Want to fill your “bucket”-list with loads of snow, adventure, and excitement? The ‘Heaven on Earth’, has it all for you. Kashmir is a destination that has a global appeal, for its incredible natural beauty. Snow-capped peaks, river-streams, lakes, endless meadows, flower valleys, pine forests and so much more. Gulmarg in Kashmir is a power-packed destination with several opportunities for both nature enthusiasts and adventure junkies. One of the best adventure destinations in India, there are a plethora of things to do in Gulmarg.
8 Best Things To Do In Gulmarg
The Meadow of Flowers, Gulmarg has numerous things to see and do in store for you. You can soak in the beauty of the green landscapes, snow covered mountains or explore the rich cultural history. Adventure lovers can go for trekking, skiing or ice skating. Below listed are some of the best things to do in Gulmarg, Kashmir that makes it the perfect holiday destination.
- Skiing – Apharwat Peak
- Gondola Ride – Kongdori Gulmarg Gondola
- Trekking – Alpather Lake
- Golfing – Gulmarg Golf Course
- Bird Watching – Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
- Photography – Ningle Nallah
- Pony Ride – Khilanmarg
- Temple Visit – Ancient Temples Of Gulmarg
1. Skiing – Apharwat Peak
Adventure enthusiasts must surely indulge in skiing here as it is one of the top things to do in Gulmarg in winter. Stand amidst the snowy peaks surrounded by lush green coniferous forest. Feel the adrenaline rush while swiftly gliding down the snow-carpet covering the valley. Apharwat Peak is one of the best spots for indulging in this activity. You can hire ski equipment from the Government ski rental shops stationed here. There are also experienced trainers from whom you can learn this sport.
Best Time to Visit: January and February are the best months to visit Gulmarg for skiing as you will get an enormous amount of snow over there
How to Reach: You can either drive or hire a private camp to reach the base of the Apharwat Peak
2. Gondola Ride – Kongdori Gulmarg Gondola
One of the most exciting things to do in Gulmarg, Kashmir that enchants all the visitors is the Gondola ride. The Kongdori Gulmarg gondola is the 2nd highest cable-car line in the world. It is divided into 3 phases – Phase 1 is from Gulmarg to Kongdori; Phase 2 is from Kongdori to Apharwat; and Phase 3 is the Chair Lift phase from Kongdori to Mary Shoulder. The Gondola rides offer you the most spellbinding sights of both Gulmarg and Khilanmarg. Phase 1 lifts you up to the Kongdori Station which is at the height of about 8500 feet. And Phase 2 takes you to an altitude of almost 12300 feet. Enjoy the view of LOC, Nand Devi, and Pir Panjal Ranges.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Gulmarg Gondola Ticket Price:
Phase 1 –INR740 per Adult
Phase 2 – INR 950 per Adult
Chairlift – Adult INR 270
How to Reach: Kongdori is just 20 minutes away from Gulmarg. Taxis can be hired or you may also reach there by walking on your own.
3. Trekking – Alpather Lake
Trekking is also one of the best things to do in Gulmarg. You would not be able to resist the magical charm of this completely frozen lake in Gulmarg. The breathtaking sight of the Alpather Lake comes as the perk of a trekking journey. It is actually located at the foot of the twin Apharwat Peak at an approximate height of 4400 meters. Interestingly, the lake remains frozen even in the months of May and June. Enormous ice chunks floating on the lake adds sparkle-effect to the view. Surrounded by rocky mountains and meadows, this is a great place to relax after the tiring sessions of trekking or skiing.
Best Time to Visit: November to mid-June (Winter) and June to September
How to Reach: From Gulmarg, you may either go by road or opt for trekking as well. But the best way to reach this lake is Gondola. Pony ride can also be taken.
4. Golfing – Gulmarg Golf Course
If you are visiting the town during the summer, this is one of the best things to do in Gulmarg. Gulmarg is home to the world’s second-highest Golf Course, located at an altitude of 2650 m above the sea level. Spread across an area of 7505 yards, this course has 18 holes. It is a part of the Golf Training Academy. Enjoying a game of golf amidst a spectacular surrounding enhances the experience.
Best Time to Visit: During summers
How to Reach: Located a few kilometers from the Gulmarg town, you can hire a taxi to reach this place.
5. Bird Watching – Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
Known for its rich and rare Himalayan fauna and flora, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg in May. Trail through its beautiful landscapes spread across 180 sq kms to explore the wonders of nature. This park is home to several endangered species of winged creatures. A birdwatching tour in the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve gives you the of spotting some of the rare and lesser known birds. Blue Rock Pigeon, Kashmir Roller, Snow Cock, European Hoopoes, Koklas, Griffon vulture, and Jungle Crow are some of them. Also, Kashmiri stag, black deer, brown bear, spotted deer, and snow leopard are some of the animals found here. Make sure you adhere to the safety instructions or visit with a reliable tour guide.
Best Time to Visit: March-August is the best time to visit
How to Reach: Pulwama is the nearest town to it which can be reached by buses, trains and flights.
