What to Wear in Kashmir?

Visiting Kashmir seems like being in another world. With the kind of diversity seen with Mughal Gardens, serene lakes , majestic passes, alpine treks, the valley beams with sightseeing spots and adventurous activities. The place is one of the most dreamed-of destinations in India. Prior to the trip, being aware of what to wear in Kashmir is crucial. It is rightly said that your clothes must match the occasion. Well, it perfectly applies to the dress code you should follow in Kashmir. 

The first condition is that your clothes should fit according to the prevailing season. 

Moreover, Kashmir is a Muslim-dominated region of India. You will often see the locals wearing traditional clothes that cover them from head to toe. If you are a female traveller in Kashmir, dress modestly and not something that would be offensive to the local culture. Wear clothes that aren’t too tight and cover your shoulders and feet. You are not forced to wear the traditional attire of Kashmir. Wear full-length skirts, jeans, shirts, tshirt. Make sure they aren’t transparent in any way. Carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders in case you’re wearing anything sleeveless. 

Lastly, it is important that you are comfortable in your clothes and also the people around you. Other than this, enjoy a memorable Kashmir trip! 

Book: Kashmir Trip Packages

Season by Season Breakdown

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir during Summer Season

Summer season in Kashmir lasts from June to August. Wearing proper clothes according to the weather is important. 

• Wear cotton clothes like comfortable cotton t-shirts, shirts, and trousers for daytime warmth. They must be of fit size and breathable. 
• Also carry light woolens & layers since mornings and evenings can be cool. Wear light woolen sweaters or jackets to remain warm and safe. 
• Go for full-sleeve tops to remain protected from sun exposure and occasional cold breezes.
• Wear comfortable bottoms including Jeans, cotton pants, or track pants for ease of movement during sightseeing tours. 
• If you are visiting high-altitude areas like Gulmarg or Pahalgam, wear Stole or Shawl for a light cover up. 
• To shield against sun glare, especially in higher altitudes, put on sunglasses. 
• Wear a cap/hat to protect yourself from direct sunlight while exploring.
• Wear comfortable footwear like sneakers or hiking shoes for sightseeing and hikes. They must be snug fit. 
• Sudden showers are common in months like July and August when monsoon season hits the valley. Carry a raincoat to wear. Keep an umbrella too. 
• Wear hand gloves and socks. They come handy since they are useful when visiting colder regions like Sonmarg glaciers.

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir During Winter Season

The winter season in Kashmir remains from December till February. The weather is freezing with heavy snowfall experienced throughout the season. Carry enough woolens for a safer time. 

• Wear heavy woolens liks thick sweaters, thermals, and woolen tops to stay warm.
• Towns like Gulmarg and Pahalgam are extremely cold in winter. Wear Down Jacket/Parka since they are essential for extreme cold weather. 
• Create a strong base layer to retain body heat with the help of thermal Innerwear. 
• Wear thick, woolen socks to prevent cold feet. Carry a couple of spare ones too. 
• Put on waterproof Snow Boots. They are essential for walking on snow and icy surfaces without slipping. 
• Wear woolen or waterproof gloves to keep your hands warm. 
• Cover your ears with woolen cap/ear muffs to protect them from freezing winds.
• Cover neck and face with Shawl/Stole. 
• Go for fleece or wool pants since they are warmer than regular trousers.
• Your entire outfit must be layered with woolen clothes. It helps in adjustment to fluctuating temperatures indoors and outdoors.
• Put on Sunglasses as it prevents snow blindness in bright sunlight.
• It may drizzle sometimes in Kashmir. Carry rainproof outerwear for unexpected snowfall.
• Carry hand warmers as they are useful for extremely cold days.

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir During Spring Season

Spring season in Kashmir starts in March and lasts till last April. Since the winter is still ending and there is time for the summer season, the weather remains unpredictable. Carry a mix of clothes, suitable for the prevailing weather conditions. 

