Gulmarg is located at valley of Kashmir, Gulmarg is a popular hill station known for its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. Located about 50 kilometers from Srinagar, it has an altitude of about 2,650 meters (8,694 feet) and above sea level .
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and dense forests, Gulmarg, which means “Meadow of Flowers,” stand to its name , especially during the spring and summer months due to the widespread carpet of flowers . That is absolutely stunning to eyes , worth remembering the beauty.
Gulmarg has a lot to provide especially the adventure activities like trekking, skiing. snowboarding , meadows of flower and snowfall. With dense forest , snow- capped peaks , Bloooming valleys – Gulmarg is exciting and thrilling to most of its visitors .
The Gulmarg Gondola, elevates passengers to a height of 3,979 meters (13,054 feet) beyond its natural allure, Gulmarg has rich cultural and historical significance. The St. Mary’s Church, dating back to the 19th century, and the historic Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, spanning an area of 180 square kilometers .
Best time to visit Gulmarg tourist places
March to june
From March to June, The weather is suitable for many outdoor activities . Some of the activities you can do during this time are trekking , golfing and Gulmarg gondola ride . Skiing and snowboarding is not possible during this time .This period is also when the meadows are in full bloom, for nature lovers and photographers.
October to Feburary
From October to February, Due to snowfall and low temperature – Gulmarg transforms into a winter wonderland. Due to such condition during winters Gulmarg become a popular destination for skiing adventure. Skiing , snowboarding and other snow activities (snow ball ) is popular in Gulmarg . Apart from that there is Gulmarg Gondola cable car ride to Apharawat Peak .Through this ride one can experience beautiful sightseeing and thrilling ski slopes . People can have fun with making and throwing snowballs .
Do consult with the locals about the precautions to take . Take some skiing lessons from some professionals and apply them while doing skiing. This season attracts skiing enthusiasts from various places .
| Month | Weather Conditions | Activities Available |
|---|---|---|
| March – June | Pleasant, mild temperatures | Sightseeing, trekking, gondola rides |
| July – September | Monsoon season, occasional rains | Less popular due to rain, off-season discounts |
| October – February | Cold, snow-covered landscapes | Skiing, snowboarding, winter sports |
Two days at gulmarg – Itenary
Day-1
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe |
| 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Gulmarg Gondola ride |
| 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Visit Khilanmarg |
| 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Lunch in Gulmarg town |
| 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Visit Gulmarg Golf Course |
| 3:45 PM – 4:15 PM | Explore St. Mary’s Church |
| 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Visit Maharani Temple |
| 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Visit Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve |
| 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Sunset and tea at a local cafe |
Gulmarg Gondola Ride:
- One of the highest cable cars in the world.
- Ascends from Gulmarg to Kongdori Station (2,600 meters) and then to Apharwat Peak (3,979 meters).
- Provides views of snow covered mountains, lush valleys, and dense forests.
Trek to Khilanmarg:
- A short trek from Kongdori Station.
- Beautiful meadow with colorful wildflowers in spring and summer.
- Offers placid environment and mountain views.
Gulmarg Golf Course:
- The highest green golf course in the world.
- Lavish fairways set against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains.
- Perfect for both – Golf enthusiasts and visitors.
Maharani temple
- Built in the 19th century, Maharani Temple, also known as Rani Temple, holds significant historical importance in Gulmarg.
- Perched atop a hill, the temple offers stunning extensive views of Gulmarg and its attractive surroundings.
- The temple’s architecture reflects complex designs and craftsmanship .
| Starting Point | Distance | Mode of Transport | Time Required | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gulmarg | 0 km | Start at Gulmarg | – | 2,650 meters |
| 1 km | Walk/Trek to Gondola | 10-15 mins walk | – | |
| Gondola Ride | 2.5 km | Gondola to Kongdori | 10-12 mins ride | 2,600 meters |
| 1.5 km | Trek from Kongdori | 30-45 mins trek | 3,000 meters | |
| Khilanmarg | – | Arrive at Khilanmarg | – | 3,000 meters |
Day -2
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe |
| 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM | Trekking or horse riding to Alpather Lake |
| 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Picnic lunch at Alpather Lake |
| 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Return trek/horse ride to Gulmarg |
| 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Shopping at Gulmarg Market |
| 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Visit Ningli Nallah |
| 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Dinner at a local restaurant |
Skiing at Gulmarg
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrival in Gulmarg | – |
| Purchase Ski Pass & Equipment Rental | Ski Pass: INR 700 – 1,700 per day Equipment Rental: INR 1,000 – 1,500 per day |
| Proceed to Gulmarg Gondola Base Station | – |
| Board Gondola to Phase 1 (Kongdoori) | Altitude: 3,100 meters / 10,200 feet |
| Skiing at Kongdoori Slopes | Level: Intermediate Vertical Drop: Approximately 450 meters |
| Board Gondola to Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak) | Altitude: 3,950 meters / 12,960 feet |
| Advanced Skiing at Apharwat Slopes | Level: Advanced Vertical Drop: Approximately 1,500 meters |
| Return to Kongdoori for Midday Break | – |
| Lunch at Kongdoori Restaurant | – |
| Afternoon Skiing Session | Choice of Intermediate or Advanced Slopes |
| Return to Gondola Base Station | – |
| Drop-off Rental Equipment | – |
| Relaxation & Après-ski Activities | – |
| End of Day | – |
Gulmarg tourist places to visit
Gulmarg Gondola
- Altitude (Phase 1 – Kongdoori): 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
- Altitude (Phase 2 – Apharwat Peak): 3,747 meters (12,293 feet)
- Enjoy the cable car ride
- Extensive views of Himalayas
- Access point for skiing and trekking .
