7 Top Places To Visit In Gulmarg 2024

Hello, travellers. Summer vacation is almost here! Are you all set and excited? Planning the perfect summer places to visit in Gulmarg. Gulmarg’s name translates to “meadow of flowers” in Kashmiri, and it lives up to its name in the summer months when the meadows burst into bloom with colourful wildflowers. In the winter, Gulmarg is transformed into a winter wonderland, with its slopes covered in snow and attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.

7 Top Places To Visit In Gulmarg 

Check out this list if you’re wondering which are the popular sights in Gulmarg. Now that you have all the essential information, let’s explore the best places to visit in and around Gulmarg. Check it out and explore 7 Top Places To Visit In Gulmarg 

1. Gulmarg Gondola
2. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
3. Strawberry Valley
4. Seven Springs
5. Drung Waterfall
6. Apharwat Peak
7. Ningle Nallah

Gulmarg Gondola

The Gulmarg Gondola is a two-stage cable car system in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is claimed to be the second-longest and second-highest cable car in the world, after the Mi Teleférico in Bolivia and the cable car at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The gondola lift ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Kongdoori Mountain, a shoulder of nearby Apharwat Peak. The ropeway project is an exciting collaboration between the Jammu and Kashmir government and the friendly folks over at the French firm Pomagalski.  The Gulmarg Gondola ride is probably the one thing that tops the list of places to visit in Gulmarg.

Gulmarg Gondola Ride, Overview

• Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Entry Fee: Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdoori): INR 944 for a return ticket
  • Entry Fee: Phase 2 (Kongdoori to Apharwat): INR 2070 for a return ticket
• Required Time: 2-3 Hours
• Gulmarg to Gondola Distance: 900 Meters, a 10-Minute stroll
• Chair Lift: INR 300 For Adults; Children Under 11 Not Permitted
• Restricted Items: Pets, Large Bags, and Inflammable Items
• Best Time To Visit: March and June 

Detailed information About The Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Experience the thrill of riding Gulmarg Gondola, the second highest and second longest cable car system in the world.

• Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Line of Control (LOC) and the Nanda Devi and Pir Panjal Ranges.
• Take in the beauty of the Harmukh Range and Nanga Parbat from the summit of Apharwat Mountain.
• Enjoy horseback riding and skiing at 3,100 metres with family and friends.
• Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee to relax from the cold weather.
• About 5 kilometres are covered in the two phases of the ride

How to Reach 

From Srinagar:

• Taxi: This is the most convenient and comfortable option, especially if you have luggage. Taxis are readily available from Srinagar Airport or downtown. The ride to Gulmarg takes about an hour. Expect to pay around INR 2000 – INR 3000 for a taxi ride from Srinagar to Gulmarg.
• Bus: A more budget-friendly option is to take a bus from Srinagar to Gulmarg. The journey takes a little longer than a taxi, but it’s a great way to see the local scenery. Buses can be boarded from the main bus stand in Srinagar. bus fare is around INR 150 – INR 200.
• Shared Cab: Shared cabs are a common and affordable way to travel in Kashmir. You can find shared cabs headed to Gulmarg from various points in Srinagar. Shared cabs typically cost around INR 100 – INR 150 per seat.

At Gulmarg:

• Taxi/Pony: Once you arrive in Gulmarg, you can take a taxi or a pony ride to reach the Gondola base station. Taxis are readily available at the main taxi stand, while pony rides can be found near the market area. A taxi ride from Gulmarg town to the Gondola base station will cost around INR 100 – INR 150, while a pony ride will cost around INR 200 – INR 300 per person.
• Walk: The walk from Gulmarg town to the Gondola base station is around 2 kilometres and takes about 30 minutes. It’s a pleasant walk along a scenic route, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg for wildlife lovers, giving you a chance to observe biodiversity in its purest form: exotic flora, fauna, and avifauna. In this reserve, located between 2,400 and 4,300 metres above sea level, you can take pictures of animals in their different moods and moments.

There are numerous species of flora, fauna, and birds living in this 180-square-kilometre biosphere reserve, including some very rare ones. About 48 km from Srinagar, it is known for its musk deer. As you go deeper into the forest, you will see a wide variety of avifauna, including upland birds and pheasants, as well as brown bears, leopards, hanguls, serows, black bears, and red foxes. 

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve Overview

• Entry Fee: Free
• Required Time:3-4 Hours.
• Timings:10:00 AM to 4:00 PM,
• Best Time To Visit: March and May.

