With white covering every inch of Kashmir, winter brings Gulmarg a new majesty. Widely recognized for its powdery slopes and stunning mother’s meadows and mountains as well as high ranking ski resorts, Gulmarg hosts the Snow Festival, a unique spectacle of innovative adventure sports, Kashmiri traditions in music, dance and cuisine, which combine to create a festive feel focused upon the adventure tourism markers listed above.
The Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025 is more than a tourism festival; it is a great opportunity to experience the thrill of skiing, snowboarding, and rides on the gondola as well as the particular culture, music, dance, and cuisine of Kashmir in winter. This event has a pull for adventurists eager travel from every corner of India and internationally (and especially western Europe) to enjoy the thrill of skiing with the cultural immersion and unrivalled hospitality of the area.
If you are being to travel to Kashmir in winter, this travel guide contains the best current information about the Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025, including dates, events, things to do, how to get to Gulmarg, travel tips and frequently asked questions, to helpyou get the most from your snowy adventure!
Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025 – Dates
The Snow Festival in Gulmarg is typically held on the last weekend of January, or in the first weekend of February in a given year. The festival is expected to be in phenomenally late January 2025 (actual dates will be announced by the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department as the festival dates draw nearer).
Duration:
The Snow Festival is usually 2 to 3 days long.
Location:
The main place to see everything will be at the Gulmarg Ski Resort and the nearby snowfields and mountains. Certain components of the Snow Festival will be scattered around the main winter sports locations around Gulmarg.
Note: Given that Gulmarg and all the hotels and accommodations are taken up so quickly, it is a good idea to plan your trip at least a few weeks in advance for this purpose.
Highlights of Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025
The Snow Festival incorporates sports competitions, cultural events, food experiences and adventure tourism. Some of the events include:
1. Skiing & Snowboarding events
– Professional and amateur competitions
– Slalom races and freestyle skiing demonstration
– Performances of snowboarding tricks by national and international riders.
2. Gondola Ride Experiences
– The world’s second highest cable-car will be a central experience
– Excellent photo opportunities at Apharwat Peak
3. Cultural programs
– Traditional Kashmiri music
– Folk dance performances by local artists celebrating Kashmiri heritage
4. Snowmobiling & Sledge Rides.
– Opportunities to have adrenaline-inducing rides across snow-covered landscapes
– Family-friendly snow-related adventures for kids and beginners
5. Food Festivals
– Live stalls serving Kashmiri wazwan, kebabs, kahwa, harissa and other local specialities
– Local chefs demonstrating local foods
6. Ice-skating shows
– Skating competitions on natural ice-rinks
– Fun events for children and tourist skaters
7. Adventure tourism promotion
– Introduction of trekking trails and guided snow treks
– Raise awareness of sustainable mountain tourism
Why Visit the Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025?
The Gulmarg Snow Festival offers:
- Winter Sports excitement: Experience skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
- Cultural experience: Experience Kashmiri folk traditions, sufi music, local crafts.
- Culinary experience: Enjoy authentic Kashmiri food within the festival.
- Scenic winter wonderland: Spectacular views of the Pir Panjal range.
- Unique experience: Great for families, couples, and adventure lovers.
Things to Do During Gulmarg Snow Festival
Even when you’re not in attendance at one of the festival events, there are still a ton of experiences to be had in Gulmarg!
1. Take a Ride on the Gulmarg Gondola
The highest cable car of any kind in Asia offers surreal views of the snow and takes you to the Apharwat Peak.
2. Try Skiing & Snowboarding
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Gulmarg’s slopes are suitable for all abilities and there are instructors and rentals available easily!
3. Go Snow Trekking
Winter exploration options like Khilanmarg, Alpathar Lake, and Apharwat treks will unveil the stunning beauty and tranquillity of Gulmarg.
4. Sledge & Snow Play
Sledging down the white slopes is a blast for families with kids.
5. Stay Warm in Comforting Resorts
The luxury hotels, cottages & chalets offer a comforting warm stay with fireplaces and picturesque views.
6. Let your Taste Buds Experience Kashmiri Delicacies
You can enjoy hot kahwa (saffron tea), wazwan-style feasts, and fresh bakery items all while keeping warm in the cool, wintry weather.
How to Reach Gulmarg
By Air: The nearest airport is SRINAGAR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (56 km). From there, take a taxi or cab that will take about 2 hours.
By Rail: The nearest station is JAMMU TAWI (290 km).
By Road: It is also well connected by road for Srinagar, Tangmarg, and Jammu.
Accommodation Options During Snow Festival
Accommodations in Gulmarg are dynamic, but they are of high-quality accommodations, so you need to book early. Accommodations include:
Luxury Stays: Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Vintage Gulmarg
Mid-range Hotels: Pine Palace, Hotel Heevan Retreat
Budget Stays: Guesthouses and homestays and small cottages.
Travel Tips for Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025
Book in advance: Festival dates bring increased demand for taxis and hotels.
Wear Warm Clothing: You will need thermal wear, snow boots, gloves, and layered jackets.
Use Local Guides: Local guides are already certified instructors for skiing and trekking and will ensure your safety.
Cash is useful: Digital payments may not work when network coverage is patchy.
Acclimatize: Gulmarg is approximately 2650 metres – be mindful of fatigue and stay hydrated.
Respect Cultural Customs: Dress conservatively and observe local customs.
Suggested Itinerary for Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025
Day 1 – Arrival in Srinagar
Transfer from Airport to Gulmarg
An evening walk in the snow meadows
Day 2 – Snow Festival Day 1
Visit ski competitions
Gondola ride and snowboarding competitions
Evening cultural program
Day 3 – Snow Festival Day 2
Ice skating, snowmobiling
Food festival and local shopping
Sunset photography
Day 4 – Leisure and departure
Visit Khilanmarg or Apharwat Peak
Transfer back to Srinagar for departure
Conclusion: Experience the Magic of Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025
The Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025 is not just an event—it’s a one-of-a-kind Winter festival, encapsulating everything that makes Kashmir special.
With thrilling sports, cultural events, and stunning scenery filled with white snow, the festival has something distinct for everyone.
Whether you are an adventurous traveler, a family traveler, or someone interested in experiencing Kashmiri culture, you will leave with lifelong memories.
Let the snowy white landscape of Gulmarg this Winter, for the Snow Festival 2025, be your first step into the marvels of Kashmir.
How to book Kashmir tour online?
Contact Brown Chinar at +91 6005039532/+91 9906188874 or Email us at : Enquiry@brownchinarkashmir.com
FAQs – Top 10 Questions About Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025
1. When is the Gulmarg Snow Festival 2025?
Expected in late January 2025 (final dates announced by J&K Tourism).
2. Where is the festival held?
At Gulmarg Ski Resort and surrounding snowfields.
3. How long does the festival last?
Typically 2 to 3 days.
4. What activities are included?
Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, cultural shows, food stalls, and more.
5. Do I need prior skiing experience?
No, beginners can hire instructors for training.
6. Is the festival family-friendly?
Yes, with fun rides, cultural programs, and food stalls for all ages.
7. How do I reach Gulmarg?
Via Srinagar Airport (56 km) with cabs and taxis available.
8. Are hotel bookings available during the festival?
Yes, but early reservations are highly recommended.
9. What should I pack for Gulmarg in January?
Thermal wear, snow jackets, boots, gloves, and sunglasses.
10. Is the Gulmarg Snow Festival safe for tourists?
Yes, the event is organized by J&K Tourism with security and facilities in place
