Situated within the spectacular snow-capped mountains of Pir Panjal Range in Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg has an irresistible blend of adventure, tranquility, and stunning natural beauty. Often referred to as the “The Meadow of Flowers” during summer for its scenic meadows, it becomes a winter wonderland for snow lovers. Known as one of the most sought after winter destination in India, Gulmarg has pristine snow capped mountain, towering pine trees, and ample amount of adventure and wilderness explorations. Snow sports has placed India in the globes’ winter sports map, and marks it down as a place to be visited for those seeking for the Himalayan magic during winters.
Gulmarg transforms into a captivating winter paradise each year. Indulge whether you’re planning a family trip, skiing with your friends, trekking romantic getaway, snowboarding, or an adventure-packed holiday, Gulmarg tailor fit each type of traveler.
Forget about the stress of planning and book a winter holiday to Gulmarg. This guide will provide the information on seasonal activities, best accommodation options, local places, and tips and travel hacks for a magical winter escape tobetween the awe inspiring snowlands.
Best Time To Enjoy Winter Activities In Gulmarg
As for the timing, Gulmarg is best visited during the winter season which starts around November and lasts till March. The peak of winter activities, especially snow tourism takes place from December to February. This is the period when the place is fully laden with snow or is in thick snowy condition for ski, snowboard, snowshoe, and other related activities.
December to February: This period is considered the best for snow filled skiing, snowboarding boarding or every other kind of winter sports. The weather during this period tends to be chilly with temperature range from -10 degrees centigrade to 5 degree centigrade ensuring true winter delight
March: The intense snowfall after the winters reduces during this month but the snow covered slopes of the hills still remains in the right condition for ski, with fewer crowds which means better peace.
It is sensible to check the position of the weather forecast before the trip to make sure that you’ll be making the most out of the activities during the peak of the winter season for snow and winter sports.
How to Reach Gulmarg in Winter
By Air
Gulmarg is approximately 50 kilometers away from its closest airport Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) which is located in Srinagar. You can directly fly to Srinagar from major conurbations like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi. From there, you can either book a private cab or hire a taxi to get to Gulmarg. The trip usually lasts two to three hours, however, the roads in winter can be really icy and slippery. We recommend using a 4×4 vehicle.
By Train
Further, the closest significant railway station to Gulmarg is in Srinagar, which can be accessed via a train link from Jammu. You can also get to Jammu by train, and then take an overland trip to reach the destination. However, this mode of transport is far more time consuming as compared to a flight.
By Road
Gulmarg can be reached from Srinagar by road for approximately 51 kilometers and is ideal for road travel. The place is best known for its breathtaking views of the epicuticular snowy landscape. If you’re traveling by car, make sure to winterize your vehicle. You can also hire a taxi or take a bus from Srinagar directly to Gulmarg.
The Excitement of the Slopes: Skiing in Gulmarg
World-class slopes that attract tourists globally mark Gulmarg as the Skiing Capital of India. Skiing is one of the most sought out winter activities in Gulmarg, both by amateurs and seasoned professionals. It does not matter whether you seek a relatively calm endeavor or the adrenaline rush of skiing down contested slopes, Gulmarg has it all.
Skiing Locations:
- Apharwat Peak: One of the foremost ski resorts in Gulmarg, Apharwat Peak is famous for towering to an impressive altitude of 4,390 meters (14,400 feet). Further, it provides access to some of the best skiing slopes in the region. Its deep powder snow and breathtaking views are perfect for experienced skiers.
- Gulmarg Valley Slopes: If you consider yourself an intermediate or a beginner skier, the slopes around gulmarg’s main valley offer gentle gradients that are ideal for learning the basics or honing your technique.
Skiing Instructions and Gear Rental
As a beginner, skiing can be tough, but not to worry; Gulmarg has a range of ski schools that teach skiing professionally. Instructors will teach you everything you need to know regarding skiing while you have a great time. You can always find local shops that have skiing equipment for rent, such as snowboards, skis, helmets, boots, and other necessary items so you will not need to stress about having the equipment beforehand.
Skiing for Experts
If you have a bit more experience in skiing, you will love the off-piste skiing reservations that Gulmarg has. The slopes here are often untouched, and you can enjoy skiing in pristine powder snow, far from the crowds. Since the terrain is quite challenging, mountain guides or instructors are recommended for off-piste skiing in Gulmarg due to the remote location.
An Alternative to Skiing: Snowboarding
Gulmarg is well known for other activities as well, and snowboarding tends to be one of the favorites for most people due to the moderate slope ranges that are great both for newcomers and seasoned snowboarders alike.
