Gulmarg

The first thing Gulmarg teaches you is that mountains can feel completely different depending on the season.
Come in January and the entire landscape disappears beneath metres of fresh snow. Skiers carve silent lines down untouched slopes while the gondola climbs into clouds that seem close enough to touch. Return in July and those same slopes are covered with wildflowers, grazing horses, and one of the highest golf courses in the world. It hardly feels like the same place. That’s Gulmarg.

Sitting at 2,650 metres above sea level, around 50 kilometres from Srinagar, Gulmarg is Kashmir’s premier mountain resort and one of the finest alpine destinations in Asia. It’s home to the famous Gulmarg Gondola—one of the world’s highest cable car systems—which climbs to nearly 4,000 metres at Apharwat Peak, where snow often lingers well into summer. But Gulmarg is much more than its gondola. It’s a destination that changes character with every season, offering world-class skiing in winter, alpine adventures in summer, and breathtaking mountain scenery throughout the year.

The journey begins long before you reach the meadow. The road climbs steadily from Srinagar through Tangmarg, winding past villages, pine forests, and mountain streams before opening onto Gulmarg’s vast green bowl. Then, almost without warning, the trees give way to an enormous meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It’s the kind of arrival that makes even locals slow the car down.

Most visitors make straight for the Gulmarg Gondola, and for good reason. The first phase carries you above forests and meadows to Kongdoori, while the second climbs higher to Apharwat Peak at nearly 3,980 metres. On clear days, the views stretch across the Pir Panjal Range and beyond. During winter, these slopes attract skiers and snowboarders from around the world. In summer, patches of snow remain scattered across the mountains, creating a striking contrast against green alpine meadows below.

Stand quietly near the top station for a few moments and you’ll notice something unexpected. The air is thinner, conversations become quieter, and the mountains seem to absorb every sound. Even people who arrive talking excitedly usually stop for a minute and simply look around. Some landscapes don’t need explaining.

Winter is what made Gulmarg internationally famous. Receiving around five metres of snowfall in a good season, it offers some of the finest off-piste skiing and snowboarding in the Himalayas. Yet you don’t need to ski to enjoy it. Ride a snowmobile across open slopes, build a snowman with your children, sip hot Kahwa while watching snow fall outside your hotel window, or simply walk through a silent forest where every pine branch carries a fresh layer of white. Gulmarg has a way of making winter feel magical, even for those who have never seen snow before.

Summer reveals an entirely different destination. The meadow transforms into a carpet of wildflowers stretching beneath towering peaks, while walking trails lead through forests alive with birdsong and mountain streams. Horse rides remain popular, though some of the best experiences come simply from walking. The fresh mountain air, cool temperatures, and wide open landscapes make Gulmarg one of Kashmir’s most refreshing escapes during the warmer months.

Golf might be the last thing you expect to find at this altitude, yet Gulmarg is home to one of the world’s highest 18-hole golf courses. Surrounded by forests and Himalayan peaks, it’s less about chasing a score and more about playing in one of the most extraordinary settings imaginable.

Unlike many mountain destinations, Gulmarg remains remarkably compact. Most hotels, restaurants, cafés, and viewpoints are within easy walking distance of one another, allowing you to spend less time travelling and more time simply enjoying the surroundings. As evening approaches and the day visitors return to Srinagar, the meadow becomes noticeably quieter. Mist drifts across the grass, horses wander back toward the forests, and the mountains begin to glow beneath the last light of the day. It’s our favourite time to be here.

Our team visits Gulmarg throughout the year and understands how quickly mountain weather can change. We’ll help you choose the best season based on what you want to experience, advise you on Gondola timings, recommend hotels that genuinely justify their reputation, and plan your visit around the weather rather than simply the calendar. That’s the advantage of being local—we know Gulmarg as it is today, not just how it appears in photographs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Gulmarg?

Gulmarg is a year-round destination. Visit between December and March for snow, skiing, and winter activities. From May to September, the meadows turn green, wildflowers bloom, and the weather is perfect for sightseeing, walking, and outdoor activities.

Is Gulmarg worth visiting if I don’t ski?

Absolutely. Most visitors to Gulmarg don’t ski. The Gondola ride, scenic walks, horse rides, golf course, mountain views, cafés, and fresh alpine air make it one of Kashmir’s most rewarding destinations regardless of the season.

How many days should I spend in Gulmarg?

One full day covers the main attractions, but we recommend one or two nights. Staying overnight lets you experience peaceful mornings, quieter evenings, and gives you flexibility if weather affects Gondola operations.

Is the Gulmarg Gondola worth it?

Without question. It’s one of the highest cable car systems in the world and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. On clear days, the ride to Apharwat Peak is one of the highlights of any trip to Kashmir.

What should I wear in Gulmarg?

Even during summer, temperatures are considerably cooler than Srinagar, especially at higher elevations. Layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. During winter, proper snow clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, and warm outerwear are essential.

Can families with children visit Gulmarg?

Yes. Gulmarg is ideal for families. Children enjoy snow activities in winter, pony rides and open meadows in summer, and the Gondola ride throughout the year. Many hotels also offer family-friendly facilities, making it one of the easiest mountain destinations in Kashmir to visit with children.