Inspiring Reasons to Visit Kashmir in February

Kashmir in truest words is a dreamland. It is the perfect tourist destination and enchants one and all. One cannot get enough of its pine forests, mesmerizing splendour of snow-capped mountains, glittering lakes and milky-white streams and sweeping meadows. Tourists from all parts of the world flock to Kashmir to revel in the paradise on earth. To add to the list of all things wow are its attractions and activities – Mughal Gardens’ fragrant rows of flowers, magnificent Dal Lake, Shikara and Gandola rides, skiing in the snow-capped mountains, etc.

Kashmir is a winter vacation spot. And what better time than February? The picturesque view of snow-covered meadows, captivating peaks, thrilling adventure sports and not to forget amazing frozen lakes can make any tourist fall in love with this Kashmir. In February, the valley is a hub of winter sports and activities, which definitely is a plus point for your trip. Know more about Kashmir in February in our travel guide below.

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How to Reach Kashmir in February

( Beautiful Snow Covered Mountains Zojila Pass View, Nature Scenery Himalayas, Leh Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India. )

By Rail – The nearest railway station in Kashmir is located 300kms away in Jammu, the Jammu Tawi Railway Station. Most popular trains from major cities in India come to Jammu – New Delhi-Jammu Tawi Rajdhani Express, Jammu Mail, Jammu Tawi Express, etc. To reach various locations in Kashmir, there are private buses and cabs available just outside the railway station.

By Air – The state of Kashmir has three airports. But the Srinagar International Airport is connected to most Indian cities and also hosts international flights. So, it usually looks at heavy traffic and is considered the most convenient as well. Jammu Airport is also connected to Mumbai and Delhi and Kushok Bakula Rimpoche Airport at Leh is connected to Mumbai, Delhi and Chandigarh as well. You can reach Kashmir via any of these airports.

By Road – During the month of February, the snowfall is not much. But even if there is snow, the major highways are normally cleared within hours so you should have no problems. The Jammu-Srinagar highway is in fair condition too. The route is scenic and you will enjoy looking at the magnificent vistas while travelling through Kashmir in February.

Suggested Read: How to Reach kashmir

Most Popular Festivals in Kashmir in February

Kashmir is known as the paradise on Earth and it stands true to its moniker. Even though most people talk about its charming valley views and nature but let’s not forget about its festivals. They add an extra flavour to the beauty of the state. It is the time when the locals forget their tensions and come together to celebrate the festivities together in peace. Below is a list of the festivals of February in Kashmir.

Winter Sports — ( The Gulmarg Snow Festival is an annual winter event held in Gulmarg )

Dosmoche – Famous Festival Celebrated in Kashmir

Dosmoche is said to be one of the most mesmerizing festivals celebrated in the valley of Kashmir. It also has a very unique name. The residents of Ladakh come together in a huge crowd that stretches between Moti Market to Leh Bazaar to witness traditional dance performances by the monks in the Leh, Likir, and Diskit monasteries. Dosmoche is renowned for its music, high obtained drum beats and soothing prayers. Considered to be one of the most special festivals of Jammu and Kashmir.

Highlights of the festival – Music, dance performances by the monks, drums, prayers, huge crowd.

Dosmoche Festival Tentative Date: 9th and 10th February

Urs – Death anniversaries of eminent Muslim saints

Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the last day of Ramzan, after a month-long fasting. Namaaz is offered five times during this month and the fast is broken with feasting. Eid is when the exchange of sweets and wearing new clothes, meeting relatives and sharing wishes completes the month-long fasting period.

Eid-ul-Adha or Bakra Eid is celebrated in the second half of the year when a goat, camel or sheep is sacrificed in every Muslim Household. It takes its origin from their principle of sacrifice.

Now come the Urs or Ziarats, an important festival in Kashmir, which looks over a huge crowd of Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs. The Urs is a rather massive inter-communal celebration and is celebrated many times a year. It marks the death anniversaries of eminent Muslim saints like Meesha Sahib, Batamol Sahib and Bahauddin.