The stunning views coupled with the snow might be a perfect combination for snowboarding in Gulmarg. To get the most out of snowboarding, go to the upper slopes for an adrenaline rush and carving in the powdered snow.
If you wish to explore Gulmarg’s beauty while staying active, winter trekking or snowshoeing is a great choice. In case you do not want something so fast-paced, you can slowly stroll through the pristine forests, meadows, and frozen lakes of Gulmarg.
Popular snowshoeing routes include pathways located in the dense pine forests, alongside frozen streams, and across meadows filled with snow. There are also various locations to go snowshoeing with their own unique characteristics. Renting snowshoes is possible, and with that you can discover routes at your own pace.
Trekking
Trekking to Alpather lake through the snow-covered terrain really is a unforgettable experience. It contains breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys surrounding your view. On the base of the Apharwat Peak lies the wondrous Alpather Lake which really is the cherry on top of all the views during winter.
Additional Winter Trekking Routes
Gulmarg also boasts other trekking routes in the vicinity, which take you through the mountains, intricate woodlands, and breathtaking snowfields. The Khilanmarg Trek and Ferozepur Nala Trek as treks set for winter are also quite popular in this region.
Sledding and Tobogganing: Enjoyable Activities for the Entire Family
For families with children or identifying a stress-free snow activity, sledding and tobogganing are strongly suggested. These classic winter activities are extremely enjoyable and straightforward to grasp. You can rent a sledge or toboggan and make your way to the level stretches of land to enjoy the winter landscape.
Tobogganing is a fantastic way to introduce young children to the enchanting world of snow as the activity promises lots of cheer. Unlike the Khilanmarg Trek, the exquisite setting of gulmarg makes this one of the most famous activities for families during winter and picturesque backdrop to enjoy.
Ice Skating on Frozen Lakes: A Unique Experience
Skating on frozen lakes in Gulmarg is a breathtaking sight for sore eyes and if you tend to want something different during the winter then this is for you. The chill of winter causes constriction of several lakes including the renowned Alpather Lake where the water freezes creating a surface resembling glass which is ideal for skating. The snow-capped mountains make glacier ice skating surreal and unparalleled bliss to the mind. Although skating on lakes is exhilarating, the first consideration would be to check if the ice is thick enough to carry your weight. It is strongly advised to take a local expert or a guide with you so that you are well informed and safe.
Snowmobiling: An Adventure on the Snow
Visitors looking for an extreme boost to their adrenaline can now turn to snowmobiling to traverse troughs and hilly areas in Gulmarg. Snowmobilers with varying degrees of expertise will appreciate snowmobile rides designed for novices and advanced riders alike which are accessible throughout the region. Other guided tours take you through some of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes. Snowmobiling allows for enhanced enjoyment while traversing the picturesque and stunning meadows, forests, and valleys.
Escorted Snowmobile Tours
Snowmobile tours give you the unique opportunity to enjoy the untouched wilderness of Gulmarg on high snow-covered mountains, which are normally hard to reach by foot. These tours are safe and extremely enjoyable. The experienced guides look after the snowmobiles so that everything goes smoothly. Traveling through dense forests and across vast open areas of snow is an astonishing opportunity for anyone who loves being on the edge.
Gondola Ride: Sweeping Views Over the Clouds
One of the highest cable cars in the world, The Gulmarg Gondola takes you to a jaw dropping altitude of 3,979 meters (13,050 feet) on the Apharwat Peak. The mountains, the meadows of Gulmarg as well as the valley covered with snow looks surreal from the gondola which offers a panoramic view of everything.
The gondola ride offers views of ski slopes that are beyond description. From a skier’s perspective not only the colonized Alps, but also everything southeast of the Alps was totally breathtaking. For a non-skier, the ride serves as a magnificent viewpoint to experience Gunmarg from above.
Winter Photography: Capture the Essence of Winter
For photography lovers, Gulmarg is winter wonderland. Everything gets blanketed with a splendor of white snow and the mountain pines and frozen lakes offer a plethora of picture-perfect chances to capture some stunning snaps. Be it the grandeur of a skier riding down a gleaming slope, the falling of snowflakes onto the snow-covered mountains or the vast heaps of snow covering mountains, Gulmarg has it all, which offers stunning clicks.
A lot of tourists who come to visit gulmarg spend a lot of their winter break capturing the stunning scenery the place offers from the snow capped meadows to far away distant snow topped hills and mountains. The untouched natural beauty and the pristine silence offer tranquility that even the serenity seekers would admire and landscape photographers would die for.
Local Cuisine: Warm Up with Traditional Kashmiri Dishes
After an exhilarating day full of activities in the snow, one of the best ways to warm up is by digging into the flavorful Kashmiri cuisine. The food offered in gulmarg definitely differs from what is traditionally found in Jammu as it is deeply inspired by the Kashmiri culture.
