Places to Visit in Kashmir in December
Overview
Kashmir in December is no less than a wonderland, attracting travellers from all corners of the globe to explore this paradise.
The mountains and landscapes get covered in thick snow, icicles, and frozen streams, creating a perfect view to enjoy. Sports like skiing, snowboarding, ATV rides and snow biking are perfect activities to do in December.
Experience Kashmir’s sub-zero temperatures ranging between 0 to 10 degrees Celsius that create beautiful landscapes for visitors to explore the Valley, Glaciers, local culture, and delicious cuisines.
Through this guide by Cliffhangers India, get to know about the places to visit in Kashmir in December.
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01. Two Phases of Gulmarg Gondola
One of the best places to visit in Kashmir in December is the Gulmarg Gondola. A thrilling experience with the tallest cable car rides globally, which operates in two phases. The first phase ride of 15 minutes starts from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Station, offering a mesmerizing view of snow-covered valleys, and pine forests from a great height.
The second phase ride of 20 minutes goes from Kongdoori Station to Apharwat Peak, providing an adventurous opportunity to reach the perfect point of skiing.
In addition, the mesmerizing view of the Harmukh Range and the Nanga Parbat from Apharwat Mountain is soothing.
02. Zojila Pass in Sonamarg (for snow)
At an elevation of approx 11,575 ft, Zojila Pass, often called Zoji Pass in Sonamarg, is a high mountain pass. It is a link between Ladakh and Kashmir. In winter it is an adventurous as well as daunting journey, with stunning landscapes around.
Known for its heavy snowfall and avalanches, it attracts adventure seekers, to explore the beauty with thrilling passages.
The sight of this place provides a whitish view of snow-capped peaks, streams, slopes, dense forests, and Drass Valley which is beyond the imagination. Zero Point, located nearby, is a popular attraction for winter activities like skiing, and trekking.
03. Drung Waterfall
Drung Waterfall, known for its stunning view of frozen water, is located in the Kupwara district near Tangmarg. It transforms into stunning scenery in December when its partially frozen fall creates breathtaking icicles due to the low temperature.
This captivating view against the snow-capped landscape attracts nature enthusiasts to witness the silent stream in its frozen form. The surroundings of Drung with pine trees offer a trekking opportunity to experience its serene winter beauty.
The Drung waterfall appears like crystals next to the river stream. From a height of 30 meters, the water flows creating a misty atmosphere around.
04. Dal Lake
A December trip is incomplete without visiting one of the second-largest lakes in Kashmir. Known as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir,” this place changes into a magical wonderland in December, when it partially freezes.
Staying in a wooden houseboat, watching the floating markets, visiting the Char Chinari (a small island, encircled with four majestic chinar trees) and taking a shikara ride, to listen to the gentle sounds of ice breaking beneath are the things to enjoy.
Enjoy the view of snow-capped Himalayas, and feel the chilly winds, on the foreshore, while sipping the hot cup of kehwa.
05. Sinthan Top (for snow)
At an impressive height of 12,440 ft, SinthanTop is an unexplored destination in the Anantnag district. In winter Sinthan top creates a mesmerizing view of the snowy Himalayas.
The area is at a great height, which makes it perfect for adventure lovers to enjoy treks and horse rides. The weather of Sinthan Top is unpredictable, which allows you to experience warmth in one spot and a chill at a distance away.
In December, due to heavy snowfall, this place is inaccessible, creating a quiet atmosphere. Visitors can prepare for a thrilling journey along the twisty slopes of the route to Sinthan Top.
06. Thajiwas Glacier in Sonmarg
Thajiwas Glacier, just 3 km from Sonamarg, is a winter paradise that turns into an imaginary view during December. A journey that begins from Sonamarg, a town, known as the ‘Meadow of Gold.’ During winter, the Thajiwas Glacier is covered with thick layered snow, which makes it a challenging trek.
As visitors make their way up to the Thajiwas Glacier, witnessing the majestic sight of the snow-capped peaks encircling the glacier feels nothing less than magic.
In Thajiwas Glacier, snow-covered slopes make it perfect for sledging and snowball fights, while trekkers can enjoy camping and trekking in this high-altitude nature.
07. Aru Valley in Pahalgam
Travel through the Aru Valley, a stunning winter destination that promises peace, beauty, and adventure within its lap, is only 12 km from Pahalgam.
The village, which is tucked away next to the Aru River, has breathtaking scenery filled with tranquillity, which makes it undoubtedly among the best places to visit in Kashmir in December. Nature enthusiasts can find their perfect spot to admire the snow-covered peaks and dense pine trees.
Offering a thrilling trek chance to Kolahoi Glacier, Tarsar-Marsar Lakes, and Katrinag Valley, along with activities like snowboarding and Skiing, Aru Valley turns into a must-visit destination for adventurers.
08. Srinagar Old City
Srinagar Old City, also known as Shehr-e-Khaas, transforms into a snow-white beauty and is one of the most visited places to visit in Kashmir in December.
Srinagar is rich in history, and its timeless beauty of traditional cultures, sights and cuisines is spread all over the valley. The old city tour in winter takes visitors through the narrow alleys and lanes, where numerous historical monuments were built centuries ago.
The Pathar Masjid, Jamia Masjid, Budshah Tomb, Naqashband Sahab Shrine, Khanqah e Mola, Zaina Kadal, Ali Kadal, are the attractions of the Srinagar old city that can be relished in winter.
09. Dhumail Naranag (for hikers)
To start the trek to Dumail, Naranag is the starting point for this winter trek. It can be reached by a 2-hour trek from the village.
While hiking, the trekkers can see the Wangat River flowing along the trail to Dumail which adds to its attractiveness. The trail passes through dense forests of Pine, with landscapes covered in snow and some huts along the way.
Dumail ends at a wooden bridge, from where the trekkers can hike beyond and then reach the Marchoi Valley. The area is covered in thick snow, providing an opportunity for activities:sliding and snowball throwing.
10. Peer Ki Gali (for snow)
Peer ki Gali, located at about 11,500 feet in the Pir Panjal Range, is an untouched beauty perfect for snow lovers.
This mountain lies along the historical Mughal Road, which links Kashmir with Rajouri and Poonch districts. Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, and shrine built in honour of Sheikh Ahmed Karim, a revered saint who meditated there. It often experiences early snowfall that lasts until May.
Despite a challenging winter with heavy snowfall, the region’s unique height and weather patterns help preserve its snowy charm. A scenic journey leads adventurers through stunning views, making Peer Ki Gali a must-visit destination.
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Conclusion
As winter arrives in Kashmir, it marks the end of the lush greenery, and blooming flowers. This season also brings the beginning of adventures and the excitement of the snow, which attracts travellers around the globe.
Places to visit in Kashmir in December, including Sonamarg, Sinthan Top, and Drung Waterfall, provide an unforgettable experience, from treks in serene landscapes to winter sports. The highlights of the region include iconic gondola rides, frozen waterfalls, houseboats in Dal Lake, Skiing, and snowboarding.
By the end of December, the area is covered with snow, making it a perfect vacation to celebrate New Year’s.
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