Kashmir in Winter: Srinagar Flights, Snow Months and What to Expect

Updated October 2026 · HappyFares

Snow on the Pir Panjal, frozen meadows and warm kahwa on a cold evening: winter is a favourite season for many visitors to Kashmir. It is also the season when weather matters most to your flight plans.

What is Chillai Kalan and when does it fall?

Chillai Kalan is the traditional name for the harshest 40 days of the Kashmir winter. It begins on 21 December, which is a Monday in 2026, and runs to about the end of January. Reports differ by a day or so on the final date, with some giving 30 January and others 31 January, so treat it as “21 December to the end of January”. Snowfall is most likely in this window, and temperatures drop sharply. It is followed by a milder 20-day phase known as Chillai Khurd and then a 10-day phase called Chillai Bachha.

Gulmarg is usually among the coldest spots in the valley. In late December 2025, fresh snow arrived on the first day of Chillai Kalan at Gulmarg and Sonamarg, according to a news report, which shows how quickly conditions can change.

Which months have snow in Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg?

The main snow season for the valley’s hill destinations is generally December to March. Gulmarg, a ski destination about 50 km from Srinagar at roughly 2,650 metres, is usually the best bet, and travel guides give its skiing season as roughly December to March. Pahalgam is often described as a quieter snow destination, with January to March mentioned in guides, and Sonamarg is known more for snowy scenery than skiing.

Snow is never guaranteed. In some seasons the first heavy fall has come late. If seeing snow is the point of your trip, aim for January or February and stay flexible on dates. Our guide to Gulmarg skiing and Srinagar flights has more on planning a ski trip.

How reliable are flights to Srinagar in winter?

Winter flights to Srinagar are good on many days and disrupted on others. Dense fog and low visibility are common causes of delays and cancellations in December and January. Heavy snowfall, or snow on the runway, can also stop operations until the runway is cleared. For example, on 21 December 2025 the Airports Authority of India confirmed at least 11 flights were cancelled at Srinagar because of bad weather, and in January 2025 dense fog put flights on hold for hours. Airport officials said flights would resume once visibility improved.

• Morning flights: fog is often heaviest early in the day, so morning departures and arrivals are the most exposed. Later flights can recover when visibility improves, though a delay can still cascade into a cancellation.
• Buffer days: leave a spare day before an important onward flight home.
• Flexible fares: compare change and cancellation terms before you book, since rules differ by airline and fare.
• Status checks: look at your airline’s flight status the evening before and again before heading to the airport.

An aviation fact: whether a plane can land depends on the visibility at the runway and on the aircraft and airport instruments, not just on whether it looks clear from the terminal, which is why a bright-looking morning can still see a hold.

What is the road situation, and what should you pack?

After heavy snow, roads can close for hours or days. Reports have described the highway near the Jawahar Tunnel and roads to high-altitude areas such as Gurez being shut by snow accumulation. Expect delays on roads out of Srinagar after a snowfall, and use local advice from your driver and the authorities. Build slack into your plan on both arrival and departure days.

For winter, pack warm layers: thermals, a down jacket, waterproof boots with good grip, gloves, a woollen cap and moisturiser, since the air is dry. Carry a power bank and keep your phone warm, because cold drains batteries quickly. Charge devices whenever you can and carry some cash, in case of power or network interruptions.

How should you check conditions and advisories?

Conditions in Jammu and Kashmir change with the weather and with local circumstances. Before you book and again before you travel, check the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department, local authorities and your airline for current information, and read any official travel advisory that applies to you. This is a neutral reminder to rely on official sources rather than social media rumours, and most visitors find that planning ahead makes for a smooth trip.

Common Questions

When is Chillai Kalan?

It traditionally begins on 21 December and lasts about 40 days, to around the end of January. Sources differ by a day on the exact last date.

Which airport do I fly into for Kashmir?

Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the main airport. Gulmarg is about 50 km from Srinagar by road and Pahalgam and Sonamarg are a few hours away.

Will fog affect my flight to Srinagar?

It can, mostly in December and January. Fog and snow have caused delays and cancellations at Srinagar in past winters, so book flexible fares and allow buffer time.

When is the best time to see snow in Gulmarg?

Generally between December and March, with January and February the most dependable. Snow depends on the season, so keep your dates flexible.

What happens if my flight is cancelled?

Contact your airline for rebooking or a refund in line with its rules. Keep your booking details handy and check the airline’s app or website for updates.

Where can I check official advice before I travel?

Check the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department, your airline, the airport and any official travel advisory that applies to you.

Weather, road status, advisories, airline schedules and fees change. Verify current specifics with the airline, the airport and the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department before you travel.