Overview
About Gulmarg
Gulmarg, whose name means "meadow of flowers", is a cup-shaped valley high in the Pir Panjal range of Kashmir, about 50 km west of Srinagar. In summer, its rolling grasslands are carpeted with wildflowers and ringed by dense pine and fir forest; in winter, the same slopes are buried under deep snow and become India's best-known ski destination.
The British developed Gulmarg as a summer retreat and laid out one of the highest golf courses in the world here. Today, the Gulmarg Gondola is the star attraction, carrying visitors from the meadow up to Kongdori and then to the slopes of Apharwat peak, with panoramic views across the Himalaya and, on clear days, towards Nanga Parbat.
Gulmarg itself is small, with little more than hotels, a few shops and scattered huts around the meadow, so most of the time is spent outdoors: riding the cable car, walking, horse riding or, in winter, skiing and snowboarding. It is usually combined with a stay in Srinagar, and the drive through apple orchards and villages via Tangmarg is part of the experience.
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Apharwat peak
- Summer meadows
- High-altitude golf course
Sightseeing
Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg
Snow & Adventure
Gulmarg Gondola
One of the highest cable cars in the world, running in two phases from Gulmarg to Kongdori and on to the Apharwat ridge. The upper phase may close in bad weather.
Apharwat Peak
The high ridge above Gulmarg, reached by the second phase of the Gondola, with snow for much of the year and sweeping mountain views.
Kongdori
The first Gondola stop, a broad slope popular for snow play, sledging and beginner skiing in winter.
Gulmarg Ski Slopes
Gentle nursery slopes near the meadow and steep off-piste terrain on Apharwat make Gulmarg suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers.
Meadows & Heritage
Gulmarg Meadow and Golf Course
The central meadow and its golf course, one of the highest in the world, turn green and flower-filled in summer.
Maharani Temple
A small Shiva temple on a hillock in the middle of the meadow, built by the Dogra royal family and visible from across the valley.
St Mary's Church
A small stone church from the British era, standing alone in the snow or the meadow depending on the season.
Khilanmarg
A smaller meadow above Gulmarg, reached by a walk or pony ride, carpeted with flowers in spring and summer and with fine views of the Kashmir valley.
Nearby Excursions
Alpather Lake
A high-altitude lake below Apharwat that stays frozen until early summer, reached on foot or by pony from the Gondola's upper station when conditions allow.
Drung Waterfall
A waterfall near Tangmarg that partly freezes in deep winter, making it a popular stop on the drive in.
Srinagar
Kashmir's summer capital, about 50 km away, with Dal Lake houseboats, shikara rides and the Mughal gardens.
Experiences
Top Things to Do in Gulmarg
- 1
Ride the Gondola
Go up early in the day to beat the queues, and check the weather before buying tickets for the upper phase to Apharwat.
- 2
Learn to ski or snowboard
Ski schools and certified instructors offer lessons for beginners on the gentle slopes near the meadow during the winter season.
- 3
Go sledging and snow play
Families can enjoy sledge rides and snowball fights on the slopes around Gulmarg and Kongdori.
- 4
Ride a pony to Khilanmarg
Hire a registered pony and guide for a ride through the forest to the upper meadows, especially in late spring.
- 5
Walk the meadows in summer
From late spring to early autumn, take long walks around the valley floor and forest edges to see wildflowers.
- 6
Play a round of golf
Golfers can play at one of the highest courses in the world during the summer months.
Weather
Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
The best time to visit Gulmarg is December to March for snow; April to June for meadows. Here is what each season is like.
Summer
April to June
8°C to 22°C
The snow melts, the meadows turn green and wildflowers bloom. Ideal for walks, pony rides, the Gondola and golf, though the high slopes may still hold snow.
Monsoon
July to September
10°C to 22°C
Kashmir does not get a heavy monsoon, so Gulmarg stays mostly pleasant, with occasional showers and lush greenery. A good time for trekking.
Winter
October to March
-10°C to 10°C
Autumn is crisp and golden. From December, heavy snow covers the valley and the ski season runs into March; roads can close briefly after heavy snowfall.
Getting there
How to Reach Gulmarg
By Air
Srinagar International Airport, about 55 km away, is the nearest airport, with direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Jammu and other cities. Taxis from the airport or Srinagar reach Gulmarg in about two hours.
By Rail
The Kashmir Valley rail line links Srinagar and Baramulla with Jammu and the rest of India via Katra. From Srinagar or Baramulla stations, Gulmarg is reached by taxi.
By Road
Gulmarg is about 50 km from Srinagar via Tangmarg, on a scenic road that climbs through orchards and forest. In winter, vehicles may need snow chains, and local rules sometimes restrict outside taxis beyond Tangmarg.
Taste of the city
Famous Food of Gulmarg
Rogan josh
A rich, red lamb curry coloured with Kashmiri chillies and fragrant with fennel and ginger.
Gushtaba
Soft mutton meatballs cooked in a yoghurt gravy, traditionally the final dish of the wazwan feast.
Yakhni
A mild, yoghurt-based mutton curry flavoured with cardamom and dried mint.
Kahwa
Green tea brewed with saffron, cardamom, cinnamon and almonds, perfect in the cold.
Noon chai
Kashmir's pink, salted tea, usually enjoyed with local breads.
Kashmiri pulao
Fragrant rice cooked with dry fruits and mild spices.
What to Buy in Gulmarg
- Pashmina and wool shawls
- Papier-mâché and walnut wood crafts
- Kashmiri saffron and dry fruits
- Rented snow gear and woollens
Travel Tips for Gulmarg
- Book Gondola tickets in advance during peak winter and summer seasons.
- Hire only registered guides, ponies and ski instructors, and agree on charges beforehand.
- Carry heavy woollens, waterproof boots and sunglasses in winter; snow glare is strong.
- Check weather and road conditions before travel, as heavy snow can delay journeys.
FAQs
Gulmarg Travel FAQs
What is the best time to visit Gulmarg?
December to March is the best time to visit Gulmarg for snow and skiing, while April to June is ideal for green meadows, flowers and pleasant weather.
How many days are enough for Gulmarg?
Two to three days are enough for the Gondola, Khilanmarg and the meadows. Skiers usually stay longer to make the most of the slopes.
What is Gulmarg famous for?
Gulmarg is famous for the Gondola cable car, skiing on Apharwat, snow-covered winters, flower meadows in summer and one of the highest golf courses in the world.
How far is Gulmarg from Srinagar?
Gulmarg is about 50 km from Srinagar, a drive of around two hours via Tangmarg.
Is Gulmarg good for beginners in skiing?
Yes. Gulmarg has gentle nursery slopes and ski schools for beginners, while experienced skiers can explore the steeper terrain on Apharwat.
Is there snow in Gulmarg in summer?
The valley floor is green in summer, but snow often lingers on Apharwat and near Alpather Lake into early summer, reachable by the Gondola.
