Altitude
2,650 m
Temperature
-8°C – 20°C
Best Time
Dec–Feb (ski), Jun–Sep (trek)
From Srinagar
56 km
The Meadow of Flowers
Gulmarg — literally 'Meadow of Flowers' — sits at 2,650 metres in the Pir Panjal range, 56 km from Srinagar. Once a favourite retreat of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, today it is one of India's premier ski destinations and a year-round adventure paradise.
In winter, Gulmarg becomes a pristine white wonderland, drawing skiers from across the world to its legendary slopes. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, whisks you to Kongdori (3,100 m) and Apharwat Peak (4,200 m) — where views of the Karakoram stretch to Nanga Parbat.
In summer, snow melts to reveal lush green meadows alive with wildflowers, and trekking trails offering the most spectacular vistas in the entire Himalayas. The 18-hole golf course, one of the highest in the world, adds to Gulmarg's unique allure.
The Story of Gulmarg
Gulmarg's history stretches back to the 16th century when Mughal Emperor Yusuf Shah Chak first discovered its natural beauty and named it 'Gaurimarg' (later corrupted to Gulmarg). Emperor Jahangir was so enchanted that he collected 21 species of flowers from the meadow for his royal gardens. The British fell in love with Gulmarg in the mid-19th century and developed it as a premier hill station, establishing the golf course in 1891 — one of the world's oldest mountain courses. The first ski club in Asia was founded here in 1927 by the British, making Gulmarg the cradle of skiing on the Asian continent. Today it is recognised as one of the top 10 ski resorts in Asia.
Experiences in Gulmarg
Skiing
World-class slopes for beginners to experts. Equipment rental and certified instructors available on-site.
Gondola Ride
Ride the iconic Gulmarg Gondola to Kongdori (Phase I) or Apharwat (Phase II) for jaw-dropping mountain views.
Trekking
Trek to Alpather Lake, Ferozepur Nallah, or Khilanmarg for stunning Himalayan vistas in summer.
Horse Riding
Explore Gulmarg's meadows on horseback — a popular and scenic experience for all ages.
Golf
Tee off at the Gulmarg Golf Club — one of the highest courses on Earth at 2,650 m.
Snow Activities
Snowboarding, snow tubing, sledging, snowball fights — Gulmarg's winter playground is pure joy!
Gulmarg in Pictures
Best Time to Visit
Spring
Mar – May
Snow melts, wildflowers emerge. Ideal for horse riding and nature walks.
Summer
Jun – Sep
Green meadows and clear skies. Best for trekking, golf, and family trips.
Autumn
Oct – Nov
Golden colours, early snowfall on peaks. Magical photography season.
Winter
Dec – Feb
Peak ski season. Fresh powder and gondola rides above the clouds.
Must-Try Kashmiri Cuisine
Every meal in Kashmir is a story. These are the dishes you must try during your visit to Gulmarg.
Harissa
Slow-cooked mutton and rice porridge — a Gulmarg/Kashmiri winter morning staple cooked overnight.
Seekh Kebab
Minced lamb kebabs spiced with Kashmiri red chilli — grilled over charcoal and served with girda bread.
Tabak Maaz
Crispy fried lamb ribs — a Wazwan classic, golden brown outside and meltingly tender inside.
Kashmiri Saag
Wild greens slow-cooked with mustard oil and Kashmiri spices — earthy and deeply satisfying.
Shufta
Sweet dish of dried fruits, cottage cheese and sugar — a festive Kashmiri dessert.
Kehwa
Classic Kashmiri saffron tea with almonds, cinnamon and cardamom — perfect after a day on the slopes.
Nearby Attractions
13 km
Alpather Lake
A stunning frozen alpine lake at 4,511 m — frozen until June each year, accessible by trek or horseback from Gulmarg.
6 km
Khilanmarg
A gorgeous mini-meadow above Gulmarg offering 360-degree Himalayan panoramas — perfect sunrise/sunset spot.
8 km
Ningle Nallah
Pristine mountain stream cascading through a pine forest — popular for picnics and photography.
14 km
Drung Waterfall
A dramatic cascade on the Ferozepore Nallah — accessible by a pleasant forest walk from Tangmarg.
13 km
Tangmarg
The gateway town to Gulmarg, famous for its apple orchards and the starting point for horseback rides.
Travel Tips for Gulmarg
Book Gondola Phase II tickets online in advance — queues can be 2–3 hours long in peak winter season.
In winter, carry thermal layers, waterproof gloves and snow boots. Temperatures drop to -15°C at Apharwat.
For the best Himalayan views, trek to Khilanmarg (a 6 km hike from Gulmarg) on a clear morning.
Arrive early in summer — Gulmarg gets busy by 10am. The meadows are most peaceful at dawn.
Beginners should take a 1-day ski lesson before hitting the slopes — certified instructors are available at the gondola base.
Even in June the nights are cold (8–10°C). Always carry a warm jacket regardless of the season.
How to Reach Gulmarg
By Air
Fly to Srinagar Airport (SXR), then drive 1.5 hours to Gulmarg via the scenic mountain road through Tangmarg.
By Road
Drive from Srinagar via Tangmarg (56 km). Shared taxis and private cabs are readily available from Srinagar.
On Horseback
From Tangmarg, traditional horseback rides through a beautiful pine forest lead to Gulmarg meadows.
Frequently Asked Questions
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