Kashmir in February is still deep winter, but it feels different from January. The worst of the cold starts to ease, the crowds thin out and prices settle. Snow can still fall in big bursts, and Gulmarg is often at its best for skiing. By the last week, you may feel the first hint of spring.
We are a local team in Srinagar, so we see how Kashmir in February changes from the first week to the last. This guide covers the weather, snow chances, what is open, delays, prices and who should skip. It also gives you a simple plan for Kashmir in February 2027 that works whether the snow is heavy or light.
Kashmir in February at a Glance
Here is the short version of Kashmir in February before we go into detail.
| Item | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Srinagar nights | Around -3°C to 2°C, warmer when clouds sit over the Valley |
| Srinagar days | Around 5°C to 10°C on clear afternoons |
| Gulmarg nights | -3°C to -12°C |
| Snow | Erratic. Big bursts are common, but dry weeks happen |
| Delay risk | Lower than January, but snow spells still stop flights and roads |
| Crowds and prices | Easier than the festive peak. Weekends in Gulmarg still fill up |
| Igloo Cafe | Open, until about mid-March |
| Best for | Skiing, quieter snow trips, lower prices than the festive weeks |
For every winter month side by side, read our Kashmir in winter guide. If you are looking at other months, see our guides to Kashmir in December and Kashmir in January. You can also compare snow plans on the Kashmir winter tour packages page.
Kashmir in February Weather
The weather in Kashmir in February swings more than in January. A cold, clear week can be followed by a cloudy, wet one.
Srinagar: Nights hover around freezing. When clouds sit over the Valley, nights can stay above zero, and rain falls instead of snow in the city. On clear nights, they drop to -3°C or lower.
Gulmarg: Nights run from about -3°C to -12°C. At about 2,650 m, it stays cold all day, and wind makes it feel harsher.
Pahalgam: Nights range from about -3°C to as low as -12°C on the coldest nights.
Rain and fog: Plains often get rain while the mountains get snow. Fog is less common than in January, but low cloud can still delay flights.
These are normal ranges for Kashmir in February, not a forecast for your dates. Check the forecast a few days before you fly.
Does It Snow in Kashmir in February?
Yes, often in big bursts, but not on a schedule. Weather officials call the pattern “erratic” in this month, and we agree.
Two recent winters show the range. In February 2024, Gulmarg gained nearly three feet of snow in 48 hours, just as the national winter games were about to start, according to Greater Kashmir. In 2025, the winter was dry for weeks, and the national winter games in Gulmarg were suspended for lack of snow. Heavy snow arrived only in the last days of February, as The Tribune reported.
Here is how snow usually works in Kashmir in February:
- Gulmarg: The best chance of settled snow. Even in a dry month, old snow often stays on the upper slopes.
- Pahalgam and Sonamarg: Good chances, but access depends on the day.
- Srinagar: Rain is as likely as snow. A white city in February is a bonus, not a promise.
For a month-by-month view of snow, see our best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall guide. Nobody can promise snow on one exact date.
Early February vs Late February
Kashmir in February has two moods, and they follow the old Kashmiri cold calendar.
1 to 19 February (Chillai Khurd): The “small cold” phase starts on 31 January and runs to 19 February. It is still cold, with deep snow in Gulmarg and frozen mornings. Crowds are smaller than in January.
20 February to 2 March (Chillai Bachha): The “baby cold” is the last chapter of winter. Days get a little longer and warmer, and snow still falls in the mountains. It is often the best time for skiers who want snow without the festive crowds.
Chillai Kalan, the 40-day coldest phase, runs from 21 December 2026 to about 30 January 2027, so Kashmir in February 2027 starts just after it ends. Our Chillai Kalan guide explains all three phases and what they mean for travel.
What Is Open and What Is Closed in February
Most main places stay open in Kashmir in February. Some do not. Here is the honest list.
| Place | Status in February |
|---|---|
| Gulmarg Gondola | Usually open, but wind or heavy snow can pause it |
| Gulmarg skiing | Strong month for it, depending on snow |
| Igloo Cafe Gulmarg | Open until about mid-March |
| Dal Lake shikara rides | Running. Early February can still bring ice on cold nights |
| Mughal gardens | Open, but bare. Spring blooms come later |
| Pahalgam town | Usually reachable. Local taxis only |
| Baisaran, Chandanwari, Aru | Confirm before you book. Snow often closes them |
| Sonamarg town | Reachable on most days |
| Sonamarg Zero Point and Thajiwas | Decided day by day, with avalanche risk |
| Gurez Valley | Usually cut off by snow |
| Doodhpathri and Yousmarg | Often partly closed after heavy snow |
| Tulip Garden | Closed. It opens in spring |
Avalanche risk stays high after heavy snow. Our Sonamarg in winter guide explains the road and the rules. For the other places, see our guides to Pahalgam in winter and Gurez Valley in winter. In better weather, our Sonamarg Kashmir page, our Pahalgam Kashmir travel guide and our Doodhpathri destination guide cover the same places in more detail. If you want to know when the lake freezes, our frozen Dal Lake guide has the safety rules.
