A season-by-season packing list for Kashmir, for travellers who would rather not carry a suitcase full of things they never open.
Kashmir sits between 1,500 and 4,000 m depending on where you go, and the temperature can swing fifteen degrees in a single day. Pack in layers rather than for one temperature.
All year round
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip, since much of what you will do is on uneven ground. A light windproof jacket. Sunscreen and sunglasses, because at altitude the sun is far stronger than it feels. A refillable water bottle. Any personal medication, as pharmacies outside Srinagar are limited.
Summer, June to August
Cottons for the day and one fleece for the evenings in Gulmarg and Pahalgam, which drop to 10 C after dark even in July. A light rain shell, as afternoon showers are common.
Winter, December to February
A properly insulated jacket, thermals, waterproof boots, gloves, a wool cap and thick socks. If you are skiing at Gulmarg, ski clothing can be rented locally and is not worth carrying.
For the Great Lakes trek
Broken-in trekking shoes, a 50 to 60 litre backpack, a rain poncho, a headlamp, quick-dry layers and a way to purify water. We supply tents, sleeping bags and mats.
Documents
Carry government photo ID for every traveller. It is checked at hotel and houseboat check-in and at some highway posts. Foreign nationals should carry copies of their passport and visa.
