Best Time To Visit Kashmir
Overview
Kashmir is an established tourist destination. Scores of tourists want to visit this place and their first inquiry is when is the best time to visit Kashmir. Generally, the peak season in Kashmir is during the summer season i.e., between May and September, when most of the domestic tourists as well as international tourists come to visit Kashmir. Even though it is open all year round, the winter season (December to March) offers the greatest chance of snowfall.
The best time to plan a family vacation to Jammu and Kashmir is in the spring or summer if you prefer being outside. However, families even visit the winter season to play winter sports and enjoy the snow vacation at various locations in Kashmir.
Every year, tourists throng this destination just to soak themselves in its serene environment. The snowclad peaks, the clear skies, the rivers, the flora and fauna, and the dense pine trees welcome every tourist. But this is a generalized description of Kashmir. If you want to see what Kashmir truly is then you need to know more about different seasons in Kashmir and what the temperature ranges are during these times. This is because, from a tourism point, every season in Kashmir has something unique to offer. For blooming flowers and green meadows, you can prefer spring or the summer season; for enjoying snowfall you can prefer the winter season.
This is a detailed blog about the best time to visit Kashmir, and how Kashmir looks in varied seasons and months and what is Kashmir peak season of tourism. Continue reading this travel guide carefully as based upon this, you can make an informed decision about when to visit Kashmir and how to chalk out your travel itinerary.
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Best Seasons To Visit Kashmir
Kashmir In Spring (March to May)
March marks the transition from winter to spring in Kashmir. Although the weather remains cold during this month, higher altitudes may experience snowfall. From March to early May the valley adorns itself in a vibrant tapestry of blooming wildflowers and verdant landscapes that emerges from its wintry dormancy signaling the arrival of spring and indicates the end of winter season. Orchards are filled with shades of pink and white as cherry and apple break their dormant period and their flower blossoms announce nature’s reawakening. The almond trees bloom in the spring that surrounds the complete area in lovely white and pink petals. Spring symbolizes rejuvenation and magnificence, making it an ideal period for a visit. Kashmir in spring casts a spell of enchantment with winter dissipating and regarded as the most exquisite time to explore Kashmir. This season witness’s nature’s revival, painting a picturesque portrait of paradise. Kashmir is renowned for its stunning beauty and experiences a surge in charm during spring with a kaleidoscope of colors enhancing its allure after the long, snowy winter.
TEMPERATURE- In this season, Kashmir experiences temperatures spanning from 9°C to 15°C in the evening and it doesn’t exceed 20°C during the day.
WEATHER- The climate is very calm and pleasant as it marks the end of winter and therefore breaking the hibernation period of different birds and animals. The weather is very cool with not very sunny days and chilly at nighttime.
HIGHLIGHTS- The rivers and streams are rejuvenated by the melting snow from the mountains rendering them more abundant and livelier. A shikhara ride on the beautiful Dal Lake is a must in everyone’s bucket list, the weather adding more charm to it. Try taking a shikhara ride during the early morning prayers if you can. In the morning time the shikharas function as markets that create a bizarre yet exquisite image. Places like Badamwari in Srinagar boast about the almond orchards that are breathtaking.
ACTIVITIES TO DO- The Tulip Festival which is held every year at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar comes to life which feels not less than any fantasy world. Spreading to an area of 30 hectares and is home to millions of tulips that are in bloom at a single time producing a breathtaking visual fusion of colors. Also tour the one of the well-known Mughal Gardens which includes Chashme Shahi, Shalimar Bagh, and Nishat Bagh. Kashmir in spring attracts a smaller number of tourists as compared to winter ones. With an array of flowers in full bloom these gardens are particularly lovely in the spring. Gulmarg, known as the Meadow of blooms especially seems lovely in the spring when a riot of vibrant blooms fills the meadows. A Gondola ride or a hike to higher elevations provides expansive vistas of peaks covered with snow. With its verdant meadows, the immaculate waterways, and thick forests, Pahalgam is a picturesque location for springtime sightseeing.
