A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, a beautiful hill station in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and adventurous activities. With its snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and glistening lakes, Gulmarg is truly a paradise on earth. The town offers many places to visit, ranging from natural wonders to historical landmarks. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, Gulmarg has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do in Gulmarg that are sure to leave you spellbound.

Best Time To Visit Gulmarg

Gulmarg, a picturesque town located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, offers a spectacular array of activities and experiences for visitors throughout the year. During the winter months of December to February, the town transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and powdery snow creating the perfect environment for skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating enthusiasts. The town is home to some of the best skiing slopes in the world, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

On the other hand, if you are interested in trekking, hiking, and sightseeing, the best time to visit Gulmarg is from May to September. During these months, the snow has melted, the weather is pleasant, and the meadows and valleys are adorned with colourful flowers, creating a stunning scenery that is sure to take your breath away.

Gulmarg in Summer

The summer season in Gulmarg begins in April and lasts until June. This is the best time to visit Gulmarg because the weather is good. During the summer, the vibrant colours of nature are in full bloom, making the area a feast for the eyes and the soul. However, most of the country is still nice and cool. The lakes, parks, and gardens are a pleasure to behold, with vibrant colours visible in every area. During this season, you can also enjoy the much-anticipated and not-to-be-missed Shikara ride to the fullest.

Gulmarg in Monsoon

Because it is an off-season, the monsoon season is not the greatest time to visit Gulmarg. The frequent downpours make the climate rather chilly, and it even has an impact on tourism, as most attractions and adventure activities are closed. As a result, this is not the best time to visit Gulmarg.

Gulmarg in Winter

Gulmarg in winter is a magical wonderland with snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and powdery snow creating the perfect environment for skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating enthusiasts. The town is home to some of the best skiing slopes in the world, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The Gulmarg Gondola, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, is an experience not to be missed during the winter months. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of hot tea, try skiing or snowboarding, and indulge in other winter sports activities. The town truly comes alive during the winter season, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

How to reach Gulmarg

Gulmarg is located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and can be reached by various means of transportation.

1. By Flight

The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar International Airport, which is approximately 56 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus to Gulmarg.

2. By Train

The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is approximately 290 km away. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to Gulmarg.

3. By Road

There are direct buses from Delhi to Gulmarg. Gulmarg is well-connected by road and can be reached by bus or taxi from Srinagar, which is approximately 52 km away.

Here are some Things to do in Gulmarg

1. Gulmarg Gondola

Gulmarg Gondola is an incredible feat of engineering and a must-visit tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. The cable car ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range and is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the region. The two-phase ride takes visitors up to an altitude of 13,780 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest cable car rides in the world. The first phase of the ride takes visitors to Kongdoori Mountain, while the second phase takes them to the summit of Afarwat Peak. Visitors can take in the stunning views, enjoy a cup of hot tea, and even try skiing or snowboarding during the winter months. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Gulmarg Gondola is an experience that you won’t want to miss.

Timings:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Closing time for Phase 2 is 3:00 PM

Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdoori

Phase 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat

2. Apharwat Peak

Apharwat Peak, located at 4200 metres above sea level, is among the most beautiful places in the world. Nestled near the Line of Actual Control (LOC) with Pakistan, the area experiences heavy rainfall and snowfall throughout the year. This is where winter sports take place in Gulmarg. Framed by snow-capped mountains and surrounded by sparkling white meadows, Apharwat Peak is the ideal honeymoon spot and the most beautiful tourist destination in Srinagar.

Famous For: Winter Sports and Snow Activities

3. Alpather lake

Alpather Lake is a high-altitude lake situated between the twin peaks of Apharwat Peak in the town of Gulmarg. The lake is also known because it stays completely frozen between November and June. This lake is a popular destination for trekkers who are looking for an adventure-packed day trip. The one-day hike from Gulmarg starts at about 13 km and follows the route from Khilanmarg to Apharwat Ridge and ends at Alpather Lake. The hike is moderately difficult but offers a challenging but rewarding experience. It is the ideal way to enjoy the stunning scenery of the area.

4. Khilanmarg

One of the best places to visit in Gulmarg is Khilanmarg, a small and charming valley with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. Lush meadows, lush alpine forests, and flower-bedded valleys entice you to fall in love at the first sight of Khilanmarg. The valley’s panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, combined with the stunning chill of the air, makes Khilanmarg the best place to visit in the winter for skiing scenes in the valley. Khilanmarg has a slope of 600 metres from the Khilanmarg-Gulmarg border which serves as the starting point for winter skiing in the valley.

5. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church in Gulmarg is a beautiful and historic place of worship. With its stunning architecture and serene surroundings, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The church holds great significance for the local community and serves as a place of solace and spirituality. The intricately designed interiors and the captivating stained glass windows are a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. For those interested in history and culture, a visit to St. Mary’s Church in Gulmarg is a must-see.

6. Shrine of Baba Reshi

The Baba Reshi Shrine was constructed in 1480 and is one of the most sacred places in and around the holy valley of Gulmarg. The shrine is accessible by motorable roads from the main valley of Gulmarg and your tour of the holy valley will not be complete without visiting this shrine. The old Kashmiri architecture, such as the latticework on the windows, the carved deodar columns, and the exquisite craftsmanship, makes the Baba Reshi shrine an absolute wonder. Baba Reshi was a Muslim scholar and holy man who spent his days in the valley meditating and praying.

7. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is one of the most visited tourist places in Gulmarg for wildlife lovers. This reserve is home to a variety of plants, animals, and avifauna. Biodiversity is at its peak here. The lush coniferous forest gives the entire sanctuary a picturesque look. The main attraction of this reserve is the endangered Musk Deer. The reserve is also home to Hangul, leopards, brown bears, black bears, and red foxes. The biosphere reserve is an ideal place for ornithologists as it is home to a large number of native and migratory birds. The reserve is home to several species of birds, such as the Griffon Vulture (common bird), blue rock pigeon, snow cock, Kashmir roller, and jungle crow.

8. Drung Waterfall

Drung Waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. It is situated in the Tangmarg tehsil of Gulmarg in Baramulla. It is a cascading waterfall that is set against the backdrop of the majestic mountains. In winter, it freezes completely due to the very cold temperatures. This frozen waterfall is one of the must-see waterfalls in the region. The water that comes down from the majestic glaciers mingles with the cascading waterfall. In the summer, you can spend some peaceful time here. You can enjoy the view of the waterfall, the lakes, streams, and the surrounding greenery and explore the caves.

9. Tangmarg

The small town of Tangmarg is located at a distance of 13 km from the main town of Gulmarg. Being the gateway to the main tourist destination of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Tangmarg is one of the main places where tourists can stay, hire snow gear for the tourist destination of Gulmarg and travel by chained union taxi in the winter season. It is also the main stop for all the buses running from the state of J&K to the tourist destination of J&K.

10. Maharani Temple

Gulmarg’s Maharani Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is located on a tiny hillside visible from all corners of the town. It stands out against the lush fields with its crimson roof. It’s also known as the Rani Temple or Mohineshwar Shivalaya, and it’s where the iconic Bollywood song “Jai Jai Shiv Shankar” was filmed.

Mohini Bai Sisodia, Maharaja Hari Singh’s wife, erected the Maharani Temple in 1915. The Dogra Kings of Jammu and Kashmir own this shrine. The Maharani temple, located in the heart of Gulmarg, is an example of religious colliding, with a Muslim priest performing ceremonies at the temple.

11. Skking in Gulmarg

Gulmarg is known for its incredible skiing slopes and attracts skiing enthusiasts from all over the world. The town’s slopes are some of the highest in the world, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers. The skiing season in Gulmarg lasts from December to March and attracts a large number of visitors each year. The town offers a range of skiing options, from beginner slopes to advanced skiing runs. Skiing in Gulmarg is an experience of a lifetime, and visitors can enjoy the thrill of skiing in stunning surroundings, with snow-capped mountains and breathtaking views. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a beginner, Gulmarg has something to offer everyone.

12. Seven Springs

Seven Springs is the name of the mighty stream, which is famous for its seven different sources of water. It is situated on a hillock close to Kongdori and provides a panoramic view of the valley flowing down from the mountains to the valley below. The gondola cable rides from the base of Apharwat Mountain take you to this magical place with panoramic views of snow-covered mountains and the blossoming valley below.

13. Ningle Nallah

Ningle Nallah is situated 10 km from the town of Gulmarg. It is a mountain stream surrounded by snowcapped mountains and green pastures on all four sides. Ningle Nallah gets its water from the melting ice of Apharwat Peak and Alpather Lake. It is a popular picnic and camping spot. Ningle Nallah joins the River Jhelum after passing through the mountains and valleys. It is a great place for a family outing, especially if you have your children with you.

14. Ferozpur Nallah

Another beautiful mountain stream flows through the valley between the gorgeous Chinamarg-Nurpur Pass in the divine hill town of Gulmarg. Freely blessed with abundant natural beauty and extremely peaceful, it is the perfect place for lakeside picnics, romantic getaways or just a relaxing vacation. The sparkling water of the freshwater lake is perfect for drinking. It also offers plenty of opportunities for trout fishing. Located at 5 km from Gullmarg, the base camp of the Tosamaidan Trek is located here. The streamside is also known as ‘Shinmahinyu’ and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the ethereal scenery.

