GULMARG
Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful places that can be visited in Kashmir valley. Gulmarg literally means “Meadow of flowers”. Gulmarg, is located at about 60 km from Srinagar in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir which is one and half hour journey by car. Gulmarg is situated at an altitude of 2730 meters above sea level. During the colonial rule over India, the British discovered the hill resort of Gulmarg in 1927. Gulmarg attracts various tourists due to its natural beauty. Gulmarg has attracted millions of tourists throughout its existence with the scenic beauty of the Himalayan Mountains in the back drop. A huge cup shaped meadow, lush and green with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cowbells, Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film and not surprisingly have been the venue of several films.
Gulmarg is also the Asia's only heli skiing resort. There are immense beauty and adventure activities that make Gulmarg much more than a cool hill resort. It is a convenient base for treks to the Himalayas and also offers various winter sports facilities to the tourists. Gulmarg can be visited throughout the year. The winter months from November to February are ideal for skiing. The natural slopes here are untouched and prove to be a challenge to ace skiers. Besides the scenic side to Gulmarg, winter time in Gulmarg is a season of festivities and winter sports. The months from May to September are pleasant to visit the place.
One of the main attractions in Gulmarg is the Gulmarg Gondola, the Highest Cable Car in the world.
The 1st phase of the Gondola takes tourists to the height of 8530 ft to Kongdori Station and the second stage of the Gondola goes up to the height of 12293 ft. Here, you can touch the skies and merge with the clouds. A ride on a gondola is a must for tourists visiting the town. It offers a panoramic view of Gulmarg, Kongdori, and Apharwat. The ride is divided into two phases: the first goes from Gulmarg to Kongdori and the second continues from Kongdori to Apharwat. Tourists can enjoy horse Riding and can go riding to the magnificent “Strawberry Valley” , “Leopards Valley” and ride up to “Kongdori” to see the frozen lake of “Al- Pathar”. Gulmarg is also home to one of the highest golf courses in the world.
Skiing on the slopes of snow covered hills of Gulmarg is a favorite activity among the visitors. It is a globally renowned ski destination and was ranked the fourth best ski destination in Asia by CNN International in 2011.
Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
Gulmarg experiences three different seasons in a year: Summer, Winter and Monsoon. Summer usually begins in March and continues till May. The hill station experiences a minimum of 13 degrees and a maximum of 29 degrees during this span of time. With the entire valley in its most gracious form, it attracts a large number of tourists during this period
Monsoon usually starts by the end of July and continues till late August. The region do not experience heavy rainfall and can also be visited during this season. On the other hand, winters in Gulmarg begins by November and continues till early March. The advent of the winters bring in an essence of wanderlust and also makes Gulmarg a paradise for all sorts of winter sports. Mostly known with the skiers, the Aphawat Peak is one of the most attractive points in Gulmarg. Located within a close proximity to the scenic Alpathar Lake, this peak is around 13km from the hill station and can be easily reached. While during the winters, the peak remains cosseted with an enchanting blanket of snow, summers bring in a different grandeur. During this part of the year, the peak showcases the many different shades of the nature and wears one of its best looks.
The best season for skiing in Gulmarg is from November to February. Asia's one of the most famous Heli-skiing resort is at Gulmarg, Kashmir. The skis, sticks, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, windproof jackets, goggles, caps and various other equipments and the Ski instructors are easily available in Gulmarg. The slopes in Gulmarg varies between 8,700 and 10,500 feet and are the highest skis in India. Neither does one need to exert oneself climbing up slopes. The gentlest slope of 200m is linked with a ski lift, which helps one to go up. When one graduates to intermediate level - which will happen after the first few days of practice, there are other slopes, longer and steeper, which are connected by chair lift. The longest ski run in Gulmarg is provided by the Gondola cable car, which allows a ski run of 2,213m.
Tourist attractions in Gulmarg
Following are Popular Sightseeing spots in Gulmarg:
Gondola Lift : .Built by the French company Pomagalski, the Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest in the world reaching 3,979 meters. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Gulmarg to a shoulder of nearby Mt. Apharwat Summit (12293 ft). A chair lift system connects Kongdoori with Mary’s shoulder for taking skiers to higher altitude. The high inflow of tourists has had an effect on the fragile eco-system of Gulmarg and activists have demanded tightened regulation to save the environment of the area from over tourism.
Gulmarg Golf Course:
More than a golf course, it is a dream destination for the golfers.
Whether a golfer or not, a visit to this remarkable site is a must in the Gulmarg itinerary. Measuring around 7,505 yards and perched at a height 2,650m, the golf course is tucked away amidst lush and evergreen thickets, this also makes it one of the most gorgeous courses in the world. There is also a green 18-hole golf course in Gulmarg which is also the world's highest golf course. One can also hire the golf sets from Gulmarg. The Golf Club offers short term memberships to the players. Gulmarg also offers some excellent opportunities for long walks .