Detailed information About The Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

• Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is a cool place in India, about 30 miles from Srinagar. The 112 square miles are like a giant park in the mountains. Imagine mountains reaching almost three miles high!
• The park isn’t empty! The trees are tall and pointy (conifers). The ground is also covered with flowers and plants. Musk deer, hangul (a type of deer), and even bears live here. Seeing pheasants, eagles, and vultures here is a birder’s delight.
• There is a worldwide programme to protect the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves is this programme.
• Gujjars and Bakerwals have lived in this area for centuries. Their way of life goes hand-in-hand with protecting the environment.
• Do you love adventure? There are hiking trails in the mountains, gondola rides, and even skiing in the winter!
• Spring is a beautiful time of year, with all the flowers blooming. The summer is a good time to explore. Snow makes winter magical, perfect for skiing or snowboarding.
• Don’t forget to be nice to the park! Don’t litter, stay on the trails, and only use eco-friendly products.

How to Reach Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Gulmarg is a popular tourist destination, and connectivity is good. Here’s how you can reach Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve:

• By Air: Gulmarg is 53 kilometres from Srinagar International Airport (SXR), which is the closest airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or prepaid cab to reach Gulmarg. The taxi fare would typically range from ₹1500 to ₹2000.
  
• By Road: Gulmarg is well-connected by road to major cities in Jammu and Kashmir. If you’re coming from Srinagar, it’s a scenic 2-hour drive along NH 1A. You can either take your vehicle or opt for state-run buses or taxis.

Strawberry Valley

Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg, is a hidden gem located in Gulmarg, a popular hill station in Kashmir, India. With rolling green meadows covered with bright red strawberry farms, Strawberry Valley is one of the lesser-known attractions in Gulmarg. When the fruits are at their ripest and it is almost time for harvest, summer is the best time to visit the plantations. Gulmarg’s Strawberry Valley is one of the top places to visit in Gulmarg. 

There is nothing like the sight of verdant green meadows, bright red fruits dotting the area and clear blue skies above, straight out of a picture book. Strawberry Valley in Gulmarg is a little off the beaten path, situated “right behind a hill,” as locals would point out. 

Overview of  Strawberry Valley 

• Entry Fee: Free
• Required Time: 1-2 Hours 
• Timings: 09 AM to 05 PM
• Best Time To Visit: March to July

Detailed information About The Strawberry Valley 

• The valley’s namesake, these fields bursting with ripe red strawberries during the harvest season, are a visual treat and a source of delightful picking experiences.
• The majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas provide a breathtaking backdrop to the valley.
• Take a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in Asia, for breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
• For golf enthusiasts, the world’s highest green golf course awaits at Gulmarg.
• During winter, Gulmarg transforms into a winter wonderland, and the Afirwat Ski Resort is a haven for skiing enthusiasts.
• Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you’re visiting during the summer. If you plan on picking strawberries, bring a basket or container.

How To Reach

• Flight: The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar International Airport (SXR). From major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, you can find regular flights to Srinagar. Taxis and prepaid cabs are readily available from the airport to take you to Gulmarg, with fares ranging from ₹2500 to ₹4000 depending on the vehicle type and distance travelled (around 58 kilometres).

• Horse Ride: A popular option, especially for families with children, is to hire a pony to take you to Strawberry Valley. Prices are negotiable but expect to pay around ₹200-₹300 per person for a round trip. Be sure to negotiate the price beforehand and avoid rides offered by aggressive guides who might inflate prices.

• Taxi: While not the most common option, you might be able to find a taxi willing to take you up to Strawberry Valley. This would be the most expensive option, likely costing ₹500 or more for a round trip.

Seven Springs

Seven Springs is a natural spring located near Kongdoori in Gulmarg. While not as grand as some other sights in Gulmarg, it offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The name “Seven Springs” comes from the seven streams of water that flow from the spring. The water from these springs is said to never freeze, even in the winter. You can visit Seven Springs while travelling to the Kongdoori area or Apharwat Peak via the Gulmarg Gondola. One of the most popular places to visit in Gulmarg is the Seven Springs.

Seven Springs Overview

• Entry Fee: Free
• Required Time:2-3 Hours
• Timings:9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• Best Time To Visit: May to September 

Detailed information About Seven Springs 

• Seven Springs is a large stream with seven outlets of water.
• Experience Gulmarg’s adventures and enjoy majestic views of natural landscapes. What’s cool is that from Seven Springs, you can catch stunning views of both the Srinagar and Gulmarg valleys!
• The springs are located on a hillock in Kongdori and the water never freezes
•  Apharwat Mountain’s Gondola cable ride brings you to Seven Springs
• You will need about 1 to 2 hours to explore the areas
• You can enjoy a sumptuous meal or simply sip chai at several small eateries and dhabas around the place.

