Gulmarg Sight Seeing

About Gulmarg

Gulmarg often referred to as the “Meadow of Flowers,” nestled in the Pir Panjal Range lives up to its name year-round. Situated at an altitude of 2730 meters above sea level, Gulmarg is a versatile destination that captivates visitors throughout the year. In the winter, it offers pristine slopes and draws skiers  and boasts one of the world’s highest Gondola rides. But when spring and summer roll around, it transforms into a flowery wonderland with breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Gulmarg isn’t just a haven for adventure seekers,  it is also a top destination for honeymooners. You’ll find thick blankets of snow on high peaks and perfect slopes. The Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering offers courses in trekking, mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding, making it an adventure hub. Private tour operators offer similar experiences. It’s also renowned for hosting the world’s highest Gondola ride, making it a top winter destination. Gulmarg lets you bask in nature’s glory. The name “Gulmarg,” which means “Valley of Flowers,” says it all. This beautiful place has even made its way into Bollywood films. Places like Strawberry Valley, Alpather Lake, Tangmarg, Khilanmarg, Durung Waterfall, and Ferozepur Nallah offer different stories to tell in the lap of nature.

For those seeking peace and quiet, Gulmarg has it all – stunning mountains, pine forests, lush valleys, and babbling streams. You can camp by Ningle Nallah and Ferozepur Nallah, enjoy tasty Kashmiri food at the Igloo cafe, find solace at shrines like Baba Reshi and St. Mary’s Church, or simply relax in places like the Children’s Park or Strawberry Valley.

Gulmarg isn’t just a one-season wonder; it’s a year-round destination. It’s a place where you can capture beauty with your camera or simply savor it with your own eyes. So, let’s explore the best spots in Gulmarg and get some tips for planning your visit to this incredible valley.

Srinagar to Gulmarg

It takes about an hour to travel from Srinagar to Gulmarg. The drive is pleasant and scenic. One of the major stops between the two is tanmarg, which also acts a stop for union sharing vehicles that operate during winter. If you are in a tourist vehicle, you need to use these vehicles with their snow chains to reach gulmarg.

Gulmarg Sight Seeing

1. Gulmarg Gandola Ride

The Gulmarg Gondola, the world’s second-highest cable car, is an unmissable highlight of Gulmarg. As the second highest and second longest cable car ride in the world, it’s a must-try experience when visiting Gulmarg. The Gandola ride is divided into two phases. In Phase 1, the Gondola whisks passengers from Gulmarg Resort to Kongdoori Station (the middle point), starting at an altitude of 2,990 meters and ascending 400 vertical meters. It shuttles nearly 1,500 passengers per hour, reaching 3,100 meters, offering access to easy skiing runs.

Phase 2 connects Kongdoori Mountain to Apharwat Peak, climbing a further 1,330 vertical meters to nearly 4,000 meters and ferries 600 passengers per hour. From the mountaintop, a 30-minute trek unveils the Line of Control (LOC) in the distance. The Gondola also treats you to magnificent views of Nanda Devi and the Pir Panjal Range, while offering activities like horseback riding and skiing.The first phase of the ride takes around 9 minutes, while the second phase takes about 12 minutes. Get panoramic views of the beautiful snow-capped mountains, valleys and forests. Riding the Gulmarg Gondola isn’t just an activity; it’s an unforgettable addition to your travel wishlist.

• The timings for the ride is from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• The fee for phase-1 is Rs. 700 and for phase-2 is Rs. 900.
• Chair car rides are available for phase-2 at an additional cost of Rs. 300.

• Note that children under 3 years aren’t allowed for any phase.
• Gondola services can get interrupted during winters when the weather gets bad.

• Each car is allowed to carry 6 people, 3 in each row.
• The Gondola is about 900m away from Gulmarg, you’ll need to walk towards the boarding point.
• Beware of horse owners, guides and other agents offering tickets and drop to the boarding point; it’s an easy walk and the tickets can be booked online.
• There are restaurants in Kongdoori (phase 1) but none in Apharwat (phase 2). 
• There are toilets and eateries. Food items are usually sold 50% more than the MRP. 
• There are activities available at Phase 1, including ATV rides and sledding. One can opt for a short sled ride or go back to Gulmarg starting point instead of taking a Gondola back.

2.  Drung Waterfall

The Drung Waterfall, situated in the Tangmarg tehsil of Gulmarg, Baramulla, is a highly sought-after tourist attraction. Nestled amidst majestic mountains, this cascading waterfall offers a striking spectacle, particularly during the winter when it freezes due to the frigid temperatures. It’s a must-visit site that boasts a picturesque blend of glacier-originated water and serene surroundings. In the summer months, it provides a tranquil escape, allowing visitors to admire the waterfall, nearby lakes, streams, and lush greenery, as well as explore nearby caves. Winter paints a different, equally breathtaking scene with the waterfall freezing, forming icicles, and even the lakes and streams turn into icy playgrounds for the daring. Convenient stalls serving tea and snacks are available for those savoring the stunning vistas, and a small temple graces the vicinity, adding to the enchantment of Drung Waterfall.

