At 2,730 metres above sea level, Gulmarg is one of the world's most accessible high-altitude destinations.
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Quick Answer: Gulmarg is a hill station and ski resort about 50 km (roughly 2 hours by road) from Srinagar, at around 2,650 metres. Its headline attraction is the two-phase Gulmarg Gondola: Phase 1 to Kongdori (about 3,050 m) and Phase 2 to Apharwat (about 3,980 m). Snow usually lies from December to March, with the reliable ski season from January to March; June to August is green meadow season. A day trip from Srinagar works, but one night in Gulmarg lets you reach the gondola before the queues build.
Gulmarg at a glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Altitude | About 2,650 m |
| Distance from Srinagar | About 50 km, roughly a 2-hour drive |
| Gondola Phase 1 | Gulmarg to Kongdori (about 3,050 m), around Rs 800 per person |
| Gondola Phase 2 | Kongdori to Apharwat (about 3,980 m), around Rs 1,000 per person |
| Snow and skiing | Snow December-March; most reliable skiing January-March |
| Green season | June-August: meadows, golf, walks |
| Ideal stay | One night for the gondola; two or more for skiing |
The Gulmarg Gondola: Phase 1 and Phase 2
Phase 1 climbs from Gulmarg (about 2,650m) to Kongdori (about 3,050m). Phase 2 continues to the Apharwat station near the peak (about 3,980m) - above the treeline, where snow lies for much of the year.
Gondola Prices 2026: Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdori) is around ₹800/adult; Phase 2 (Kongdori to Apharwat) is an additional ₹1,000. Rates are revised periodically by the J&K Cable Car Corporation - confirm at the counter. Arrive early during peak season as queues can exceed 2 hours.
Related reading: Pahalgam: Where the River Meets the Mountains
Things to do beyond the gondola
- ✓Skiing and snowboarding from January to March, with ski schools and gear rental for beginners and off-piste terrain off Apharwat for experienced skiers.
- ✓Golf on one of the highest courses in the world, set in the meadow and ringed by pine forest.
- ✓The walk to Khilanmarg, pony rides across the meadow, and the small Maharani Temple on a rise above the bowl.
- ✓Snow play, sledging and chairlift rides at Kongdori in winter, conditions permitting.
Best time to visit Gulmarg
| Season | Months | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | December-March | Snow, skiing, snowboarding, the gondola over a white landscape |
| Spring | April-May | Melting snow, first flowers, quieter slopes |
| Summer | June-August | Green meadows, golf, walks, pleasant days |
| Autumn | September-November | Clear skies, golden light, crisp air |
Related reading: Is Sonamarg Worth Visiting in Summer 2027? A Local's Complete Guide
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Getting there and where to stay
Gulmarg is about 50 km from Srinagar. Most visitors come as a day trip, but staying overnight means you are at the gondola counter when it opens, ahead of the Srinagar day-trippers - and a second morning is a useful backup, because high wind or cloud can pause Phase 2 at short notice. In heavy snow the final stretch can need chains or a short transfer, which a local driver handles routinely. Rooms are limited and pricier than in Srinagar, so book early in the ski season.
Frequently asked questions
Is one day enough for Gulmarg?
A day trip from Srinagar covers the gondola and the meadow, but much of it goes on driving and queuing. One night lets you ride early and unhurried; for skiing, stay at least two nights.
How much are Gulmarg Gondola tickets?
Each phase is ticketed separately: Phase 1 is around Rs 800 per person and Phase 2 around Rs 1,000. Rates are revised by the J&K Cable Car Corporation, so confirm at the counter.
When is there snow in Gulmarg?
Usually from December through March, with the reliable ski season from January to March. The upper gondola station at Apharwat holds snow well into spring.
How far is Gulmarg from Srinagar?
About 50 km, roughly a 2-hour drive.
Gulmarg Ski & Snow Packages - Via Kashmir
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