Discover the Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg – Top 10 Attractions You Can't Miss

1. Gulmarg Gondola – Asia’s Highest Cable Car Ride

Why Visit:

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest and most scenic cable car projects in the world, and the highlight of any Gulmarg trip. It operates in two phases:

• Phase 1 takes you from Gulmarg to Kongdoori (2,600 m).

• Phase 2 reaches Apharwat Peak (3,979 m).

What to Expect:

Snow-covered pine forests, sweeping views of the Himalayas, and a rush of excitement as you ascend into the clouds. In winter, the area becomes a skier’s heaven; in summer, it's a trekker's dream.

Travel Tip:

Book Gondola tickets online in advance—queues can be long, especially in peak season.

2. Apharwat Peak – Snow Sports & Spectacular Views

Why Visit:

If adventure is your calling, Apharwat Peak delivers the ultimate thrill. Reached via the Gondola’s second phase, it stays snow-covered for most of the year and is the go-to spot for:

• Skiing

• Snowboarding

• Snow biking

What to Expect:

Panoramic views of the Line of Control (LoC), pristine snowfields, and slopes that attract international skiers.

Local Insight:

Even if you’re not into skiing, just standing at nearly 14,000 feet above sea level feels surreal.

3. St. Mary’s Church – A British-Era Gem

Why Visit:

Built during British rule in 1902, St. Mary’s Church is a quaint, old-world chapel located near the Gulmarg Golf Course. This Anglican church, made of gray stone with stained-glass windows, gives off serious fairy-tale vibes, especially when surrounded by snow.

What to Expect:

Tranquility, a dash of colonial architecture, and lots of Instagram-worthy shots.

Did You Know?

This church comes alive during Christmas with carol singing and candlelit services, attracting both tourists and locals.

4. Gulmarg Golf Course – One of the World’s Highest

Why Visit:

Set at an altitude of over 8,500 feet, Gulmarg Golf Course is among the highest 18-hole golf courses in the world. Whether you’re a golfer or not, the manicured lawns framed by mountains make it worth a visit.

Best Time to Visit:

May to October, when the snow melts and the meadows bloom.

Local Tip:

You can rent golfing equipment or just take a leisure walk around the lush course.

5. Strawberry Valley – Off the Beaten Path

Why Visit:

Tucked away from the tourist buzz, Strawberry Valley is an unexplored corner where wild strawberries grow in abundance during summer. It's perfect for:

• Picnics

• Leisure walks

• Nature photography

What Makes it Special:

It’s quiet, picturesque, and a local favorite that remains relatively under the radar.

Getting There:

Hire a pony or take a short hike from the main town area.

6. Khilanmarg – A Photographer’s Dream

Why Visit:

Khilanmarg is a meadow located around 6 km from Gulmarg, known for its breathtaking views of the Nanga Parbat and Kunlun ranges. During spring and summer, the meadows bloom with colorful flowers, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Activities to Try:

• Horse riding

• Trekking

• Landscape photography

7. Baba Reshi Shrine – A Peaceful Spiritual Stop

Why Visit:

This 13th-century shrine is dedicated to Baba Payam-Uddin Reshi, a revered Muslim saint. With its stunning wooden Kashmiri architecture and peaceful aura, the Baba Reshi Shrine is a perfect spiritual detour.

Ideal For:

Pilgrims, history buffs, and those seeking a moment of quiet reflection.

How to Reach:

Located about 5 km from Gulmarg; can be accessed via cab or pony ride.

8. Tangmarg – Gateway to Gulmarg

Why Visit:

Situated about 13 km before Gulmarg, Tangmarg is the base village where travelers often stop for acclimatization and local shopping. It also offers:

• Budget-friendly food stalls

• Souvenir shops

• ATV rides in winter

Why It's Important:

It serves as a winter base when heavy snowfall blocks vehicle access to Gulmarg. Local 4x4 vehicles help you make the final ascent.

9. Drung Waterfall – A Hidden Icy Gem

Why Visit:

Located about 14 km from Gulmarg, Drung (or Drang) Waterfall is a spectacular natural attraction, especially stunning in winter when it freezes into icicles.

Perfect For:

Nature lovers, day-trippers, and photography enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit:

December to March for frozen views, or summer for gushing streams.

Pro Tip:

Start early from Gulmarg to enjoy a full half-day at Drung and avoid tourist rush.

10. Ningle Nallah – Riverside Bliss

Why Visit:

A few kilometers from Gulmarg lies Ningle Nallah, a mountain stream surrounded by conifer trees and ideal for:

• Family picnics

• Trout fishing

• Quiet time by the water

What’s Unique:

The stream originates from the melting snow of Apharwat Peak and is surrounded by serene vistas that look straight out of a wallpaper.

Practical Tips for Visiting Gulmarg

• Best Time to Visit:

  • For snow: December to February

  • For meadows & trekking: April to June

• How to Reach:

  • Nearest airport: Srinagar Airport (56 km)

  • From Srinagar: Taxi or shared cab to Tangmarg → local 4x4 to Gulmarg

• What to Pack:

  • Winter gear (November–March)

  • Sunscreen & trekking shoes (April–June)

• Permits:

  • Foreigners may require special permits; check with local authorities.

Conclusion: A Destination That Offers More Than Just Snow

From snow-kissed slopes to flower-filled meadows, from spiritual shrines to unexplored valleys, Gulmarg is a place that surprises you with its diversity. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a soul searcher, or just someone who wants to sip kahwa amidst Himalayan silence, Gulmarg has a memory waiting for you.

Start your journey with this list of 10 must-visit tourist attractions in and around Gulmarg, and let the magic of Kashmir unfold before your eyes.