Kashmir Weather in January

Want to be smitten by the beautiful and colourful Shikaras over Dal Lake, wooden cottages buried under snow and snow-capped mountains being your friendly companion wherever you go in Kashmir? If yes, Kashmir in January is your calling. To experience the magic of snowfall in Kashmir in January is a must-have experience at least once in your lifetime. Watching the snowfall in Kashmir will take you away from the pollution-ridden city life and make you fall in love with this paradise up north in all its glory.

It is the perfect tourist destination and enchants one and all. It’s pine forests, mesmerizing splendour of snow-capped mountains, glittering lakes and milky-white streams and sweeping meadows, wow. One cannot get enough of it. In January, the valley is a hub of winter sports and activities, which definitely is an add-on for your trip. Know more about Kashmir and its weather in January below.

Weather in Kashmir in January

A trip to Paradise on Earth in January needs research on various aspects well in advance. Like how to get there, where to stay and most importantly what will the Kashmir weather in January be and whether will it be safe for you to travel, etc.

Photography Gulmarg — ( Village in the middle of Himalaya mountains (Gulmarg, Kashmir, India) )

According to the weather forecast – Kashmir in January during the day experiences dry weather and at night the temperature drops down below the freezing point. The average temperature of Kashmir in January is estimated to be -3.6°C in Srinagar, -11.8°C in Pahalgam and -10.4°C in Gulmarg, this is the minimum temperature in the valley in different towns and cities. Below we have listed a few activities you can experience in the winter season of Kashmir in January and places you can visit.

Popular Activities in January

Winter is the best time to experience popular activities in Kashmir. January is the peak winter season and offers a plethora of things to do in Kashmir. This paradise on earth is the most loved tourist spot in the country and vacationers not just from India but across the globe come to visit the place and bask in its winter glory. It’s scenic vistas for sure and views of snow-capped mountains, milky-white valleys, gushing streams and of course, the houseboats and signature-style cottages make you never want to leave the valley. Below is a list of some of the most loved activities you should try in Kashmir in January.

Sledding in Thajiwas Glacier — ( Tourists visit Thajiwas Glacier for enjoying its breathtaking sights, building snowmen & enjoying a sledding ride. )

Kashmir is one of the best places for a winter vacation in India and with that comes skiing. It houses various skiing destinations that vary according to their difficulty level. Gulmarg is the prime skiing destination in the valley and skiers from around the world come here to experience skiing. It also hosts one of the world’s highest ski resorts. The skiing season starts in December and continues till April. While you are in Gulmarg, January is a good time to take a Gondola Cable Car ride, which lets you get to the top of the elevation of the ski slope and mind you it’s one of the highest Cable Car Projects in Asia.

Post that, try your hand at sleigh riding. Wondering what that is? Well, it’s January and it’s snowing so this is a must. A sleigh cart is like a toy care, which is made of wood and can be driven/pulled on snow. The cart ride is about one person pulling the sleigh by a rope and the other person sits in the toy car and makes the most of the ride. Now wondering where to try this? Right there in Gulmarg. So, after skiing, you can enjoy this winter sport in Kashmir. You can also experience it at Zero Point in Sonamarg if you wish. Kids are a fan of this activity.

Next up is ice skating. The temperature in Kashmir during January drops to zero and even minus degrees. Making it the perfect time to freeze the lakes and pools in the region. They get covered by the thick sheet of ice making them ideal for ice skating and ice hockey in India. Srinagar and Pahalgam are the prime sites for these fun activities. Gulmarg is also an ideal location for ice skating in the valley. For beginners, you will also find instructors who can guide you through the training courses. So, if you are looking to try your hand at something new, fear not and go for it.

Places to Visit in Kashmir in January

Kashmir has the charm to enchant every heart. And trust us, January will add to that charm. The beauty of the place will freeze you up but will also melt your heart and make you fall in love with the valley. In fact, tourists are so enamoured by the beauty of the valley that they end up extending their vacation at times. So, if you are visiting this paradise on earth in January, these are the must-visit places for you.

Winter Camping — ( One of the main attractions of camping in Sonamarg is the opportunity to indulge in adventure activities like trekking, hiking and camping. )

Sonamarg in January is one of the most attractive destinations to visit in the valley. Especially, during the winter of January, which makes it more invigorating and enchanting. In fact, they say that it is a difficult trail to reach Sonamarg during the winter of January but it is going to be worth it. Beat the snowfall to witness unmatched beauty. 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.

Next up is Pahalgam. Ponies make the winter of Kashmir easier. When the unknown trails become difficult to walk, ponies will guide you and help you out, carrying you on their backs. To experience the glaciers in Kashmir at their best a pony ride is a must. Nothing can get better than Pahalgam’s peaceful and pleasant winter visit. During your January 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 you know where to be, right?

No Kashmir winter trip is complete without a visit to Gulmarg. Also known as the “flower meadow,”, however during the winters, it turns into a blanket of snow. 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 horse ride at the strawberry fields is a must.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is travelling to Kashmir in January safe?

Yes, travelling to Kashmir in January is completely safe. The time between December to February is considered to be the best time to visit the valley. It is a comfortable travel experience despite the cold weather in January.

What are the things one must carry for winter activities in Kashmir?

Winter activities in the valleys of Kashmir with snowfall everywhere are a great experience. There are a few things however you must keep in mind before experiencing winter activities in Kashmir. Carry extra pair of clothes as Kashmir has the most unpredictable weather, wear comfortable shoes, carry enough water with you and stay hydrated, if you have a medical condition consult your doctor before taking part in these activities, first aid kit, a sun protection cream and you are done.

Is it convenient for tourists to travel to Kashmir in January?

Well, it is completely convenient to travel to Kashmir in January. There are various places, which are well known for tourist attractions like Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam, Sonamarg, etc. These are the best places to visit in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in January where you can enjoy scenic beauty as well as adventurous activities.

What should I pack for the trip to Kashmir in January?

January is a winter season; woollens are a must. Carry thermal clothes, woollen socks, heavy windproof jackets, woollen caps, etc. Yes, don’t forget the gloves, you will need those too.