INSIDER TIPS- It’s advised to pack light sweaters, thermals, and sturdy walking shoes. Do not forget to bring along a quality camera to record the breathtaking scenery. Choose houseboats on Dal Lake to stay for a night at least for a real movie like experience. In addition, Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg all have many hotels and guesthouses and also luxury resorts that may accommodate different budgets. As there is more demand due to the Tulips festival it is advised to book your rooms and flights well advanced.
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Kashmir In Summer (May to August)
Summer time in Kashmir offers an excellent opportunity to witness the lifestyle of the valley’s inhabitants. Kashmir in summer is seen in the months between May to August. With the onset of summer, the meadows of Kashmir undergo a stunning transformation into lush expanses of emerald green. As the snow cover on the lofty mountain passes gradually recedes that unveils the breathtaking alpine lakes and pristine reflecting views, the hikers are beckoned to explore the serene lakes, make themselves lost in picturesque treks, and savor the renowned warmth of Kashmiri hospitality. Summer emerges as the pinnacle of tourism in Kashmir that draws in visitors with its agreeable climate and vibrant scenery, but the crowd is comparatively less than winters.
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TEMPERATURE – Kashmir in Summer temperatures typically range between 15°C to 30°C , offering a welcome respite from the sweltering heat of the plains. Days are characterized by pleasant warmth and ample sunshine, while nights bring a refreshing coolness.
WEATHER- The climate during this period is characterized by a delightful coolness that is accompanied by clear skies and a gentle crisp breeze. Locals use ceiling fans during the day which usually remains warm, but the nights can be chilly requiring a jacket and sweater.
HIGHLIGHTS- When is Kashmir then how to miss the Shikara ride in Dal lake! A pleasant experience overall staying in one of the houseboats positioned on the lake is preferred by some people. There is a floating market which can only be seen here, and the place is famous for. Shop and eat while you enjoy the boat ride. When the neighboring mountains and the gardens cast their reflections on the lake, the atmosphere becomes more beautiful and seems like a canvas.
ACTIVITIES TO DO – Summer in Kashmir is the ideal time for all the pilgrims who want to travel to Amarnath for the Amarnath Yatra. Near adjacent places like Pahalgam, where all the trek starts and visitors can stroll through lush valleys, unwind by the Lidder River, move to the base camp called Aru Valley where the Tarsar Marsar trek starts and take in the tranquil atmosphere of the natural world. Gulmarg has very beautiful scenic routes and views, vibrant flowers blooming and the tall snow towered peaks. Other activities like horse riding, visits to temples and gardens are done for local sightseeing. Other adventurous activities that give an adrenaline rush like river rafting, paragliding are also loved by travelers. Sonamarg is another ideal location to hop on leisure trails. In Kashmir, people are engaged in agricultural work throughout the summer months. The principal summer crops are rice, corn, pulses, peas, and beans. Certain fruit kinds, such as peaches, cherries, apricots, and plums, are also harvested throughout the summer. Additionally, most farming operations are halted during the winter and a fresh foundation for the upcoming year’s vegetation preparation is laid.
INSIDER TIPS- It is very convenient to explore the markets and buy local handicraft things, souvenirs. In Srinagar, Lal Chown is very famous for Pashmina Shawls, handicrafts, traditional jewelry of Kashmiri culture. Go for tasting local cuisines like Rogan josh, Kahwa, Nadru curry. Packing a pair of light cotton clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen is a must as the suntan is more in winter places and a hat is indispensable during the day. Additionally bring a light jacket for cooler evenings. Due to the summer crowds, it is advisable to secure accommodations early. Therefore, consider yourself booking resorts in Gulmarg and Sonamarg for remarkable views and upscale facilities. Always be prepared by carrying an umbrella or raincoat for uneven rain showers. Furthermore, it is vital to show respect for local customs and traditions, particularly during the Amarnath Yatra.
