New Delhi: Kashmir has quietly climbed back onto every Indian traveller’s wish list, and 2025 has sealed its comeback as one of the best destinations in India for year-end breaks. Google’s Year in Search 2025 list even places Kashmir as the 5th most searched destination, proving that snow-dusted valleys, houseboat stays and ski slopes are back in demand. If you are hunting for the best destinations in India, top places to visit in India to celebrate Christmas 2025 or the best places in India to visit for New Year 2026, this winter wonderland deserves a serious look.
Think of this as your friendly travel guide to Kashmir for the year-end holidays, especially if you are torn between beaches and mountains this winter. From beautiful destinations in India for Christmas 2025 to famous tourist places in India for Christmas 2025, Kashmir checks every box with snowfall, festivals, winter sports and cosy kahwa breaks by the window. By the end of this read, you will know exactly why Kashmir is one of the most popular places in India to visit during winter and how to plan your Christmas–New Year 2025–26 escape like a pro.
Kashmir: The beautiful crown of India
Kashmir blends Himalayan landscapes, shimmering lakes and postcard-perfect snow scenes in a way very few winter destinations can match. In 2025, it has not only ranked among the most searched domestic getaways, but has also emerged as a dream pick for travellers looking for beautiful destinations in India for Christmas 2025 with a proper “snow-globe” vibe.
Kashmir ranked #5 as the most searched destination
Kashmir has been celebrated for centuries in poetry and pop culture as “paradise on earth”, thanks to its lush valleys, chinar-lined boulevards and crystal-clear waterways. Historically, it sat on important trade and cultural routes, which shaped its unique blend of Sufi traditions, handicrafts, music and rich Wazwan cuisine that today’s travellers love discovering between sightseeing and snow play.
In the modern travel era, places like Gulmarg, Dal Lake and Pahalgam have become famous tourist places in India for Christmas 2025 because they combine cinematic beauty with increasingly better connectivity and tourism infrastructure. Even in a year marked by security concerns, the region continues to trend as a popular place in India to visit during winter, with government-backed events, winter festivals and sports competitions drawing visitors back.
Why should you pick Kashmir for year-end 2025?
1. Snowfall magic transforms the valley
Fresh December snow in Gulmarg and Pahalgam creates picture-perfect scenes for Christmas photos and New Year celebrations, making it one of the best places in India to visit for New Year 2026 with family or friends.
2. Festive vibes without the crowds
Enjoy quieter houseboat stays on Dal Lake and winter markets in Srinagar during Christmas 2025, unlike busier summer spots, perfect for a peaceful escape among popular places in India to visit during winter.
3. Adventure meets relaxation
Ski in Gulmarg, take gondola rides or trek in Sonmarg by day, then unwind with kahwa and Wazwan feasts – ideal for top places to visit in India to celebrate Christmas 2025 blending thrill and comfort.
4. Rising popularity with better access
As the 5th most searched destination in Google’s 2025 list, improved flights to Srinagar and road links make it easier than ever to reach these beautiful destinations in India for Christmas 2025.
5. Cultural warmth in winter chill
Discover Sufi shrines, handicraft bazaars and local festivals that add soul to your trip, positioning Kashmir as one of the famous tourist places in India for Christmas 2025 beyond just scenery.
Best time to visit Kashmir
March to May (Spring): Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, ideal for sightseeing and experiencing blooming gardens.
June to August (Summer): Mild temperatures between 15°C and 30°C, perfect for outdoor activities, trekking, and exploring natural beauty.
September to November (Autumn): Cool and comfortable climate, temperatures from 10°C to 20°C, with stunning fall foliage making it a great time for photography.
December to February (Winter): Cold and snowy, temperatures dropping from -2°C to 7°C, perfect for snowfall lovers, skiing, and enjoying winter festivals.
Year-end 2025 (December to January): Peak winter season with heavy snowfall especially in Gulmarg and Pahalgam; temperatures hover around -1°C to 4°C, ideal for festive holiday travel and winter sports.
Top places in Kashmir to visit
1. Srinagar and Dal Lake
The summer capital charms with shikara rides on Dal Lake, houseboat stays and bustling markets, offering a perfect intro to Kashmir’s culture and scenic beauty for year-end explorers.
Dal Lake
2. Gulmarg for winter sports
World-famous ski destination with Asia’s highest gondola ride, fresh snowfall in December 2025 and meadows that turn into playgrounds for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Gulmarg
3. Pahalgam Valley’s riverside allure
Nestled by the Lidder River amid pine forests and apple orchards, ideal for treks, trout fishing and serene walks, making it a top pick for peaceful Christmas 2025 getaways.
Pahalgam
4. Sonmarg’s glacial adventures
Gateway to Thajiwas Glacier and Zoji La Pass, where pony rides, trekking and stunning high-altitude lakes draw adventure seekers during winter for that dramatic snowy backdrop.
Sonmarg
5. Betaab Valley near Pahalgam
Bollywood-famous spot with lush meadows, crystal streams and Himalayan views, perfect for picnics, photography and family outings in the beautiful destinations of Kashmir.
