Gulmarg

Discover India's closest rendition of a ski resort amidst the pine-fringed beauty of Gulmarg. Nestled at an elevation of 2730 meters above sea level, Gulmarg truly earns its title of the Meadow of Flowers. Our Kashmir tour packages invite you to explore this picturesque destination, where the landscape is adorned by the 1890s Anglican Church of St Mary’s, perched on a solitary hillock. Accessible via a secluded road that connects the 1965 neo-colonial style Hotel Highlands Park to the historic Gulmarg Golf Club, the visual allure of Gulmarg is complemented by these iconic landmarks. Yet, the primary allure of Gulmarg extends beyond its scenic charm. Uncover the key reasons to visit Gulmarg and experience the unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make it a must-visit destination.

You must visit Gulmarg to explore the backing stands of the splendid mature pines traversing you to the elevation of bald Mt Afarwat. To make it to the mountain, you can either trek on foot or take help from ponies at a meager amount of INR 300 per hour. However, the easiest way out is using the two-stage gondola cable car that flutters you to 3747m. The impressive clear day views from the top are worth the ride. During this ride, you’ll encompass Nanga Parbat which is the world’s ninth highest mountain peak located across Pakistan.

Gulmarg endeavors you with more than 40 choices of accommodation each of them beautiful in their very way. In the months of July, an average room fare (for a night) will be around INR 2000 for the old-looking stays and INR 5000 for newer stays. Prices of the hotels see a drop of 20% in the winter season and a further dramatic drop when there is civil unrest in Srinagar or during the less popular months like September. 

Places to Visit in Gulmarg

1. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: The Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a vast range of flora, fauna, and avifauna, is one of the most popular tourist spots in Gulmarg Tourism for nature aficionados. Biodiversity is at its peak in this area, and the conifers and verdant plants give the refuge a lovely aspect. This gives you a lot of chances to picture the creatures in their natural habitat. The endangered Musk Deer is the reserve's main draw.

Other animal species include Hangul, Leopard, Brown Bear, Red Fox, and Black Bear. The biosphere reserve will please ornithologists. Many indigenous and migratory species can be found in the area, including the Snow Cock, Kashmir Roller, Blue Rock Pigeon Monal, Griffon Vulture, and Jungle Crow. 

Location: Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Price:  INR 500 Per Person

2. Gulmarg Children’s Park: Despite the fact that this park is dedicated to children, everyone who visits Gulmarg Children's Park leaves with a childish sense of satisfaction. Zorbing, Horseback riding, a game centre, and hot air ballooning are among the activities available at the world's highest children's park. Have a picnic with your family and take some amazing shots in one of the most beautiful places in Gulmarg.

Location: 396H+H2H, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

3. Strawberry Valley: Strawberry Field is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gulmarg , and it was once a favourite filming location for Bollywood films. To get to this pristine part of Gulmarg, visitors can either walk or take a pony ride. During the summer, fresh strawberries are ready to be picked and enjoyed. Pick fresh, juicy strawberries right from the trees in this vintage movie location from the past.

From April through September, come to Strawberry Valley for a picnic and to marvel at Mother Nature's beauty. In the winter, guided treks and equestrian excursions across the snowy paths are also available.

Location: Alva Farm Road, Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

Price: INR 30 Person

4. Ferozepur Nallah: This lovely alpine stream winds its way through the valley, tucked between the Chinamarg and Nurpur passes. Ferozepur Nallah, renowned for its trout fishing, is only 5 kilometres from Gulmarg town, making it an ideal walking option.

You have the option of bringing your own gear or renting fishing equipment. The glistening waters of the stream and the fresh trout combine to produce a fantastic outdoor experience. Local cafes and motels offer both budget-friendly and lavish lodging options in the surrounding area.

5. St. Mary’s Church: St. Mary's Church is one of the attractions of Gulmarg Tourism sightseeing tours. The church is renowned for its Victorian-style design, which was built in the early twentieth century and is located against a picturesque landscape of verdant meadows, tall alpine trees, and high snow-capped mountains. The grey stone walls and steep green roof with wooden trimmings give the building the appearance of a modest country chapel.

Rustic panoramas of the wild countryside, vast swaths of forest, a historic church, and hotels and huts all make for fantastic photo opportunities. For the same reason, not only religious travellers, but also photographers, have been drawn to the place.

Location:  Gulmarg Baramulla Jammu and Kashmir, 193403

6. Apharwat Peak: At an elevation of roughly 4,200 metres above sea level, the Apharwat Peak is one of the most beautiful places to explore in and around Gulmarg. It's on the second leg of the Gondola cable car ride from Gulmarg, and access to the top is weather-dependent.

For most of the year, the scenic top is covered in snow, and the snowclad slopes are one of India's best for winter sports like snowboarding and skiing. This summit is especially crucial because the Line of Control (LOC) is only a few kilometres away. It is without a doubt one of Gulmarg's most prominent tourist attractions.

Location:  Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, India

7. Ningle Nallah: Ningle Nallah, 10 kilometres from Gulmarg, is a mountain stream surrounded on all sides by snow-capped mountains and lush green pastures. The main source of Ningle Nallah is the water created by the melting of ice in Apharwat Peak and Alpather Lake. Picnics and camping are popular here. Ningli Nallah joins River Jhelum after travelling across mountains and valleys. This location is ideal for family outings, especially if children are present.

