January is the coldest month of the year, and Kashmir is very cold in that month. Also, it’s the coolest month of the year. Snow covers the trees, roads, and roofs. Lakes get cold. The mountains get white. If you like snow, January is the month for you.
Hum Chale Kashmir (HCK) always plans real winter trips with lots of fun things to do. We know how cold it is. We know what the problems are. Also, we know where the best snow is. This book tells you the truth. Not any filler. Not a story. Real facts that can help you plan.
What is Kashmir Like in January?
Kashmir’s winter is at its peak in January. A lot of snow falls. It gets below zero outside. It is the time of “Chillai Kalan”, Kashmir’s 40-day cold winter.
From about December 21 to the end of January, Chillai Kalan will go on. Pipes that carry water freeze at this time. Thin patches of ice form on lakes. So, you need to make sure you’re ready.
There aren’t as many tourists as there are in the summer. But, of course, skiing is what brings people to Gulmarg. Hotels offer savings in the winter. For people who love snow, this is the best time of year.
If you want to be sure of snow, January is a better month than December. Also, white does don’t seem real in January for some reason!
Kashmir in January? How cold is it there? About the weather and snow
January is the coldest month. The temperature in Gulmarg ranges from 2 to 7°C during the day to -3 to -8°C at night. In the winter, it can drop to -10°C or more.
| Place | Day Temp (°C) | Night Temp (°C) | Snowfall Chances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Srinagar | 2 to 7 | -3 to -8 | High |
| Gulmarg | -2 to 5 | -8 to -12 | Very High |
| Pahalgam | 0 to 6 | -5 to -10 | High |
| Sonamarg | Often Closed | Very Low | Very High |
Sonamarg is often closed because of snow. So, don’t make plans until you check how the roads are.
It snows three to six times a month in January. However, it depends on the western disturbances.
Why Visit Kashmir in January?
People ask why choose the coldest month. The answer is simple. Snow.
In January, you get:
- Fresh snowfall.
- Dal Lake’s frozen edges
- Mughal gardens covered in snow
- Best skiing season in Gulmarg
Also, photographers love shooting clean white views. The cost of hotels is lower than in the peak summer. You could get a better deal.
If you want to experience winter in India, Kashmir in January is unmatched.
Best Places to Visit in January
Srinagar in January
Srinagar looks different in the winter. Dal Lake freezes over in some places. You can still ride a shikara. The houseboats also have heaters and electric blankets.
Go to:
- Dal Lake
- Mughal Gardens (view of the snow)
- Markets in old city
- Nearby shops
Gulmarg in January
Gulmarg turns into a snowy town. It’s the best place to ski in India.
Go to:
- Gondola in Gulmarg
- Ski slopes
- Snow play areas
When the depth of snow is 3 to 6 feet deep, it’s the peak of winter.
Pahalgam in January
Pahalgam looks quiet and white. The water in the Lidder River is as cold as ice. Betaab Valley is covered in snow.
But after a lot of snow, some upper roads may be closed.
Things to Do in Kashmir in January
January in Kashmir is not for sightseeing only. It’s for snow activities.
You can:
- Go to Gulmarg and ski
- Ride snow bikes
- Make a snowman
- Enjoy snowball fights
- Use the Gondola cable car
There are also things to do nearby, like snow rides set up by local guides for kids. And going for walks in the snow to take pictures is very popular right now. But you should always wear the right snow boots! So, stay away from sports shoes.
5-Day and 7-Day Kashmir January Itinerary
Five-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Visit the local market. Evening walk at Dal Lake.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Srinagar – The Mughal Gardens. City from the past. Also, check out the local bakery.
Day 3: A day trip to Gulmarg – Gondola ride. Play in the snow.
Day 4: Trip to Pahalgam – Snow Valley visit. Views of the river.
Day 5: Departure
Seven-Day Itinerary
Add two more days to your trip so you can ski in Gulmarg. Add a stay on the houseboat for one night as well.
This lets you move easily. As a result, you don’t rush.
