Ideally one should visit Kashmir in all four seasons in order to witness the beautiful views of the valley which looks like a picture straight out of a fairy tale. Otherwise one can choose their favorite season for visiting the Kashmir valley as to their convenience.

But the best time to visit Kashmir valley is from March to October and during this time the weather conditions are the best and can be enjoyed by everyone.

Let us have a look what each season has to offer

(December to February) – Winter

Kashmir witnesses maximum snowfall during this time, hence it is the best time for adventure sport enthusiast to indulge in winter sports when the entire valley transforms into a winter wonderland.

Gulmarg during this time attracts a large number of tourists and is a popular sporting destination for winter sport activities like skiing, Heli skiing, ice hockey and snowboarding. Tourists from all over the world come here to experience the snowfall and indulge in winter sports which is the most economical in the world.

Snowfall during this time can be very severe hence it is ideal for only those who are physically fit and can handle the cold season, hence make up your mind before you make your trip else Kashmir during this time is a picture of true heaven on earth.

Temperature during winter: Varies from 0 to 15 degree Celsius.

(March to April) – Spring

The spring season starts in March and lasts up to early May and during this season one gets a glimpse of a million blossoms carpeting the landscape of Kashmir when the weather is pleasant followed by brief showers, light winds and blossoming flowers that characterize this season.

This is the ideal time for all nature lovers to visit the Kashmir Valley when one gets a glimpse of the blooming gardens and above all this is the best time to visit the famous Tulip gardens which is open only in the month of April for a few days.

Besides the picturesque beauty spring also brings in joyous sounds of chirping birds, orchards full of fruits, alpine meadows dotted with grazing herds making it a wonderful holiday experience. Also during this time one can get good hotel deals making their visit further memorable.

Temperature during spring: Varies from 6 to 23 degree Celsius.

(May to September) – Summer

Summer is when the entire Kashmir valley comes alive; this is the peak tourist season of Kashmir as tourist from all over India and abroad arrive to explore the natural beauty of the valley.

The weather during this time is extremely pleasant and refreshing with lush green meadows, grasslands, blossoming flowers, high snow peaked mountains are a captivating sight of the season.

This season is also the ideal time to make trips to upper parts of the valley like Leh and Ladkah which are accessible only during this time; furthermore, the famous Amarnath yatra takes place during this time which attracts pilgrims from all over India and abroad.

Also excursions from Srinagar to other hill resorts of Kashmir becoming easier during this time when tourist can enjoy the beauty of snow capped mountains and valleys and also indulge in fishing in the ice cold waters flowing from melting peaks.

The slow paced life, calm environment, lush green surroundings and fresh air make Kashmir a holiday destination for most tourists, in order to escape the scorching heat that the rest of the country faces during this time. Also during this time fruits like apples, strawberries, cherries, peaches, and apricots flood the market.

Temperature during summer: Varies from 14 to 30 degree Celsius.

(September to November) – Autumn

Autumn that follows summer is a welcome change from the heat and occasional rain. Kashmir wears a unique look during this period as the green shades turn into gold and then russet and red as the season advances. The rustle of the fallen Chinar leaves adds to the music of the place and the sweet fragrance of the flowers lingers on.

A slight chill sets into the air during this time and is an indication of winter round the corner. The beautiful trees start shedding their leaves and the valley is filled with all sorts of colorful autumn leaves. Visitors will be enchanted with the natural beauty and the color of the valley during autumn.

This is quite a beautiful time to spend in Kashmir as during this time the festival of Diwali takes place and all Kashmiri’s celebrate this festival with great grandeur and fervor.

Also this season is known for saffron harvesting, the saffron of Kashmir is famous all over the world and one can witness its beauty and fragrance while visiting the saffron fields of the valley.

Furthermore this is the time when migratory birds fly in from Siberia and is ideal the ideal time for bird watchers to visit the valley and get a rare glimpse of these birds. For shopaholics this is the best time to buy a variety of fresh fruits like apples, pears, apricots, almonds and walnuts.

Temperature during autumn: Varies from 10 to 23 degree Celsius.

Finally, as I conclude one must know that Kashmir has had a history of political unrest, but in the recent years it is considered safe and has opened up to tourist like never before. But it is best to check the latest situation in the valley before traveling.

Furthermore, when in Kashmir avoid wandering alone during late hours especially if you are outside Srinagar, and always carry an identification proof on yourself. Also check your hotel with the tourism center and hire only government authorized guides during your excursion trips.