Weather

• Weather

Weather Streams in Kashmir for Skiing:

• Two primary weather streams significantly impact skiing conditions in Kashmir: one originating from the northwest and another from the southwest.
• Early in the ski season, snow primarily comes from the Arabian Sea, carrying relatively high moisture content.
• As the season progresses, the northern weather stream becomes dominant.
• The combination of these two streams results in heavy snowfall in Gulmarg.

Unique Snow Conditions in Gulmarg:

• Gulmarg receives more snowfall than any other place in India.
• It’s renowned for its “champagne powder,” which is exceptionally dry and ideal for skiing, particularly as the season progresses.
• A single storm can deposit several meters of snow, creating excellent skiing conditions.
• The high elevation of Gulmarg in the Kashmir region allows the snow to linger well into the later months of the year, making late-season skiing possible.

Ski Season in Kashmir:

• The ski season in Kashmir typically begins in early December and extends until sometime in April.
• In some years, like 2011, there may be an unusually dry early season, but conditions tend to normalize as the season progresses.
• Late March and April often offer excellent skiing conditions, especially at higher elevations, while the base area may have less snow.
• This late-season period is a well-kept secret, providing nearly empty slopes and fantastic skiing opportunities for those in the know.

The dynamic interplay of weather streams and the abundance of snowfall in Gulmarg make it a unique and attractive destination for skiing enthusiasts. The extended ski season, with excellent conditions even into April, adds to the appeal of this remarkable ski destination in the heart of Kashmir.