About Igloo Cafe
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM –9:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Saturday & Sunday 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
Tickets: Free Entry (costs applicable for ordering)
Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station, about 60 km away
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR), about 57 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Srinagar Bus Stop is about 63 km away
Enjoy a meal at the ‘Snowglu’, the largest snow café in the world, which is situated in the stunning winter scenery of Gulmarg. Constructed completely out of snow and ice, the café is one of those places to visit in Gulmarg, where you can have a hot meal while taking in the elaborate ice sculptures. The Igloo cafes of Finland and Switzerland served as an inspiration to Syed Waseem Shah to build this cafe.
With space for up to 40 people, the café serves delicious Chinese, Indian, Kashmiri, and Continental items. Since its debut in 2022, it has grown to be a popular destination for tourists to enjoy a warm atmosphere inside this winter paradise.
You can just enter and have fun without making a reservation to savour sizzling food with hot kehwa. Igloo Café is a must-have in Gulmarg honeymoon packages for a memorable meal and unique experience, but it's only open during the winter months!
Must-Try Experiences
1. Unwind in an Igloo Made of Snow: Entering the Igloo Café, you are transported to a world composed completely of snow. This enchanted winter wonderland is made entirely of ice, including the walls, tables, and chairs. During your lunch, you are kept comfy by the soft sheepskin blankets that line the seating. Admiring the amazing ice carvings on the walls while enjoying a hot beverage is considered one of the best things to do in Gulmarg.
2. Try Authentic Kashmiri Food: The café serves a wide range of delicious meals, such as Chinese, Indian, and continental fare. However, if you want to experience Kashmir authentically, try regional delicacies like Dum Aloo, Gushtaba, and Rogan Josh. Savor a thick, creamy Noon Chai or a cup of Kashmiri Kahwa, an almond-laced tea brewed with saffron. Aside from its sizzling platters, the café is well-known for its hot soups that are ideal for the cold weather.
3. Observe the Creation of an Ice Café: If you go early in the season, you may be able to see the amazing process of the Igloo Café's creation in Gulmarg in December. Experts cut huge blocks of snow into the shape of a dome and then add small details to the walls and furniture. It is a rare and exciting event to watch them make this masterpiece out of ice.
Igloo Cafe Highlights
• Dine in the middle of a winter wonderland at Gulmarg's world-famous Igloo Café, housed inside a gigantic snow igloo.
• Relax in the biggest snow igloo café on the planet, which is 37.5 feet tall and is made of premium manufactured glass, imported from Austria.
• Enjoy sitting on snow chairs draped in sheepskin and try sizzling hot treats and a warm cup of Kashmiri kehwa.
• Admire the stunning snow carvings that cover the café's walls, turning the icy interior into a charming winter gallery.
• Sample delicious Kashmiri, Indian, and Continental fare while taking in scenic views of the snow-capped peaks.
How To Reach Igloo Cafe
By Road: Igloo Café Gulmarg is 800 metres from the Gulmarg city centre. Thus, it will take you about 3-4 minutes via Heevan Retreats Rd and Outer Gulmarg Rd whether you drive a car or bike.
Best Time To Visit Igloo Cafe
Peak Season (January to February)
Weather Insights: Heavy snowfall, perfect igloo experience.
Things to Do: Enjoy warm beverages, take snow selfies, and admire ice carvings.
Moderate Season (March to mid-April)
Weather Insights: Melting snow, cool atmosphere.
Things to Do: Relax inside the igloo, sip qehwa, enjoy scenic views.
Low Season (May to December)
Weather Insights: Clear skies and fresh air.
Things to Do: Dine in the glass igloo, soak in the mountain views.
Best Time of the Day: In the late afternoon, the igloo is warm and lit by golden light.
Best Day of the Week: Weekdays, if you prefer smaller crowds and a quiet experience.
Igloo Cafe Other Essential Information
Why Visit?
- There is an annual winter practice of building the café from scratch using expert techniques that can withstand harsh weather.
- In local legends, igloos are linked to the strength of people who live in the Himalayas, which makes the experience culturally rewarding.
Know Before You Go!
- Wear layers of warm clothing to remain warm inside the freezing igloo.
- Get there early to book a table since no reservations are taken in advance.
- Always have cash on hand since digital payments might not always be available.
- Try some traditional Kashmiri beverages like qehwa for a cosy, genuine experience.
- Avoid crowds and lengthy wait times by visiting during the week.
- Bring your camera along to capture breathtaking views of igloos and snowy interiors.
- Stay aware that there are time limits on where you can sit during busy times to make room for others.
- Check the weather report because access may be impacted by heavy snowfall.
- Be careful not to touch or scratch the delicate ice formations.
Tourism Board Alliances
Igloo Cafe FAQs
What kind of things are served in the Igloo Cafe?
There are several things served in the Igloo cafe, including breakfast, lunch, and evening snacks. Instead of being a location to stay overnight, this igloo is a café where you may stay and dine. In the evening, the café closes and reopens in the morning. There is only one other snow café in Kashmir.
Which is the largest igloo cafe in India?
The Igloo Cafe in Gulmarg, Kashmir, is the largest in India and has grown to be the main destination for tourists visiting the Valley. Located near the ski resort here, the Igloo Cafe is the largest in Asia and the first in the county. The cafe has been drawing significant crowds.
What is Gulmarg famous for?
Gulmarg is famous for its beautiful setting in the Himalayas and attracts thousands of tourists from different corners of the world. The region also houses one of the world's tallest cable car, the Gulmarg Gondola, which is one of the primary attractions in Gulmarg.
Which is the first glass igloo restaurant in India?
Glass Igloo Cafe in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, is India's first glass igloo restaurant. It is situated in the Baramulla neighborhood at the Kolahoi Green Heights Hotel.
Where are igloos found in India?
Indian towns of Manali and Gulmarg have igloos. Every year, these igloos are built during January and February and are crafted from pure snow.
What is the flight connectivity like to Srinagar, and are flights included in Thrillophilia’s travel packages?
Srinagar is well-connected to major Indian cities, making it an easily accessible destination for travelers seeking the charm of Kashmir. Whether you're flying from metros or tier-2 cities, you’ll find a mix of direct and connecting flights that ensure smooth travel.
Flight Connectivity to Srinagar
Direct Flights:
From Bangalore: IndiGo and other carriers operate direct flights throughout the day, offering flexibility and convenience.
From Mumbai: Travelers can fly directly to Srinagar with airlines such as IndiGo and Akasa Air.
Connecting Flights:
From Chennai: While there are no direct flights currently, seamless connections via Delhi or Mumbai make the journey hassle-free.
From Kolkata: Most flights from Kolkata to Srinagar involve a short layover in Delhi or Mumbai, ensuring good connectivity.
Kashmir Packages Including Flights
To make your trip even more convenient, Thrillophilia offers all-inclusive Kashmir tour packages from major cities across India—flights, stays, and sightseeing, all bundled into one seamless travel experience.
- From Bangalore: Thrillophilia provides Kashmir packages from Bangalore, which include flights and accommodations, allowing travellers to explore the beauty of Kashmir.
- From Mumbai: Thrillophilia offers Kashmir packages from Mumbai that include flights, accommodations, and guided tours to famous attractions.
- From Chennai: Travelers from Chennai can also book Thrillophilia's Kashmir packages, which include flights with layovers, accommodations, and sightseeing options.
- From Kolkata: Thrillophilia offers Kashmir packages from Kolkata, including connecting flights, comfortable stays, and guided tours to prominent destinations in Kashmir.
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