6. Photography – Ningle Nallah
Looking for a picture-postcard sight with mountains ruling the landscape and a stream gushing down it? Head to Ningle Nallah to click one of the best pictures of your life. The snowy peaks, lush green pastures, and vibrant wildflowers add perfect colours to the whole scene. This mountain stream is formed by the melting of ice from the Apharwat Peak. This stream unites with River Jhelum. The banks of Ningle Nallah is also considered to be one of the best sites for camping and picnic.
Best Time to Visit: Summers are the best to visit here.
How to Reach: As it is just 10 km away from Gulmarg, one can easily reach there by road. Horses can also be hired if you want to enjoy the scenic beauty and the freshness of the environment here. Guides are always available and can be easily hired.
7. Pony Ride – Khilanmarg
This gorgeous valley offers an atmosphere of calmness of nature with the excitement of adventure sports. Due to lack of motorable roads, the best way to get here is either on foot or on a pony. Enjoying some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks, a pony ride to Khilanmarg is an experience in itself. Blooming with several aromatic flowers are the additional bliss to this great valley. It is also a great spot for ski-lovers.
Best Time to Visit: From December to Mid-February. Make sure to pack heavy woollens.
How to Reach: Khilanmarg is only 5 km from Gulmarg. Pony will cost you near about 500 INR.
8. Temple Visit – Ancient Temples Of Gulmarg
Gulmarg has several old temples that still retain their charm and beauty. Two of the most revered temples in the town are Maharani Temple and Baba Reshi Temple. Perched on a hill, Maharani Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This red-roofed temple was built by Queen Mohini, wife of the ruler of Kashmir. Baba Reshi Temple is about 500 years old and is dedicated to saint Great Baba Reshi Ji. The temple reflects Mughal and Persian architectural styles with sculptures and wooden artworks accentuating its look.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
How to Reach: It is just 5 km away from Gulmarg and is very well connected with the roadways.
Best Time To Visit Gulmarg
Image Credit: Peter for Wikimedia
Gulmarg, like Kashmir is a year-round destination. The months of the months from mid-December to February are recommended for visit if you are interested in snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding. If you are nature lover, then the summer months from April to June is a good time to visit and is the peak tourist season as well. You can see the blooming flowers and beauty of the place at another level during this time. This time is ideal for adventure activities as well as sightseeing because of the favorable weather. So, the best time to visit depends on what you would like to do there.
Undoubtedly, Gulmarg offers a wide avenue to its visitors to enjoy several amazing sports and sights. It’s high time you plan a trip to Kashmir and add all the above-listed to things to do in Gulmarg your itinerary. Get ready to make some unforgettable memories of this wonderland in the heaven-on-earth.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Gulmarg
What safety tips must one consider while skiing in Gulmarg?
Here are some basic safety tips for skiing in Gulmarg and anywhere else:
1. Strictly adhere to the instructions given by trainers,
2. Use good ski equipment,
3. Wear a helmet and goggles,
4. Follow signboards,
5. Know your limits/level as a skier.
What is the entry fee for Gulmarg Golf Course?
Following is the entry fee for Gulmarg Golf Course: Indian Nationals: INR 800 Foreigners: INR 120. It is recommended to book your tickets online as there may be a long queue to enter the Golf Course during peak season.
Is it safe to visit Gulmarg during covid times?
The Government of Jammu and Kashmir prioritizes public health, hence, have issued some safety guidelines such as social distancing, using face masks, applying hand sanitizers, and washing hands frequently, which must be adhered to by all visitors. Tickets should be booked online for contactless entry. Also, in some places for accommodation, visitors should provide their vaccination details for both doses for a hassle-free stay.
Which are the attractions in Gulmarg?
Some of the top attractions that you must visit in Gulmarg are:
1. Apharwat Peak,
2. Alpather Lake,
3. Ningle Nallah,
4. Baba Reshi Shrine,
5. Rani Temple,
6. Drang,
7. Kongdori,
8. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve,
9. Children’s Park,
10. St. Mary’s Church.
What are the famous cuisines in Gulmarg?
Kashmiri Cuisine is the most popular cuisine in Gulmarg. Rice is a major element that is usually served with mutton, chicken or fish. Paneer and vegetables are usually cooked with gravy. Kashmiri Wazwan and Kahwa are two of the most famous recipes in Gulmarg.
How far is Gulmarg from Srinagar?
Gulmarg is located at a distance of 51 Km from Srinagar and can be reached within 1 hour and 40 minutes via Srinagar – Tangmarg road. The best way to travel from Srinagar to Gulmarg are either by bus, or by your own vehicle.
Is it safe to visit Gulmarg?
Yes, Gulmarg is a safe destination for travelers. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, maintaining safety is one of the key concerns of the government.
How many days are required to explore Gulmarg?
A 1-2 days tour is recommended in order to explore the major attractions in Gulmarg but if you want to go for a thorough and relaxing vacation, then 3-4 days are sufficient to explore the hidden gems of this place and spend a relaxing holiday simultaneously.
If there is some more query or questions, please let us know in the comment section below.
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