Top 5 Places To Experience Magical Snowfall In Kashmir
Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast,
Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast.
– Amir Khusrau
Spoken in great reverence by the poet Amir Khusrau, the beauty of Kashmir is no less comparable to paradise on Earth. From snowcapped mountains to serene lakes and people as pure as its kahwa, Kashmir is truly every explorer’s heaven. And what is it known better for than its romantic snowfall? India’s majority humid climate finds a break here as temperatures plummet and the landscape is covered with spotless white. If you too wish to experience magical snowfall in Kashmir, here are the top 5 places you shouldn’t miss out!
Top 5 Places To Experience Magical Snowfall In Kashmir
- Gulmarg
- Srinagar
- Pahalgam
- Sonamarg
- Anantnag
Gulmarg
Situated about 50 kilometres (Km) away from Srinagar, Gulmarg is undoubtedly the most popular winter destination in Kashmir. It is best known for its gondola ride, which stands as the second-largest and second-highest cable car ride in the world. In fact, the ride has boosted tourism in the snowy town – Jammu & Kashmir Tourism reported that ‘more than 1 million tourists took the Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car Ride in FY 2023-24.’ If you’re looking to experience snowfall in Kashmir while enjoying adrenaline-pumping sports, Gulmarg is the perfect destination for you!
Places to explore: Alpather Lake, St. Mary’s Church, Maharani Temple, Baba Reshi Shrine, Khilanmarg, Strawberry Valley
Experiences to try: Gulmarg Gondola ride, Skiing on Apharwat Mountain, Trekking in Tangmarg and Khilanmarg
Srinagar
The summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir is known for its breathtaking white landscapes as well as colorful gardens. Snowfall in Srinagar typically begins by late December, with temperatures dropping significantly thereafter. And if you’ve heard of the iconic Dal Lake, it freezes partially during the snowfall season. While enjoying snowfall in Srinagar, don’t forget to relish local delicacies like gushtaba, tabak maaz, nadru hakni, and the beloved kahwa.
- Gushtaba: This is a traditional Kashmiri meatball dish made with tender mutton, cooked in a rich, spiced gravy.
- Tabak Maaz: A popular Kashmiri dish, tabak maaz consists of marinated lamb ribs that are fried to a crispy, golden perfection.
- Nadru Hakni: This unique vegetarian dish is made from lotus stem (nadru), which is cooked in a spiced gravy, often with a combination of yogurt, ginger, and garlic.
- Kahwa: Kahwa is a warm tea infused with spices such as saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom. It is served with crushed almonds and sugar, offering a comforting, aromatic drink perfect for the cold, snowy weather.
Each of these dishes offers a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage and is a great way to warm up during the chilly winter months.
Places to explore: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal
Experiences to try: Shikara rides in Dal Lake, boating in Nigeen Lake, Street-food hopping and shopping at Lal Chowk
Pahalgam
Next on our list is Pahalgam, situated about 90 km from Srinagar. The town is a favorite amongst filmmakers due to its snow-kissed mountains, serene rivers and lakes, and lush-green valleys. The nearby Betaab Valley is known for its Bollywood connection – the 1983 Hindi film Betaab was shot here, which is how the valley got its name. So, if you wish to fulfil your Bollywood dreams as you strike a dramatic pose or two in snow, Pahalgam is the place for you.
Places to explore: Lidderwat, Baisaran Hills, Betaab Valley, Pahalgam Golf Course
Experiences to try: Skiing, sledding, trekking, and river rafting in Pahalgam
Sonmarg
Situated 80 km northeast from Srinagar, Sonmarg is known as the ‘Meadow of Gold’. The town is surrounded by valleys and mountains that are sure to leave you spellbound. Though Sonamarg is not as explored as Srinagar, Gulmarg, or other cities/towns in Kashmir, it is gaining attention amongst nature lovers and adventure seekers. When visiting the snowy Sonamarg, make sure to check out the nearby Zoji La Pass and Baltal Lake. You can either take a day trip to Sonamarg or stay overnight. However, keep in mind that Zoji La Pass becomes inaccessible during peak winter months.
Places to explore: Gangabal Lake, Vihansar Lake, Thajiwas Glacier, Gangabal Lake, Kashmir War Memorial
Experiences to try: Trekking, sightseeing in and around Sonamar, fishing, river rafting, and horse riding
Anantnag
Last but not the least, Anantnag is an underrated place that you must visit when experiencing snowfall in Kashmir. Anantnag is renowned for its tranquil streams, rivers, and fragrant fruits and flowers. Shri Amarnath Ji Caves, revered in Hinduism as one of the most sacred places in Hinduism, are also situated in Anantnag. The lesser-known Sinthan Top is also located here, best known for its alpine landscapes. The Sinthan Top connects Anantnag with Kishtwar and houses no local population apart from roaming shepherds and tourist camps. Apart from that, Anantnag’s natural beauty, especially during the winter season is worth experiencing through your own eyes.
Places to explore: Amarnath Caves, Martand Temple, Bumzu or Bhaumajo Caves, Masjid Baba Dawood Khaki, Verinag, Achabal
Experiences to try: Explore the fruit and flower markets in and around Anantnag
Summing Up
Snowfall in Kashmir is a phenomenon that is sure to leave you spellbound. With its gorgeous valleys, snow-capped peaks, quaint towns, and serene rivers, the natural beauty of Kashmir attracts millions of people every year. After all, there’s something for every type of snow lover – whether you love snow for the adventure sports, or prefer watching it from inside your wood cabin, or strolling through the narrow streets during snowfall.
FAQs
Which Is Colder, Gulmarg Or Pahalgam?
Pahalgam is colder than Gulmarg because it is situated at an altitude higher than the latter. However, both places experience considerable amounts of snowfall, making them perfect for a winter trip to Kashmir.
Which Month Is Very Cold In Kashmir?
January is often the coldest month in Kashmir as winter reaches its peak. Heavy snowfall occurs in hilly, remote areas of Kashmir as well as towns and villages.
What Language Do They Speak In Kashmir?
The primary languages of communicating in Kashmir are Urdu and Kashmiri. There are several dialects and languages spoken by the people of Kashmir in addition to Kashmiri. These include Pashto, Dogri, and Balti among others. Hindi, though not commonly spoken, is understood by many locals due to its similarity with Urdu.
Which Place In Kashmir Is Famous All Over The World As A Snow Skiing Spot?
Gulmarg is widely known as a skiing spot in Kashmir, and people from all over India flock here for the adventure sport. The slopes of Gulmarg offer a perfect canvas for both amateur and professional skiers.