• Carry a few cotton clothes like shirts, t-shirts,for daytime outings in warmer weather. Go for full-sleeve tops that protect you from both cool breezes and mild sun.
• Wear jeans/cotton trousers. They are an ideal choice for sightseeing and travel.
• In spring, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so carry a light sweater or jacket.
• Layer your clothes with cardigans and sweaters. It helps with adjustment to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.
• Put on comfortable footwear. Sneakers or walking shoes for outdoor activities are the perfect choice for long walks. 
• Shawl/stole are useful for unpredictable weather changes that are often seen in spring. 
• You may carry light gloves(optional). They are quite useful especially in early spring.
• To remain protected from sun exposure, wear a cap/hat. 
• Wear sunglasses as they help with bright daylight and UV protection.
• Light showers are common in spring in March/April. Carry a raincoat/poncho for occasional showers. 
• Woolen socks are comfortable for cooler nights.
• You should also carry a couple of light but warm sleepwear for cooler nights. 

Clothes to Wear in Kashmir During Autumn Season

While autumn is quite short lived in Kashmir, it is one of the best times to visit the valley. When planning the trip, carrying proper clothes is crucial. 

• For balmy weather during daytime, wear cotton clothes like shirts, t-shirts, jeans, cotton trousers, etc. Full sleeve tops are suggested for sun protection. 
• As the day progresses, it gets cooler during evenings and nights, so carry a light cardigan/sweater/jacket. 
• Go for layered outfits since they are easy to add or remove layers as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. 
• Wear snug fit and comfortable footwear. Put on Sneakers or walking shoes for exploring and city tours. 
• Carry a shawl/Stole. They are handy for cooler evenings or when visiting gardens in Srinagar city. 
• If visiting in late Autumn (October), you may want to carry light gloves. 
• To remain protected from both sun and cold breezes, wear a cap/hat. 
• Wear sunglasses. They are useful for bright, sunny afternoons.
• With footwear, do wear Woolen Socks. They are comfortable and cosy for colder nights

What to Wear in Kashmir for Different Occasion

Trekking

When trekking in Kashmir, clothes to pack include a shirt, thermal top, trekking pants, thermal leggings, warm hat, gloves, scarf, waterproof and windproof jackets, insulated fleece jackets, trekking boots etc.

Skiing

Skiing in Gulmarg , Kashmir requires specific clothes such as thermals, fleece jackets, ski jackets, leggings, fleece pants, ski pants, Ski boots, ski hats, ski gloves, warm socks, scarfs, goggles, etc.

Sightseeing

It depends on the season. Comfortable t-shirts or tops, lightweight sweaters or warm coats( winters), trousers or Jeans, leggings, flip-flops or sandals. Even walking shoes or boots are suitable. You may even don a Kashmiri traditional attire called Phiran or Salwar Kameez (totally optional). 

Cultural Places

Be mindful of your clothes when visiting cultural places in Kashmir. Wear long-sleeved t-shirts, Phiran, loose trousers or pants, Salwar kameez, Long Skirt or Maxi dresses that cover your shoulders and knees. Cover your head with a scarf or shawl and leave your footwear outside before entering any temple or Dargah.

Read here: Best Time to Visit Kashmir

Other Things to Carry for Kashmir Trip

1. Payment: While places in cities like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam accept credit and debit cards, carry enough cash to pay at spot when online payments are not accepted. It will be very helpful in remote locations of the valley since ATMs are sparse there. 
2. Electronic Items: Pack electronic gadgets like a phone with postpaid sim, portable charger, power bank, torch with long-lasting battery, camera, lens, tripod, etc. 
3. Medicines: A first-aid kit must be in your bag. It should contain basic medicines for headache, stomachache, fever, dizziness, vomiting, and ointments. Pack personal medicines if any. 
4. Accessories: Other than clothes, some essential accessories include a reusable water bottle, snacks, sunglasses, moisturiser, sunscreen, towels, etc. 
5. Documents: Carrying important documents is mandatory. Aadhar Card, Driver licence, Any permit or pass, VISA and Passport ( for foreigners).