Gulmarg

Gulmarg: India’s Snow Globe in the Himalayas

Destination Type: Adventure | Nature | Winter Wonderland
Best Time to Visit:

• Winter (Dec–Feb): For snow sports & powder snow

• Summer (April–June): For green meadows, hiking & scenic beauty
  Ideal Duration: 2 to 4 days

🧭 4-Day Travel Itinerary for Gulmarg

Day 1: Arrival in Gulmarg & Leisure Walk

• Arrival: Reach Gulmarg via road from Srinagar (approx. 1.5–2 hours).

• Check-in: Choose a cozy alpine hotel or a luxury resort with views of snow-capped peaks.

• Afternoon: Leisurely walk around the Gulmarg Meadow, surrounded by fir trees and majestic mountains.

• Evening: Warm up by a fireplace with kahwa or mulled cider.

• Dinner: Local Kashmiri fare at your hotel or Highlands Park.

Day 2: Gondola Ride & Snow Activities

• Morning: Ride the famous Gulmarg Gondola (one of the world’s highest).

  • Phase I: Kungdoor (for beginners)

  • Phase II: Apharwat Peak (~13,000 ft) — snow paradise!

• Activities:

  • Winter: Skiing, snowboarding, snow biking, sledding

  • Summer: Trekking, scenic photography, pony rides

• Evening: Visit St. Mary’s Church and stroll around the Gulmarg Golf Course (the highest green golf course in the world).

Day 3: Optional Skiing / Summer Trek / Wildlife Visit

• Winter Option: Take a ski lesson at Gulmarg Ski Institute or rent gear for the day.

• Summer Option:

  • Hike to Khilanmarg Valley (30–45 min walk or pony ride) for breathtaking panoramic views.

  • Visit the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve for a chance to spot musk deer or hangul (Kashmiri stag).

• Evening: Stargazing or bonfire with other travelers.

Day 4: Relax & Return

• Morning: Enjoy a slow breakfast with mountain views.

• Optional: Quick walk to Children’s Park or local souvenir shops.

• Departure: Return drive to Srinagar (airport or city stay).

🌟 Highlights of Gulmarg

• 🚠 Gondola to Apharwat Peak

• 🎿 Skiing & snowboarding in winter

• 🏞️ Khilanmarg & summer meadows

• 🏌️ Gulmarg Golf Course (June–Sept)

• 🌌 Starry nights, bonfires, & alpine charm

📌 Travel Tips

• Getting There:

  • Nearest Airport: Srinagar (1.5–2 hrs by road)

  • Shared taxis & private cabs available from Srinagar

• Snow Season: December to March; fresh snowfall usually between Jan–Feb

• Summer Season: April to June—green meadows, fewer tourists

• Gondola Tickets: Book online early during high season

🧳 What to Pack

• Winter: Heavy jackets, gloves, snow boots, thermals, sunglasses (for glare)

• Summer: Light woolens, trekking shoes, sunscreen

• Essentials: ID proofs, personal meds, power bank, cash (limited ATMs)

✨ Perfect For:

• Winter sports lovers

• Couples & honeymooners

• Nature explorers & photographers

• Families looking for snow fun