Kashmir in April is nothing short of paradise. Spring breathes new life into the valley, with the iconic Mughal Gardens bursting into vibrant hues, and the snowmelt from the Zabarwan Range unveiling hidden trails and remote treasures waiting to be explored. I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Kashmir in April with my family, and it was truly an unforgettable experience.

April is one of the best months to visit Kashmir, thanks to its pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, and special seasonal attractions. It also conveniently aligns with school summer vacations, making it perfect for family trips. The temperatures are mild, the air is fresh, and the valley is draped in a colorful tapestry of blossoming tulips, almond, and cherry blossoms—a sight you won’t find in any other season.

In this blog, I’ll take you through the unique experiences that April in Kashmir offers—from seasonal festivals to breathtaking natural beauty—that make this time of year so magical. Whether you’re planning a family trip or a solo escape, April is the perfect window to witness Kashmir’s springtime charm.

This article is all about Kashmir in April, check out this article for all the general information to plan a Kashmir trip on a budget.

Why Visit Kashmir in April

April is one of the best times to visit Kashmir, as the valley awakens from its winter slumber and bursts into vibrant colors. The weather strikes a perfect balance—snow still caps the higher mountains, while the lower regions bloom with fresh greenery and flowers. Daytime temperatures hover between 12°C to 20°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploration without the biting cold of winter or the heavy crowds of summer.

One of the biggest draws in April is the blooming of Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar. Spread across the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden comes alive with over a million tulips in full bloom, creating a colorful spectacle. The almond blossoms at Badamwari and golden mustard fields stretching across the countryside add to the visual treat.

April also marks the perfect time for adventure activities. Rivers swell with melting snow, making spots like Pahalgam ideal for white-water rafting. Trekking trails begin to open up, and places like Chandanwari and Sonamarg still offer snowy landscapes without the harsh winter chill.

With pleasant weather, blooming gardens, adventure sports, and fewer tourists compared to peak season, April offers the best of both worlds—Kashmir’s winter charm alongside the colors of spring.

Things to Do in Kashmir in April

Wander Through a Sea of Blooms at the Tulip Festival

Visiting the Tulip Garden in April was the highlight of my Kashmir trip. Located in Srinagar, this is Asia’s largest tulip garden, with rows upon rows of vibrant blooms set against the backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills and Dal Lake. The park is open only from late March to early May to coincide with the tulip blooming season.

April is peak bloom season within that period, and the garden transforms into a colorful sea of reds, pinks, yellows, and purples. Walking through the garden felt surreal—every turn offered a new burst of color. I would recommend an evening visit over a morning stroll as there are no shady trees in the vast garden and so you won’t find a place to sit down and relax under shade.

Soak in Spring’s Charm at Badamwari’s Almond Blossoms

Badamwari is a hidden gem located just outside Srinagar city center on the way to Hari Parbat, another top Srinagar attraction.

Known for its almond blossoms, the garden was in full bloom when I visited. The pink and white flowers created a dreamy atmosphere, and locals were out enjoying picnics under the blooming trees. This is yet another park that is open to tourists during the spring season from late March to early May, making it a special garden in Kashmir.

Most tourists do not know about the garden, we didn’t know. It was our local driver who “insisted” we visit the garden. We were of the idea that, well, we visited every other garden in Srinagar, what is so special about this place? But we were blown away by the pink and white landscape of this garden from almond blooms. Badamwari is a must-visit Kashmir attraction in April!

Step into a Snowy Fairytale at Sonamarg

Sonamarg, roughly 80 km from Srinagar, was still draped in snow when I visited in April. The journey itself was scenic, as we passed several hamlets with local population going about their daily lives until we reached the snow-covered peaks.

April is ideal for Sonamarg because you get the best of both worlds—pleasant weather and lingering snow. We walked to reach Thajiwas Glacier, where we played in the snow and enjoyed panoramic mountain views. Avoid pony rides as it is a big scam in Kashmir. Once you get to the glacier, you will find tea and Maggi points to warm your souls.

 The Sindh River, partially thawed, added to the beauty of the landscape. It was the perfect escape into Kashmir’s alpine charm before the summer crowds arrived.

Sonamarg also has sleds and ice skiing as popular snow activities. What we liked about Sonamarg the most was the smaller crowd compared to Gulmarg.

Savor Fresh Flavors with a Walk Through Apple Orchards

One of my favorite experiences in Kashmir was visiting an apple orchard in April. There are several apple orchards on the way to Pahalgam from Srinagar.

April is when the apple trees are in full bloom, with delicate white and pink flowers covering the branches. Walking through the orchard felt almost magical—the blossoms swayed gently in the breeze, and the air was filled with a subtle, sweet fragrance.

Since it’s not harvest season, the orchards are peaceful, and we got to chat with local farmers about the upcoming apple crop and taste their homemade apple jams and pickles. It was a quiet, authentic experience away from the usual tourist spots.