How To Reach

• Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the closest airport to Gulmarg, located around 56 km away. Once you’re at the airport, you have the option to either grab a taxi or go for a prepaid cab to get to Gulmarg. Expect to pay around ₹1500-₹2500 for a taxi, depending on the vehicle type and bargaining.

Reaching Seven Springs:

• Gondola Ride: The most convenient way to reach Seven Springs is by taking the Gulmarg Gondola. This offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Gondola has two phases:
  • Phase 1: Takes you on a friendly journey from Gulmarg to Kungdoori.
  • Phase 2: Takes you further up to Apharwat Peak. Seven Springs is located near Kungdoori, so you only need to take Phase 1 of the Gondola ride.

Taxi (Srinagar Airport – Gulmarg): ₹1500 – ₹2500

Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1 – One way): ₹700 (Adult) or ₹400 (Child)

Drung Waterfall

Drung Waterfall is a cascading waterfall situated amidst majestic mountains in Tangmarg, a tehsil of Gulmarg, Baramulla district, Kashmir, India. The waterfall is a popular tourist places to visit in Gulmarg. Especially during the winter months when it freezes completely, creating a captivating icy spectacle. Drung Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gulmarg’s Tangmarg tehsil. As the temperature dips below zero degrees in the winter months, the water of the fall freezes completely. It is impossible to miss the sight of the Drung Waterfall in its frozen form, which makes it a must-see in this area

Drung Waterfall overview

• Entry Fee: Free
• Required Time:3-4 Hours
• Timings: Visit During Daylight
• Best Time To Visit: June to August

Detailed information About Drung Waterfall

• The village of Drung is located in the Tangmarg Tehsil of Gulmarg, about 50 kilometres from Srinagar’s capital
• The waterfalls are accessible year-round and look spectacular in both summer and winter.
• In winter, as the temperatures fall extremely low, the water freezes as it falls, and tourists flock to see the frozen waterfalls
• Shacks around the place serve hot beverages and snacks
• You can also visit a small temple nearby
• There is no way to forget the sight of Drung’s towering waterfalls that merge with water flowing from the magnificent glaciers.
• Drung’s meandering roads twist and turn between gorgeous pine forests and old mud houses on the drive to the waterfalls.

How To Reach

Reaching Gulmarg or Tangmarg:

• Flight: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport (SXR). From major Indian cities, you’ll find flights to Srinagar. From the airport, take a taxi or prepaid cab to Gulmarg (around 58 km) or Tangmarg (around 28 km). Expect to pay ₹1800-₹4000 for a taxi to Gulmarg, depending on the vehicle type and distance travelled.
  
• Road: If you’re already in Kashmir, you can take a taxi or car hire from Srinagar to Gulmarg or Tangmarg. The journey to Gulmarg takes about 2 hours and starts around ₹1800, depending on the type of vehicle. Tangmarg would be slightly closer.

Reaching Drung Waterfall from Gulmarg or Tangmarg (3 km):

There are a few ways to get from Gulmarg/Tangmarg to Drung Waterfall, each with varying costs:

• Taxi: This option offers the greatest convenience but comes at the highest cost. Expect to pay around ₹500-₹700 for a round-trip taxi ride from either Gulmarg or Tangmarg.
  
• Walking: The most budget-friendly option is to walk to the waterfall. The trail is fairly easy and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Allow around 1-1.5 hours for the walk from Tangmarg. (Free)
  
• ATV Ride (Winter Only): During winter, some vendors might offer ATV rides to the waterfall in the snow. This can be a fun option, but negotiate the price beforehand as there might not be a standard fare.

Apharwat Peak

Apharwat Peak contributes significantly to the beauty of Gulmarg. Pakistan borders the peak, which is strategically located close to the Line of Control. During most parts of the year, it is covered in deep snow, making it a must-visit tourist destination. Most of the winter sports in Gulmarg are also organised here. The peak receives heavy snowfall and remains snow-covered for most of the year, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. You can go skiing, snowboarding, and skiing here. The views from the peak are stunning, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding mountains. Apharwat Peak is one of the most popular places to visit in Gulmarg. 

