Introduction to Gulmarg
Gulmarg is an incredible skiing destination located in the Kashmir Valley of Jammu and Kashmir. It is managed by the Tourism Department which ensures that all visitors experience its many wonders. From stunning meadows and mountains to Gondola rides, Gulmarg offers plenty of amazing activities for travellers to enjoy.
One of the most popular attractions in Gulmarg is the ski resort, which has enticed skiers from around the world for decades. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert level snow-lover, Gulmarg has something for everyone from its wide range of slopes to its vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine. And with a variety of options such as heliskiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding there’s no better place to hit the slopes!
In addition to skiing, Gulmarg also offers other activities like nature walks, fishing spots, paragliding and more. With its unique landscape consisting of lush green meadows and tall snowcapped mountains you can easily explore the great outdoors while admiring stunning breathtaking views. Moreover, don’t forget to take a ride on the world-famous Gondola ride one of the best managed gondolas in India that will take you up to Kangdori Point where you can view mesmerizing sights of beautiful rivers snaking their way through dense forests below!
Top attractions in Gulmarg
Below, we’ve uncovered some of the best attractions for you to enjoy during your time in Gulmarg
First and foremost is the Gulmarg Gondola, which is one of the world's highest cable cars. It provides tourists with breathtaking views of the stunning Himalayan mountainside and landscapes. The entire journey takes about an hour, depending on which route you take. You will ascend up 13000 feet from where you can take in a panoramic view of Gulmarg and its surroundings. There are two levels for you to enjoy during your ride Level 1 goes up to Kongdori station (at 2700 meters) while Level 2 reaches Apharwat Peak (at 4000 meters).
Another mustsee attraction in Gulmarg is Baba Reshi Shrine, or Baba Payamuddin Reshi shrine as it is locally known as. This ancient Shahi mosque has been around since centuries ago and has been visited by countless devotees who have prayed for miracles at this holy site. The atmosphere here is both peaceful and serene making it a great spot for reflection or meditation.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie then skiing down the slopes of Mt Apharwat should be on your list of activities when visiting Gulmarg. Skiing season at Mt Apharwat usually begins in December and lasts until April so be sure to plan your trip accordingly! Professional skiers can take advantage of advanced skiing classes alongside world-famous ski instructors while beginners can rent equipment from various ski shops.
1. Ningle Nallah: This picturesque spot is one of the mustsee places when visiting Gulmarg. The Ningle Nallah valley overlooks miles of lush green meadows along with snowcapped mountains in the distance. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views as they trek through the valley and take in its breathtaking beauty.
2. Alpather Lake: Located at the base of mount Apharwat, this lake is another natural wonder that simply cannot be missed when visiting Gulmarg. The emerald green waters make it an idyllic spot for a picnic or a peaceful stroll along its banks.
3. Khilanmarg Viewpoint: This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of surrounding areas like Apharwat Peak and Shirpian Glacier that are truly mesmerizing. Whether you’re looking for photography opportunities or just to take out some time to admire nature’s beauty, this view point should definitely not be missed during your visit to Gulmarg!
Popular Activities in Gulmarg
Here we’ll take a look at some of the most popular activities Gulmarg has to offer
If skiing is your thing, then Gulmarg is the place for you! With over 16 lifts and 28 runs, you can ski both on and off-piste. If you’re new to skiing, don’t worry – there are plenty of ski schools available.
Snowboarding is another popular activity in Gulmarg with a variety of slopes suitable for beginners to experts. There are dedicated snow parks with halfpipes and jumps as well as some adrenaline-inducing mountain trails.
For even more adventure, take a ride on the world’s highest gondola! It takes you from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Mountain where you can experience breathtaking views as well as paragliding and mountain biking opportunities.
If you’re up for an exhilarating experience, try snowmobiling in Gulmarg! You can explore the slopes on your own or take a guided tour through any of the local villages or mountains.
