A trip to Kashmir usually lasts several days, so careful packing is essential. Without proper preparation, you might face challenges. During my first trip to Kashmir, I encountered some difficulties, which I’ll share here based on my experience. If you haven’t already, I recommend reading my previous two blogs about trip planning and choosing the best time to visit Kashmir.

Since a trip to Kashmir is a long tour lasting several days, you’ll need to carry many things with you. Otherwise, you may face several issues. The first time I visited Kashmir, I encountered a few problems. Based on my experience, I will share those with you. Hopefully, before reading this blog, you’ve read my previous two blogs, where I discussed the preparations and what to carry to Kashmir trip?

If you haven’t read those, please do so; otherwise, this blog might feel incomplete.In those blogs, I talked about selecting the best time for your Kashmir trip, winter clothing, medicines, and some other preparations. In addition, here’s what you should carry to Kashmir trip:

Kashmir’s appearance and weather change with the seasons, so it’s crucial to prepare accordingly. Here’s what you should pack for each season:

The weather in spring is mild but can vary between day and night.

• Light warm clothes (sweaters or light jackets)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Comfortable hiking shoes or footwear

• Follow the March packing list
• A camera for pictures at the Tulip Festival in Srinagar

• Light summer clothing
• A hat or cap to protect from the sun

• Thin t-shirts or tops
• Plenty of sunscreen
• Comfortable sandals
• An umbrella for sudden rain

This season brings light rain. Here’s what to carry:

• Raincoat or umbrella
• Waterproof bag covers
• Non-slip shoes
• Dry snacks in case of delays due to rain

• Light warm clothes for cool mornings
• Comfortable sandals
• Personal sanitizer and insect repellent to avoid bugs and germs

The temperature drops during autumn, especially at night.

• Light jackets or sweaters
• Comfortable shoes
• A camera to capture the vibrant autumn scenery

• Warm clothes like jackets and shawls
• Socks and a cap
• Moisturizer to prevent dry skin and lips

Winter in Kashmir lasts from December to February and is covered in snow. Carrying the right items is important for a comfortable trip. Here’s what you’ll need:

A heavy winter jacket is a must. If you don’t have one, you can rent one locally for ₹100–₹200 or buy one in Srinagar or local markets.

Regular shoes won’t work in the snow as they may get damaged. Snow boots are essential and can be rented at tourist spots for ₹150–₹200.

• Winter cap and gloves
• Thermal innerwear
• Hand warmers
• Body lotion and lip balm to protect against dry air

• Follow the December list
• Comfortable clothes for snow activities like skiing or sledging

While each season requires special preparation, some items are necessary regardless of when you visit:

I visited during winter. Since I didn’t bring a heavy winter jacket, I rented one here. You can rent one for 100 to 200 rupees. If you want to buy one, you can do so from the local markets in Srinagar.

Snow boots are essential for walking on snow. You can find them in the local markets. However, my advice is that there’s no need to buy them unnecessarily. You can rent them at the entrance of tourist spots for around 150 to 200 rupees.

• Pack enough regular clothes for the trip and include warm layers like thermals, sweaters, fleece jackets, and heavy coats.
• Accessories like woolen caps, gloves, socks, and scarves are helpful but may not be needed daily. Keep them in your hotel or resort unless the weather demands them.
• Waterproof trekking shoes are ideal for walking in snow or cold areas.
• Carry a raincoat or umbrella for unexpected rain or snowfall.

• Lip balm to prevent chapped lips
• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect against UV rays
• Moisturizing cream to keep your skin hydrated
• Tissue paper to dry your face or hands if they get wet in the snow
• Hand sanitizer
• Basic hygiene products like soap, shampoo, and detergent (these can also be purchased locally).

For traveling to Kashmir, you’ll need some electronic devices:

• Carry your mobile phone and charger. If possible, take a power bank since electricity might not always be available.
• Take a camera to capture your wonderful memories. Keep extra batteries and memory cards for the camera.
• Carry chargers and a multi-plug for charging various electronic devices.
• Bring a torch or headlamp if traveling to remote areas. A torch is useful in any case if it gets dark while exploring.

While traveling to Kashmir, take some essential medicines and a first aid kit:

• Don’t forget your prescribed medicines.
• Keep a first aid kit for any cuts, injuries, or emergencies.
• Carry medicine for altitude sickness (e.g., Diamox).
• Take medicines for colds, fevers, and pain relief.
• Include Band-Aids, cough syrup, and antiseptic cream.

• Keep your national ID card.
• Always carry your passport.
• Organize travel documents like tickets, hotel bookings, and travel plans neatly.
• If you have travel insurance, keep a copy safe.
• It’s helpful to know about Kashmir’s local laws and regulations to make your trip smooth.

When I arrived in Kashmir, I first stayed in Srinagar. Since SIM cards from other countries do not work here, I had to get a SIM card immediately for emergency communication. I got a prepaid Airtel SIM from the local market. With a SIM card, you might avoid many problems. First, you’ll lose contact with your home, and second, you won’t be able to communicate with hotel guides, drivers, or security personnel. Therefore, you must get a SIM card.

• Upon reaching Kashmir, you’ll need a local SIM card for internet and calls since foreign SIMs don’t work here.
• Buy a prepaid SIM like Airtel, BSNL, or Jio from the local market.
• Without a SIM, it’ll be hard to contact family, hotel staff, guides, or drivers.

• Keep important phone numbers, such as for hotels, drivers, and guides.
• Collect local police numbers for places like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam for emergencies.
• Useful emergency numbers:
• Local Police: 100
• Ambulance: 102

In an unfamiliar place, you should keep the phone numbers of everyone you’ll be dealing with, such as the hotel, driver, and horse rider. When I arrived in Srinagar, I first collected the police’s number. I also kept the police numbers for the places I visited, especially Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam, so I could contact them if needed.

Drivers or horse riders may try to cheat you in various ways, but if you mention the police, they won’t overcharge you or cause unnecessary trouble.

Also Read:Goa

Depending on your personal needs, you might want to carry:

• A small bag for day trips.
• Dry food and water bottles if you don’t prefer outside food.
• Books, magazines, or travel games for relaxation.
• A camera stand for recording videos.

Be sure to carry a reasonable amount of money with you. However, keep in mind that sometimes you might need to double the amount you planned for.

• Carry enough cash, as some areas in Kashmir might not support online payments or card transactions.
• Keep the cash in separate places for security. Although the law and order in Kashmir is good, it’s wise to stay cautious.

Proper preparation will make your Kashmir trip more enjoyable. Before packing your bags, review this checklist to ensure a smooth and happy journey!