Apharwat Peak Overview

• Entry Fee: Free
• Required Time:2-3 Hours
• Timings:10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• Best Time To Visit: April-May and September-October

Detailed information About Apharwat Peak

• Gulmarg’s Apharwat Peak is a well-known tourist attraction and is located 14,500 feet above sea level.
• Snowfalls in the region are very heavy, which keeps the area covered in snow throughout the year. In this way, it is an ideal choice for skiers from all over the country.
• At a distance of 13km from Gulmarg, it is located. Gondola cable cars are the fastest and most convenient way to cover the distance.
• There are two phases to the cable car ride, one from Gulmarg to Kungdoor and the other from Kongdori to Apharwat. You can book tickets online or at the venue.
• If the weather is extremely harsh, you may have to skip the plan for the day if you want to reach the peak.
• The LOC is only a few kilometres from Apharwat, and you can hire a human sledge if you wish to go higher

How To Reach 

Reaching Apharwat Peak is quite straightforward. The most scenic and convenient way to get there is via the Gulmarg Gondola, a two-phase cable car ride. Here’s a breakdown:

Reaching Gulmarg Gondola

• You can hire a private cab from Srinagar or any nearby town to reach the base of the Gulmarg Gondola. During winters, when snowfall is heavy, chain taxis become mandatory from Tangmarg, a town located near Gulmarg.

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

• The Gondola ride itself is a two-phase affair:
  • Phase 1: This phase takes you from Gulmarg to Kongdoori.
  • Phase 2: This phase takes you from Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak, which is the final stop.

Costs

• There’s no entry fee to access Apharwat Peak itself.
• The cost you incur is for the Gondola ride. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate gondola ticket prices (subject to change):
  • Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdoori): ₹ 400 (one way) or ₹ 700 (round trip)
  • Phase 2 (Kongdoori to Apharwat): ₹ 800 (one way) or ₹ 1200 (round trip)

Ningle Nallah

One of the most popular places to visit in Gulmarg is Ningle Nallah, a beautiful mountain stream surrounded with snow-covered mountains. There are two main sources of water for the stream, which flows about 10 kilometres from Gulmarg in Baramulla.

Ningle Nallah is a mountain stream with crystal clear, freezing water that originates in the Apharwat Peak and the Alpather Lake. A stunning setting brings out the beauty of the stream, nestled among snow-capped mountains and vibrant green pastures. The town is located in the Baramulla district of Kashmir, about 10 kilometres from Gulmarg. 

Ningle Nallah Overview

• Entry Fee: Free
• Required Time:2-3 Hours
• Timings: Visit During Daylight Hours
• Best Time To Visit: June-August

Detailed information About Ningle Nallah

• There are two sources of water for the stream: the melting of ice on Apharwat Peak and the mountain lake, Alpather, which is the main reservoir
• After winding its way through meadows and mountain trails, the stream confluences with the bigger River Jhelum near Sopore
• The site is popular for family picnics and camping in nearby meadows. It is also ideal for trekkers to test their skills on the challenging slopes and uneven terrain of the surrounding area
• You can fish for trout at the stream and even come across a small waterfall if you venture further up
• Historically, this was also a favourite place among royalty in Gulmarg, as kings would have their outings near the cool waterside. During the British regime, this was one of the summer escapades of officers who came to India to rule.

How To Reach 

There are two main ways to reach Ningle Nallah from Gulmarg:

• By car: This is the most convenient option, especially if you have a group or luggage. You can hire a taxi from the main taxi stand in Gulmarg. The distance is approximately 10 kilometres, and the ride should take about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Expect to pay around ₹300 – ₹500 for a one-way trip, depending on negotiation and season.
• By foot: Ningle Nallah is a popular walking route for tourists and locals alike. The path is meticulously kept and provides breathtaking vistas of the encircling mountains. The walk is about 10 kilometres (round trip), and it should take you 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace. This is a great option for those who want to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Gulmarg famous for?

Gulmarg is famous for its scenic beauty, meadows filled with flowers, and world-famous gondola ride. It’s also a favourite spot for skiing in the winter!

What are the top places to visit in Gulmarg?

• Apharwat Peak (highest point accessible by gondola)
• Gulmarg Meadows
• Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
• Baba Patrick Shrine
• Maharani Temple
• Golf Course (highest green in the world)
• Alpather Lake
• Strawberry Valley
• Shankar Gompa Monastery

What is the currency used in Gulmarg?

The Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency used in Gulmarg.

What is the best way to experience the culture of Gulmarg?

Interact with locals, try Kashmiri cuisine, and visit historical sites like shrines and temples.

What are some responsible tourism practices to follow in Gulmarg?

Respect the local culture, dispose of waste properly, and avoid harming the environment.