Kashmir Weather In February
Overview
Weather in Kashmir in February is cold and the average temperature remains between 0°C to -2°C. At night, it drops even lower to -5°C, making them extremely chilly. It results in heavy snowfall on most days.
Even in such extreme climatic conditions, tourists readily visit Kashmir in ferbruary with their families. The reason being the abundance of natural beauty and a range of winter activities available for them.
While the offbeat destinations are inaccessible, hill stations like Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Pahalgam are populated with visitors. From skiing to winter treks, people often engage in a number of sports here.
Even though Srinagar doesn’t have much to offer in terms of activities to do, the frozen Dal Lake and Shikara rides there, are unmissable. This February, you can come on an adventurous trip to Kashmir and enjoy the best of it. Make sure to check the weather forecast and road conditions in advance.
Snowfall in Kashmir in February
In Kashmir in February, heavy snowfall is experienced throughout the valley. From December onwards, the temperature level is mostly below zero degrees, resulting in heavy snow showers till February.
For the entire month, it snows everyday and sometimes for more than 24 hours continuously. January and February are known as the coldest months of the snow season. Wherever you look in Kashmir, all you can see is white snow, covering everything like trees, meadows, mountains, etc.
The lakes are still frozen to the core, much like they were in January. In February, people from all over the world come to Kashmir to indulge in multiple activities especially skiing, with different kinds of the sport available like heli skiing and cross country skiing.
Popular Kashmir Tours
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Essential Clothes to Pack
- When in Kashmir in the cold month of February, start by packing a thermal for the warm base. Then a sweater or pullover or cardigan that is thick and made of heavy woollen. Lastly, carry a trench coat or jacket.
- For the bottom, carry warm leggings that fit you perfectly and jeans or trousers made of thick material.
- Cover your feet with warm socks and then wear sturdy yet comfortable boots. Avoid the light cotton socks and go for the knee-high boots instead.
- Accessories yourself with a beanie or muffler to cover your head and warm gloves to keep your hands cosy.
- Keep at least a pair of two of these warm clothes and don’t forget an umbrella and rain-coat.
- Last but not the least, carry along a shawl when you visit a Temple or Shrine to pay respect to the local customs and beliefs.
- In Kashmir, the traditional dress Phiran is readily available in local markets. They are made up of thick and keep the one wearing it warm and comfortable. You can buy them to wear in Kashmir and bring them back home as a souvenir.
Why Visit Kashmir in February?
Snow sports: Since February is a part of winter season, different snow sports are available for adventure seekers. Starting with skiing in which you can try even heli-skiing or cross country skiing. Some others are snowboarding, sledging, ice-skating, etc.
Winter Festival: The popular winter festival is celebrated in February in Kashmir. These 3 days are filled with thriving competition, events and people enjoying themselves with their families. It is celebrated in Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Sports like skiing and snowboarding are part of it.
Shikara rides: Although Shikara rides are a summer activity, a ferry on the wooden boat in frozen Dal Lake is one of the most exciting activities to do in February. Snow-capped mountains in sight, the ride is a lifetime adventure as the serenity envelops you.
Snow Showers: The heavy snow showers in February are the perfect reason for a romantic getaway to Kashmir with your partner. The live snowfall offers you a perfect opportunity to play in the snow with your better half. Different couple friendly activities are available in Kashmir such as Gulmarg Gondola, Skiing, sledging, etc.
Essential Tips for Visiting Kashmir During February
- When planning a trip to Kashmir, book your plane tickets, airport transfers, hotels, accommodation in advance or else you can book your holidays through Kashmir tour packages . Since it is not the peak season, you can save a lot of money and achieve a budget-friendly trip with advance booking.
- Before booking any hotel in Kashmir checking in, inquire about the heat regulating system in the rooms. For a comfortable stay at nights, you need to be warm and clothes alone can’t give you that level of comfort.
- As mentioned above, February is part of the Winter season in Kashmir. Keep in mind to carry all the necessary woollen clothes that are of high-quality and windproof.
- Other essentials to keep in your spacious backpack are moisturiser, sunscreen, snacks, dry fruits, reusable water bottles, ATM cards, some cash, tickets, VISA and Passport ( foreigners) and other permits and passes.
- Keep a steady eye on the weather forecast and road conditions as snowfall in Kashmir in February often leads to temporary closures.
FAQ's
Is February a good time to visit Kashmir?
February is indeed an best time to visit in Kashmir. The trip is a much needed one during this time of the year for a range of activities like skiing, sledging, snowboarding, snowshoeing, etc.
How cold is Gulmarg in February?
Since Gulmarg is located at an altitude of 2650 feet, it is quite cold in Gulmarg in winter . Similar to January, it is one of the coldest months of the year. The temperature is below sub zero, resulting in heavy snowfall in the town.
Which month snow is heavy in Kashmir?
What are the best places to visit in Kashmir?
Some of the best places to visit in Kashmir are Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Golf Course and Khilanmarg in Gulmarg, Dal Lake in Srinagar, Baltal Valley in Sonmarg, Aru Valley in Pahalgam , etc.
Is it safe for tourists to visit in Kashmir during February?
Yes, it is totally safe for tourists to visit Kashmir during february . Even in snowfall, cabs and taxis are operational with hotels providing heat regulating arrangements.