7 stunning winter treks in Kashmir every adventurer must experience

2. Dumail Winter Trek

Short, sweet, and perfect for first-timers—Dumail is a two-hour snowy walk that still feels incredibly rewarding. Starting from the ancient Shiva Temple in Naranag, the trail crosses snow bridges, frozen gullies, and thick forests before reaching the beautiful confluence of the Dumail River. This trek is particularly loved by families and couples seeking an easy but scenic taste of Kashmir’s winter charm.

3. Lidderwat–Aru Winter Trek

Aru in Pahalgam transforms into a quiet, picture-perfect winter retreat once the holiday crowds depart. The four-day trek to Lidderwat runs through pine forests, gently rolling hills, and the partly frozen Lidder River. With minimal elevation gain and a well-marked trail, it’s one of the safest and most popular winter treks in Kashmir. As you approach the foothills of Katernag Mountain, cedar forests and icy river valleys create landscapes right out of a winter postcard.

4. Doodhpathri Winter Trek

Doodhpathri—aptly called the “Valley of Milk”—offers some of the most scenic winter routes in the Pir Panjal range. For day trekkers, the route to Diskhal Meadow is a two-hour uphill walk across snowy ridges and whispering pine forests. Those craving a longer adventure can continue into multi-day routes that weave through Ashtaar Valley, Gurwansar Lake, Pamsar Lake, and the legendary chain of Bodhsar, Trastar, Navkansar I & II, and Damamsar Lakes. These trails offer solitude, sweeping landscapes, and an authentic Himalayan winter experience.

5. Tosamaidan Winter Trek

Known as the “King of Meadows,” Tosamaidan is a vast alpine valley set deep in Budgam district. From its snow-covered grasslands, trekkers can continue on a four-hour route to a cluster of spectacular glacial lakes—Gadsar, Budsar, Damamsar, and Kalasar. Few places in Kashmir offer such dramatic winter scenery with such ease of access. The trail also connects to other major destinations, including Gulmarg and Yusmarg, making it a versatile winter playground.

6. Tulian Lake Winter Trek

At 3,700 metres, Tulian Lake remains accessible longer than most high-altitude winter trails and is ideal for beginners who want a challenge without the risk. The five-day trek climbs gradually through dense forests and opens to a remarkable figure-8 shaped turquoise lake surrounded by peaks rising over 4,600 metres. With amphitheatre-like mountain walls and soft winter light, the Tulian trail feels cinematic from start to finish.

7. KothPathri Trek

Still largely unexplored, the three-day KothPathri Trek is perfect for those seeking silence, solitude, and untouched snow. Starting from Aru, the trail winds through pine and cedar groves before opening to wide winter meadows with sweeping views of Mount Kolahoi (5,400 m). Safe, moderately graded, and rich in birdlife, KothPathri is one of Kashmir’s most underrated winter treks—ideal for travellers who prefer offbeat experiences.

Why Kashmir’s Winter Treks Stand Out

Unlike the difficult high-altitude routes of summer, Kashmir’s winter treks offer the best of both worlds: breathtaking Himalayan landscapes without the extreme climbs. The trails remain accessible before major snowfall blocks the passes, giving trekkers a chance to explore frozen rivers, quiet forests, icy meadows, and snow-covered valleys in complete peace.

Whether you’re a beginner craving your first winter trek or an experienced trekker seeking fresh routes, Kashmir’s winter trails bring together scenic beauty, safety, and that unmistakable Himalayan magic.