Best Time to Visit Srinagar | Weather | Season | Climate | Temperature

Situated in the Himalayas of northern India, Srinagar is a real ‘Paradise on Earth‘. This city between stunning Himalayas and beautiful Dal Lake, is a recommendable one to visit any time of the year. Although it is best to know when the perfect time to visit Srinagar is to fully unlock its magic and to have the best time of your trip to Srinagar.

Understanding Srinagar’s Seasons: A Year-Round Enchantment

Srinagar experiences four distinct seasons, each painting the landscape with a different hue and offering a unique set of attractions.

Spring (March to May): The Blooming Paradise

• March: Be amazed with thousands of Tulips in full bloom at Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, the largest tulip garden in Asia with millions of Tulips and a beautiful display of all colours on one carpet. For the flower enthusiasts and photographers, it’s definitely a must-visit.

• April & May: The season is the best time to visit Mughal Gardens: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi with their terraced lawns and fountains surrounded by blooming flowers. Hills around are tinted lush green and a ride in Dal Lake on a Shikara is extremely serene this time. Temperatures in the daytime are comfortable to go around and explore the city’s charming bazaars and its old sites.

Activities: Exploring Mughal Gardens, taking Shikara rides on Dal Lake, leisurely walks in the park or around the lake (getting addicted to photography), and visiting Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views.

Summer (June to August): The Ideal Escape

• June to August: The temperatures, for the most part, are comfortable in the 15°C – 30°C range. This is prime for taking in houseboats on Dal Lake. Staying on a traditional houseboat offers a unique and memorable immersion into Kashmiri culture, with stunning views and tranquil surroundings. It is also a great time for day trips to the neighbouring meadows and valleys.

• Adventure Activities: Summer offers experiences of trekking in mountains adjacent to the lake, going for a Gondola ride to the topmost point of Gulmarg or indulging in water skiing on Dal Lake. Sonmarg, with its captivating glaciers, remains a popular summer destination.

Activities: Houseboat stays, Shikara rides, exploring Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, day trips to Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam, trekking, and river rafting (seasonal).

Autumn (September to November): A Golden Wonderland

• September & October: Watching the red, orange and golden hues dominate the landscape — especially when you visit places like Naseem Bagh or Shalimar Bagh — and getting some amazing shots. The weather right now is crisp and clear, which gives us nice mountain visibility. Generally there are thinner crowds compared to peak summer, allowing for a more tranquil experience.

• November: As winter approaches, the air gets colder, and chinar leaves fall to form a soft reddish-brown carpet. This is a pretty, serene period before the snow covers the valley.

Activities: Views of the chinar tree, a photo trip of fall foliage, a quiet Shikara ride, visits to local markets for Kashmiri crafts souvenirs and food, and the cuisine of traditional Kashmiri fare.

Winter (December to February): A Snowy Paradise

• December to February: The temperature drops (often below freezing) and the valley is blanketed in snow. Snowfall is really at its peak in Kashmir and makes it such a beautiful experience. Dal Lake may partially freeze and the Shikara rides in the misty waters with surroundings covered by snow create an otherworldly experience.

• Winter Sports: The ski slopes of Gulmarg are world class and coupled with the highest gondola ride, this season is all about winter sports, skiing and snowboarding. Winter is your calling if you dream of playing in snow or seeing a frozen paradise in reality!

Activities: Some are for watching the snowfall, skiing and snowboarding in Gulmarg, strolling in the landscapes covered under the snow or simply drinking warm Kahwa (Kashmiri tea) or keeping warm by staying in the heated houseboats or hotels.

Choosing Your Best Time to Visit Srinagar: A Quick Guide

• For Flowers & Gardens: March to May (Spring)
• For Pleasant Weather & Lake Activities: June to August (Summer)
• For Autumn Colors & Fewer Crowds: September to November (Autumn)
• For Snow & Winter Sports: December to February (Winter)

So finally, the best time to visit Srinagar depends on the preferences of the traveller and the kind of experience he wants.  

Your Ideal Stay in Srinagar: Lemon Tree Hotel, Srinagar

Whether you pick summer, monsoon or winter for your enchanting Srinagar adventure, the place you stay at needs to be comfortable and well located. Look no further than Lemon Tree Hotel, Srinagar.

Lemon Tree Hotel in Srinagar boasts elegantly designed rooms adorned with local Kashmiri crafts, ensuring a truly authentic experience. Their multi-cuisine restaurant, Citrus Café, tantalises your taste buds with a range of delicious dishes, and the attentive staff ensures a warm and welcoming stay. 

With amenities like comfortable rooms, delightful dining options, and excellent service, Lemon Tree Hotel provides the perfect sanctuary after a day of exploring the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir.