Top Things to Do in Gulmarg, Kashmir – Complete Guide
Nestled at an altitude of 2,650 metres (8,694 ft) in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, Gulmarg — meaning "Meadow of Flowers" — is one of India's most iconic hill stations. Located just 56 km from Srinagar in Jammu & Kashmir, this breathtaking destination transforms into a snow-covered wonderland in winter and a lush green paradise in summer, making it a truly year-round destination.
Whether you're a thrill-seeking skier, a peace-loving trekker, a honeymooner, or a photography enthusiast, Gulmarg has something magical waiting for you. This comprehensive guide covers all the top things to do in Gulmarg, the best time to visit, practical travel tips, and insider advice so you can plan the perfect trip.
Gulmarg at a Glance
Table of Contents
1 Gulmarg Gondola – Asia's Highest Cable Car
The Crown Jewel of Gulmarg
The Gulmarg Gondola is arguably the most iconic experience in all of Kashmir. Operated in two phases, this cable car system is one of the highest and longest in Asia — offering views so spectacular they seem almost unreal.
Phase 1 takes you from Gulmarg (2,650 m) to Kongdoori Station at 3,099 m. The ride itself is a 10-minute journey that slowly reveals a stunning panorama of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Phase 2 goes further up to Apharwat Peak at 3,979 m — a zone with perpetual snow and views that stretch to Nanga Parbat on clear days.
- Phase 2 is closed during bad weather — always check conditions the night before.
- Carry warm layers even in summer — temperatures drop sharply at Apharwat.
- The gondola doesn't run during snowstorms or high winds.
2 Skiing & Snowboarding
India's Premier Ski Destination
Gulmarg is the undisputed skiing capital of India. With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, a vertical drop of more than 1,400 metres, and consistent powder snow from December to March, it attracts skiers from across the globe.
Whether you're a first-timer or an experienced skier, Gulmarg caters to all levels. Kongdoori Valley offers gentler beginner-friendly slopes, while the steep off-piste runs from Apharwat are a playground for advanced skiers and snowboarders seeking an adrenaline rush.
The Ski Federation of India runs certified ski schools in Gulmarg, and several private outfitters like Gulmarg Adventures and White Magic Adventure offer guided lessons, equipment rental, and heli-skiing packages.
3 Trekking & Hiking
Trails Through Heaven on Earth
When the snow melts from April onwards, Gulmarg reveals a treasure trove of trekking routes. Lush green meadows, dense forests of fir and pine, crystal-clear streams, and panoramic Himalayan views make trekking here a spiritual experience.
Top trekking routes in and around Gulmarg include:
- Khilanmarg Trek (3 km, Easy): A popular half-day trek from the town to a stunning sub-meadow with panoramic views. Perfect for families and beginners.
- Alpather Lake Trek (14 km, Moderate): A scenic trek to a frozen lake near Apharwat Peak — truly otherworldly in early spring.
- Ningle Nallah Trek (12 km, Moderate): A beautiful walk along a glacier-fed river with dense forests and wildflower meadows.
- Ferozepur Nallah Trek (10 km, Easy-Moderate): A lovely trail ending at a roaring stream, ideal for a peaceful day out.
- Apharwat Peak Trek (18 km, Difficult): A challenging but rewarding full-day trek to 4,200 m with 360° Himalayan views.
4 Golf at the World's Highest Golf Course
Tee Off at 2,650 Metres Above Sea Level
Gulmarg is home to the Royal Spring Golf Course — a magnificent 18-hole course that holds the distinction of being one of the highest golf courses in the world. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense pine forests, it's a unique golfing experience unlike any other on Earth.
The course was originally laid out during the British Raj in the 1890s and has since been expanded and maintained as a premier golfing destination. The greens are lush and meticulously maintained during the summer season. Equipment rental is available on-site for casual golfers.
5 Snowmobile Rides & Sledging
Zoom Across the Snow
For a quick adrenaline fix without the commitment of skiing, snowmobile rides and traditional wooden sledging are hugely popular activities in Gulmarg during winter months. Both are readily available near the gondola base station and Kongdoori.
Snowmobile rides are available in 10–15 minute packages and take you across the wide open snow-covered meadows at exhilarating speed. Sledging — a more traditional and family-friendly option — involves sitting on a wooden sled and being pushed or pulled by a local guide across gentle slopes. Both activities are great fun for children and adults alike.
6 Pony Rides to Khilanmarg
The Traditional Way to Explore
One of the most charming and quintessentially Kashmiri experiences in Gulmarg is riding a pony through the meadows and up to Khilanmarg — a higher sub-meadow about 3 km from the main town.
The local pony wallah (horsemen) are friendly and knowledgeable guides who make the ride both safe and entertaining. The trail to Khilanmarg winds through beautiful fir forests and opens up to a stunning meadow with sweeping views of the Pir Panjal range. In winter, the entire route is blanketed in snow — making for a fairy-tale journey.
7 Baba Reshi Shrine
A Sacred Sufi Pilgrimage Site
Located about 3 km from Gulmarg town on the road from Tangmarg, the Baba Reshi Shrine is one of the most revered Islamic pilgrimage sites in Kashmir. The shrine is dedicated to Baba Payam-ud-Din — a Sufi saint and former wazir of King Fath Shah of Kashmir, who renounced royal life to lead a life of devotion.
The shrine features exquisitely carved wooden architecture in the traditional Kashmiri style with intricate lattice panels. The surrounding area is peaceful and pine-forested, making it as visually beautiful as it is spiritually significant. Pilgrims from across Kashmir visit year-round, and the serene atmosphere is deeply moving even for non-religious visitors.
8 Alpather Lake – The Frozen Wonder
A Glacial Lake at the Foot of Apharwat
Alpather Lake is a stunning high-altitude glacial lake situated at 4,392 m at the base of Apharwat Peak. What makes it extraordinary is that it remains frozen until mid-June each year, creating a surreal landscape of ice and snow surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.
The lake is accessible via a moderately challenging 7 km trek from the Kongdoori gondola station, or a longer 14 km route from Gulmarg town. The trail passes through dramatic alpine scenery — rocky ridges, patches of lingering snow, and eventually the stunning turquoise lake itself. This is one of the finest day treks in all of Kashmir.
9 Photography, Meadow Walks & Sunrise Views
A Photographer's Paradise
Gulmarg is arguably one of the most photogenic places in all of India. Whether it's the vast snow-covered meadows in winter, the explosion of wildflowers in spring, or the golden alpine glow at sunset — every season offers extraordinary photographic opportunities.
The main Gulmarg meadow — one of the largest high-altitude meadows in Asia — is a natural amphitheatre ringed by snow-capped peaks. For sunrise photography, head to the ridge above Khilanmarg for unobstructed views of the mountains bathed in pink and gold light. Nanga Parbat (8,126 m) is visible on the northwestern horizon on clear days.
In summer, the meadows burst with narcissus, buttercups, daisies, and Himalayan blue poppies — making the landscape look like something from a dream. A simple stroll through the meadow at this time is one of the most memorable experiences Gulmarg offers.
10 Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
Gulmarg is a year-round destination, but different seasons offer dramatically different experiences. Choose based on what you want to do:
Winter (Dec – Feb)
Peak ski season. Deep powder snow, gondola to Apharwat, snowmobiling. Very cold — temperatures can hit –14°C.
Spring (Mar – Apr)
Snow begins melting. Perfect blend of snow and greenery. Less crowded. Great for photography and trekking.
Summer (May – Sep)
Lush meadows, wildflowers, golf, trekking. Pleasant weather (12–20°C). Busiest tourist season.
Autumn (Oct – Nov)
Golden foliage, crisp air, early snowfall possible. Very scenic and peaceful. Ideal for quiet exploration.
11 Practical Travel Tips for Gulmarg
| Nearest Airport | Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar (~67 km, ~1.5 hrs by road) |
| Nearest Railway | Banihal Railway Station (~100 km) or Jammu Tawi (~300 km) |
| Getting There | Shared taxi or private cab from Srinagar to Gulmarg (~₹1,500–₹2,500 one way) |
| Accommodation | Budget guesthouses (₹800–₹1,500), mid-range hotels (₹2,000–₹5,000), luxury resorts (₹8,000+) |
| Connectivity | BSNL and Airtel 4G available. Jio network may have limited coverage. Carry a BSNL SIM. |
| Permits | No special permit needed for Gulmarg town. Inner Line Permit required for areas near LoC. |
| Health Tips | Altitude sickness possible above 3,500 m. Acclimatise, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol on first day. |
| Currency | ATMs available in Gulmarg town. Carry cash as many vendors don't accept cards. |
Essential Packing List for Gulmarg
- Thermal innerwear (mandatory for winter visits)
- Waterproof jacket and snow pants
- Woollen hat, gloves, and scarf
- Sturdy trekking boots or snow boots
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) — UV is intense at high altitude
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox — consult a doctor first)
- Power bank — cold drains batteries fast
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Offline maps — connectivity can be spotty on trails