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Kashmir In Autumn (August to November)
Autumn known as “Harud” in Kashmiri is said to fall between August to November. During this season there is relatively little risk of rain, and the weather stays dry usually. There is a certain beauty and charm about this season. The green leaves eventually turn brown and then golden before shedding to the ground. Many visitors from around the globe have come to admire the gardens’ splendor and the charming setting created by the “Chinar trees'” fall foliage. Apples, walnuts, and other locally cultivated crops are ready to be picked in the fall. In Kashmir the fall is often referred to as the “apple season.” Kashmir in Autumn is a kaleidoscope of hues. Autumn, also referred to as the season of beauty and harvest, turns the valley into a golden, amber, and scarlet palette. Because it’s less congested this is the best time to visit for peace-seeking vacationers.
TEMPERATURE- Autumn temperatures vary from 10°C to 25°C. There is an occasional cool breeze in the evenings otherwise the weather is clear and crisp air lingers.
WEATHER- The days are nice and warm making it an ideal place for outdoor exploration. Due to the mild weather, many people feel this might be the ideal time to explore Kashmir.
HIGHLIGHTS- Dachigam and Srinagar become breathtaking when golden leaves start to shed off. During this time of the year apple picking and other harvesting activities occur. Kashmir is incredibly beautiful and ablaze with color in the fall. The Chinar trees can be recognized, and it displays a striking crimson and gold hue. You can take a stroll around the parks and gardens that are decked with magnificent trees.
ACTIVITIES TO DO- Enjoy fresh apples and go apple picking in orchards near Sopore and Pulwama where apple fall indicates it is ready for harvest. For all photogenic people this place is heaven and makes an ops moment always with its awe. Just seize the splendor of the valley’s golden tones and the Pampore saffron fields. Here attend the fairs and festivals where you will get a blend of both the Muslim holiday of Eid and the Kashmiri Pandit festival of Navreh that is being widely observed.
INSIDER TIPS- Since the days are dry in Autumn in Kashmir, keep lightweight woolens and thick thermals for chilly evenings. A good pair of sturdy boots is a must for comfortable walking. This time it is less crowded, and the stay options are easily available, but it is advised to book beforehand for easy and hassle-free situations. Just savor the bounty of apple fall when it is the harvest time of the season and try the Yakhni pulao and Rogan Josh to thrust the hunger of your palate.
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Kashmir In Winter (November To February)
Kashmir turns into a wintry paradise as the temperature drops. A layer of snow covers the land that creates a snowy scene with mountains, trees and rooftops. A calm mood is created by snow-covered gardens and frozen lakes. When the famous Dal Lake freezes the visitors can enjoy the unique show of a winter Shikara ride. Winters in Kashmir are harsh with frequently below-freezing temperatures.
TEMPERATURE- The temperature ranges between 10°C to -2°C. Snowfall is very frequent especially at higher elevations that gives a magnificent backdrop on the terrain.
WEATHER- Kashmir experiences cold winter weather with snowfall in the higher levels and showers in the plains. The most critical and severe part of winter is thought to occur during the 40-day “chilaikalan” period which runs from December 21 to January 31.
HIGHLIGHTS- Kashmir in Winter is the ideal season to visit if you want to go skiing and enjoy other snow-related sports such as skiing, snow biking, snow festivals, snowboarding, ice skating, and snow jets. Gulmarg is a well-known hill station in Jammu & Kashmir’s Baramulla district. The meadows of Gulmarg are blanketed in a thick layer of snow during the winter that creates a captivating sight. You will have an amazing experience when you ride a gondola in the winter. One of the greatest locations to travel to in Kashmir in December is Gulmarg. You should go back to Kashmir in the winter if you have been there in the summer and are curious about how it appears.
ACTIVITIES TO DO – Gulmarg is often referred to as the “Heartland of Winter Sports,” as it provides fantastic chances for snowboarding and skiing. Asia’s highest ski slopes are accessible via the Gulmarg Gondola. This has different slopes such as Aparhwat slope, Koongdoori, Mary’s Shoulder. These are only accessible through cable cars. “Meadow of Gold” is said to be Sonamarg that gives breathtaking views in the winter with the snow-covered terrain perfect for sledding and snowshoeing. Strolling around the ice Dal Lake is another experience that can only be done in these winters. This area is especially known for its ice skating which combines panoramic beauty with adventure. Winter festivals in Kashmir hosts jovial and colorful Christmas and New Year’s celebrations that feature traditional music, dance, and regional cuisine. Hike over to a 7-Day long Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, might seem difficult but this hike rewards ardent trekkers with unmatched views of frozen lakes and snow-covered peaks.