8. Seven Springs: From the summit of the Seven Springs, noted for its seven natural water outlets, you can see both the Srinagar and Gulmarg valleys. Gulmarg and Kongdori's Seven Springs are connected via the famous Gondola cable car excursion. This is one of the greatest ways to take in the natural beauty and adventure of Gulmarg.

9. Gulmarg Golf Course: The Gulmarg Golf Course is one of India's largest and tallest 18-hole golf courses, located on the lower slopes of Gulmarg. Though golfing began in this region in the early 1920s, it was not until 2011 that Omar Abdullah, the then-Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, officially opened the current structure. Gulmarg has steadily grown into one of the most well-known tourist sites in the region, as well as a popular golfing destination in India.

Location:  394R+2J7, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

Price: INR 800 for 9-hole, INR 1,200 for 18-hole

10. The Maharani Temple: Around a century ago, the shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, which can be seen from anywhere in Gulmarg, was built for the bride of Jammu and Kashmir's old Dogra emperors. The Imperial Temple, which sits on a mountain, is surrounded by a swarm of inexpensive hotels that offer outstanding service, real warmth, and authentic local cuisine. The trek up can be challenging in the winter, so go in the summer when the temple, as well as the gorgeous valley, are fully visible.

Location: Madhusudan Palli, Railway Colony, Rourkela, Odisha 769013

Things to Do in Gulmarg

1. Take a Ride on Gulmarg Gondola: A Gulmarg Gondola ride is a must-do in Gulmarg. It is a two-tiered funicular system that is the second tallest in the world. Visitors are taken to Kongdori, which is at an altitude of 2600m, and Apharwat Peak, which is at a height of 3747m, in the first phase. The view from the Gulmarg Gondola on a clear day is spectacular, with the magnificent Nanga Parbat visible.

Location:  District Baramulla, Alambal Road, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

2. Spend a day at Alpather Lake: On a day excursion from Gulmarg, Alpather Lake is a pleasant place to visit. At the foot of the twin Aparwath Peaks, the lake is about 13 kilometres from Gulmarg. Aparwath Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit, and it stays frozen until mid - May, with ice chunks floating in the lake even in June. It's an excellent day trip option because you may select between a pleasant trekking experience and a thrilling pony ride.

Location: Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

3. Try Your Hands at Golfing: If you're visiting Gulmarg in the summer, golfing is a great way to pass the time. Gulmarg is home to the world's second highest golf course, at an elevation of 2650 metres. The length of this 18-hole golf course is 7505 yards. There is also a three-hole learning academy on the golf course where beginners can learn some tips and methods. Gulmarg is a stunning destination, nestled among steep mountains and adorned with vibrant blooms. One of the best things to do in Gulmarg is playing golf amidst this breathtaking scenery, making for an unforgettable experience!

Location: 394R+2J7, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

Price: INR 800 for 9-hole, INR 1,200 for 18-hole

4. Seek the Blessings of Baba Reshi Shrine: Baba Reshi's 500-year-old shrine is a notable religious monument in Gulmarg. The Baba Reshi shrine, which is a must-see for people without children, honours Baba Payam Ud Din. This shrine is renowned not just for its religious significance, but also for its beautiful architecture. The Mughal and Persian influences in the building, as well as the wonderfully made woodwork inside the sanctuary, are the main draws for history buffs. Another highlight is the massive hall, which can hold up to 1000 people at once.

Location: Baramulla District, Jammu & Kashmir

5. Find Peace at St. Mary’s Church: St. Mary's is a modest christian church in Gulmarg's regal Victorian-style chapel. The chapel is known for its serene atmosphere and smeared artworks. Because the chapel is only accessible by foot, the journey can be a bit of a challenge.

Location: Gulmarg Baramulla Jammu and Kashmir, 193403

6. Explore Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: The Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is a fantastic place to see the region's varied flora and fauna. At an elevation of 2400 metres above sea level, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is 48 kilometres from Srinagar. Red Fox, Himalayan Musk Deer, Brown and Black Bear, and other wildlife can be found in the reserve.

Because it is the second home of many migratory birds, the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve may be considered a bird watcher's paradise. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be surrounded by a plethora of Himalayan species, and the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is the ideal location for it.

Location: Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, India

7. Visit Maharani Temple/Rani Temple: Near Gulmarg, this is renowned as Maharani Temple or Rani Temple because it is supposed to have been constructed by Queen Mohini Bai Sisodhia, the spouse of Maharaja Hari Singh, the erstwhile ruler of Kashmir. This red-rooftop temple, in addition to being a religious institution, is a major tourist destination in Gulmarg and was featured in the Bollywood film Aap Ki Kasam.

Location: Gulmarg Road Gulmarg Baramulla Jammu and Kashmir, 193403

8. Visit Khilanmarg: Khilanmarg is the most popular tourist destination near Gulmarg. It's a lovely little valley about 4 kilometres from Gulmarg. In the summer, when it is adorned with a variety of flowers, Khilanmarg is calm and serene. The trek to Khilanmarg is straightforward, and the picture perfect views of the famous Nanga Parbat mountain ranges and the twin peaks Nun and Kun are just remarkable to behold.

Location: Outer Gulmarg Rd, Gulmarg, 193403