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserves :
The reserve area is located at a distance of 48-km from Srinagar, to its southwest. It is famous for retaining several rare and endangered species such as the musk deer, and a rich and varied avifauna.
Ferozpore Nallah :
Reached from the Tangmarg road, or from the Outer Circular Walk, this mountain stream meets the Bahan River at a popular picnic spot known as 'waters meet'. The stream is reputed to be particularly good for trout fishing; it's about five km down the valley from Gulmarg but quite close to Tangmarg. The river can be reached by walking 3-km down the path from the gap near Tangmarg and then heading south through the forest, down a slope towards the stream.Near here there is a bridge which leads to the small waters meet picnic spot on the right bank. Looking south from Tangmarg the river can be traced up to its source close to the rugged peak known as Ferozpore or Shinmahinyu. On the right bank the stream branches, the left path leading to Tosa Maidan, while the right bends away towards the Gogaldara road at a second bridge, about 32-km upstream, and then leads away to the Ferozpore pass, Poonch and Kantar Nag.
Alpather Lake :
Beyond Khilanmarg, 13-km from Gulmarg at the foot of the twin 4, 511 metre Apharwat peaks, this lake is frozen until mid-June and even later in the year one can see lumps of ice floating in its cold waters. Alpather Lake makes an exciting day's excursion, starting early morning and returning late evening. The walk from Gulmarg follows a well-graded Pony track over the 3, 810 metre Apharwat ridge, separating it from Khilanmarg, and then up the valley to the lake. The more adventurous trekkers can climb straight up the boulder-strewn slope of the ridge and descend the other side to the path.
Khilanmarg :
The meadow, carpeted with flowers in the spring, is the site for Gulmarg's winter ski runs and offers a fine view of the surrounding peaks and over the Kashmir Valley. It's a 600-metre ascent from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg and during the early spring, as the snow melts, it can be a very muddy hour's climb up the hill. This smaller valley is about a 6-km walk from the Gulmarg bus stop and car park. The meadow, carpeted with flowers in the spring, is the site for Gulmarg's winter ski runs and offers a fine view of the surrounding peaks and over the Kashmir Valley.The valley is famous for its meadows covered with flowers during spring and excellent ski runs during winter. It also offers a great view of the peaks surrounding the region. On a clear day, it is possible to see Nanga Parbat from here.
Shrine Of Baba Reshi / Ziarat Of Baba Reshi :
The Ziarat, or tomb, is of a well-known Muslim saint who died here in 1480. Before renouncing worldly ways he was a courtier of the Kashmir King Zain-ul-Abidin. Every year thousands of devotees visit this shrine regardless of the faith they believe in. This Muslim shrine is on the slopes below Gulmarg and can be reached from either Gulmarg or Tangmarg.
The Ningli Nallah : Flowing from the melting snow and ice on Apharwat and the Alpather Lake, this pretty mountain stream is 8-km from Gulmarg. The stream continues down into the valley below and joins the Jhelum River near Sopur. This long, grassy valley is a popular. This long, grassy valley is a popular picnic spot and the walking path carries on, crossing the Ningli (also spelt as Ningle) Nallah by a bridge and continues on to the Khilenmarg, another grassy meadow and a good spot for camping. In early summer one will probably share the campsites with Gujars moving their herds up to the high meadows A dazzling piece of beauty amidst the snow clad hills and mountains of Gulmarg, Ningle Nallah is located around 10km from the hill station. Lush and deciduous pine forests, colourful patches of grasslands around the stream and the fascinating hills jotting the stream makes it a must visit place in Gulmarg.
HOW TO GET THERE
By Air:
Gulmarg is in Baramula District and is 60-kms from Srinagar District . The nearest Airport from here is situated in Budgam District, which is well connected with all the major cities of the country.
By Rail: The nearest railhead is at Udhampur.
By Road: The journey from Srinagar to Gulmarg takes approximately 2 hours in bus and may take short time by chartered conveyance. The road to Gulmarg is very beautiful. All sorts of transport are available to Gulmarg from Srinagar bus stand at Batamallo and from private transport operators.
