth’ and enjoy all that it offers. During this period two seasons are covered in Kashmir. Spring (March to early May) and Summer (early May to late August). The blossoms of spring and the cool weather of summer creates the perfect season to visit Kashmir during this time. The beauty is enough to transport you to another realm altogether. Kashmir’s beauty is indeed quite bewitching, and you will want to start making plans for the next trip right away.

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Tourists come to Kashmir valley so they too can witness this ‘heaven on earth’ and enjoy all that it offers. The resplendent Mughal Gardens see tourists walking through the gently perfumed rows of flowers, while the elegant shikharas can be seen on Dal Lake as they skim the surface of the pretty Dal Lake with its backdrop of mountains. The beauty is enough to transport you to another realm altogether. Kashmir’s beauty is indeed quite bewitching, and you will want to start making plans for the next trip right away. Kashmir is also one of the few places in India that experiences four seasons - summer, monsoon, autumn and winter.

Conclusion - March to August is the best time to visit Kashmir. Often called “The heaven on Earth”, due to its pristine beauty. Yet, not all seasons are best in terms of visiting, due to it being a cold region. Two best seasons to visit Kashmir. Spring (March-early May) and Summer (early May-late August).

Peak Season – Summer

Shoulder Season – Autumn

Low Season – Monsoon

Kashmir In Summer (March to May)

Temperature – During summer, the temperatures are not very high and often don’t exceed a high of 30 to 31°C. The lower temperatures also range around 9 to 15°C.

Weather – Summer weather in Kashmir tends to be a little on the warm side, just enough for the locals to use their ceiling fans. Although the days are warm, the nights can still be quite cold.

Significance – Kashmir remains the dream of many newly married couples as the ultimate honeymoon destination, and why not? The weather is nearly perfect and a shikhara ride on the glassy surface of the Dal Lake is every romantic’s dream come true. If you can make it, try going on a shikhara ride early in the day during the morning prayers. The shikharas serve as markets in the morning and the scene is surreal and beautiful. Kashmir during the summers is also a great chance to observe the way of life of the people in the valley. Some people like to stay in the houseboats that are stationed on the lake and its overall a delightful experience.

Why you should visit now – Summer in Kashmir is quite thrilling because of the sights of the pretty flowers in the Mughal Gardens, which bloom profusely during this time. During summer, Kashmir also is the destination for many pilgrims who want to visit Amarnath for the Amarnath Yatra. Other places like Pahalgam and Sonamarg are stunning during the summer, making it the best time to visit Kashmir. With the weather being so clear and gorgeous, it explains why many people plan their summer vacations in Kashmir. However, it’s best to stay clear of Jammu as it can be quite hot during this time.

Things to know before the visit – Since summer is peak season, be prepared for skyrocketing prices of hotels and other such establishments. Even flight tickets are expensive and since tourism plays a huge role in the economy, everything shoots up during this time, whether it’s the taxi or autos on the road or the shikhara boat rides. Nevertheless, most of these problems can be avoided if you book everything in advance.

Tips – Summer in Kashmir might be a little warm, but evenings and nights can get quite cold. If you don’t want to experience the uncomfortable cold, then make sure you carry some warm clothes with you such as shawls, jackets, mufflers, mittens and socks. During the day, don’t forget to use some sunscreen and lip balm to prevent dry skin from creating an agonising experience. Don’t miss out trying out the authentic Kashmiri wazwan dining experience when you’re here.

Kashmir In Monsoon (June to September)

Temperature – During the time, the temperature ranges from lows of 15°C to highs of 30°C.

Weather – During monsoon, the rains reduce some of the summer heat, especially in places like Jammu. Jammu sees quite a bit of rainfall actually and can become quite humid although Srinagar remains comfortably cool. However, not all parts of Kashmir get rainfall equally and thus the weather also varies quite a bit.

Significance – Although monsoons are considered as an off season or shoulder season in Kashmir, visiting here during the monsoons can be an experience in itself. The warm sunny days of summer are just behind us and the clouds cover the sky often, resulting in showers that cool the earth. The weather is pleasant and comfortable and nearly perfect in many aspects.

Why you should visit now – Since many people consider the monsoons to be off season, you will be able to get some good deals on hotels or package tours and thus save money. Flight tickets are also reasonably priced during this time. Monsoon in Kashmir is also when apple-picking takes place and you can consider yourself lucky if you’re able to take part in this activity. 

