Kashmir in November 2026 from locals in Srinagar: real temperatures this week, where the first snow is, which roads close, and a simple 5-day plan for Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.
Travelling to Kashmir in November?
Tell us your dates. We plan around this week's weather, open roads and heated rooms.
In This Article
Quick Answer: Kashmir in November is cold, clear and quiet. Srinagar's November normal is about 17 degrees Celsius by day and about 2 at night, Gulmarg is near freezing, and the first snow usually reaches the high meadows. In 2026 snow fell on 11 to 13 November, with mostly dry weather forecast after that.
Last updated: 13 November 2026. By Kashmir Pulse Editorial. Kashmir Pulse is Via Kashmir's editorial channel, written by locals.
Kashmir in November is our favourite month to show friends from outside. The crowds have gone, the light is soft, the lake is still, and the mountains have their first white cap. It is also a month of change, so you need to plan with the weather in mind. This guide uses this week's real readings and gives you a 5-day plan that works.
At a Glance
Best time in November: any week, with early November for colour and late November for better snow odds
Getting there: fly to Srinagar, or take the train via Katra; see our winter flights guide
Budget range: lower than peak season; compare live rates on hotels and packages
Plan with locals: ViaKashmir.in November trip planning
What is the weather like in Kashmir in November?
These are MeT Srinagar's readings for 11 November 2026, the day before a western disturbance brought rain and snow:
| Place | Max | Min | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Srinagar | 19.2 C | 7.7 C | Max 1.9 above normal, so the normal is about 17 |
| Pahalgam | 16.2 C | 3.4 C | Normal max about 14.5 |
| Gulmarg | 8.4 C | 0.5 C | Coldest in the valley, max 1.5 below normal |
After 11 November, daytime temperatures were forecast to drop by 6 to 8 degrees during the rain and snow of 12 and 13 November. MeT Srinagar expects generally dry weather from 14 to 20 November. The simple rule we give guests: November days feel like a cool spring afternoon, and November nights feel like winter.
Will there be snow in Kashmir in November?
Usually on the hills, rarely in Srinagar. In 2026, snow fell on Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Razdan Pass, Gurez and Peer Ki Gali on 11 and 12 November. November snow is often thin and melts in sunny spells, so do not plan a skiing trip around it. The Gulmarg drag lift is expected to be fully working this season, but proper ski snow normally comes in late December and January. For live updates, see our Gulmarg snowfall page.
Related reading: Gulmarg vs Auli vs Manali for Snow in December: An Honest Comparison
Which roads close in Kashmir in November?
- ✓Mughal Road: often shut after snow at Peer Ki Gali, and it was suspended on 11 November 2026; read our Mughal Road guide.
- ✓Srinagar-Leh highway: traffic over Zojila was suspended after the 12 November snow. Ladakh by road is not a safe plan now.
- ✓Srinagar to Gurez: Razdan Pass gets early snow, so treat Gurez as uncertain from November.
- ✓Srinagar to Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg: normally open, though after fresh snow cars may need chains above Tangmarg; see our snow driving guide.
A 5-day Kashmir in November plan
- Day 1, Srinagar: land, check in to a heated hotel or a houseboat, and take an afternoon shikara ride when the lake is warmest. Our November houseboat guide explains the heating.
- Day 2, Srinagar: Mughal gardens in the morning, old city and noon chai in the afternoon. See our Srinagar in November guide.
- Day 3, Gulmarg: day trip or one night. Check the forecast first; our Gulmarg in November guide covers the gondola and snow odds.
- Day 4, Pahalgam: Betaab Valley and the Lidder, quiet and golden now; see our Pahalgam in November guide.
- Day 5, Sonamarg and fly out: a half day to Sonamarg if the road is open, back for an evening flight. Our Sonamarg in November guide has the details.
Book local cabs with drivers who carry chains. Via Kashmir changes the order of these days to match the forecast, which is the single best way to get the most from a November trip.
Related reading: Kashmir Winter Photography: Where and When to Shoot the Snow
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Kashmir in November vs December: which is better?
| November | December | |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | Clear days, cold nights | Colder, more fog and snow |
| Snow | Thin, on high ground | Better odds, more so after 21 December |
| Crowds and rates | Quiet, easy to book | Very busy over Christmas and New Year |
| Best for | Sightseeing, food, photography | Snow holidays and skiing |
Frequently asked questions about Kashmir in November
Is November a good time to visit Kashmir?
Yes, if you want quiet, clear weather and lower crowds. Days are cool and pleasant in Srinagar and nights are cold. It is not the month for reliable skiing, which starts in late December.
How cold is Kashmir in November?
Srinagar's normal is about 17 degrees Celsius by day and about 2 at night. Gulmarg is far colder; on 11 November 2026 it ranged from 8.4 down to 0.5 degrees Celsius.
Does it snow in Kashmir in November?
It often snows on the higher hills, such as Gulmarg and Sonamarg, but rarely in Srinagar city. In 2026 the first notable snow came on 11 to 13 November.
Is the Srinagar-Leh road open in November?
Not reliably. Traffic over Zojila was suspended after snow on 12 November 2026, and the road usually closes for winter. Fly to Leh instead.
What should I wear in Kashmir in November?
Layers: thermals, a fleece and a warm jacket, plus a cap, gloves and shoes with grip for Gulmarg. See our winter clothing guide for a full list.
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