Get Lost in a Golden Dream at Kashmir’s Mustard Fields

Driving through the countryside in April, I couldn’t miss the bright yellow mustard fields stretching endlessly along the roads. The best part? These fields are everywhere on the way to Pahalgam, around 15-40 km from Srinagar.

I stopped at one of the fields near Pampore, where the golden blooms glowed under the clear spring sun, creating a perfect contrast against the snow-capped mountains in the distance. Walking through the field, I felt completely immersed in nature. April is ideal for this because the mustard is in full bloom, and the weather is just warm enough to enjoy a leisurely walk.

Trace the Trails of Chandanwari Where Amarnath Yatra Begins

Chandanwari, about 90 km from Srinagar and 16 km from Pahalgam, was still blanketed in snow when I visited in April. It’s the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, but in spring, it’s all about the lingering snow and pristine views.

I hired a sledge to glide over the snow-covered slopes, which was a fun and unique experience. The temperature was cool but pleasant, making it easy to spend hours outdoors. April is perfect here if you want to enjoy snow without the harsh winter chill, plus the melting ice creates little streams that add to the beauty of the landscape.

Ride the Rapids with a Thrilling River Rafting in Pahalgam

Although I couldn’t fit river rafting into my Pahalgam itinerary as I was traveling with a toddler and my senior citizen parents, it’s high on my list for next time. Pahalgam is known for its thrilling rafting experiences on the Lidder River.

April is the perfect month because the melting snow swells the river, creating strong rapids ideal for adventure seekers. The weather is also just right—not too cold, so you can enjoy the splash without freezing. Even though I missed it, I could see rafts navigating the rapids, and the excitement was contagious.

Wildlife Wonders Await at Dachigam National Park

Dachigam National Park, only 22 km from Srinagar, was another spot I had to skip, but it’s a must if you’re visiting in April. This is when the snow has melted enough to open up the lower areas of the park, and wildlife becomes more active.

April offers a great chance to spot the elusive Hangul (Kashmiri stag) and Himalayan black bears. Plus, the landscape starts turning lush with blooming flowers and fresh greenery, making it a peaceful retreat not far from the city. I regret not making time for it—it’s one of those places where nature truly comes alive in spring.

Venture Offbeat to Gurez Valley

I had every intention of visiting Gurez Valley, about 130 km from Srinagar, but the long drive and unpredictable weather made me push it to my next trip. Still, April is one of the best times to explore Gurez as the valley reopens after heavy winter snowfall.

The scenery is a beautiful mix of snow-capped peaks and meadows just beginning to bloom. It’s the kind of untouched beauty that’s rare to find, and visiting before the summer rush means more peace and quiet. From everything I’ve read and heard, Gurez in April offers a raw, authentic side of Kashmir that’s hard to beat.

Chase Cascades at the Majestic Aharbal Waterfalls

Aharbal Waterfalls is another such attraction that will have to wait until my next Kashmir trip, but I would recommend it to anyone seeking an adventure travel. It’s known as the “Niagara Falls of Kashmir” for a reason, and April is when the waterfall is at its most powerful, thanks to the melting snow feeding the river.

The water gushes into a deep gorge, surrounded by pine forests, creating a dramatic scene. From what I’ve heard, the short trek to the falls is easy, and the cool mist from the cascading water is incredibly refreshing during spring. It’s definitely a stop I won’t skip next time.

Does it Snow in Kashmir in April

Yes, it can still snow in Kashmir in April, especially in higher-altitude areas like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Gurez Valley. While Srinagar and lower regions no longer receive fresh snowfall, you’ll still find snow-covered landscapes in these elevated spots.

Gulmarg, in particular, remains a winter wonderland in April, offering opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Even places like Pahalgam’s Chandanwari retain snow during early April, making it perfect for snow-related activities like sledging.

Kashmir Weather in April

Kashmir in April experiences mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C in Srinagar and lower areas. Nights can get chilly, dropping to around 5°C, especially in hill stations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg.

The snow in higher altitudes starts melting, feeding rivers and waterfalls, while the lower valleys bloom with tulips, almond blossoms, and mustard fields. The mix of snow-capped mountains and vibrant spring colors makes April one of the most picturesque times to visit. Occasional light showers are common, so it’s good to be prepared for changing weather.

What to Pack for a Kashmir Trip in April

Packing for Kashmir in April means preparing for both spring warmth and lingering winter chill. Here’s what to carry:

Winding Up: Kashmir in April

Kashmir in April is a mesmerizing blend of snow-capped peaks, blooming valleys, and vibrant landscapes, offering a unique experience unlike any other season. Whether it’s witnessing the last traces of winter in Sonamarg, rafting through the icy waters of Pahalgam, or exploring remote gems like Gurez Valley, every corner of Kashmir has something special to offer.

The mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty makes April an ideal time to visit—before the summer crowds arrive but just in time to enjoy the region’s springtime charm. If you’re looking for a Kashmir experience beyond the usual, April is the perfect time to explore its hidden wonders.

I hope you found my Kahmir in April guide useful in planning your trip. Share your travel experiences or questions in the comments below and I will get back to you with answers. I wish you a wonderful trip!