I have never known a place justifying its name as well as Gulmarg. Literally transalting to “Meadow of flowers”, Gulmarg turns into a floral heaven at the onset of Summer. The hills turn White smothered in Daisies, Lupines bloom everywhere in lush spires of vivid colours and unnamed wild flowers adorn the higher mountain slopes. The glittering white snow in the towering mountains complement the viridescent valley peppered with bright-coloured flowers. Having been to Gulmarg in both seasons, I would say, Yes, Gulmarg is beautiful in Winter. But summer (ah the summer!!) is the season when this gorgeous hill town truly comes alive in its most buoyant form.
Experiences not to miss in Gulmarg in summer
Gondola Ride
You simply can not leave Gulmarg without riding the Gondola (cable car). It is the 2nd highest cable car in the world and is the most unique attraction of the hill town. Divided in to 2 phases (Phase 1 and Phase 2), it can take you as high as 3980 metres(13058 feet). Slowly riding up in the glass paneled cable car looking out at the beautiful scenery is a different experience altogether.
Both Phase 1 (Gulmarg-Kongdori) and Phase 2(Kongdori-Aphrawat) offer stunning views. In Summer, the landscape of Phase 1 is lush with neon green grass covering the ground and surroundings dotted with Pine trees. Phase 2 is more of a stark beauty without any trees in sight but rimmed by lofty snow clad peaks. In July 1st week, there were still some snow left a little up ahead of Phase 2 and also in the skiing slope. At the same time the other parts were teeming with wild flowers. So visit both phases on your trip as they have their own distinctive charm.
Outer Circle and the Attractions
The outer circle is actually the road encircling Gulmarg with most of the attractions lying across the path. You can check out the erstwhile Maharaja’s palace, Children’s park, the Golf Course and the temples on your way. Not only the attractions, but this route also offers some of the most gorgeous views of the snow clad peaks and the lush meadows.
If you have time and are fit enough, I recommend taking a walk along the outer circle. Do remember that this is also the path for vehicles and ponies. So most suitable early in the morning before the tourists start pouring in. As it covers a distance of approx. 10 kilometers, a pony ride is also a good option.
Trek to Alpather Lake
We still consider this our top most experience in Gulmarg. And definitely recommend it if you are an adventurous soul with a good level of physical fitness. This gorgeous mountain lake lies at the foot of Apharawat peak and can only be reached by a short trek (an hour from Gondola phase 2 station). Since it stays frozen most of the year (except 3-4 months), it is more popularly known as Frozen Lake among the locals. In Summer, the lake starts to melt, revealing its enchanting bluish water. Not just the lake, but the trek to the lake is an adventure in itself with stunning views for company.
Drung (also Drang) Waterfall
We had visited Drung Waterfall in the 1st week of December 2021. Though it looks prettiest during peak Winter months (Late Dec-Feb) when the waterfall is frozen, we liked it nevertheless. It is indeed the only waterfall around Gulmarg that is worth a visit. The whole setting of the waterfall is beautiful where the water passes through a pebble strewn floor under a cutesy bridge. However this is not a natural waterfall and is fed by the water release from the hydropower plant. So your experience may vary depending on the waterflow during the time of your visit.
Wandering in the flowers laden meadows
If you are a flower lover, then Gulmarg in Summer will make your heart dance with unbound joy. The Lupine and Daisy covered meadows look almost unreal. The Goldfinch and numerous bees keep hovering over the flowers. And the summer breeze carries the intoxicating scent of the flowers. So take your time strolling along the meadows and relishing the beauty. The flower fields are also perfect for some nice photographs. Read More…..
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