Srinagar cabs cannot do local sightseeing in Pahalgam or Sonamarg. You need a local union taxi for Betaab Valley, Aru, Chandanwari, Thajiwas and Zero Point. Plan for that extra cost.
Flights, Roads and Delays
Delays ease a little in Kashmir in February, but they do not vanish.
- Snow spells: A big burst can close the runway and the Jammu to Srinagar highway for a day or two.
- Low cloud: Poor visibility can delay flights even after the snow stops.
- Gulmarg road: After snow, only 4×4 vehicles or cars with snow chains are allowed beyond Tangmarg. You may change to a local vehicle there.
- Daylight: The sun sets between about 5.30 pm and 6 pm in February, a little later than in December. We still avoid night drives.
- Buffer: Keep one spare day if your flight home is fixed.
For the Gondola, read our Gulmarg Gondola ticket booking guide. It explains phases, Tatkal slots and refunds. Tatkal tickets open daily at 5 PM for next-day rides. Phase 2 needs a valid Phase 1 ticket, and both can stop for wind.
Crowds and Prices in Kashmir in February
Kashmir in February is calmer than the festive weeks. The peak period of 21 December to 10 January is over, so hotels are easier to book and rates are usually lower. Weekends in Gulmarg and the Igloo Cafe still fill up, so book early for Saturday and Sunday nights.
Our land-only starting prices per person, twin sharing, are Rs 10,500 for 4 nights and 5 days, Rs 12,500 for 5 nights and 6 days, and Rs 15,500 for 6 nights and 7 days. Premium and heritage stays start from about Rs 22,000. Final prices depend on dates, hotel category and group size, so we send a quote for your exact plan. Our packages cover the driver allowance, tolls and parking, and we answer on WhatsApp during your trip.
For a short snow break, see our 3 nights 4 days Kashmir tour package. For a slower pace with Pahalgam, see our 4 nights 5 days Kashmir tour package. For a wider cost view, read Kashmir trip cost for 5 days.
Plan this trip with local Srinagar experts
Our Kashmir winter packages start from Rs 8,500 per person for 3 nights and 4 days, and from Rs 10,500 for 4 nights and 5 days (land-only, twin sharing, indicative). Tell us your dates and we send a plan and a fair quote, and we tell you about any cost change before we act.
Tap the WhatsApp or call button on this page, or send us your trip dates.
See our current winter packages and prices, our 3N/4D winter package or every package we run.
Skiing and Snow Activities in February
Kashmir in February is one of the best ski seasons in Gulmarg. Beginners can take lessons on the lower slopes, and stronger skiers go higher when the Gondola and lifts run. Gear is hired on site. Sledging, snow bike rides and pony rides suit families on snow days. Wind and fresh snow can close the upper slopes, so plan extra days.
Our winter ski trip to Gulmarg guide covers lessons, gear and slopes by level. For a resort night on the mountain, see our Khyber Gulmarg stay package, or browse our Gulmarg tour packages. The Igloo Cafe Gulmarg guide explains the menu and the season. To learn why the resort matters, read why Gulmarg is Asia’s premier ski destination, or our Gulmarg destination guide.
Things to Do in Kashmir in February
Kashmir in February gives you more time outdoors than the deep-winter weeks. Here is what guests usually add.
- Gondola and snow play: Ride up for the views, then sledge or walk on the meadow.
- Skiing and lessons: Beginners and improvers both find good conditions when the snow is fresh.
- Shikara on Dal Lake: A late-winter ride is clear and quiet, and the mountains behind are still white.
- Old city walk: Visit Jamia Masjid from outside, the bakeries and the shawl and walnut-wood shops. Buy dry fruit, saffron and kahwa.
- Wazwan and kahwa: A long Kashmiri dinner is the best end to a cold day. Our guide on what is Wazwan explains how to order it.
- Slow evenings: A warm room, hot tea and an early night are part of the trip.
If you want a houseboat night, ask about heating first. See our heritage houseboat stay on Dal Lake for what is included, or our Dal Lake luxury houseboat packages. Our packages use centralised heated hotel rooms in Srinagar and Gulmarg.
A Simple Plan for Kashmir in February
This is a five-day plan for Kashmir in February that leaves room for a snow burst. The order can change with the weather.
Day 1: Srinagar. Arrive, rest and take a short shikara ride. Keep the afternoon easy.
Day 2: Gulmarg. Drive up in the morning. Ride the Gondola if your ticket is booked and the wind is calm. Try a sledge ride or a ski lesson. Night in a heated Gulmarg hotel.
Day 3: Gulmarg. Use this day for skiing, the Igloo Cafe or the Gondola again. It also works as your weather cushion.