Kashmiri Dishes
- Rogan Josh: One of Kashmiri’s most famous dishes, is a mutton preparation cooked alongside tantalizing spices.
- Gushtaba: Lamb meat soaked in a thick and hot gravy served along with rice, is the perfect meat lovers dish.
- Kahwa: A winter warmer and traditional Kashmiri tea with saffron, almonds, and spices.
Other Kashmiri dishes worth sampling are Yakhni (yogurt mutton curry) and Modur Pulao (sweet rice).
Accommodation in Gulmarg: Where to Stay
From luxury resorts to mid-range guesthouses, Gulmarg has a wide scope of accommodation suiting all needs and pockets. No matter if you are after high-end comfort with a cosmopolitan feel or modest, homey hospitality, there is something for everyone.
Luxury Hotels
- The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa: A luxury resort excellent for snow-covered Gulmarg views. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is regarded as one of the best places to stay in Gulmarg because of its lavish comfort and world-class services.
- Grand Mumtaz Hotel: A Kashmiri heritage hotel upgraded into a luxurious modern venue. A great place combining modern comforts and traditional hospitality.
Mid-Range and Budget Options
- Hotel Highland Park: Conveniently close to the skiing slopes, this mid-range hotel offers good facilities.
- The Pine Palace: This is an inexpensive accommodation option for the budget-minded who are after a decent level of comfort.
Conclusion: The Latest Winter Escape
Gulmarg is not only a tourist attraction but also an exotic region where one can experience the stunning natural beauty. It offers an exciting range of winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and trekking. Moreover, the culinary delights of Kashmiri cuisine along with gondola rides, ice skating, and sledding make Gulmarg one of the most popular places to experience winter in the Himalayas.
Gulmarg offers the finest facilities along with breathtaking views and pleasant service, ensuring that its guests experience winter like never before. So be ready for one of the best trips of your life by grabbing your bags and snow gear for Gulmarg, the jewel of Kashmir.
How to book Kashmir tour online?
Contact Brown Chinar at +91 6005039532/+91 9906188874 or Email us at brownchinartourtravels@gmail.com
People Also Ask
What is the best time to visit Gulmarg for winter activities?
The best time to visit Gulmarg for winter activities is from December to February when the region experiences heavy snowfall, making it ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-based activities. March is also a great time to visit, though the snowfall is slightly less intense.
How can I reach Gulmarg during the winter season?
Gulmarg can be reached via air, road, or train. The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, around 50 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or drive to Gulmarg. Alternatively, you can take a train to Jammu and then travel to Gulmarg by road.
Is skiing in Gulmarg suitable for beginners?
Yes, Gulmarg offers slopes suitable for all skill levels. There are dedicated areas for beginners with gentle slopes where you can learn skiing with professional instructors, as well as more challenging slopes for advanced skiers.
Where can I rent skiing equipment in Gulmarg?
You can rent skiing equipment such as skis, boots, and helmets at various local rental shops in Gulmarg. There are also ski schools where you can rent gear along with booking lessons.
What are the best skiing slopes in Gulmarg?
The best skiing slopes in Gulmarg are located on Apharwat Peak, offering deep powder snow. Apharwat Peak has slopes for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly runs to off-piste terrain for advanced skiers.
Can I go snowboarding in Gulmarg?
Yes, Gulmarg is a popular destination for snowboarding. The slopes and deep powder snow offer excellent conditions for both beginners and experienced snowboarders to enjoy the sport.
Are there guided snowmobile tours in Gulmarg?
Yes, guided snowmobile tours are available in Gulmarg. These tours allow you to explore the snow-covered landscape, including remote and high-altitude areas, providing an adrenaline rush while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
How cold does it get in Gulmarg during winter?
During the winter months (December to February), the temperature in Gulmarg can drop to as low as -10°C, especially at night. Daytime temperatures range between -5°C and 5°C, making it a perfect winter destination for snow lovers.
What other winter activities can I do in Gulmarg besides skiing?
Apart from skiing and snowboarding, Gulmarg offers a wide range of winter activities such as snowshoeing, winter trekking, ice skating on frozen lakes, tobogganing, sledding, and taking scenic gondola rides up Apharwat Peak.
Is there any place for ice skating in Gulmarg?
Yes, you can enjoy ice skating on frozen lakes in Gulmarg, such as Alpather Lake, which freezes over during the winter months. Ice skating in such a beautiful, tranquil environment is a unique experience.
Are there snowshoeing trails in Gulmarg?
Yes, Gulmarg offers several snowshoeing trails through dense forests and across snow-covered meadows. These trails are perfect for those who prefer exploring the winter landscape at a more relaxed pace.
