Help for Kashmir - Dec 09: New Years, Skiing, House Boats etc

Ronnie_Ron

hello,

I am planning a trip into Kashmir via Srinagar in Dec. Now i am interested to get the very best out of my tour so i would like to understand if:

a. Dec 20th - Jan 3rd:is this a good time climate / safety wise to be there. by safety i mean personal safety to move from one place to another by car (snow fall / road blocks)
b. New Years day celebrations - any particular place to visit (age group 24 - 29), good and modern environment only (clubs / parties etc...).
c. Skiing in Gulmarg - is this safe and cost effective.
If so can someone please provide a rough cost estimate for day's trip/training and rentals of equipment would come to.
d. What and When is Kashmir Snow Festival held?

Is 12 days too much or can we add more places other than those in Jammu & Kashmir (Gulmarg, Sonamarg, pehelgam etc... all included already).

thank you very much in advance .

All suggestions and comments are most welcome

Rgds,
Ronnie