Planning a Gondola Ride in Gulmarg - Everything You Must Know in 2025
If there's one thing you absolutely must do in Gulmarg, it's take the Gondola ride. Imagine floating above snow-blanketed pine forests, rising past alpine meadows, and reaching breathtaking heights with the mighty Himalayas as your backdrop. The Gulmarg Gondola isn’t just the highest cable car ride in Asia—it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves every traveler spellbound.
Whether you're planning a summer escape or a winter wonderland trip, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: ticket prices, timings, phases, safety tips, booking hacks, and even what to pack for the ride. Let’s elevate your Gulmarg trip—literally and figuratively—with this complete 2025 Gondola travel guide.
What Is the Gulmarg Gondola?
The Gulmarg Gondola is a high-altitude cable car ride that takes visitors from the lush meadows of Gulmarg (Phase 1) to the rugged mountain terrain of Apharwat Peak (Phase 2). Built in collaboration with the French company Poma, this Gondola is one of the highest operational cable cars in the world, reaching up to an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
It operates in two main phases:
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Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kungdoor (2,650 m)
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Phase 2: Kungdoor to Apharwat Peak (3,980 m)
There’s also a Chair Lift from Kungdoor to Mary’s Shoulder, often used by skiers in winter.
Fun Fact: At its highest point, the Gondola soars above the clouds. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
Gondola Ride Ticket Prices in 2025
Here are the updated ticket prices for 2025, as per the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC):
| Ride Type | Indian Nationals (INR) | Foreign Nationals (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kungdoor) | INR 850 | INR 1,100 |
| Phase 2 (Kungdoor to Apharwat) | INR 950 | INR 1,200 |
| Chair Lift (Kungdoor to Mary’s Shoulder) | INR 300 | INR 400 |
Tip: You can skip the chair lift unless you're skiing or snowboarding. Phase 1 and 2 offer the main scenic experiences.
How to Book Gulmarg Gondola Tickets Online (2025)
Avoid long queues and sold-out slots by booking your tickets online via the official JKCCC website:
=> https://www.jkccc.com
Step-by-Step Booking Guide:
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Visit the website and click on “Book Gondola.”
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Choose your ride type (Phase 1, Phase 2, Chair Lift).
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Select your preferred date and time slot.
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Enter passenger details and make the online payment.
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Carry a printout or soft copy of the confirmation ticket with ID proof during the visit.
Important: Tickets are non-refundable. Choose your dates carefully, especially during winter when weather conditions can affect operations.
Gondola Ride Timings
Operating Hours (Subject to Weather):
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Phase 1: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
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Phase 2: 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
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Chair Lift: 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Best time to ride the Gondola is between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM, for the clearest views and lesser crowd.
Keep in mind that weather, snowfall, and wind speeds may affect the daily operations—especially Phase 2, which often gets suspended due to poor visibility.
Best Time to Experience the Gulmarg Gondola
Winter (December to March)
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Snow-covered pine trees, skiing & snowboarding heaven
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Ideal if you love snow sports and white scenery
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But higher chances of Gondola closure due to heavy snow
Summer (May to June)
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Clear skies and lush green meadows
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Ideal for photographers and hikers
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Lower chances of disruption
Autumn (September to October)
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Fewer crowds and golden landscapes
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Crisp weather and best visibility
Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) due to poor weather and risk of landslides.
What to Expect in Each Phase
Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kungdoor
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Elevation: 2,650 meters
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Duration: ~9 minutes
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Scenery: Dense forests, meadows, panoramic valley views
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Great for first-time visitors, photographers, and casual sightseers
Phase 2: Kungdoor to Apharwat Peak
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Elevation: 3,980 meters (close to LOC!)
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Duration: ~12 minutes
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Scenery: Snow-draped peaks, alpine terrain, and surreal silence
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Ideal for adventurers, snow lovers, and trekkers
Tip: The temperature at Phase 2 can be 10-15°C lower than Gulmarg base. Pack accordingly!
Insider Travel Tips for a Smooth Gondola Experience
1. Arrive Early
Queues can get long, especially during holidays. Arrive at the boarding point by 8:30 AM to beat the rush.
2. Carry Cash
Some small eateries or rental shops near Kungdoor may not accept cards or UPI.
3. Rental Shops
Don’t have snow gear? You can rent jackets, boots, gloves near the Gondola base in Gulmarg for INR 200–INR 500 per item.
4. Photography Spots
Some of the best views are seen mid-way through the Gondola ride—keep your camera ready!
5. Avoid Peak Holidays
Plan your trip on weekdays or just before/after long weekends to avoid extreme crowds.
Nearby Attractions to Club with Gondola Ride
Make your day trip even better by exploring these nearby gems:
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St. Mary’s Church – Beautiful colonial-era church in the snow
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Maharani Temple – A quaint temple with mountain views
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Gulmarg Golf Course – One of the highest in the world
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Strawberry Valley – Ideal for a walk or pony ride in spring/summer
Is the Gondola Worth It? Absolutely!
The Gulmarg Gondola is not just a ride—it’s a memory etched in the sky. Whether you’re a honeymooning couple, an adventurous skier, or a nature lover with a camera in hand, the Gondola offers a different slice of Kashmir that’s thrilling, peaceful, and jaw-droppingly beautiful.
From the thrill of high-altitude travel to the raw natural beauty of the Himalayas, it’s one of those things you’ll talk about long after you return from your trip.
Final Thoughts: Make Your 2025 Gulmarg Trip Unforgettable
The Gulmarg Gondola ride in 2025 remains one of India's top travel experiences—and it’s only getting better with better online access, improved safety, and eco-conscious efforts. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, don’t miss the opportunity to ride above the clouds and into the heart of the Himalayas.