How Much Does a Kashmir Trip Cost in January?
July or August might cost more than January. But cab prices might go up if there is snow and chains.
Here is an estimated cost table (per person for 5 days):
| Category | Budget (INR) | Deluxe (INR) | Premium (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stay | 6,000–10,000 | 12,000–18,000 | 20,000+ |
| Transport | 4,000–6,000 | 6,000–8,000 | 8,000+ |
| Food | 2,000–3,000 | 4,000 | 6,000 |
| Activities | 2,000–6,000 | 6,000+ | 10,000+ |
About ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per person on average. Also, lessons for skiing cost extra. The tickets for the gondola are not included.
What to Pack for Kashmir in January?
In January, packing is a big deal. It’s cold.
Carry:
- Winter clothing that is heavy (rated for -5°C)
- Thermal innerwear
- A woolen hat and gloves
- Snow boots
- Three or four pairs of thick socks
- Lip balm and lotion
Also, bring a power bank because the cold quickly drains batteries. Keep simple medicines on hand too.
Don’t just count on buying winter clothes when you get there. So, prepare before you get there.
Common Mistakes Tourists Make in January
Many people don’t think it will be cold. They bring thin coats. But the temperature drops below zero.
Common mistakes:
- Putting on sneakers in the snow
- Not looking into flight delays
- Overplanning Sonamarg
- Ignoring buffer day
Also, people forget when roads are closed. That’s why you should always leave at least one day free.
Before going on a trip, we at HCK always check the weather.
Is It Safe to Visit Kashmir in January?
It is safe for guests, yes. The security is still tight. Tourist spots stay busy. But roads may be briefly closed when it snows a lot. So, listen to what people in the area say.
Fog could cause flights to be delayed. Aside from that, roads may be closed for a while. Use local service providers like Hum Chale Kashmir to book your trip. Every day, we check the roads and the weather.
Local Food You Must Try in Winter
In Kashmir, the winter food is heavy. People eat more meat to stay warm.
Try:
- Rogan Josh
- Yakhni
- Harissa (special for winter)
- Noon Chai (salt tea)
- Kahwa
In the winter, harissa is eaten in the morning. And you can mostly find it in Srinagar’s old city.
Locals also wear Kangir (Kangri), which is a small firepot, under their pheran. You’ll see people carry it around.
HCK Expert Tip
Tip from HCK: Spend two nights in Gulmarg in January. One day may not be enough due to snowfall delays.
Are you planning a snow trip? Get in touch with Hum Chale Kashmir to really plan for winter.
FAQs related to “Visit Kashmir in January”
- Is there snowfall in Kashmir in January?
Yes. January has high snowfall chances, especially in Gulmarg and Pahalgam. - How cold is Srinagar in January?
Temperature ranges from 2°C to -8°C. - Is Gulmarg good in January?
Yes. It is the best month for skiing and snow. - Is Dal Lake frozen in January?
Edges may freeze during extreme cold. - Are flights cancelled in January?
Sometimes delayed due to fog. - Is January good for a honeymoon?
Yes. Snow views attract couples. - What is Chillai Kalan?
It is 40-day harsh winter period from 21 Dec to 31 Jan. - Is Sonamarg open in January?
Mostly closed due to snow. - Can kids travel in January?
Yes, but carry proper winter clothing. - Is January cheaper than summer?
Yes, except for skiing costs. - Do hotels have heaters?
Yes, most provide heaters or central heating. - What shoes to wear?
Waterproof snow boots. - Can we drive ourselves?
Not advised in heavy snow. - Is skiing expensive?
Yes, but worth it for snow lovers. - How many days are enough?
5 to 7 days. - Is January crowded?
Less than summer, except Gulmarg. - Are roads safe?
Yes, but may close temporarily. - Can we see frozen waterfalls?
Yes, in extreme cold. - Do locals work normally?
Yes, daily life continues. - Is January best for snow photography?
Yes, fresh snow creates clean views.
Also read: Tulip Garden, Badamwari, Drung Waterfall
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