Everyone knows summer Kashmir. Winter Kashmir - snow-muffled houseboats, frozen Dal Lake mornings, powder days in Gulmarg - is arguably more magical.
Gulmarg: book gondola tickets online days ahead; Phase 2 to Apharwat opens subject to weather. Skiing lessons cost far less than European resorts.
Packing: layers beat bulk. Thermal base, fleece mid, waterproof shell, snow boots (rentable locally for ₹300/day).
Getting around: highways occasionally close after heavy snowfall - keep one buffer day. 4x4 vehicles are needed for the Tangmarg-Gulmarg climb.
Stay: a centrally-heated hotel matters more than a fancy one. Houseboats in winter are atmospheric but choose ones with bukhari heating.
Our winter Kashmir packages include 4x4 transfers and heated stays - because paradise should also be warm.