Kashmir in December

Kashmir is a region in the northern part of India, bordering Pakistan and China. It is known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and political conflict. It is also a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the winter wonderland of Kashmir. If you are planning to visit Kashmir in December, here are some things you need to know and some places you can explore.

Weather in Kashmir in December

The weather in Kashmir in December is cold and snowy, with an average temperature of around 4°C during the day and -2°C at night. The days are short and cloudy, while the nights are long and dark. The air is dry and chilly, and the wind is strong and biting. The weather is ideal for enjoying the snow-covered landscapes, as well as indulging in some winter activities.

Snowfall in Kashmir in December

The snowfall in Kashmir in December is heavy and frequent, with an average of 30 cm of snow accumulation. The snowfall usually starts in late November and lasts till early March. Snowfall transforms the region into a white paradise, covering the mountains, valleys, lakes, forests, and villages with a thick blanket of snow. The snowfall also attracts many tourists who want to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and other snow sports.

Kashmir in December places to visit

There are many places to visit in Kashmir in December that offer stunning views of nature and culture. Some of the must-visit places are:

Srinagar

Srinagar is the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir and the largest city in the region. It is famous for its lakes, gardens, shrines, and houseboats. Some of the attractions in Srinagar are Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Hazratbal Shrine, Jamia Masjid, Shankaracharya Temple, and Hari Parbat.

Gulmarg

Gulmarg is a hill station and a ski resort about 50 km from Srinagar. It is known for its meadows, forests, flowers, and snow. Some of the attractions in Gulmarg are Apharwat Peak Gulmarg Gondola Gulmarg Golf Course Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve and Alpather Lake.

Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a town and a tourist destination located about 90 km from Srinagar. It is known for its valleys rivers mountains and glaciers. Some of the attractions in Pahalgam are Lidder River Betaab Valley Aru Valley Chandanwari Baisaran and Kolahoi Glacier.

Sonamarg

Sonamarg is a hill station and a base camp for trekking about 80 km from Srinagar. It is known for its meadows lakes streams and glaciers. Some of the attractions in Sonamarg are Thajiwas Glacier Gadsar Lake Satsar Lake Gangabal Lake and Vishansar Lake.

Leh

Leh is the capital of Ladakh and a gateway to the Himalayas located about 430 km from Srinagar. It is known for its monasteries palaces museums and markets. Some of the attractions in Leh are Leh Palace Shanti Stupa Leh Mosque Leh Market Hall of Fame and Hemis Monastery.

Kashmir in December activities

There are many activities to do in Kashmir in December that will make your trip memorable and exciting. Some of the activities are:

Shikara ride

A shikara is a traditional wooden boat that is used to cruise on the lakes of Kashmir. It is a relaxing and romantic way to enjoy the beauty of the water, the mountains, and the sky. You can also buy flowers, fruits, handicrafts, and souvenirs from the floating vendors on the lake.

Houseboat stay

A houseboat is a floating accommodation that is anchored on the lakes of Kashmir. It is a luxurious and comfortable way to experience the culture and hospitality of Kashmir. You can enjoy the views of the lake, the gardens, and the hills from your houseboat, as well as savour the delicious Kashmiri cuisine.

Gondola ride

A gondola is a cable car that takes you to the top of Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg. It is one of the highest and longest cable car rides in the world, offering breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains and valleys. You can also enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and other snow activities on the peak.

Pony ride

A pony ride is a fun and adventurous way to explore the scenic places of Kashmir. You can hire a pony and ride through the meadows, forests, rivers, and glaciers of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and other places. You can also interact with the local people and learn about their culture and lifestyle.

Trekking

Trekking is a challenging and rewarding way to discover Kashmir’s natural beauty and diversity. You can trek through the rugged terrains, steep slopes, narrow passes, and high altitudes of Kashmir, witnessing some of the most stunning landscapes and wildlife. Some of the popular treks in Kashmir are Amarnath Yatra, Chadar Trek, Markha Valley Trek, Tarsar Marsar Trek, and Great Lakes Trek.

Kashmir in December travel guide

To make your trip to Kashmir in December smooth and hassle-free, here are some tips and advice that you should follow:

• Book your tickets and accommodation in advance, as December is the peak season for tourism in Kashmir.
• Carry valid identity proofs such as a passport, voter ID card, Aadhaar card, etc., as you may need them at checkpoints and hotels.
• Carry cash and cards, as ATMs and card machines may not be available or functional at some places.
• Carry warm clothes, woolen caps, gloves, scarves, boots, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, lip balm, etc., as it can get very cold and dry in Kashmir in December.
• Carry medicines and a first aid kit, as you may face altitude sickness, cold, cough, fever, etc., due to the weather and terrain.
• Carry a camera and extra batteries or a power bank, as you will want to capture the amazing views and moments of your trip.
• Respect the local culture and customs, as Kashmir is a diverse and sensitive region with different religions and ethnicities.
• Avoid any political or controversial discussions or arguments with anyone, as Kashmir is a disputed and volatile region with frequent unrest and conflicts.
• Follow the instructions and guidelines of your tour operator or guide, as they know the best routes and places to visit in Kashmir.

Kashmir in December photography

Kashmir in December is a photographer’s dream, as it offers some of the most beautiful and captivating scenes of nature and culture. You can capture the sparkling white of fresh snowfall the vibrant colors of flowers and fruits the serene blue of lakes and skies the majestic green of mountains and valleys and the charming faces of people and animals. Some of the best places for photography in Kashmir in December are:

Dal Lake

Dal Lake is one of the most iconic landmarks of Kashmir. It is a large lake surrounded by hills and gardens that reflect the changing colors of the sky and the seasons. You can capture the stunning views of the lake, the houseboats, the shikaris, the floating markets, the gardens, and the people on the lake.

Gulmarg

Gulmarg is a winter wonderland in December, as it receives heavy snowfall throughout the month. It is a paradise for skiers, snowboarders, and snow lovers. You can capture the snow-covered peaks, the gondola rides, the ski slopes, the pine forests, and the wildlife in Gulmarg.

Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a picturesque town in December, as it showcases the beauty of winter. It is a gateway to many trekking routes and pilgrimage sites. You can capture the Lidder River, the Betaab Valley, the Aru Valley, the Chandanwari, the Baisaran, and the Kolahoi Glacier in Pahalgam.

Kashmir in December is a dream destination for anyone who loves nature, culture, adventure, and romance. It is a place where you can witness the magic of winter, the diversity of landscapes, and the warmth of people. It is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and pack your bags for Kashmir in December!