Kashmir Travel Safety and Health Guide
Staying informed, altitude, cold, roads, food and water, women and family travel, insurance and what to do if something goes wrong.
Kashmir is easy to travel once you know a few local rules. These are the questions our guests ask most often, answered by our team in the valley.
Before you go
- Bring a postpaid SIM. Prepaid SIM cards issued outside Jammu and Kashmir do not work here. Postpaid connections from any operator do. You can also buy a local prepaid SIM with your ID.
- Carry photo ID for everyone. Hotels and checkpoints ask for government ID. Foreign nationals should carry their passport at all times.
- Book Gondola tickets early. In peak season, Gulmarg Gondola tickets sell out days in advance. Book online as soon as your dates are fixed.
- Pack layers, even in summer. Evenings in Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg are cool all year. In winter, bring thermals, a heavy jacket, gloves and waterproof shoes.
Getting around
- Expect union taxis. In Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg, local taxi unions run inner sightseeing. Your own cab drops you in town, and you hire a local taxi for places like Aru and Betaab.
- Agree pony prices first. Pony and sledge rates are usually fixed by the local association. Ask for the rate card before you set off.
- Plan for slow roads in winter. Snow can close the roads to Gulmarg, Sonamarg or Pahalgam for a day. Leave a buffer day before your flight home.
- Use the train if you like. The Vande Bharat train now links Katra and Srinagar, a scenic option if you are combining Vaishno Devi with Kashmir.
Money and manners
- Carry some cash. UPI and cards work in towns, but small shops, ponywallahs and shikara owners in remote spots often prefer cash.
- Dress modestly at shrines. Cover your shoulders and legs, and cover your head at mosques and gurudwaras. Remove shoes where asked.
- Ask before photographing people. Most people are happy to be photographed, but always ask, especially women.
- Try the local food. Kashmiri hospitality is generous. Accept a cup of Kahwa when offered; it is a sign of welcome.
One last tip
Keep your hotel and driver’s numbers saved offline. Our guests get a single support number that works for the whole trip, from airport pick-up to drop.