Gulmarg also offers plenty of opportunities to shop around and find souvenirs from Kashmiri handicrafts to locally produced carpets and jewellery designs. If time permits, make sure to haggle like a local!
Trekking is another favourite activity among tourists visiting Gulmarg – there are plenty of options ranging from easy day hikes around plateau fields to multiday trips that include crossing glaciers or climbing peaks.
What is the Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
One of the best times to visit Gulmarg is during the peak summer months of June, July and August as these months provide a pleasant atmosphere for exploring and relaxing. During this time, temperatures tend to range between 1525°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in exciting sports activities like horseback riding, skiing, or paragliding. The summer season can get busy as it’s a popular vacation spot, but with all the amazing attractions here there are still plenty of places to explore even during peak season.
If you want a slightly cooler climate then come in April or May when temperatures start to dip down to 22°C. These cooler temperatures offer respite from the heat but still provide enough warmth for sightseeing and other activities. The weather also means that there will be fewer crowds so you can enjoy a peaceful holiday surrounded by beautiful nature.
No matter when you decide to visit Gulmarg make sure you don’t forget your camera! The majestic snow-capped peaks provide incredible views that must be seen and captured on camera. So, grab your travel buddy or family members and plan an unforgettable getaway at this magnificent destination!
Accommodation Options in Gulmarg
Those looking for more budget-friendly accommodations have plenty of options too. Lodging choices like cottages or guesthouses provide warm and cozy spaces perfect for getting away from it all without breaking the bank. Many of these come with picturesque views of snowcapped mountains and lush pine forests. Many also offer additional amenities like hot tubs or saunas.
For those wanting an even more affordable stay, camping in Gulmarg is a great option too! Campgrounds are available near some of the mountain peaks allowing visitors to save on accommodation while still enjoying all that Gulmarg has to offer. For even more savings, rent an apartment instead! Apartments are a convenient way to enjoy all the comforts of home while still being close to all the attractions that make Gulmarg such a popular destination—plus they won't cost you nearly as much as hotels will!
Transportation Services Available at Gulmarg
One of the popular options for local transport in Gulmarg is taxis. They are an ideal option for getting around the city with ease and comfort as they provide door-to-door service at affordable rates. The drivers are experienced and knowledgeable about local points of interest, so you can ask them for advice on the best places to visit in Gulmarg. Taxis also offer packages for day trips to nearby attractions such as Nanga Parbat, Inner Line Peak, Babareshi River, Alpather Lake and Khilan Marg.
Another good option for transport in Gulmarg is renting a car or bike at one of the many rental agents in town. This will give you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own schedule and won’t be restricted by taxi timing or availability. Plus, if you want to visit any destinations outside of Gulmarg, renting a car or bike is a practical solution since taxis typically don’t cover long distances.
Public buses are also available in Gulmarg but they may not be suitable for all tourists since they tend to be crowded and uncomfortable. Hiring a private jeep or booking an SUV are two other options worth considering if you want to go further afield from Gulmarg during your stay.
Dining & Shopping Options at Gulmarg
When it comes to shopping, Gulmarg is known for its famous markets like Bazaar Khalatoo, which is filled with local handicrafts and handmade souvenirs. A great option for tourists is the Kashmir Haat where you can find Kashmiri shawls, carpets and other handcrafted items. For those looking to shop on a budget, there are also many inexpensive vendors selling traditional Kundan jewellery and Kashmiri woollen products.
Gulmarg’s dining options offer an array of unique experiences ranging from fine-dining luxury restaurants to the famous roadside eateries called “Haqas” that serve delicious local cuisine. Typical dishes include Rogan josh, tabak maaz and kahwa all made with fresh ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds! For those who prefer more international fare, there are several multicuisine restaurants offering both Indian and European cuisine.
One of the top attractions in Gulmarg is its ski resorts where you can ski down some of the world’s best slopes or take Gondola rides across the valley for breathtaking views. Adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy activities like paragliding, heliskiing, golfing and horse riding throughout Gulmarg.
