Kashmir in March – Spring Bloom and Light Snow
Kashmir in spring Photos
Introduction – Why March is a Magical Time in Kashmir
With winter fast receding and the first green shoots heralding spring growth, visiting Kashmir in March is like entering a world of double beauty. First, you have a beautiful valley covered in blooms of almond, tulips, and yellow mustard fields with snow dotting the landscape in the higher altitudes. This is one of the only times you can enjoy both the blossoms of spring and a light dusting of snow. March is definitely one of the best months to visit Kashmir.
The enticing romance of Shikara rides on Dal Lake, walking amongst blossom canopies of pink and white, skiing in Gulmarg or taking in the snow capped mountain vistas make Kashmir in March a wonderful blend of charm, culture and adventure to visit.
This comprehensive travel guide provides a lot of valuable content to help you make the most of your visit to Kashmir in March. (Weather; best places to visit; best things to do; festivals; helpful travel tips; answers to frequent asked questions) So, you can plan the perfect vacation for your spring travels.
Weather in Kashmir in March
March is a time of transition in Kashmir.
Temperature range:
Daytime: 10ºC to 15ºC
Night: 2ºC to 5ºC
Higher reaches: below freezing
Snowfall:
In Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg there may still be some light snowfall in early March.
By mid-March bulky flowers would have already bloomed in Srinagar and surrounding towns.
Natural environment:
- Almond blossoms are seen in Srinagar and Badamwari Gardens.
- Mustard fields are in full golden bloom in Pampore and Pulwama.
- Tulips will begin to emerge in late March at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar.
✅ Enjoy the best of both worlds – if you fancy fresh snow at higher altitudes and flowers blooming throughout the valley.
Why Visit Kashmir in March?
Here are the best reasons why travelers like traveling to Kashmir in March
Two Types of Beauty – snow in the mountains + flowers in the valleys.
Fewer Tourists – March is still shoulder season – you will avoid the peak season rush.
Festivals & Blossoms – We have the almond blossom festival, cultural events, and tulips starting to bloom in March.
A Good Price – Hotels and flights are still cheap compared to flying in April and May.
Perfect for Couples – The romance of the blossoms, snow walks, and Shikara rides.
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir in March
Here are the advantages for travelers in March in Kashmir:
1. Double the Beauty – Still snow in the mountains and blooming flowers in the valleys.
2. Less Traffic – March is still considered shoulder season, so you can avoid the peak rush of tourists.
3. Festivals & Blooms – Almond blossom, cultural festivals, and the beginnings of tulips and other beautiful flowers.
4. Affordable – Hotels and flights are cheaper than April and May.
5. Ideal for couples – The romantic atmosphere with flowers blossoming, walking the snow, and Shikara rides.
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir in March
1. Srinagar – Blooms & Lakes
- Walk at Badamwari Garden, almond blossoms form a heady pink and white canopy.
- Enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, while snow peaks shine in the background.
- Visit Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi) – flowers start blooming in spring.
- Check out Hazratbal Shrine, and shop for saffron, pashmina, and dry fruits.
2. Gulmarg – Skiing & Snow
- Will still be snowbound in March.
- The best place for skiing, snowboarding, or even gondola rides or just walking out in the snow.
- The Gulmarg Gondola (also the highest gondola in the world) takes you 4000m up to Apharwat Peak – breath-taking views of snow wherever you look.
3. Pahalgam – Meadows & Light snow
- Meadows are going green at this time but higher points still have snow.
- Betaab Valley and Aru Valley at this time are absolutely stunning when everything starts to bloom.
- Great for trekking, pony rides, or just walking next to the river.
4. Sonmarg – Snow Paradise in March
- Sonmarg means “Meadow of Gold” but in March is still under snow.
- Famous for Thajiwas Glacier, snow treks, and snow activities.
5. Yusmarg – Untouched Spring Beauty
- A lesser-known hidden gem. It is still in meadows and forests.
- Almond blossoms, pine trees, and peaceful setting.
6. Pulwama & Pampore – Saffron & mustard fields
- Mustard flowers are in full bloom, with fields all covered in bright golden yellow.