Even though Srinagar is often colder than Jammu still it is always flocked with visitors. Kashmir in December has everything dreamy that words can’t describe yet of course it can get too chilly for visitors to tolerate in December and January. The entire Pir-Panjal range is also totally blanketed in snow that creates a mesmerizing spectacle. Amazing and amazing cable car trips are also available. In Gulmarg the sea of white can be especially delightful if you’re at your core a snow queen or king.
INSIDER TIPS- To stay warm and cozy in the snowpack thermal clothing, waterproof coats, heavy woolens, gloves, and sturdy boots. Keep an extra pair of jackets as the evenings are cold. It is suggested to choose resorts and motels with adequate heating. A distinctive and unforgettable experience can also be had while lodging in a comfortable houseboat with heating. Try the famous local cuisine-Wazwan which is a multicourse feast, Gushtaba, or meatballs in yogurt gravy, and hot Kahwa tea are great wintertime treats from Kashmir. Also make sure to drink plenty of water or warm water to stay hydrated throughout your journey. It is advisable to hire a local driver as he would be having a good experience to drive in the sicky snow and make sure the cars must have chains installed.
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Things To Know Before You Go To Kashmir
Traveling to a destination needs a bit of preparation so that one doesn’t feel directionless. Hence, a list is mentioned below of the things you need to do before going to Kashmir.
- Carry Cash: You need to carry the required amount of cash. This is because internet services wouldn’t be available at offbeat destinations hence, you can pay by providing cash.
- Warm Clothes: Throughout the year, Kashmir has mild to moderate weather. Even if you go to Kashmir in the summer season, you would feel cold at night. To counter freezing temperatures in Kashmir, you need to carry a good amount of warm clothes such as a jacket, socks, shawl, muffler, etc.
- Comfortable Shoes: Generally, one needs to wear comfortable shoes while traveling and this becomes all the more important when it comes to mountainous regions. Mountainous regions have rocky and rugged terrain and you need comfortable shoes for movement.
- Power Bank: Traveling for longer hours could drain your phone battery. At far-off destinations in Kashmir, you won’t find electricity hours throughout the day thus, you need to carry a power bank with you.
- Necessary Documents: You need to carry identity proof such as an Aadhaar Card, driver’s license, etc., to prove your authenticity. At certain checkpoints, you even have to show such documents hence, do not forget to carry them. You can even carry a photocopy of these documents instead of the original ones.
- Medicines: If you are suffering from some kind of medical condition then, you need to carry some prescribed medications to save yourself from any emergency.
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Best Occasions To Visit Kashmir
Best Time to Visit Kashmir for Snowfall
If seeing the gorgeous locations of Kashmir in movies is inspiring you to visit this heavenly destination then, one suggestion would be to choose the winter season. In the winter season, Kashmir looks like an ethereal beauty as the entire region is covered with white snow. The winter season in Kashmir starts in November and continues till mid-March. In some places, the winter season extends till the end of March or the start of April.
The temperature drops below zero degrees Celsius in Kashmir in the winter season. This leads to freezing conditions in the whole of Kashmir. The lakes are frozen, the mountain peaks are layered with snow, and the complete environment looks quite calm but, the buzzing life is seen amongst places where winter sports are a popular thing. For instance, places such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, etc., are lively due to tourists flocking in the winter season to witness heavy snowfall and play their favorite winter sports. Thus, the ideal time to visit Kashmir to witness snowfall is the winter season.
If you are on a romantic vacation then, the heavenly view of the snowfall would surely turn on your feelings. Making snowmen, throwing snowballs, etc., would bring out your inner child and strengthen your relationship.
Apart from witnessing heavy snowfall and playing winter sports, the one thing that you would surely love about Kashmir is its delectable dishes served in the winter season.