Apharwat Peak
- Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
- Distance from Gulmarg Town Center: Approximately 13 km
- Prime skiing destination with powder snow.
- Offers breathtaking views of surrounding peaks.
- Ideal for trekking during the summer.
Gulmarg Golf Course
- Altitude: 2,650 meters (8,694 feet)
- Number of Holes: 18
- One of the highest golf courses in the world.
- Surrounded by picturesque mountain landscapes.
- Open for golfing from April to November.
Alpather Lake
- Altitude: 3,843 meters (12,605 feet)
- Distance from Gulmarg Town Center: Approximately 13 km
- Peaceful high-altitude lake near Apharwat Peak.
- Accessible via a scenic trek or pony ride.
- Offers stunning reflections of surrounding peaks.
Maharani Temple (Shiva Temple)
- Altitude: 2,650 meters (8,694 feet)
- Distance from Gulmarg Town Center: Approximately 1 km
- Historic temple dating back to the 19th century.
- Picturesque setting amidst lush greenery.
- Offers panoramic views of Gulmarg town.
Activities to do in Gulmarg
Skiing
- Season: December to March
- Altitude of Ski Slopes: 2,600 – 3,747 meters (8,530 – 12,293 feet)
- Enjoy world-class skiing
- This is for beginners and advance skiers
- Gulmarg boasts some of the highest ski slopes in India.
Snowboarding
- Season: December to March
- Altitude of Slopes: 2,600 – 3,747 meters (8,530 – 12,293 feet)
- Experience the joy of snowboarding .
- Gulmarg have required variation for snowboarding enthusiasts.
- Lessons and equipment rentals are available for beginners.
Gulmarg Gondola Ride
- Altitude Gain: Up to 3,747 meters (12,293 feet)
- Length of Ride: Approximately 5 kilometers
- Ride one of the highest cable cars in the world.
- Enjoy views of various snow covered mountains around .
- Explore the skiing , snowboarding and trekking from top
Golfing
- Altitude of Golf Course: 2,650 meters (8,694 feet)
- Season: April to November
- Play golf in the amazing mountain scenery.
- Gulmarg Golf Course is one of the highest in the world.
- Enjoy the cool climate and greenery during the summer months.
Trekking
- Altitude of Trekking Trails: Varies from 2,600 to over 4,000 meters (8,530 – 13,123 feet)
- Popular Treks: Alpather Lake, Khilanmarg, Apharwat Peak
- Explore the wonderful trails amidst alpine forests and meadows.
- Explore views of snow covered peaks and valleys.
- Trekking routes cater to various difficulty levels, suitable for beginners to experienced trekkers.
Villages near Gulmarg tourist places
Tangmarg : Gulmarg tourist places
- Distance from Gulmarg: Approximately 13 kilometers
- Gateway to Gulmarg, popular for apple orchards and local markets.
- Exploration to rural Kashmiri life and culture.
- Surrounded by greenery and landscapes.
Drung
- Distance from Gulmarg: Approximately 15 kilometers
- Beautiful village located amidst dense forests.
- Popular for traditional wooden architecture and handicrafts.
- Offers opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching.
Baramulla
- Distance from Gulmarg: Approximately 30 kilometers
- One of the largest towns in the Baramulla district.
- Home to historic sites like the ancient ruins of Pattan and Sangrama.
- Offers markets, restaurants, and other amenities for travelers.
Beerwah : Gulmarg tourist places
- Distance from Gulmarg: Approximately 40 kilometers
- Picturesque village surrounded by verdant meadows and towering mountains.
- Famous for its saffron fields and almond orchards.
- Gateway to the famous shrine of Baba Reshi and the Doodhpathri Valley.
Wagoora
- Distance from Gulmarg: Approximately 20 kilometers
- Peaceful village known for its scenic beauty and calming atmosphere.
- Offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding countryside.
- Features traditional Kashmiri architecture and friendly locals.
| Village | Distance from Gulmarg | Popular For |
|---|---|---|
| Tangmarg | Approximately 13 km | Gateway to Gulmarg, apple orchards, local markets |
| Drung | Approximately 15 km | Quaint village, traditional architecture, nature walks |
| Baramulla | Approximately 30 km | Historic sites, markets, restaurants |
| Beerwah | Approximately 40 km | Saffron fields, almond orchards, Baba Reshi shrine |
| Wagoora | Approximately 20 km | Scenic beauty, hiking trails, traditional architecture |
FAQs on Gulmarg tourist places
When is the best time to visit Gulmarg for skiing?
The best time for skiing in Gulmarg is from December to February when the slopes are covered with fresh snow, providing ideal conditions for winter sports enthusiasts.
What is the altitude of Gulmarg?
Gulmarg is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,650 meters (8,694 feet) above sea level.
How do I reach Gulmarg tourist places from Srinagar?
Gulmarg is located about 50 kilometers from Srinagar, and you can reach there by road via private taxi or public transport.
What are the activities available in Gulmarg during the summer months?
During the summer months, visitors can enjoy activities like trekking, golfing, horse riding, and exploring the scenic meadows and valleys.
Is Gulmarg safe for tourists?
Yes, Gulmarg is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to check the current situation and follow local guidelines and instructions.
