Off-Season In Kashmir
Overview
Kashmir is one of the most-visited holiday destinations of India. The seasons of Kashmir tourism are basically divided into two- one is peak season and the other one is off-season. July to September marks the off-season in Kashmir.
Not a lot of tourists prefer to plan Kashmir trips during this time and the valley remains uncrowded. However, visiting Kashmir during the off season or shoulder season has many pros. Those include fewer crowds, great offers on accommodation and transport and lower rates of air tickets.
Even the weather conditions are comfortable with moderate temperatures. Though not heavy, rainfalls are expected in the valley. You can visit various local attractions, indulge in activities like trekking, water rafting, paragliding, fishing, and many more. Even the road conditions are good.
You can surely plan a Kashmir trip during off-season with Cliffhangers India, covering both touristy as well as off-beat regions of the valley. Here’s everything you need to know about the off-season trip to Kashmir.
When is the Off Season in Kashmir?
The off season in Kashmir lasts from July to September. While the summer season peaks during these months and there’s just natural beauty all around. However, during this time, the valley is less crowded and tourism kind of remains stagnant. There are many reasons why it is the shoulder season in Kashmir.
- Firstly, these months don’t feature any major festivities in the Kashmir valley. When there’s any event or festival in Kashmir, tourists often plan the trip during that period such as Tulip Festival in March and April and Christmas in December.
- People often schedule family trips to Kashmir where there’s school holidays such as summer vacation or winter vacation. Since, from July to August, there’s no school holidays, the valley expects less crowds.
- Amarnath Yatra starts from last June and lasts till August, resulting in temporary closure of roads in Pahalgam. Since accessibility of routes is harder this time, the period comes under the off-season.
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Weather During Off Season in Kashmir
Weather during off-season in Kashmir is pleasant and enjoyable. The temperature ranges between 15°C to 20°C. During the day, the sun is out and a warm atmosphere is experienced. Nights aren’t chilly as well. It might get a bit cooler in early mornings.
It rains occasionally during this time. However, no heavy downpour is experienced unlike the rest of North India. The entire Kashmir valley looks stunning during this period of time.
If you are planning a trip to Kashmir in any of these months- July, August or September, make sure to bring cotton clothes such as t-shirts, shirts, trousers, jeans, long skirts, dresses, etc. Keep a light sweater in case it gets cooler at night. Bring an umbrella and raincoat. Don’t forget sunscreen to remain safe from harmful sun rays.
Benefits of Visiting Kashmir in Off Season
While it’s no secret that people do visit less during off season, those who visit avail several benefits. Some of them are explained below. If these criteria matter in your trip planning, off season may be the ideal time for your Kashmir trip.
- Less crowd: During off season, Kashmir welcomes fewer visitors as compared to peak season. This might be a good timing for those who are looking for a more serene experience in the valley. The local attractions are not congested with tourists and you can explore them without much effort. Even the spots for various outdoor activities aren’t packed. You can easily get tickets and passes and have a memorable time. The meadows and shores of lakes aren’t overcrowded, giving you a perfect opportunity to plan outdoor picnics and actually enjoy them in peace.
- Good deals on hotels & cabs: During off-season, the influx of tourists isn’t that much. Hence, if you do visit Kashmir during off-season, you can get great discounts on hotels and guesthouses. The prices on Kashmir Taxi services run lower than usual and good deals on cab booking are offered to customers. Not only that, The Kashmir Tour Packages at Cliffhangers India are available with more than 25% discounts, keeping all the services the same. It is the cheapest time to visit Kashmir for budget-conscious tourists. You can save a lot of money while enjoying the vacation.
- Prices of air tickets are low: If you are considering visiting Kashmir via flights but the prices of air tickets are higher as usual, a trip to Kashmir in off-season is the ideal choice. During this time, various Indian airlines lower the prices of even air tickets. Unlike the peak season, when the ticket charges are skyrocketing, you get good offers on those during the shoulder season. The websites for ticket bookings aren’t jammed as well and the process of ticket booking is easier and hustle-free. For a rough estimate, the prices range between INR 5000 to 8000 from Delhi to Srinagar.
Tips for Visiting Kashmir During Off Season
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast and avoid city tours during rainfall.
- Carry suitable waterproof clothes like jackets, shoes to remain dry. Light and quick dry ones are suggested.
- Some other essentials to pack include moisturiser, lip balm, sunglasses, water bottles, snacks, a medical kit containing basic medicines and personal ones if any.
- The remote locations in Kashmir often experience power outages. Carry electronic gears like portable charger and power bank.
- Plan a personalised yet flexible Kashmir trip itinerary.
- Include both popular as well as offbeat locations since off season is the perfect time.
- Remain updated about the road condition as frequent landslides are experienced in the valley.
Are all Places Open in Kashmir During the Off-Season?
Yes, all plans are open in Kashmir during the off-season. Tourist places such as Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Srinagar and the local attractions there are open to the public. Even border areas and offbeat regions such as Warwan, Gurez and Keran Valley are accessible.
A sightseeing tour to these locations during off-season in Kashmir is a must-do. Starting with Srinagar, explore the Mughal Gardens, Dal Lake, Shankaracharya Temple. Places like Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Khilanmarg, Maharani Temple in Gulmarg and Pahalgam should be on your itinerary.
Visit the remote locations like Yusmarg, Baltal Valley, Warwan Valley, Gurez Valley for a memorable experience. Since it does rain in Kashmir during July, August and September, check the weather forecast and updates about the conditions of the road leading to these places.
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