The best time to visit Kashmir, month by month

Kashmir is a four-season destination, and the "best" time depends entirely on what you want to see.

March to early May brings the almond and tulip blooms around Srinagar, with the Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden usually open for about three weeks from late March. Days are cool and the crowds are thinner.

May to August is the classic season: green meadows in Gulmarg and Pahalgam, comfortable daytime temperatures, and every road open. Book early — this is peak.

September to November is our favourite. The chinar leaves turn, the light is gold, and prices drop after the first week of September.

December to February is snow season. Gulmarg becomes a ski resort, Srinagar is cold and quiet, and some higher roads close. Pack properly and it is magic.