Hidden Treasures of Gulmarg - 7 Scenic Places Beyond the Crowds

1. Drung Waterfall – A Frozen Marvel in Winter

• Distance from Gulmarg: ~15 km
• Best Time to Visit: December to March (for frozen view) / April to July (for gushing waterfall)

Tucked away in Tangmarg village, Drung Waterfall (also known as Durung or Drang) is one of the most surreal sights near Gulmarg—especially in winter. What makes it unique? The entire waterfall freezes into massive icicles, creating a dreamlike ice wall that feels straight out of Narnia.

In summer, the same site transforms into a vibrant cascade flanked by mossy rocks and alpine flora. Yet, despite its beauty, it remains relatively off the radar for most tourists.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:

• It's a photographer’s paradise during winter.

• The frozen waterfall is rare in India and incredibly Instagram-worthy.

• There are local dhabas nearby serving kehwa and snacks.

Travel Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos. Wear waterproof shoes during spring/summer, as the area can be slippery.

2. Ningle Nallah – A Serene Stream in the Meadows

• Distance from Gulmarg: ~10 km
• Best Time to Visit: May to September

Nestled amidst pine-covered hills and flower-filled meadows, Ningle Nallah is a picturesque mountain stream that flows with glacial meltwater. It’s a favorite picnic spot for locals but rarely visited by tourists beyond the main Gulmarg area.

This offbeat destination offers peace, scenic beauty, and trout fishing opportunities—ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking solitude.

What Makes It Special:

• Surrounded by meadows and dense pine forests.

• Perfect for picnics, trout fishing, or nature walks.

• Offers views of the Apharwat mountain range in the backdrop.

Travel Tip: Carry your own picnic mat and some snacks. Visit in the late afternoon for the golden hour glow.

3. Bota Pathri – The Reopened Jewel of Gulmarg

• Distance from Gulmarg: ~9 km
• Best Time to Visit: May to October

Bota Pathri was once closed to tourists due to its proximity to the Line of Control (LoC), but it has recently reopened, and it's nothing short of a visual feast. Think rolling green pastures, shepherd trails, and wooden huts, all backed by thick pine forests and snow-capped peaks.

This lesser-known destination lies deep inside the forest, offering views that rival Gulmarg without the crowd.

Highlights:

• Experience virgin landscapes untouched by commercial tourism.

• Perfect for short treks, birdwatching, or even meditation.

• Get a glimpse into the life of Gujjar and Bakarwal tribes.

Travel Tip: Entry to Bota Pathri may require permission from the local army post. Carry ID proof and consult your hotel or a local guide before planning.

4. Tosamaidan – The Forgotten Meadow

• Distance from Gulmarg: ~60 km via Khag
• Best Time to Visit: June to September

Tosamaidan is an expansive meadow surrounded by mountains, often dubbed the "Switzerland of Kashmir" by those who've seen it. It once served as an artillery firing range and was inaccessible to civilians until 2014. Now open, this hidden treasure is still underexplored.

Imagine a meadow so vast and green that it seems to merge with the sky, flanked by wildflowers and pristine silence.

Why It's Worth the Trip:

• Offers unique camping opportunities under starry skies.

• Great for hiking, stargazing, and photography.

• A historical route once used by shepherds and Mughal caravans.

Travel Tip: It’s a remote destination with no facilities—carry essentials like food, water, and a power bank. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended.

5. Doodhpathri – The Valley of Milk

• Distance from Gulmarg: ~55 km (approx. 2.5–3 hours drive)
• Best Time to Visit: April to September

Doodhpathri, literally meaning “Valley of Milk,” gets its name from the milky white waters of its stream. Set amidst undulating meadows and pine trees, it’s like a pastoral painting come to life.

Unlike Gulmarg, which is ski-oriented, Doodhpathri remains quiet, lush, and untouched—ideal for relaxing or hiking through nature.

Must-Do Activities:

• Enjoy horse rides through meadows and along the stream.

• Pack a lunch and enjoy a day picnic by the river.

• Explore trails leading to hidden pine forests and tribal huts.

Travel Tip: Mobile signals are weak here, so inform someone before heading out. Avoid weekends if you’re looking for solitude.

6. Ferozepur Nallah – A Secret Riverside Escape

• Distance from Gulmarg: ~5 km
• Best Time to Visit: April to October

A short detour from the Gulmarg-Baba Reshi road leads to Ferozepur Nallah, a peaceful stream running between the Nurpur and Chinamarg regions. Unlike other tourist spots, this place is almost untouched, making it perfect for a quiet escape into nature.

Surrounded by pine trees and chirping birds, the gurgling river creates the perfect background score for reflection or reading.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Very close to Gulmarg yet unknown to most.

• Ideal for offbeat photography, meditation, or sketching.

• A great place to watch sunsets and grazing ponies.

Travel Tip: There are no shops around, so carry water and snacks. It’s best visited in the early morning or late afternoon.

7. Tangmarg – More Than Just a Stopover

• Distance from Gulmarg: ~13 km
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round

Most tourists pass through Tangmarg without stopping—often treating it as a gateway to Gulmarg. But this small town is a hidden gem on its own, filled with apple orchards, wooden cottages, and friendly locals.

Visit the local market, sip some fresh Kashmiri chai, and explore lesser-known spots like the children’s park, waterfalls, and forest trails that the town quietly holds.

Local Experiences to Try:

• Buy handmade woolens or dried fruits from local vendors.

• Visit the Shrine of Baba Reshi, a revered Sufi saint.

• Stay in a local homestay for a more immersive experience.

Travel Tip: If you’re self-driving, Tangmarg is a great place to break your journey with a short walk or chai break.

Practical Tips for Visiting These Hidden Places

• Always check weather conditions before heading out, especially in winter or monsoon.

• Hire local guides for remote places like Tosamaidan and Bota Pathri—they know the terrain and safety norms.

• Avoid littering and respect local customs and communities.

• Most of these places are non-commercial, so carry essentials like water, dry snacks, sunscreen, and power banks.

• Offline Google Maps or pre-downloaded navigation is highly recommended, as mobile signals are often weak or nonexistent.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Untouched Side of Gulmarg

While Gulmarg dazzles with its snowy slopes and luxury hotels, the real magic lies in its quiet neighbors—where you can walk through flower-filled meadows, listen to gurgling brooks, or sit in peace beneath towering deodars.

These top 7 hidden places near Gulmarg offer more than just scenic views—they invite you to slow down, explore deeper, and connect with nature and culture in the most authentic way.

As Kashmir reopens to tourism in 2025 with renewed energy and hospitality, consider skipping the usual checklist and taking the road less traveled. You won’t regret it.