15. Strawberry Valley

Strawberry Valley is one of the hidden gems in the city of Gulmarg. Unspoiled by tourism, it still retains its youthful beauty and enchantment. The lush green meadows with red-barked emeralds look like a scene straight out of Garden of Eden, covered in immaculate elegance, with a clear blue sky overhead and lush green meads along the way. In the summer season, Strawberry Valley is at its busiest as the strawberries ripen and are ready to harvest. Tourists can stroll amidst rows of red and scarlet plantations. They can simply take a stroll and marvel at the wonders of nature, or they can take a basket and enjoy a picnic with their loved ones. The fields also have a history of being associated with Bollywood in the past. Several films have been shot in Strawberry Valley due to its ataraxy and vibrancy.

16. Gulmarg Golf Course

Known as the world’s highest 18-hole golf course, the golf course at Gulmarg is also India’s longest. At an altitude of over 8700 feet, this place has been used for golfing by the British since the year 1911. The course was officially opened in 2011. The golf course consists of a grassy meadow, which is adorned with various beautiful and rare varieties of flowers. These flowers bloom from June to September each year. The course has been designed by the renowned golfer and golf course architect, Peter Thomson. The course has been the host of several national and foreign golf tournaments. It is open to locals and tourists alike. The course offers beautiful views, a well-maintained course, and various amenities such as a clubhouse, and a pro shop. Visitors are welcome to drive their cars inside the golf course and experience the beauty of one of the world’s most picturesque golf courses.

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17.Kanchenjunga Museum

The museum in Gulmarg houses a small collection of modern warfare and mountaineering equipment and gear used by the Indian army in the mountains. Originally established as a High-altitude warfare school, the museum was established in 1997 to commemorate the first summit of the Indian Army to the summit of Kanchenjunga. Other expeditions, such as the first successful Everest expedition in 2001, have also been commemorated here.

18. Children's Park

The children’s park in Gulmarg is spread over an acre of land surrounded by majestic coniferous trees, billowing clouds and majestic hills. The garden is filled with a huge variety of rides, including a toy train, a car ride, a buggy ride, and a few slides and swings. Your kids will love playing in the garden. While the kids are busy playing on the rides and swings, a pony can be hired for a short walk around the park.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 20

19. Imambara goom

Imambara goom is a religious shrine situated at Ahmadpora, close to Baramullah. This shrine is a holy place for Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. The view of snow-capped mountains adds to the serenity. This can also be said to be one of the best places in Gulmarg to visit with your family. Here you can also see some of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas, and have a wonderful time amid nature.

20. Sledge Ride in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, is known for its adventurous activities and breathtaking natural beauty. One of the most popular winter sports in Gulmarg is sledge riding. Sledge riding is a thrilling experience that involves sliding down a snow-covered slope on a wooden sled. It is a fun-filled activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The sledge ride in Gulmarg is an experience that is sure to leave you spellbound. The ride takes you through snow-covered hills and valleys, offering stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range. You can choose from a variety of sledges, including single, double, and triple seaters, depending on your preference.

21. Gulmarg Snow Festival

Established in 2003 to promote winter sports and tourism in the national capital, the two-day celebration is organised annually by the tourism ministry to attract tourists from all over the world and showcase the beautiful valleys through different sports and activities. Gulmarg Snow Festival offers a variety of snow sporting activities to its visitors, including skiing, snowboarding snow-sledding, ice skating, etc. Cultural performances performed by Kashmiri folk artists provide a divine experience of tradition in Kashmir, while local delicacies are served to their visitors for a delicious experience. Not only does the Gulmarg Snow Festival project Gulmarg as a tourist destination, but it also brings together the forgotten traditions of this place.

22. Shopping in Gulmarg

Gulmarg is a popular tourist destination in India, known for its beautiful natural landscapes and world-class skiing opportunities. When it comes to shopping, there are several options available for visitors in Gulmarg. The main shopping area in Gulmarg is the market near the bus stand, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and winter clothing.
Most of the shops in Gulmarg sell traditional Kashmiri handicrafts such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and leather goods. You can also find local spices and dry fruits that are famous in the region. For those looking for winter clothing, several shops are selling high-quality woollen clothes, jackets, and gloves.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gulmarg is a perfect vacation spot for all kinds of travellers, offering a range of adventurous and scenic activities throughout the year. The town is best known for its skiing slopes and the Gulmarg Gondola, but it also boasts historical landmarks, beautiful meadows, and picturesque gardens. The best time to visit Gulmarg for winter sports is from December to February, while the ideal time for trekking and hiking is from May to September. The Gulmarg Gondola and Apharwat Peak are two of the top tourist destinations in the area, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Gulmarg has something for everyone.

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