ViaKashmir · Gulmarg

Gulmarg Travel Guide 2026-27

A meadow of flowers in summer, a world-class ski slope in winter, and one of the highest cable-car rides on earth. Gulmarg is Kashmir at its most dramatic.

Plan My Trip Browse Packages

Updated July 2026 · Written by the ViaKashmir Travel Team, Srinagar

Quick Answer

Gulmarg is a hill station and ski resort in Kashmir, about 50 km from Srinagar at 2,650 metres. It is famous for the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, which climbs to Apharwat peak at nearly 4,000 metres. In winter (December to March) it is one of Asia's top skiing destinations; in summer it is a green meadow ringed by pine forest. A day trip from Srinagar works, but an overnight stay lets you catch the gondola early.

The road to Gulmarg climbs through terraced fields and pine, and then the forest opens and the meadow simply appears, a wide green (or in winter, blinding white) bowl held inside the mountains. Gulmarg means "meadow of flowers", and in summer that is exactly what it is. In winter it becomes something else entirely: powder snow, a working ski resort, and a gondola that lifts you above the treeline into the high Himalaya.

This guide covers the gondola, skiing, the best time to come, and how to fit Gulmarg into a Kashmir trip.

Things to do in Gulmarg

The Gulmarg Gondola

The headline attraction. The gondola runs in two phases: Phase 1 from Gulmarg to Kongdoori, and Phase 2 from Kongdoori up to Apharwat peak at nearly 4,000 metres. The views over the Himalaya, and toward Nanga Parbat on a clear day, are extraordinary. Tickets for each phase are bought separately and sell out on peak days, so go early.

Skiing and snowboarding

From January to March, Gulmarg is one of Asia's premier powder destinations, with lift-served and backcountry terrain off Apharwat. Ski schools and gear rental are available for beginners; experienced skiers come for the off-piste.

Meadows, golf and short walks

In summer, Gulmarg has one of the highest golf courses in the world, gentle walks to Khilanmarg, pony rides across the meadow, and the small Maharani Temple on a rise above the bowl.

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

For snow and skiing, come January to March. For meadows, June to August.

How to reach Gulmarg and where to stay

Gulmarg is about 50 km (a 2-hour drive) from Srinagar. Most visitors do it as a day trip, but staying overnight means you reach the gondola before the day-trippers arrive and the queues build. Accommodation ranges from government huts to premium ski resorts near the gondola base. Rooms are limited and pricier than Srinagar, so book early, especially in the winter ski season.

Hotel Pine Spring Gulmarg - right next to the Gondola base station.
All verified Gulmarg hotels - live prices for stays near the gondola, the golf course and in Tangmarg.

Winter driving note

In heavy snow the final stretch to Gulmarg can require chains or a short transfer. A local driver who knows the road handles this routinely. Carry warm layers even for a day trip.

Plan your Gulmarg trip

We arrange transfers, gondola timing, stays, and skiing so your Gulmarg day runs smoothly.

Get My Free Itinerary Ask Kashmir Travel Expert See packages

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gulmarg famous for?

Gulmarg is famous for the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, and for being one of Asia's top skiing destinations in winter. In summer it is a green meadow ringed by pine forest, with one of the highest golf courses in the world.

How much is the Gulmarg Gondola ticket?

The gondola runs in two phases, each priced separately. Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdoori) and Phase 2 (Kongdoori to Apharwat) have their own tickets, bought at the base station. Prices are set by the Gulmarg Gondola authority and can change; peak-day tickets sell out early, so arrive in the morning.

Is one day enough for Gulmarg?

A day trip from Srinagar covers the gondola and the meadow, but you will spend time driving and queuing. Staying overnight lets you reach the gondola early, avoid crowds, and enjoy the meadow or slopes at a relaxed pace. For skiing, stay at least two nights.

When can you see snow in Gulmarg?

Gulmarg usually has snow from December through March, with the reliable ski season running January to March. Even in early spring, the upper gondola station at Apharwat holds snow. Summer (June to August) is snow-free at the meadow level.

Written by Via Kashmir Editorial Team

Last checked July 2026

Via Kashmir is a Srinagar-based travel company built around one goal: giving travellers the best possible Kashmir experience. Our team puts together the best-priced hotels, cabs, Kashmir tour packages, and adventure packages with real sports activities, drawing on daily, on-the-ground knowledge of Kashmir's roads, weather, and seasons. Every guide on this site is written and checked by our local Srinagar team.