The drive to Gulmarg from Srinagar is 54 km long. Things to do in Gulmarg, Kashmir include a ride on the Gulmarg gondola, a visit to Khilanmarg valley, and a trip to the frozen Aplather lake. Gulmarg weather is pleasant in summers. In winters, the Gulmarg temperature slips to sub zero.
Find cheap flights to Srinagar
Gulmarg is considered by many as the best place to ski in India. The snow is powdery, fluffy and of top quality. Beginners can start on the bunny slopes (there are six of them), and the experts can try the higher slopes. There are a lot of facilities available, including the option to rent ski equipment. Safety standards are maintained as well, with a ski patrol set up.
1. Gulmarg gondola: Want a ride aboard the world’s highest operating cable car? The Gulmarg cable car ferries you from Gulmarg to Kongdoori valley in Phase 1 over alpine forests and snow-covered mountains up to a height of 8530 ft. Phase 2 extends till Mt. Afarwat and goes up to the height of 12293 ft.
Read more: Top places for snow sports in India
2. Khilanmarg valley: In spring, this valley resembles an artist’s masterpiece. Bright vivid strokes of wildflowers painted across the green valley canvas. You can reach the valley easily by walking across the meadows. (a six km walk from the Gulmarg bus stop and car park) Savour the breathtaking views of the mighty Nanga Parbat, the Himalayas, and the twin peaks of Nun and Kun.
3. Aplather lake: The lake lying in the Afarwat peaks remains frozen all around the year, and provides a scenic spot for a picnic with family and friends. What better company than rocky mountains and wildflowers!
Find cheap flights to Srinagar 4. Baba Reshi, St. Mary’s Church and Rani temple: Time for a tryst with the history of Gulmarg. The shrine of Baba Reshi, dedicated to the saint Baba Payam-ud-din, was built in the year 1480. The tomb combines Persian and Mughal architectural styles. St Mary’s Church is about a century and a half old and was built by the British. The Rani Temple was built in 1915 by Mohini Bai Sisodia, the wife of the last king of Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh. 5. The Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering: It was set up at Gulmarg in 1969 to promote adventure sports. You can register for various courses – Snow Skiing from mid-December to early April, Water Skiing in the lakes from May to August, Trekking and Mountaineering programmes in September and October etc.
Weather in Gulmarg:
For enjoying the beauty of flower-decked meadows, ideal to visit in spring and summer months. For skiing or just some fun with snow, visit in the winter months. There is so much snow here, you can build an army of snowmen! July to September is offseason, but ideal for those avoiding crowds.
Nearest airport:
Srinagar airport is well connected with direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Chandigarh.
Read more: Discover Jammu and Kashmir beyond the beauty of Srinagar
Winter has come, guys! Get off your couches and plan that fantabulous winter holiday in the North. Book your flights on Skyscanner today.