How long is the Gondola ride in Gulmarg?
The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world. The ride takes you to Apharwat Peak at an altitude of 3,979 meters (13,050 feet) and offers panoramic views of the snow-covered meadows and surrounding mountains. The total ride time is approximately 10-15 minutes each way.
Can I hire a private instructor for skiing in Gulmarg?
Yes, private skiing instructors are available in Gulmarg. You can hire a personal instructor to help you improve your skiing skills, whether you are a beginner or an advanced skier.
What is the cost of skiing lessons in Gulmarg?
The cost of skiing lessons in Gulmarg varies depending on the instructor, duration, and type of lesson (group or private). On average, skiing lessons can range from INR 1500 to INR 4000 per day for beginners, with private lessons costing more.
How do I get to Alpather Lake in winter?
To reach Alpather Lake in winter, you can either go on a winter trek through snow-covered terrain or take a Gondola ride to the upper station and trek from there. The lake freezes in winter, creating a spectacular sight.
Is there snow in Gulmarg during March?
Yes, there is still snow in Gulmarg during March, although the snowfall begins to decrease in intensity. The slopes remain open for skiing, and the snow-covered landscapes are still a major draw for visitors.
Can I go to Gulmarg in winter if I’m not interested in skiing?
Absolutely! Gulmarg is not just for skiers and snowboarders. You can enjoy other winter activities such as snowshoeing, winter trekking, ice skating, and snowmobiling. The picturesque views and peaceful environment make it a great destination for relaxation and photography.
Is Gulmarg safe for families with children?
Yes, Gulmarg is a family-friendly destination. Many activities, such as sledding, tobogganing, and ice skating, are suitable for children. The scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings also provide a perfect atmosphere for families to bond and enjoy the winter holiday.
What type of clothing should I pack for Gulmarg in winter?
When visiting Gulmarg in winter, pack warm clothing, including insulated jackets, thermals, gloves, scarves, and hats. Waterproof boots and snow gear are essential for activities like skiing and snowboarding. Don’t forget to pack sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from the bright snow.
Are there any local Kashmiri dishes to try in Gulmarg?
Yes, Gulmarg offers an excellent variety of Kashmiri cuisine. Some must-try dishes include Rogan Josh (spicy lamb curry), Gushtaba (meatballs), Yakhni (yogurt-based mutton curry), and Kahwa (traditional Kashmiri tea). The cuisine is flavorful and perfect for warming up after a day in the cold.
How long does it take to reach Gulmarg from Srinagar by road?
It takes approximately 2-3 hours to reach Gulmarg from Srinagar by road. The 51 km drive is scenic but can be challenging during the winter months due to snow and slippery roads. It is recommended to travel in a 4×4 vehicle during this time.
Can I visit Gulmarg in the summer?
While this blog is focused on winter activities, Gulmarg is also a great destination in the summer. The meadows are covered with vibrant wildflowers, and visitors can enjoy activities like trekking, golfing, and nature walks. However, for winter-specific activities, the cold months are ideal.
Are there any medical facilities in Gulmarg?
Yes, there are medical facilities in Gulmarg, including a hospital and several clinics. However, it’s always a good idea to carry your own basic medical supplies, especially if you’re planning to go to remote areas.
Are there any ATMs in Gulmarg?
Yes, there are a few ATMs in Gulmarg, but it is advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially if you’re planning to visit more remote areas where ATMs may not be readily available.
What kind of accommodation options are available in Gulmarg?
Gulmarg offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts like The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa to mid-range hotels like Hotel Highland Park and budget-friendly guesthouses. Most accommodations are equipped with all necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
Is there Wi-Fi available in Gulmarg?
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and resorts in Gulmarg, though the speed and reliability may vary, especially in more remote areas. Be prepared for intermittent or slow connections.
Are there any guided tours available in Gulmarg?
Yes, there are several guided tour options available in Gulmarg, including skiing lessons, snowboarding tours, winter trekking, and sightseeing tours. These tours are led by local experts who can help you explore the region’s hidden gems safely.
Can I take my pets to Gulmarg in winter?
While pets are generally welcome in most hotels and resorts in Gulmarg, it’s always a good idea to check with your accommodation in advance. The cold weather and snowy conditions may be challenging for some pets, so ensure they are well-prepared for the winter conditions.
Are there any local handicrafts I can buy in Gulmarg?
Yes, Gulmarg offers a variety of local Kashmiri handicrafts, including handwoven woolen shawls, carpets, Pashmina wool, and papier-mâché items. These make for perfect souvenirs or gifts and can be found in local markets and shops.
