Places to Visit in Kashmir in February
Overview
In February, Kashmir transforms into a winter landscape, where locals endure the cold with a Kangri tucked inside their traditional pherans, sipping hot Kehwa for warmth. This season is more than just winter; it’s a time of cozy moments that connect glaciers with valleys and rivers with mountains. Tourists from around the world visit to witness this snowy beauty, from majestic peaks to quiet landscapes, while diving into winter activities. Heavy snowfall in Kashmir turns into calmness, with freezing temperatures ranging between-2°C and 6°C during daytime.
A trip to Kashmir in February offers unforgettable experiences, from horse rides to snow fights. In this Cliffhanger India guide, we highlight the best places to visit in Kashmir in February for a thrilling adventure.
Popular Kashmir Tours
7D/ 6N
6D/ 5N
5D/ 4N
7D/ 6N
01. Gulmarg Gondola
If you want to see the February beauty of Kashmir from above, then this Gondola ride is waiting to take you through views of snow-capped mountains, pine forests, and the Harmukh Range. This highest and longest ride of the world takes visitors via a two-stage gondola from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Mountain, with an added third phase for skiing enthusiasts. Gulmarg in winter looks like heaven it would be best experience for the people who loves snow.
It’s a perfect activity for snow lovers, providing access to top skiing slopes. In February, if you plan to visit this mountain region, then be prepared for cold temperatures, dropping as low as -3°C. Make sure to bring warm clothing and sturdy boots to stay comfortable.
02. Drung waterfall
Drung Waterfall, located near Gulmarg, is a must-visit in February, offering a mesmerizing winter landscape. During this month, Drung waterfall is completely frozen, with the surrounding mountain blanketed in thick ice and snow. The flow of water continues beneath the ice, creating a stunning sight of solidified icicles.
February is the ideal time to visit, with fewer tourists, allowing for a peaceful experience in the serene winter atmosphere. The snow-covered surroundings and frozen trails offer perfect conditions for light trekking and enjoying the quiet beauty of this hidden gem. Drung’s charm is truly unmatched during the February month of winter.
03. Jamia Masjid
Tourists can enjoy the serene beauty of Jamia Masjid in February, surrounded by freezing temperatures and snowfall. The masjid, known for its Persian architecture, featuring four turrets, 378 wooden pillars, and a square courtyard surrounded by wide lanes, is located in Old City at Nowhatta.
Visitors can explore the snowy courtyard and nearby bustling markets, while the fountain in the center of the masjid, blanketed in snow, remains a spot where people perform ablution during summer. The azaan echoes through the city, calling people to prayer, and birds peacefully peck at food offered by visitors. On Fridays, thousands gather for prayer, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
04. Dal Lake
Dal Lake, a renowned waterbody in Srinagar, is a hub of tourist destination where visitors stay in houseboats, enjoy shikara rides, and soak in its expansive beauty and winter chill. In February, the Dal lake becomes a winter wonderland, with its surface partially freezing, offering a unique shikara ride across the snowy landscape.
Known as “Srinagar’s Jewel,” this stunning lake, surrounded by majestic peaks, Mughal gardens and houseboats, is one of the top places to visit in Kashmir in February. Tourists can enjoy picturesque views, savor treats like kehwa and chocolates from shikaras, explore the floating markets, and visit the nearby Nishat and Shalimar gardens.
05. Shankaracharya Temple
Also known as Jyeshteshwara temple, Shankaracharya, is a Hindu place which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, located atop zabarwan hill. It offers both spirituality and architectural beauty including a 20-foot octagonal base and the Shivalinga resides in a small chamber. Providing panoramic views of Srinagar, the temple is a must-see destination in winter.
It has attracted notable figures like Sri Aurobindo and Vinoba Bhave and was featured in Bollywood films such as Mission Kashmir. The temple looks mesmerizing in February, when the snow covers the whole hill with its beauty offering a unique experience of hiking or climbing 243 steps to reach the temple.
06. Betaab Valley
Betaab Valley is waiting for you to offer a perfect winter retreat. This scenic valley in February transforms into a snow-white beauty, where the visitors can enjoy the Lidder River gushing through the meadow, calling to take your shoes off and feel the freezing temperature. Encircled with majestic snow-covered peaks and pine trees, this valley offers stunning views of a peaceful atmosphere where mist can be seen falling and covering the landscape with its whiteness.