Things to know before the visit – Many people prefer to avoid visiting Kashmir during monsoon because the rain might hamper their plans of sightseeing. But it’s always a great idea to check weather forecasts before you leave as not all places are rainy and there’s a good chance you will get to enjoy the many sights here without facing tourist rush.

Tips – Although monsoon is not as cold as winter, it can still be quite chilly for those who are not used to the weather in Kashmir. Although monsoon brings with some humidity as well, you have to bring along your rain gear and other such items such as raincoats, jackets and some sturdy boots.

Kashmir In Winter (November to February)

Temperature – From the months of November to February, expect low temperatures of 0°C and sub-zero too. High temperatures don’t often go beyond 15°C.

Weather – The weather is significantly colder now as temperatures often go below zero. Nights can get very cold at this time and you can see snow in Srinagar, Gulmarg and Sonmarg. For those who relish the idea of a winter wonderland, then Kashmir during winter can get quite exciting. Jammu is not as cold as Srinagar and that’s why it’s the winter capital.

Significance – Although winter is not the preferred time to visit Kashmir for many people as the cold acts as a deterrent, this is the perfect time for winter sports. With snow all around you, it often looks like a sea of white and places like Gulmarg can look quite enchanting. If you love cold weather and enjoy playing in the snow, then this is definitely the best time to visit Kashmir.Make sure that you also know How to reach Kashmir in the most convenient manner

Why you should visit now – Srinagar tends to be colder than Jammu but people still come here nonetheless. Of course, December and January might actually get very cold for non-locals to feel comfortable but otherwise, Kashmir in December has everything dreamy written all over it. The Pir-Panjal range is also covered with snow completely, making for an enchanting sight. Winter is also the time when winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding really takes off. There are also cable car rides that are stunning and unforgettable. The sea of white in Gulmarg can be most wonderful if you’re secretly a snow queen or king at heart.

Things to know before the visit – Most activities that are possible during the rest of the year, such as shikhara rides on the Dal Lake and visiting the Mughal Gardens are not feasible during winter. So don’t be disappointed if you’re not able to do any of those activities. However, winter visits are perfect for winter sports and for enthusiastic trekkers. Since winter is also a popular time for visiting Kashmir, you might find that hotel prices and flight tickets are higher around this time. It’s always a better idea to book your package tour in advance so you pay competitive rates.

Tips – Winter in Kashmir, if you’re not in Jammu especially, can be quite cold. Getting warm clothes with you is a must. Sweaters, jackets, warm socks, mufflers, mittens and thermal underwear have to be included in your packing or you will not be able to endure the cold weather. People are also known to get dehydrated in winter because they don’t drink enough water. Make sure you sip lots of warm water or even kahwa to ensure your body is working just fine.

Kashmir In Autumn (October to November)

Temperature – Kashmir’s brief autumn temperatures range from lows of 9°C to highs of at least 20°C. 

Weather – The weather during this time has a bite of chill in it certainly as winter is almost here at this time. Still, it can be considered cool and not extremely cold. During evenings and nights, it can reach 0°C and if you’re someone who has come from warmer climes, you’re going to find this weather quite cold. Mornings can be misty, but the autumn sun is also refreshing and toasty warm.

Significance – Kashmir’s beauty during autumn is simply breathtaking during this time. The leaves on the famed chinar trees turn copper and gold and as far as you can see, lined along avenues, you will find trees flush with red-gold-yellow leaves and the ground is often carpeted with them. The vision is absolutely spectacular and unforgettable.

Why you should visit now – During autumn, places like Srinagar and nearby Dachigam turn into gorgeous sights with the trees turning shades of gold. With weather being reasonably cool and not too cold, many people consider this to be the best time to visit Kashmir. Apple-picking and other harvestings also take place during this time. Kashmir during autumn is indeed magnificent and resplendent with its rich colours.

Things to know before the visit – Since it’s so close to winter, not many people head to Kashmir during this time as they think it would be too cold.Know the things to do in Kashmir before visiting. Also, since it’s shoulder season, you might be able to get a decent deal on hotel bookings and flights.

Tips – If you’re headed to Kashmir during the autumn months, do find out if there’s any apple-picking happening nearby so you can also join in, if it’s allowed. Another thing to remember is that despite being nearly normal weather for Kashmiris, you might still find it cold, so do pack your clothes as though for winter. Sometimes, it snows during this time too, so you don’t want to be caught unprepared.

If you have decided the best time to visit Kashmir, don’t forget to choose from one of Thomas Cook’s exciting Kashmir Tour Packages. The sights of beautiful snow-capped mountains await you along with a host of unforgettable experiences that are uniquely Kashmiri.