Things to do in Gulmarg
§ Cable Car Ride or the Gulmarg Gondola
§ Trekking
§ Skiing at Khilanmarg
§ Golfing
§ Sightseeing
§ Local Shopping
§ Attend Snow Festival
§ Winter sports
Other Nearby Tourist Attractions
§ Srinagar (50km)
§ Khilanmarg (6km)
§ Tangmarg (13km)
§ Palhalan (42km)
§ Sonmarg (126km)
§ Yousmarg (105)
Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful places that can be visited in Kashmir valley. Gulmarg literally means “Meadow of flowers”. Gulmarg, is located at about 60 km from Srinagar in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir which is one and half hour journey by car. Gulmarg is situated at an altitude of 2730 meters above sea level. During the colonial rule over India, the British discovered the hill resort of Gulmarg in 1927. Gulmarg attracts various tourists due to its natural beauty. Gulmarg has attracted millions of tourists throughout its existence with the scenic beauty of the Himalayan Mountains in the back drop. A huge cup shaped meadow, lush and green with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cowbells, Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film and not surprisingly have been the venue of several films.
Gulmarg is also the Asia's only heli skiing resort. There are immense beauty and adventure activities that make Gulmarg much more than a cool hill resort. It is a convenient base for treks to the Himalayas and also offers various winter sports facilities to the tourists. Gulmarg can be visited throughout the year. The winter months from November to February are ideal for skiing. The natural slopes here are untouched and prove to be a challenge to ace skiers. Besides the scenic side to Gulmarg, winter time in Gulmarg is a season of festivities and winter sports. The months from May to September are pleasant to visit the place.
One of the main attractions in Gulmarg is the Gulmarg Gondola, the Highest Cable Car in the world.
The 1st phase of the Gondola takes tourists to the height of 8530 ft to Kongdori Station and the second stage of the Gondola goes up to the height of 12293 ft. Here, you can touch the skies and merge with the clouds. A ride on a gondola is a must for tourists visiting the town. It offers a panoramic view of Gulmarg, Kongdori, and Apharwat. The ride is divided into two phases: the first goes from Gulmarg to Kongdori and the second continues from Kongdori to Apharwat. Tourists can enjoy horse Riding and can go riding to the magnificent “Strawberry Valley” , “Leopards Valley” and ride up to “Kongdori” to see the frozen lake of “Al- Pathar”. Gulmarg is also home to one of the highest golf courses in the world.
Skiing on the slopes of snow covered hills of Gulmarg is a favorite activity among the visitors. It is a globally renowned ski destination and was ranked the fourth best ski destination in Asia by CNN International in 2011.
Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
Gulmarg experiences three different seasons in a year: Summer, Winter and Monsoon. Summer usually begins in March and continues till May. The hill station experiences a minimum of 13 degrees and a maximum of 29 degrees during this span of time. With the entire valley in its most gracious form, it attracts a large number of tourists during this period
Monsoon usually starts by the end of July and continues till late August. The region do not experience heavy rainfall and can also be visited during this season. On the other hand, winters in Gulmarg begins by November and continues till early March. The advent of the winters bring in an essence of wanderlust and also makes Gulmarg a paradise for all sorts of winter sports. Mostly known with the skiers, the Aphawat Peak is one of the most attractive points in Gulmarg. Located within a close proximity to the scenic Alpathar Lake, this peak is around 13km from the hill station and can be easily reached. While during the winters, the peak remains cosseted with an enchanting blanket of snow, summers bring in a different grandeur. During this part of the year, the peak showcases the many different shades of the nature and wears one of its best looks.
The best season for skiing in Gulmarg is from November to February. Asia's one of the most famous Heli-skiing resort is at Gulmarg, Kashmir. The skis, sticks, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, windproof jackets, goggles, caps and various other equipments and the Ski instructors are easily available in Gulmarg. The slopes in Gulmarg varies between 8,700 and 10,500 feet and are the highest skis in India. Neither does one need to exert oneself climbing up slopes. The gentlest slope of 200m is linked with a ski lift, which helps one to go up. When one graduates to intermediate level - which will happen after the first few days of practice, there are other slopes, longer and steeper, which are connected by chair lift. The longest ski run in Gulmarg is provided by the Gondola cable car, which allows a ski run of 2,213m.
Tourist attractions in Gulmarg
Following are Popular Sightseeing spots in Gulmarg:
Gondola Lift : .Built by the French company Pomagalski, the Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest in the world reaching 3,979 meters. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Gulmarg to a shoulder of nearby Mt. Apharwat Summit (12293 ft). A chair lift system connects Kongdoori with Mary’s shoulder for taking skiers to higher altitude. The high inflow of tourists has had an effect on the fragile eco-system of Gulmarg and activists have demanded tightened regulation to save the environment of the area from over tourism.
Gulmarg Golf Course:
More than a golf course, it is a dream destination for the golfers.
