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 |
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.
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.