3.  Apharwat Peak 

Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg, situated at a staggering 4,200 meters above sea level, is an awe-inspiring destination. This remote location, positioned near the Line of Control with Pakistan, experiences heavy snowfall and remains snow-covered for much of the year, making it the epicenter of winter sports in Gulmarg.

Surrounded by pristine snow-clad mountains and vast white meadows, Apharwat Peak is not only a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts but also an idyllic spot for honeymooners and one of the most picturesque tourist attractions in Srinagar. To reach this skiing haven, you can take the second phase of the Gulmarg Gondola, depending on weather conditions. 

The panoramic view from the peak is simply spectacular. Apharwat Peak is undeniably one of the must-visit destinations among all the attractions Gulmarg has to offer.

4. Alpather lake

Alpather Lake, nestled about 13 kilometers from Gulmarg and perched at 4,511 meters near the Apharwat Peak, is a captivating alpine wonder. It’s often referred to as the “Frozen Lake” because it remains frozen from November to June. You can commence a moderately challenging one-day trek from Gulmarg to reach this picturesque destination, covering approximately 13 kilometers. 

For those not inclined to trek the entire way, a thrilling pony ride up to the lake offers its own adventure. The surroundings of Alpather Lake are consistently chilly, even during the summer, and are prone to sudden showers, so packing warm clothing and weather protection is essential. 

Whether you visit in winter when it transforms into a frozen wonderland or in summer when it’s surrounded by blooming flowers and trees, Alpather Lake offers a serene escape from city life.

5. Strawberry Valley

The Strawberry Valley in Gulmarg is a picturesque gem that seems straight out of a storybook. With verdant green meadows, bright red strawberries dotting the landscape, and clear blue skies above, it’s a sight to behold. Tucked away “right behind a hill,” this hidden treasure retains its unspoiled beauty, as it’s less frequented by tourists. The summer season is when the valley comes alive, with the strawberry harvest in full swing. Rows of ripe, red strawberries tempt visitors to take a leisurely stroll through nature’s bounty, and you can even bring a basket for a tranquil picnic in the shade. This charming location’s charisma and vibrancy have also made it a sought-after Bollywood shooting spot, adding to its allure. Whether you savor the fresh strawberries in summer or explore the uncharted beauty of Gulmarg, the Strawberry Valley is a must-visit destination, accessible on foot or by pony ride, and it’s a place where you can enjoy the serene beauty and taste the fruits of the land.

6. Gulmarg Golf Course

The Gulmarg Golf Course, renowned as the highest 18-hole golf course globally and the longest in India, is a true gem. Nestled at an altitude of 8,700 feet above sea level, this golf course has a rich history of being a favorite among British golfers since 1911 and was formally inaugurated in 2011. Designed by the legendary golfer and course designer Peter Thomson, it has hosted numerous national and international golf tournaments. The course, set amidst a meadow adorned with various beautiful and rare species of flowers, is in full bloom from June to September, offering a picturesque backdrop for golfing. This public golf course features a clubhouse with historical significance and provides opportunities for golf enthusiasts to try their hand at this sport. Visitors can hire golf sets and even receive instruction. The course operates from April to November, and during the winter months from December to March, it’s blanketed with a thick layer of snow, making it a must-visit destination for golf aficionados and nature lovers alike.

7. Khilanmarg

Khilanmarg, a small and enchanting valley located near Gulmarg in Baramulla, is a delightful place offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, making it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. You can trek from the Gulmarg bus stand if you’re feeling adventurous, but a more comfortable way up involves riding a pony. After an hour-long ride, Khilanmarg comes into view as a carpeted meadow of flowers in the summer and a frozen expanse of snow in the winter. Even during the summer months, there’s some ice in the upper reaches, and sled operators provide hair-raising rides from one end to the other. The lush meadows, alpine forests, and flower-filled valleys will captivate you. Khilanmarg becomes the site for winter skiing scenes in Gulmarg, with a 600-meter slope from Khilanmarg to Gulmarg. You can also visit some famous restaurants in Kashmir here. Whether you visit in the summer to witness the majestic view of Nanga Parbat, the fifth-highest mountain peak in the world, or in the winter for skiing and adventure sports, Khilanmarg’s charm will leave you spellbound.

Gulmarg packages

Tour packages for gulmarg start from 2 to 4 days that would also include local excursions to surrounding valleys and summits. During snow and winters, if one is interested in learning skiing, there are certified courses ranging between 6 and 10 days. The following are gulmarg package details and cost:

Packages

Inclusions:
1) Accommodation for number of people mentioned at 4 star properties.
2) Meal plan includes breakfast and dinner.
3) Srinagar airport transfer.
4) Local gulmarg sightseeing in sedan/innova.

Exclusions:
1) Lunch
2) Activities as mentioned in above details.

Note: Above rates will change if category of hotels change.

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