Betaab Valley
Top things to do in Kashmir during winter
1. Gondola ride in Gulmarg
Soar to Asia’s highest cable car station at 3,979m for breathtaking snowy Himalayan panoramas, a must-do thrill during December 2025 snowfall for unforgettable aerial views.
2. Skiing and snowboarding in Gulmarg
Hit the slopes at this world-class resort with professional instructors, fresh powder and rentals available, perfect for adrenaline junkies chasing winter sports in Kashmir.
3. Shikara ride on Dal Lake
Glide through partially frozen waters in traditional boats from Srinagar houseboats, sipping kahwa amid snowflakes, capturing the serene magic of winter evenings.
4. Snow trekking in Pahalgam and Sonmarg
Explore Betaab Valley trails, Aru Valley or Thajiwas Glacier on guided pony or foot treks, immersing in pine forests and glacial beauty under crisp winter skies.
5. Sledging and ATV rides
Dash through snowfields on sledges, tubes or ATVs in Gulmarg and Sonmarg for family-friendly fun, adding playful excitement to your Christmas 2025 winter itinerary.
How much time do you need in Kashmir
A 5-7 day trip covers the essentials for year-end 2025, blending Srinagar culture, Gulmarg adventures and Pahalgam serenity without rushing.
Day 1: Arrive Srinagar: Check into a Dal Lake houseboat, enjoy shikara ride at sunset and explore Nishat Bagh gardens under early snow.
Day 2: Srinagar sights: Visit Mughal gardens (Shalimar, Chashme Shahi), Jamia Masjid and local markets for pashmina shopping and kahwa tasting.
Day 3: Gulmarg day trip: Take the gondola to Apharwat peak, try skiing or sledging, and return to Srinagar for a cosy houseboat dinner.
Day 4: Drive to Pahalgam: Stroll Lidder River, visit Betaab Valley and Aru Valley for snow treks or pony rides amid pine forests.
Day 5: Sonmarg excursion: Head to Thajiwas Glacier for ATV rides or short treks, then relax in Pahalgam with riverside views.
Day 6: Return via Srinagar: Shop for saffron and dry fruits, depart from airport with memories of Kashmir’s winter charm.
Top foods to try in Kashmir
1. Rogan Josh
Signature lamb curry slow-cooked with Kashmiri red chillies, yoghurt, fennel and aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon, offering tender meat in a vibrant, mildly spiced gravy perfect for rice during winter trips.
Rogan Josh
2. Gushtaba
Royal meatballs made from minced mutton, poached then simmered in creamy yoghurt gravy with saffron and mild spices, a rich Wazwan finale that warms you up on chilly December evenings in Srinagar.
Gushtaba
3. Dum Aloo
Baby potatoes deep-fried then braised in spiced yoghurt gravy featuring ginger powder, fennel and Kashmiri chilli, a vegetarian delight with tangy, creamy flavours ideal for pairing with naan by the houseboat heater.
Dum Aloo
4. Kashmiri Pulao (Modur Pulav)
Fragrant saffron-infused rice mixed with dry fruits like almonds, raisins and cashews, sweetened subtly with milk and cardamom, a festive side that adds colour and crunch to any winter meal.
Kashmiri Pulao
5. Coffee
Spiced green tea brewed with saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, almonds and honey, sipped hot from samovars to combat winter cold, a soothing digestif enjoyed post-Wazwan or during shikara rides on Dal Lake.
Coffee
How to reach Kashmir
By air: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) connects directly from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore via IndiGo, Air India and Vistara flights.
By train: Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) offers Vande Bharat Express from Katra (via Jammu) covering 246 km in 3.5 hours; DEMU/MEMU services link Qazigund-Srinagar-Baramulla for scenic all-weather access.
By road from Jammu: National Highway 44 (NH44) drive takes 10-12 hours from Jammu (300 km) in taxis, buses or self-drive cars; JKSRTC buses and shared taxis run daily.
Delhi to Srinagar overnight bus: Luxury Volvo/AC sleeper buses from Kashmiri Gate (Delhi) cover 700+ km in 14-16 hours via luxury operators like Jam Kashmir Travels.
From Jammu airport or Katra: Fly into Jammu (IXJ), then train/taxi to Srinagar (12-14 hours); Katra (for Vaishno Devi pilgrims) connects via rail to Srinagar.
Where to stay in Kashmir
High range (Rs 15,000+ per night)
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg
New Jacquline Houseboat, Srinagar
Tuly’s River View Resort, Pahalgam
Mid range (Rs 6,000–15,000 per night)
The Lalit Grand Palace, Srinagar
Highland Park Hotel, Gulmarg
Hotel Heevan, Pahalgam
Low range (Rs 2,000–6,000 per night)
Akbar Heritage Houseboat, Srinagar
Gulmarg Hotel, Gulmarg
Pahalgam Hotel Guesthouse, Pahalgam
If your ideal Christmas–New Year break is all about snow, scenery and a slightly slower, more soulful pace without compromising on adventure, Kashmir is easily one of the top places to visit in India to celebrate Christmas 2025.
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