What to Wear in Kashmir?

Visiting Kashmir seems like being in another world. With the kind of diversity seen with Mughal Gardens, serene lakes , majestic passes, alpine treks, the valley beams with sightseeing spots and adventurous activities. The place is one of the most dreamed-of destinations in India. Prior to the trip, being aware of what to wear in Kashmir is crucial. It is rightly said that your clothes must match the occasion. Well, it perfectly applies to the dress code you should follow in Kashmir. 

The first condition is that your clothes should fit according to the prevailing season. 

Moreover, Kashmir is a Muslim-dominated region of India. You will often see the locals wearing traditional clothes that cover them from head to toe. If you are a female traveller in Kashmir, dress modestly and not something that would be offensive to the local culture. Wear clothes that aren’t too tight and cover your shoulders and feet. You are not forced to wear the traditional attire of Kashmir. Wear full-length skirts, jeans, shirts, tshirt. Make sure they aren’t transparent in any way. Carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders in case you’re wearing anything sleeveless. 

Lastly, it is important that you are comfortable in your clothes and also the people around you. Other than this, enjoy a memorable Kashmir trip! 

Book: Kashmir Trip Packages

Season by Season Breakdown

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir during Summer Season

The transition from Spring to Summer results in a rise in temperature. 

Summer season experiences a moderate temperature of 18°C-25°C during the daytime. It dips down to 10°C-12°C at nights, keeping them a bit colder. Sun is out and about most of the days. Skies remain clear with occasional rainfall in the evenings. For a summer trip in Kashmir, carry light half-sleeves t shirts and shirts, Jeans, cotton trousers, etc. You can also get some Khakis as they are quite convenient and feel good to wear. Pack some full-sleeved shirts and tshirts and light sweaters to be comfortable when you feel cold at nighttime. Since it is also the monsoon season in the valley, carry an umbrella and raincoats to be dry and safe.

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir During Winter Season

Winter experiences extreme weather conditions with daytime temperature ranging between -5°C to -15°C and may reach -20°C at nights. The valley receives heavy snowfall and is transformed into a winter wonderland. Everything is covered in thick layers of snow.  If you are coming to Kashmir in Winter, a proper packing is the most important part. Start by packing heavy woollens like thermals, pullovers, cardigans, sweaters, windproof and waterproof jackets, trench coats. Don’t forget the accessories like beanies, warm socks, muffler, gloves, earmuffs, etc. 

Avoid your normal shoes and wear snow boots that don’t slip on snow. Snow Boots can easily be rented at different rental shops in Kashmir. Make sure you keep everything in a big spacious backpack so that your belongings including clothes and gadgets don’t get wet in snowfall. 

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir During Spring Season

As winter comes to an end by February, the vibrant season of spring makes its way. The daytime  temperature rises and fluctuates between 10°C to 15°C but may drop below 10°C at nights. While snowfall has stopped in the lower valley, alpine regions still receive infrequently. You may want to keep some cotton shirts, tshirts, light Jeans, trousers and slippers. When it gets cold in the evenings and at nights, you will need woollen clothes. Pack thermals, sweaters, light-weight jackets and warm accessories like mufflers, gloves, socks, etc.

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir During Autumn Season

After the balmy weather of summer, the magical season of Autumn commences. While the season is a brief one, you surely can come here as the valley is less crowded and more serene. Temperature hovers at 15°C-20°C during daytime and around 10°C by night. Weather is somewhat warm but nights are a bit chilly especially by October end. 

Pack woollens such as thermals and pullovers with long and thick jackets. You may want to throw in some cotton shirts and t-shirts to wear in the afternoon. It might rain in the initial days of September. Carry quick dry clothes along with a full-body raincoat and Umbrella.

What to Wear in Kashmir for Different Occasion

Trekking

When trekking in Kashmir, clothes to pack include a shirt, thermal top, trekking pants, thermal leggings, warm hat, gloves, scarf, waterproof and windproof jackets, insulated fleece jackets, trekking boots etc.

Skiing

Skiing in Kashmir requires specific clothes such as thermals, fleece jackets, ski jackets, leggings, fleece pants, ski pants, Ski boots, ski hats, ski gloves, warm socks, scarfs, goggles, etc.

Sightseeing

It depends on the season. Comfortable t-shirts or tops, lightweight sweaters or warm coats( winters), trousers or Jeans, leggings, flip-flops or sandals. Even walking shoes or boots are suitable. You may even don a Kashmiri traditional attire called Phiran or Salwar Kameez (totally optional). 

Cultural Places

Be mindful of your clothes when visiting cultural places in Kashmir. Wear long-sleeved t-shirts, Phiran, loose trousers or pants, Salwar kameez, Long Skirt or Maxi dresses that cover your shoulders and knees. Cover your head with a scarf or shawl and leave your footwear outside before entering any temple or Dargah.

Read here: Best Time to Visit Kashmir

Other Things to Carry for Kashmir Trip

1. Payment: While places in cities like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam accept credit and debit cards, carry enough cash to pay at spot when online payments are not accepted. It will be very helpful in remote locations of the valley since ATMs are sparse there. 
2. Electronic Items: Pack electronic gadgets like a phone with postpaid sim, portable charger, power bank, torch with long-lasting battery, camera, lens, tripod, etc. 
3. Medicines: A first-aid kit must be in your bag. It should contain basic medicines for headache, stomachache, fever, dizziness, vomiting, and ointments. Pack personal medicines if any. 
4. Accessories: Other than clothes, some essential accessories include a reusable water bottle, snacks, sunglasses, moisturiser, sunscreen, towels, etc. 
5. Documents: Carrying important documents is mandatory. Aadhar Card, Driver licence, Any permit or pass, VISA and Passport ( for foreigners).