Highlights of the festival – Death anniversary of prominent Muslim saints, inter-communal festival, celebrated many times in a year

Urs Festival Tentative Date: 13th February

Popular Activities in Kashmir in February

When it comes to popular activities, Kashmir has a plethora of alternatives. Kashmir is an amazing vacation spot loved by tourists not just in India but around the world. This is because it’s scenic vistas for sure. It offers mesmerizing views of lush-green and blooming hills, beautiful valleys, magnetic mountain ranges, white as milk streams and of course the houseboats and signature-style cottages will make you never want to leave Kashmir. Below is a list of some of the excellent activities you should try in Kashmir in February.

( Beautiful view of the colorful Shikara boats floating on Dal Lake, Srinagar, Kashmir, India. )

Shikara Ride – Take this Shikara Ride and revel in the amazing beauty that surrounds you as your boatman paddles you across the glittering lake. A Shikara ride is one of the topmost activities in Kashmir. It takes you away from the hustle and bustle of city life and provides you with a relaxed feel. Keeps you away from the traffic noise and pollution, the enraged crowd and the monotonous routine of your life. The only sound you will hear is of the oar, breaking the surface of the water or if you trail your hand across the lake’s surface. The cool water on your hand will feel blissful. Dal Lake in Srinagar and Manasbal Lake near Sonamarg are two spots where you can experience a blissful Shikara ride.

Shopping in Kashmir – When visiting Kashmir in February, you must pick up some local souvenirs to take back home for your loved ones. The high-quality Kashmiri handlooms and Pashmina shawls, antique copperware such as samovars, hand-woven carpets, expensive Doda Sapphire and dry fruits are some of the most loved shopping items.

Skiing and Snowboarding – It’s February and Kashmir is a frigid location with snow-capped mountains and temperature that runs into minus sometimes. February is the perfect time to visit Kashmir when the river streams are cold. Now that winter has arrived most places of Kashmir are covered in snow. And hence you can enjoy winter sports. Snowboarding and skiing are the ideal winter activities in Kashmir, especially if you are an adventure enthusiast.

Places to Visit in Kashmir in February

Kashmir has the charm to enchant every heart that comes across its beauty. The place is so beautiful that it is also termed – A Paradise on Earth, given by the famed Persian poet Firdausi. The Mughals were so enamoured by the beauty of the valley that they spent a fortune developing beautiful, grand and intricate gardens. So, if you are visiting this paradise on earth in February, these are the must-visit places for you.

Sonamarg Photography — ( The amazing view of Sonamarg. )

Sonamarg – In February, Sonamarg is one of the most attractive destinations to visit in Kashmir. Especially, during the winter of February, which makes it more invigorating and enchanting. In fact, Sonamarg has another name for it as well – ‘Golden Meadow’. It houses a photomontage of lakes, mountains, glaciers, and luxurious meadows. Ideal location for hiking, camping and taking a stroll.

Also Read: Sonamarg in February

Gulmarg – Gulmarg, also known as the “flower meadow,” is one of the most popular and stunning places to visit in Kashmir. Here you will experience nature at its best and in full bloom. The beautiful strawberry fields, bordered by snow-capped mountains add to the charm of the location. A Gondola cable car ride is a must-try at Gulmarg. It offers a bird’s eye view of the hills, springs and lake.

Pahalgam – Nothing can get better than Pahalgam’s peaceful and pleasant winter visit. During your February trip to paradise on earth, spend some time recuperating in the stunning Aru and Betaab valleys. Pahalgam is also a popular honeymoon location, so if you are just married your suggestion is right here.

Basic Guidelines for February

When visiting Kashmir in February, remember it is the winter months and you must stock up on your woollens. Make sure you be fully prepared with gloves, muffler and woollen socks. Try to take along hooded jackets for extra protection. Below are some travel tips that you can look into and be fully prepared for your February Kashmir trip.

• Travelling internally in Kashmir is easy – leased cars, cabs and auto-rickshaws all always available.
• Register your phone networks to J&K. Keep in mind that you cannot purchase a prepaid phone in the state unless.
• Kashmir does not require a permit to visit but to travel to places like Gurez you may need a permit.
• Carry snacks for emergency purposes
• Carry your identity proof documents

Kashmir is intensely breathtakingly and even though it keeps facing political and economic crisis, it is a vacation spot that just cannot be ignored. So, be ready to discover and enjoy the beauty of the valley in February.