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Best Time to Visit Kashmir for Honeymoon
Kashmir has created its niche as a romantic destination for couples. Newlywed couples generally prefer mountainous regions for their honeymoon and among them, Kashmir is their first preference for vacation. The best season to visit Kashmir for honeymoon would be the summer season.
During the summer season, the eternal glory of Kashmir is at its peak. The colourful blooming flowers bring a delightful touch to your relationship. To evoke this romantic feeling, Kashmir is full of exquisite gardens such as Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, etc. An evening walk through these gardens would ignite love between you and your partner.
Shikhara Ride on the Dal Lake, or staying in houseboats are other ways through which you and your partner can spend some quality time. You can enjoy these activities only if you visit Kashmir in the summer season as during the winter season, the lakes in Kashmir get frozen.
If you and your partner are fitness enthusiasts then, the other option that would bring you and your partner closer is trekking. Trekking would give a closer view of the valleys and also give some quality time for you and your partner.
The heavenly view of Kashmir during the winter season is another season in which you can enjoy its majestic environment and soak yourself romantically in the delightful atmosphere of Kashmir.
Best Time to Visit Kashmir with Family
A vacation with family becomes special irrespective of the season in which you are going. But, considering that the weather should be suitable for everyone present in the family before deciding to go on a vacation, the summer season is the best season to visit Kashmir.
During the summer season, there is a summer holiday in schools and even colleges have breaks hence, the summer season is the best time for Kashmir Trip.
The summer season in Kashmir is packed with tourists as the weather is quite warm and pleasant. The families can go together to explore places such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Yusmarg, etc. They can even undertake fun activities such as Gondola cable car riding, river rafting, photography, walking beside the river, outdoor camping, fishing, etc. Such activities are not only refreshing but also strengthen the bond among family members.
The summer season is also the time when the route to one of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage centres, Amarnath Yatra is opened to the public. Hence, you can use the months of May to August as the time for spiritual awakening.
The other seasons are equally worth to visit Kashmir. Whether it’s the blooming and blossoming months of March and April the quiet environment of Kashmir in the autumn season or the majestic views of Kashmir in the winter season.
Best Time to Visit Kashmir for Senior Citizens
Considering all things, the best time to visit Kashmir for Senior Citizens is from June to September. These are months when it is summer in Kashmir.
The weather is pleasant, there is no cold, no snow, and no incessant rain. So this is the best place considering the convenience and comfort. This is also the time when all the places are easily accessible. No blockade of road, no rough roads, no weather forecasts.
Best Time to visit for Tulip Season in Kashmir
Who doesn’t like to see blooming flowers? Colorful and blooming flowers provide a soothing effect on the mind and soul. The spring season in Kashmir which includes the month of March and April, looks beautiful as there are blossoming floral species all around.
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir, becomes a key attraction in the spring season. As the name suggests, the Tulip Garden is famous for displaying a wide variety of tulips which are in numerous colors. There are around 1.5 million tulips to be found in this garden, which looks majestic.
The best time to see colorful tulips in Kashmir is during the spring season. During March, the tulip starts to bloom. In the first week of April till the third week of April, the tulips are at their full glory and hence, it becomes a thing of appreciation.
Tourists flock to the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, the largest tulip garden in Asia, to see this natural beauty. The garden is open in March and April and then, is closed in the other months for the general public.
There is a Tulip Festival that is organized every year in April. Tourists from different places visit Kashmir in this blooming period to appreciate the utmost glory of nature. The Tulip Garden is near the Dal Lake hence, the beauty of the whole region elevates to a supreme level, attracting visitors all around the world.
Best Time To Visit Kashmir For Specific Interests
Nature Enthusiasts: Kashmir is bestowed with the best of Himalayan flora and fauna. You will find the best of wildlife here along with the best of migratory animals living in the pastures and forests of Kashmir. Nature enthusiasts visit Kashmir all across the year. However, summer is the perfect time to take Kashmir Trip for your nature walks and wildlife sightings. Dachigam is the best place in Kashmir which is ideal for nature enthusiasts. You can enjoy the serene walk along with the sighting of different birds and animals.
