What to Pack for a Kashmir Winter Trip

Winter Kashmir (December-February) brings genuinely cold temperatures, often well below what most South Indian travellers are used to — packing right makes a real difference.

Clothing layers

Thermal innerwear is essential, not optional — plan for base layers, a warm fleece or sweater, and a heavy waterproof/windproof outer jacket. Temperatures in Srinagar can drop below freezing at night, and Gulmarg is colder still.

Footwear

Waterproof, insulated snow boots with good grip are important, especially in Gulmarg where you'll be walking on snow and ice regularly. Regular sneakers are not sufficient.

Often-forgotten essentials

Good sunglasses (snow glare is intense), moisturiser and lip balm (the cold, dry air is harsh on skin), and a portable power bank, since cold weather drains phone batteries faster.

Renting gear locally

If you don't own proper snow gear, Gulmarg has rental shops for jackets, gloves, and snow boots — often more practical than buying gear you'll rarely use again.

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