Via Kashmir

Winter settles in

In Gulmarg, snow usually settles from mid-December and is almost certain by Christmas.

Srinagar: crisp and cold

Srinagar averages about 7°C by day and -4°C at night in December. Snow may or may not come, depending on the year.

Pahalgam and Sonamarg

Sonamarg often has snow and stays reachable through the Z-Morh tunnel. Pahalgam may or may not be white yet.

Ski season opens

Gulmarg ski season starts this month. The first IISM ski course of the season begins on 20 December 2026.

Chillai Kalan from 21 December

The coldest 40 days begin on 21 December. Dal Lake stays open water, but choose a heated room or houseboat.

Book the New Year week early

24 December to 2 January is the busiest week in Gulmarg. Book early and keep one buffer day before your flight.

Plan it with a local Kashmir team

Verified stays, fixed cab fares and day-by-day plans from Srinagar.

See December packages Read the Kashmir in December guide More Kashmir stories

Keep exploring Kashmir

Solo in Kashmir This December: Join the Group Landing in Srinagar: How Your Airport Pickup Works Royal Dandoo Palace: A 4-Star Houseboat on Dal Lake See Kashmir tour packages
Read the Kashmir in December guide