Gulmarg
🏔️ Gulmarg – The Meadow of Flowers
📍 Location:
Baramulla District, Jammu & Kashmir, India
(Approx. 50 km from Srinagar, 2-hour drive)
🏞️ Overview:
Gulmarg, which literally means “Meadow of Flowers”, is one of the most enchanting hill stations in India. Nestled in the Pir Panjal range of the Western Himalayas, it is located at an altitude of 8,694 feet (2,650 meters).
During spring and summer, the valley blooms with colorful flowers like daisies, buttercups, and forget-me-nots — while in winter, it transforms into India’s premier ski resort, attracting travelers and adventurers from across the globe.
Gulmarg is not just about natural beauty — it’s also a hub for skiing, snowboarding, cable car rides, trekking, and golf.
🕰️ History & Cultural Significance:
- The name Gulmarg was given by Sultan Yusuf Shah of the Chak Dynasty in the 16th century, inspired by the valley’s abundance of wildflowers.
- The Mughals, especially Emperor Jahangir, frequently visited Gulmarg and recorded its beauty in their chronicles.
- During British rule, Gulmarg became a summer retreat and golfing destination for officers.
- In 1927, the Gulmarg Golf Course was established — now one of the highest in the world.
- Post-independence, it gained fame as the “Skiing Capital of India.”
🌟 Why It’s Famous:
🎢 1. Gulmarg Gondola (World’s Second Highest Cable Car)
- The Gulmarg Gondola is one of Asia’s largest and highest cable cars, operating in two stages:
- Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdoori (₹800 one way)
- Phase 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak (₹900 one way)
- Height: Reaches up to 13,500 feet (4,115 meters)
- Offers stunning panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and meadows.
🕒 Timing: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🎟️ Book online: www.jammukashmircablecar.com
⛷️ 2. Skiing & Snowboarding
- Gulmarg is a paradise for winter sports lovers.
- From December to March, the slopes are covered with deep snow perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
- You can hire equipment and instructors from local ski shops or the Gulmarg Ski Institute.
💰 Charges: ₹700–₹2,500 per session (depends on duration & instructor)
🎿 Ski passes available from local counters
🏌️ 3. Gulmarg Golf Course
- One of the highest golf courses in the world (2,650 meters above sea level).
- Established in 1927; redesigned by Ranjit Nanda.
- Open during summer (May to October).
- Surrounded by pine forests and snow peaks.
⛳ Entry fee: ₹1,000–₹2,000 (approx.)
🌼 4. Khilanmarg
- Just 6 km from Gulmarg, this small valley offers panoramic views of Nanga Parbat and the twin peaks of Nun and Kun.
- Covered with wildflowers in summer and snow in winter.
- Reachable by pony ride or trek.
🍓 5. Strawberry Valley
- Hidden gem known for its strawberry fields (best in May–July).
- Ideal for nature walks and photography.
⛪ 6. St. Mary’s Church
- Built during the British era (early 1900s).
- A charming old church surrounded by snow and greenery.
- Excellent photo spot.
❄️ 7. Apharwat Peak
- The highest point accessible via Gulmarg Gondola (13,780 ft).
- Snow-covered most of the year — ideal for skiing, snow biking, and snow play.
- Offers a breathtaking view of the LOC (Line of Control) on clear days.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit:
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | March – May | Blooming flowers, golf, trekking |
| 🌞 Summer | June – September | Horse riding, gondola rides, picnics |
| ❄️ Winter | December – February | Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobile rides |
✅ Best Overall Time: December to February (for snow) & May to September (for flowers and outdoor activities)
💰 Entry Fee / Activity Charges:
| Activity | Approx. Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Shikara ride (if visiting nearby lakes) | ₹600 – ₹900 | 45 min |
| Gondola Ride Phase 1 | ₹800 one way | 15–20 min |
| Gondola Ride Phase 2 | ₹900 one way | 15–20 min |
| Pony Ride | ₹600 – ₹900 | Per trip |
| Ski Equipment Hire | ₹800 – ₹1,500 / day | – |
| Snow Bike | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | 30 min |
| Sledge Ride | ₹600 – ₹1,000 | 20 min |
⏰ Visiting Hours:
- Open: year-round
- Gondola: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Skiing: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Golf Course: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Summer only)
🧭 How to Reach:
- From Srinagar: 50 km (approx. 2 hours)
- By Taxi: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (round trip)
- By Bus: ₹150 – ₹250 (limited service)
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Nowgam / Budgam (Srinagar)
🏨 Where to Stay:
| Category | Options | Approx. Price/Night |
|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Luxury | The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa | ₹35,000 – ₹60,000 |
| 🏠 Mid-range | Pine Palace Resort, Hotel Hilltop, Vintage Gulmarg | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 |
| 💰 Budget | Green Park Hotel, Royal Park, Alpine Ridge | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
🍲 Food & Local Cuisine:
Try traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dishes like:
- Rogan Josh
- Gushtaba
- Yakhni
- Modur Pulao
- Noon Chai (salt tea)
Popular eateries:
- Bakshi Restaurant (local dishes)
- Hotel Highlands Park Restaurant (mountain view dining)
- Downhill Café (snacks & tea with snow view)
📸 Travel Tips:
✅ Carry warm clothes even in summer – weather changes quickly.
✅ Buy gondola tickets online in advance (queues can be long).
✅ Hire local guides for trekking and snow activities.
✅ During winter, wear waterproof boots and gloves.
✅ Avoid pony rides without confirming prices first.
✅ In snow season, use chains on car tyres for safety.
🌄 Nearby Attractions:
- Tangmarg (gateway to Gulmarg)
- Drang Waterfall (beautiful photo point)
- Baba Reshi Shrine (historic Sufi shrine)
- Ferozepur Nallah (picnic spot)
