Top Attractions - Travel Tips for Visiting Gulmarg in 2025

Why Visit Gulmarg in 2025?

1. All-Season Wonderland

Gulmarg is magical throughout the year. In winter (December to March), it turns into a snow-laden skiing hub. In summer (April to June), it becomes a green paradise ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Autumn paints it golden, and spring covers it in wildflowers.

2. Adventure Capital of Kashmir

From skiing, snowboarding, and heli-skiing to trekking and mountain biking, Gulmarg is packed with thrills for adventure seekers.

3. Less Commercial, More Serene

Unlike crowded hill stations, Gulmarg retains its raw, peaceful charm. It’s still authentic — ideal for nature lovers and solitude seekers.

Top Things to Do in Gulmarg (2025 Edition)

1. Ride the Gulmarg Gondola – One of the World’s Highest Cable Cars

The Gulmarg Gondola is undoubtedly the star attraction. Spanning two phases, it takes you from Gulmarg (2,600 m) to Apharwat Peak (4,200 m).

• Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdori (3,080 m) – Enjoy pine valley views.

• Phase 2: Kongdori to Apharwat (4,200 m) – Snow, peaks, and perfect selfies.

Tip: Buy online tickets via the official JK Cable Car Corporation website to avoid long queues.

2. Skiing & Snowboarding at Apharwat

Gulmarg has some of the best powder snow in Asia. January to early March is the prime season. Trained instructors, quality rental gear, and both beginner and expert slopes make this place ideal even for first-timers.

• Best Slopes: Baby Slope (for beginners), Phase 2 (for pros)

• Where to Rent Gear: Highland Park and Alpine Ridge ski shops

• Certified Instructors: Gulmarg Ski Institute and local guides

3. Snowmobiling, ATV Rides, and Heli-Skiing

For those who want adrenaline minus the skis, snowmobile rides and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) adventures through white-blanketed trails are unforgettable.

Heli-skiing is a luxury option where helicopters drop you on remote peaks — ideal for expert skiers looking for deep powder and fewer crowds.

4. Gulmarg Golf Course – Summer Heaven

One of the highest green golf courses in the world, this 18-hole beauty turns emerald during summer. Even non-golfers visit for the sheer views and to enjoy a walk through the meadows.

Open: May to November
Fee: ~INR 800–1000 for tourists (subject to seasonal change)

5. Explore Alpather Lake – The Frozen Gem

About 13 km from Gulmarg and reachable by pony or trek, Alpather Lake is a surreal sight — frozen during most months and glistening in summer. Set against the Apharwat mountain backdrop, it’s postcard-perfect.

Best time: May to June (when the snow melts partially)

6. Visit the Heritage St. Mary’s Church & Maharani Temple

• St. Mary’s Church: Built in the 19th century, this colonial-era church is made of stone and wood with a gorgeous snowy backdrop.

• Maharani Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it stands tall in the heart of Gulmarg meadows and offers panoramic views.

Places to Visit Near Gulmarg

1. Tangmarg – The Gateway to Gulmarg

Located 13 km before Gulmarg, Tangmarg is your last fuel point and a scenic stop for Kashmiri handicrafts, dry fruits, and snacks.

2. Khilanmarg – Meadows & Views

A short trek or pony ride from Gulmarg, Khilanmarg offers panoramic views of Nanga Parbat and the twin peaks of Nun and Kun. It’s perfect for sunrise and photography.

3. Drung Waterfall

A lesser-known yet spectacular winter destination. In January and February, Drung’s waterfall freezes into a stunning cascade of icicles.

How to Reach Gulmarg in 2025

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (~50 km)

• From Airport: Book a private cab (~INR 2500–3000) or shared taxi from outside the terminal.

By Road:

• From Srinagar: Take the scenic route via Tangmarg.

• Route: Srinagar → Tangmarg → Gulmarg (Approx. 2-2.5 hours)

• Self-drive? Roads are well-maintained but can be slippery in snow. Use chains on tires in winter.

Local Travel:

• Ponies and sledges are common for snow-covered areas.

• Local taxis available but negotiate fares in advance.

Where to Stay in Gulmarg

Budget:

• Hotel Affarwat

• Hotel Pine Spring

Mid-Range:

• Hotel Heevan Retreat

• Highlands Park

Luxury:

• The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa – 5-star luxury with views of the Apharwat peaks.

• Shaw Inn – A cozy boutique option.

Pro Tip: Book your stay well in advance if visiting in winter or peak summer.

Where to Eat in Gulmarg

• Bakshi Restaurant – Local Kashmiri wazwan dishes.

• Alpine Lounge – Continental and Indian fusion.

• The Khyber’s Cloves Restaurant – Gourmet with a view.

• Local Tip: Try Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Haak Saag, and Kahwa (Kashmiri tea).

Best Time to Visit Gulmarg

Avoid the monsoon (late July–Aug) if you dislike slippery paths or landslide-prone roads.

Personal Story: My First Sledge Ride in Gulmarg

The moment I stepped off the gondola at Phase 1, I was instantly surrounded by sledge riders offering rides. I picked a cheerful-looking guy named Javed, who pulled the sledge with more strength than I imagined possible. As we glided past pine forests and white valleys, he shared tales of his childhood in Gulmarg — how he’s been riding sledges since he was 12.

That ride wasn’t just scenic — it felt like traveling through a snow globe led by someone who lives and breathes Gulmarg’s magic. Don’t skip it — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime feeling.

Final Thoughts: Why Gulmarg Should Be on Your 2025 Bucket List

Gulmarg is not just a destination — it’s an experience. Whether you’re chasing snowflakes or sipping kahwa in a sunlit meadow, every moment here is soaked in serenity and splendor.

From skiing down powdered slopes to gazing at the Himalayan peaks from your gondola ride, this hill town deserves to be experienced at least once in your lifetime. And with this comprehensive Gulmarg Travel Guide 2025, you're already halfway there.