Visitors can take peaceful strolls in the snow, click breathtaking photographs, or simply enjoy the serenity. Betaab Valley also gives an opportunity to trek and camp, offering adventure and calmness.
07. Marchoi Valley
In the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, lies a beauty which is known as Marchoi Valley. Known for Naranag to Dhumail to Marchoi trek, an 18 km journey that offers a mystic view of frozen rivers, narrow forest trails, and snow bridges, it is situated about 40 km from Srinagar.
The valley’s highlights include panoramic view of landscape, pine and maple forests, glaciers, snow gullies, and trout fishing spots.This trek of moderate to difficulty, is ideal for families and fit adventurers. Camping at Dumail for three nights is recommended to fully explore Marchoi Valley and the Shadimarg area.
08. Daksum Valley
Daksum is one of the top places to visit in Kashmir in February for rejuvenating the souls. With Pir Panjal peak, covered in snow, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy thrilling winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Daksum also stuns the visitors with its Bringhi River, which offers a peaceful fishing experience, rich with trout. It’s trekking adventure to Sinthan Top, creates a misty atmosphere around, which offers breathtaking views of snow-covered valleys and peaks. The valley is engulfed with dense forests, tranquility making it a calm destination for picnics, hiking, and camping that no one should miss out on.
09. Aharbal Waterfall
Aharbal Waterfall in February is a serene winter destination in Kashmir, located in the Kulgam district. The 25-meter waterfall cascades through a snow-covered landscape surrounded by dense forests and mountains. The area remains calm, where the sound of water echoes in the air, making it a refreshing spot to visit. Visitors can wonder at its icy beauty, and trek through snowy trails, enjoy picnics near the falls, and capture stunning winter clicks .
Fishing in the nearby rivers is also possible with a permit. While the roads to Aharbal remain open, heavy snowfall can affect accessibility, so checking road conditions before visiting is recommended for a smooth trip.
10. Sonmarg
To feel the excitement of winter in Kashmir, Sonamarg valley offers a stunning winter experience to witness. With snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes creating a mesmerizing landscape, this place is a treat to refresh the minds with a peaceful atmosphere surrounding the peaks. In winter, due to heavy snowfall, this place becomes a playground for sports like skiing, snowboarding, snow trekking, sledging, and snowball fights within the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
The scented winter air, frozen lakes and mesmerizing surroundings with temperatures ranging from freezing to about 10°C (14°F to 50°F) make it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts to delve in the challenges of snow.
Get in touch
Conclusion
Winter in Kashmir is filled with the scent of warmth and scenic views, which grabs the attention of visitors from around the world. In February, this place offers a package of thrill, peace, coziness , and stunning views to create memorable experiences for every traveler.
From the sports of Gulmarg to the serene beauty of Dal Lake, the region offers numerous places to visit in Kashmir in February. For those seeking peace, the tranquil Betaab Valley and Aharbal Waterfalls provide stunning views and solitude. With its blend of natural beauty, winter sports, and spiritual sites, Kashmir in February promises an enriching and awe-inspiring escape.
FAQ's
Is it good to visit Kashmir in February?
Yes, if you want to enjoy the winter atmosphere and sports then Kashmir is best to choose for the trip. It provides snowy landscapes, majestic peaks, gushing chilled streams with sports like skiing, trekking, snowboarding, snowshoeing and sledding. You can enjoy peaceful surroundings with calm winter beauty, from snow-capped mountains to frozen lakes.
Is Dal Lake frozen in February?
Can we visit Pahalgam in February?
Yes, Pahalgam is accessible in February, you will be welcomed with gushy streams, snowy peaks, and adventures to dive in the calmness of pahalagam. Although snowfall can create challenges, it will be a worthy reward to enjoy sports like skiing, trekking, and photography. Keep yourself warm to enjoy Pahalgam’s serene snow-laden beauty in comfort.
Does it snow in Srinagar in February?
Yes, Srinagar experiences moderate snowfall in February, transforming the city into a scenic beauty. Visitors can explore places like Dal Lake, Jamia masjid, Mountains and the Mughal Gardens, and enjoy winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking in the higher altitude places, where adventure and serenity call for you.
Is Gurez Valley open in February?
Gurez Valley is generally inaccessible year-round due to heavy snowfall on Razdan Pass and severe winter weather. The valley opens to visitors from May to October, when roads are clear, and conditions are favorable, allowing tourists to experience the valley’s natural beauty during warmer, safer months.
Call Now
