How to Visit Gulmarg on a Budget - Stay, Eat, and Explore for Less

1. Getting to Gulmarg on a Budget

Cheapest Ways to Reach Gulmarg

Gulmarg is located about 50 km from Srinagar, which is well connected by air, road, and rail. Here's how to reach Gulmarg without splurging:

By Air (to Srinagar)

• Budget tip: Book tickets 30–45 days in advance. Use apps like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track prices.

• Cheapest Airlines: Go First, IndiGo, and AirAsia frequently offer budget fares to Srinagar.

From Srinagar to Gulmarg

• Shared Cabs (Sumo): INR 150–INR 250 per seat from Batmaloo Bus Stand or Tangmarg.

• Mini-Buses: Catch a bus to Tangmarg (INR 70), then a shared cab to Gulmarg (INR 100).

Total cost from Srinagar to Gulmarg: ~INR 200–INR 300

2. Budget Accommodation in Gulmarg: Where to Stay for Cheap

While Gulmarg has its share of luxury resorts, there are several affordable guesthouses, homestays, and budget hotels that are perfect for low-cost travel.

Top Budget Stays in Gulmarg (INR 800 – INR 1500 per night)

1. Hotel Affarwat

• Price: INR 1200–INR 1500/night (double occupancy)

• Why it's great: Cozy rooms, mountain views, walkable distance to attractions.

2. Green Park Hotel

• Price: INR 1000–INR 1300/night

• Highlights: Basic amenities, peaceful location, helpful staff.

3. Youth Hostel Gulmarg (YHAI)

• Price: ~INR 800/night (dormitory), INR 1200–INR 1400 (private room)

• Perks: Perfect for solo travelers; clean, community atmosphere.

4. Homestays in Tangmarg

• Price: INR 700–INR 1000/night

• Travel hack: Stay in Tangmarg (13 km away) and do day trips to Gulmarg. It's cheaper, quieter, and offers authentic Kashmiri hospitality.

3. Where to Eat in Gulmarg Without Overspending

Dining in Gulmarg can be expensive if you stick to hotel restaurants. But if you’re willing to explore like a local, affordable, delicious food is never far away.

Budget-Friendly Eateries in Gulmarg

1. Bakshi Dhaba

• Cost: INR 100–INR 200 per meal

• Must-try: Rajma rice, aloo gobi, parathas.

2. Mount View Restaurant (Near Gondola Base)

• Cost: INR 150–INR 250

• Why go: Budget thalis, local Kashmiri dishes, good hygiene.

3. Pine View Café (Tangmarg)

• Cost: INR 80–INR 150

• Must-try: Maggi, omelettes, tea with a view.

4. Local Bakeries

• Grab local Kashmiri breads (Girda, Lavasa) and Noon Chai (salty pink tea) for a filling breakfast under INR 50.

Pro Tip: Avoid Overpriced Resort Menus

Skip menus that list Maggi at INR 300 — most local shops serve the same for INR 60–INR 80!

4. Budget Activities & Free Things to Do in Gulmarg

Who says fun has to be expensive? Some of the best things to do in Gulmarg are either free or cost very little. Here’s your low-cost adventure list:

1. Nature Walks & Hiking (Free)

• Apharwat Meadows: Perfect for casual walks, especially in summer.

• Khilanmarg Trail: A light hike with panoramic views of the Himalayas.

• Children's Park to Outer Circle Walk: 5 km scenic trail through pine forests — zero cost, maximum bliss.

2. Gondola Ride – Smart Budgeting

• Gulmarg Gondola is the world’s second-highest cable car.

• Phase 1 (INR 740): To Kungdoor – budget-friendly and offers great views.

• Phase 2 (INR 950): To Apharwat Peak – optional for budget travelers.

Budget tip: Skip Phase 2 if it’s cloudy or off-season.

3. Sledging & Snow Activities (INR 300–INR 500)

• Bargain with locals. Set prices in advance to avoid surprises.

• Avoid agents and book directly with sledge or ski owners near the snow point.

4. Visit St. Mary’s Church & Maharani Temple (Free)

• Great photo spots and cultural insights at zero entry fee.

5. Golf Course Walks (INR 100 entry or free in off-season)

• One of the world’s highest golf courses — beautiful for a relaxed stroll or picnic.

5. Budget Itinerary for Gulmarg: 3-Day Sample Plan

Here’s how to explore Gulmarg on a tight budget of INR 2500–INR 4000 for 3 days:

Day 1: Arrival + Local Exploration

• Arrive from Srinagar via shared cab: INR 250

• Check-in to budget hotel: INR 1200 (2 nights split = INR 600)

• Walk to St. Mary’s Church and Golf Course: Free

• Dinner at local dhaba: INR 200

• Total Day 1 Cost: ~INR 1050

Day 2: Gondola & Khilanmarg Hike

• Breakfast: INR 80

• Gondola Phase 1: INR 740

• Hike to Khilanmarg: Free

• Lunch: INR 150

• Sledging/Snow activity: INR 400

• Total Day 2 Cost: ~INR 1370

Day 3: Sunrise + Depart

• Early morning walk: Free

• Breakfast: INR 60

• Return to Srinagar (shared cab): INR 250

• Total Day 3 Cost: ~INR 310

Estimated 3-Day Budget: INR 2730

6. Seasonal Budget Tips: When to Visit for Cheaper Deals

Off-Season = Low Prices

• April–May and September–October are less crowded.

• Hotel prices drop by 30–40%.

• Avoid winter holidays and summer vacation crowds (Dec–Feb, May–June).

Winter Budget Hack

• Instead of staying in Gulmarg, stay in Tangmarg and hire shared cabs to the snow point daily.

7. Local Transport & Travel Tips

How to Move Around Gulmarg Affordably

• Walking is the best — most places are within 2–3 km.

• Sledges or Pony Rides: Bargain well; max INR 300–INR 500 for short distances.

• Shared taxis between Tangmarg & Gulmarg: INR 100–INR 150 per seat.

8. Safety, Budget Hacks & Responsible Travel

Money-Saving Hacks

• Group Travel = Lower Cost: Share cabs, hotels, and food.

• Pre-Book hotels online for discounts.

• Carry snacks from Srinagar to avoid overpriced food stalls.

• Negotiate Everything: Prices are flexible, especially with local vendors.

Stay Safe

• Always ask locals or hotel owners for updated weather and road conditions.

• Avoid isolated trails during heavy snow or monsoon.

Support Local Economy

• Hire local guides.

• Eat at family-run dhabas.

• Buy handmade Kashmiri crafts and not factory-made souvenirs.

Conclusion: You Don’t Need a Fat Wallet to Enjoy Gulmarg

Gulmarg may look like an expensive postcard-perfect destination, but with a few smart decisions, it can be a paradise for budget travelers. From scenic hikes and budget hotels to affordable gondola rides and authentic local cuisine, this gem in Kashmir welcomes everyone — not just luxury seekers.

So pack your bags, load your backpack, and get ready to experience Gulmarg’s snow, meadows, and magic — all under INR 1000 a day.