Whether a golfer or not, a visit to this remarkable site is a must in the Gulmarg itinerary. Measuring around 7,505 yards and perched at a height 2,650m, the golf course is tucked away amidst lush and evergreen thickets, this also makes it one of the most gorgeous courses in the world. There is also a green 18-hole golf course in Gulmarg which is also the world's highest golf course. One can also hire the golf sets from Gulmarg. The Golf Club offers short term memberships to the players. Gulmarg also offers some excellent opportunities for long walks .Gulmarg Biosphere Reserves :
The reserve area is located at a distance of 48-km from Srinagar, to its southwest. It is famous for retaining several rare and endangered species such as the musk deer, and a rich and varied avifauna.
Ferozpore Nallah :
Reached from the Tangmarg road, or from the Outer Circular Walk, this mountain stream meets the Bahan River at a popular picnic spot known as 'waters meet'. The stream is reputed to be particularly good for trout fishing; it's about five km down the valley from Gulmarg but quite close to Tangmarg. The river can be reached by walking 3-km down the path from the gap near Tangmarg and then heading south through the forest, down a slope towards the stream.Near here there is a bridge which leads to the small waters meet picnic spot on the right bank. Looking south from Tangmarg the river can be traced up to its source close to the rugged peak known as Ferozpore or Shinmahinyu. On the right bank the stream branches, the left path leading to Tosa Maidan, while the right bends away towards the Gogaldara road at a second bridge, about 32-km upstream, and then leads away to the Ferozpore pass, Poonch and Kantar Nag.
Alpather Lake :
Beyond Khilanmarg, 13-km from Gulmarg at the foot of the twin 4, 511 metre Apharwat peaks, this lake is frozen until mid-June and even later in the year one can see lumps of ice floating in its cold waters. Alpather Lake makes an exciting day's excursion, starting early morning and returning late evening. The walk from Gulmarg follows a well-graded Pony track over the 3, 810 metre Apharwat ridge, separating it from Khilanmarg, and then up the valley to the lake. The more adventurous trekkers can climb straight up the boulder-strewn slope of the ridge and descend the other side to the path.
Khilanmarg :
The meadow, carpeted with flowers in the spring, is the site for Gulmarg's winter ski runs and offers a fine view of the surrounding peaks and over the Kashmir Valley. It's a 600-metre ascent from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg and during the early spring, as the snow melts, it can be a very muddy hour's climb up the hill. This smaller valley is about a 6-km walk from the Gulmarg bus stop and car park. The meadow, carpeted with flowers in the spring, is the site for Gulmarg's winter ski runs and offers a fine view of the surrounding peaks and over the Kashmir Valley.The valley is famous for its meadows covered with flowers during spring and excellent ski runs during winter. It also offers a great view of the peaks surrounding the region. On a clear day, it is possible to see Nanga Parbat from here.
Shrine Of Baba Reshi / Ziarat Of Baba Reshi :
The Ziarat, or tomb, is of a well-known Muslim saint who died here in 1480. Before renouncing worldly ways he was a courtier of the Kashmir King Zain-ul-Abidin. Every year thousands of devotees visit this shrine regardless of the faith they believe in. This Muslim shrine is on the slopes below Gulmarg and can be reached from either Gulmarg or Tangmarg.
The Ningli Nallah : Flowing from the melting snow and ice on Apharwat and the Alpather Lake, this pretty mountain stream is 8-km from Gulmarg. The stream continues down into the valley below and joins the Jhelum River near Sopur. This long, grassy valley is a popular. This long, grassy valley is a popular picnic spot and the walking path carries on, crossing the Ningli (also spelt as Ningle) Nallah by a bridge and continues on to the Khilenmarg, another grassy meadow and a good spot for camping. In early summer one will probably share the campsites with Gujars moving their herds up to the high meadows A dazzling piece of beauty amidst the snow clad hills and mountains of Gulmarg, Ningle Nallah is located around 10km from the hill station. Lush and deciduous pine forests, colourful patches of grasslands around the stream and the fascinating hills jotting the stream makes it a must visit place in Gulmarg.
HOW TO GET THERE
By Air:
Gulmarg is in Baramula District and is 60-kms from Srinagar District . The nearest Airport from here is situated in Budgam District, which is well connected with all the major cities of the country.
By Rail: The nearest railhead is at Udhampur.
By Road: The journey from Srinagar to Gulmarg takes approximately 2 hours in bus and may take short time by chartered conveyance. The road to Gulmarg is very beautiful. All sorts of transport are available to Gulmarg from Srinagar bus stand at Batamallo and from private transport operators.
Things to do in Gulmarg
§ Cable Car Ride or the Gulmarg Gondola
§ Trekking
§ Skiing at Khilanmarg
§ Golfing
§ Sightseeing
§ Local Shopping
§ Attend Snow Festival
§ Winter sports
Other Nearby Tourist Attractions
§ Srinagar (50km)
§ Khilanmarg (6km)
§ Tangmarg (13km)
§ Palhalan (42km)
§ Sonmarg (126km)
§ Yousmarg (105)
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