Day 4: Gulmarg to Srinagar. Drive back after breakfast. Spend the afternoon in the old city, Jamia Masjid from outside and the bazaars. Try a long Wazwan dinner in the evening.
Day 5: Departure. Book an afternoon flight if you can.
If Pahalgam is a priority, swap Day 3 for a Pahalgam day trip, or take the longer plan. Our 5 nights 6 days family package gives more room. If you need a different route, our customized Kashmir holiday packages let you set it. Couples can also look at our Kashmir honeymoon package.
What to Pack for Kashmir in February
For Kashmir in February, pack for cold nights and sunny afternoons. Take thermals, a warm jacket, gloves, a woollen cap, wool socks and waterproof boots with grip. Add sunglasses and sunscreen, because snow glare is strong in the late-winter sun. Bring layers, since a February afternoon can feel mild and the evening can drop fast. Our Kashmir winter packing guide has the full list, and you can hire jackets and boots in Gulmarg.
Who Should Go and Who Should Skip
Kashmir in February suits you if:
- You want snow and skiing with smaller crowds than January.
- You can keep your dates flexible.
- You prefer slightly milder days with a real winter feel.
- You are travelling as a couple, a family or a group of friends.
Skip Kashmir in February, or pick another month, if:
- You want blooming gardens. Tulips and almond blossom come later, in spring.
- You have a very tight flight connection and no buffer day.
- You cannot cope with cold nights, or you have a health condition that needs care at height. Talk to your doctor first.
- You want Gurez or Sonamarg Zero Point to be guaranteed.
We would rather tell you this now than meet you at the airport with a plan that cannot work.
Kashmir in February or March?
Many guests ask whether to go in February or wait for March. The honest answer depends on what you want. Kashmir in February is for snow, skiing and winter scenery. March is a mixed month, with melting snow in the Valley, muddy paths and the first spring signs. Tulips and almond blossom come later, in the weeks after. If your main goal is snow, choose Kashmir in February. If your main goal is flowers, wait for spring. Our guide to the Tulip Garden in Srinagar explains the spring season.
For Foreign Travellers
We host guests from the Gulf, the UK, the US, Australia and Malaysia. Kashmir in February is popular with them, and it is a calmer time to see snow on a longer India trip.
- Arrival: Fly into Srinagar airport. We meet you at arrivals.
- Visa: You need a valid Indian visa. Apply for an e-visa on the official Indian e-visa site.
- Permits: No special permit is needed for Srinagar, Gulmarg or Pahalgam. Hotels ask for passport and visa copies, so carry several.
- Gondola ID rule: For foreign visitors, the travel agency sends full names and passport numbers to the cable car company at least two days before the visit, and the gate checks your ID against the ticket. Give us your passport details early.
- Advisories: Read your own government’s travel advice and check your insurance. See is Kashmir safe in winter for what the main advisories say.
- Money: Foreign cards often fail in smaller shops. Carry cash in rupees.
- Food: Meat is almost always halal. Vegetarian food is easy. Alcohol is hard to find.
- Prayer: Winter dusk comes early. Plan prayer stops around your drives.
Our guide for foreign tourists in Kashmir covers ID rules and payments in more detail. Check J&K Tourism for official notices before you travel.
Kashmir in February from Indian Cities
You book your own flight to Srinagar, and our trip starts when you land. Fares are usually easier than at Christmas, but book early for weekends. We have city pages for Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune and Chennai.
Pure vegetarian and Jain meals can be arranged in Srinagar and Gulmarg hotels. Tell us when you book. For dishes to try on a cold evening, see our Kashmir cuisine guide.
Plan Your Kashmir in February Trip
Our payment terms are simple. Pay 25% to confirm, 50% by 20 to 29 days before departure, and the balance 20 days before. Cancellation fees rise as the date gets closer, and you will see the full terms in your quote. If snow or a closure stops a service, refunds depend on what the hotel or driver charges us. You can read what past travellers say on our Google Business profile. If you are ready, request a quote or talk to our Srinagar team. For other questions, our top 30 Kashmir travel FAQs are a good next read.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kashmir in February good for snow?
Yes, especially in Gulmarg, where skiing is often strong. But snow comes in bursts, and some years have dry weeks, so nobody can promise snow on one exact date.
How cold is Kashmir in February?
Srinagar nights are around -3°C to 2°C, and Gulmarg nights run from about -3°C to -12°C. Clear afternoons in Srinagar reach about 5°C to 10°C.
Is the Igloo Cafe open in February?
Yes. It normally runs from about 10 January to mid-March.
Is Kashmir in February cheaper than January?
Usually, yes. The festive peak of 21 December to 10 January is over, so rooms are easier to find and rates are lower. Weekends in Gulmarg still fill up.
Will my flight be delayed in February?
It can be. Snow spells and low cloud can stop flights, so keep a spare day if your return is fixed.
Are tulips and almond blossom out in February?
No. They come later in spring. February is still a snow month.