- Photographer’s delight in March.
Top Things to Do in Kashmir in March
Experience the Almond Blossom Festival with cultural performances in Badamwari Garden.
Go Skiing in Gulmarg – Skiing with lessons if you are a beginner.
Ride the gondola – Have the luxury of capturing the transition from snow to greenery.
Enjoy Shikara Ride on Dal Lake – Spring flowers all around you.
Stay on a houseboat – Kashmiri hospitality with the traditional look.
Visit the Tulip garden (last week of March) – Asia’s largest tulip garden blooms with millions of flowers.,
Taste Kashmiri Cuisine – Harissa (winter delicacy), Wazwan feast, saffron kahwa.
Trek in the lower valleys – Aru, Yusmarg, and Doodhpathri makes them perfect getaways for short treks.
Shop for Handicrafts – Carpets, shawls, papier-mâché, and walnut wood carving.
Perfect frames for photography tours – Almond blossoms, snow peaks, and mustard fields.
Festivals & Events in March
Almond Blossom Festival (Badamwari, Srinagar) – Cultural programs, music, and flowers.
Tulip Festival (Late March – April) – World famous Tulip Garden near Dal Lake.
Local Fairs – to admiring traditional music and illustrations on handicrafts.
What to Pack for Kashmir in March
- Clothing: Thermal wear, warm jackets, light sweaters, gloves, and scarves.
- Shoes: Waterproof boots for snow, sneakers for city walks.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, woolen cap.
- Medicines: Basic first aid, altitude sickness medicines if traveling to Sonmarg/Gulmarg.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kashmir in March
- Plan ahead and book hotels for Gulmarg & Srinagar, especially around the blossom festival.
- Bring both warm clothes and light spring clothes as weather can transition quickly.
- Use local guidance for treks and ski.
- Have cash ready; card machines may not work.
- Use local homestays to get authentic Kashmiri culture.
Suggested Itinerary for Kashmir in March
Day 1 – Arrival in Srinagar
Shikara ride, Mughal Gardens, Badamwari almond blooms
Day 2 – Day 2 – Srinagar to Gulmarg
Skiing, gondola ride, snow activities
Day 3 – Day 3 – Gulmarg to Pahalgam
Visit to Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, riverside walks
Day 4 – Day 4 – Pahalgam to Srinagar
Tulip Garden if late March, shopping, wazwan dinner
Day 5 – DAY 5: Sonmarg/Yusmarg: Day Trip
Snow Activities at Thajiwas Glacier or meadow walks
Day 6 – Departure
Morning kahwa, last minute shopping, airport transfer
Conclusion – Kashmir’s Charm in March
Kashmir in March provides travelers with the best of both worlds: loving spring blooms and daring snowy terrains. The perfect month for couples searching for romance, families looking for a little of everything, and adventurers wanting to ski alongside culture and flower valleys.
March in Kashmir is a magical fusion of snowy mountains and pink almond blossoms in Srinagar to the white slopes of Gulmarg. Make the most of your trip, let spring snow work its magic on this beautiful valley, creating life-long memories.
FAQs – Top 10 Questions About Kashmir in March
1. Is March a good time to visit Kashmir?
Yes, March is an excellent time to experience both spring blossoms and light snowfall.
2. Will there be snow in Kashmir in March?
Yes, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam often have snow, especially in early March.
3. Can I see blossoms in March?
Yes, almond blossoms bloom in mid-March, and tulips begin late March.
4. Is the Tulip Garden open in March?
It usually opens in the last week of March or early April.
5. What clothes should I pack for March?
Warm clothes for snow + light spring layers for Srinagar.
6. Is skiing available in March in Gulmarg?
Yes, skiing and snowboarding continue through March.
7. Is March crowded in Kashmir?
It’s moderately crowded—less than April-May, but more than winter.
8. Can families travel in March?
Yes, March is family-friendly with safe activities and good weather.
9. Are roads to Sonmarg open in March?
Yes, though heavy snow may close it occasionally early in the month.
10. Is March budget-friendly for Kashmir travel?
Yes, compared to peak spring (April-May), hotels and flights are cheaper.