Adventure Seekers: The best time for adventure seekers to visit Kashmri depends upon the activity you are interested in. For all the snow adventures like snowboarding, skiing, ice skating, snowmobile, etc the ideal time is from December to February. This is the winter season in Kashmir.
For trekkers, mountaineering, and water sports enthusiasts, summer is the only best time for Kashmir Adventure activities. Enjoy the best of these activities in Kashmir.
Cultural Enthusiasts: Kashmir is an ancient place that boasts of traditional culture, art, and architecture. It attracts a lot of tourists interested in cultural activities. The best highlight of all of the Kashmir’s art and culture is done by going for Srinagar Heritage Walk. This walk goes via ancient markets of old Srinagar city with old bazaars, the buildings full of local architecture, and the age-old food lie the wazwan cuisines.
Considerations For Choosing The Right Time To Visit Kashmir
Weather Preferences: Kashmir has four seasons in total. So before coming to this valley, you must know in which weather you are traveling and if the weather is suitable for you. Any snow enthusiast will definitely love to visit Kashmir in the winter months. If you love flowers and bloom, then come in April. The best meadows and greenery you will find in the summer months. Further, if you love colours and are a fan of the fall season then come in October and November.
The winter months are the coldest months with the temperature going as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius or more. Summer days have temperatures around 32 degrees Celsius. Spring has the most pleasant weather with the breeze blowing around and the sun shining delightfully.
Activities & Interests: Choose winter months for your snow adventures like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, etc. Kashmir receives plenty of snowfall during the winter months. So you will see enough snowfall for your snow activities. For those into trekking and mountaineering, summer months are the best months to visit Kashmir. During the summer months, the weather is suitable for trekking, all the mountain passes are accessible, and open along the remote areas are also accessible.
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Crowd Levels: If you are someone who loves to see crowds around then do come in the peak tourist season. The highest flow of tourists happens in peak season. In Kashmir, the peak season months are from March to May & from October to November. During these months, the hotels are booked, and the rates are higher than normal. You will have to secure the booking of hotels way in advance. Rest of the months you will see less crowd and you can enjoy the best of serenity in Kashmir. However, you will see a lot of crowds in winter in Gulmarg, particularly on Christmas and New Year.
Another way to avoid crowds is to visit offbeat places in Kashmir. These places lure less crowds.
Budget Considerations: If you are budget-conscious, then avoid coming in peak season. Also, avoid booking rooms in Gulmarg during the winter months. You can book the hotel in Srinagar and from there do the day tour to Gulmarg. Further, there are plenty of homestay and budget hotels in Kashmir, you can stay there to enjoy your vacation. Also, you can travel by locl shared cabs if you want to save some money on your travel to Kashmir.
Special Events & Festivals: The biggest tourist event in Kashmir is the Tulip Festival which happens from March to April. Kashmir holds Asia’s largest tulip garden which is celebrated by making different programs happen in the garden when the tourists flow this garden. This is the time when Kashmir receives the greatest flow of tourists.
Another event re Christmas and New Year. This is the time when Gulmarg receives most of the tourists and the entire Gulmarg gets fully booked.
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Things to Know Before You Go to Kashmir
Traveling to a destination needs a bit of preparation so that one doesn’t feel directionless. Hence, a list is mentioned below of the things you need to do before going to Kashmir.
Carry Cash:You need to carry the required amount of cash. This is because internet services wouldn’t be available at offbeat destinations.
Warm Clothes: Throughout the year, Kashmir has mild to moderate weather. Even if you go to Kashmir in the summer season, you would feel cold at night. To counter freezing temperatures in Kashmir, you need to carry a good amount of warm clothes such as a jacket, socks, shawl, muffler, etc.
Comfortable Shoes: Generally, one needs to wear comfortable shoes while traveling and this becomes all the more important when it comes to mountainous regions.
Power Bank:Traveling for longer hours could drain your phone battery. At far-off destinations in Kashmir, you won’t find electricity hours throughout the day thus, you need to carry a power bank with you.
Necessary Documents: You need to carry identity proof such as an Aadhaar Card, driver’s license, etc.,
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