Places To Visit In Gulmarg 

Gulmarg is the crowning glory of Jammu & Kashmir and is located 2,650 meters above sea level. Known as the “Meadow of Flowers”, it boasts of the world’s highest golf-course.

weather in Gulmarg

Travel Seasons	Min/Max Temperature	Season
October to March	-4 to 11°C	Winter - Glacial
April to June	13 to 29°C	Summer - Pleasant
July to September	18 to 35°C	Monsoon - Minimal rainfall

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Attracting wildlife enthusiasts and adventure lovers, the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve houses a wide collection of flora, fauna and birds, including some rare species. Located at a distance of 48 km from Srinagar (Gulmarg town is around 50 km from Srinagar), it covers an area of about 180 sq km.

 

Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary abodes rich faunal and floral bio-diversity with variegated species like Musk Deer, Common Leopard ,Barking Deer, Asiatic Black Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Wolf, Snow Cock, Chakoor etc.

 

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

The Gulmarg gondola price for phase 1 ticket is 944 INR and for phase 2 ticket is 2070 INR per person. What is Gulmarg cable car ticket price? For Phase 1 the ticket price is 810 INR and For Phase 2 the ticket price is 1050 INR per person.

 

Alpather Lake

For adventure seekers and fit tourists, a trek of one-day consisting of thirteen kms, will take you to Alpather Lake from Gulmarg(via Khilanmarg). If you are not that adventurous on foot, then just take the alternative short hike of 1.5km from the Gondola Phase II of Mt. Apharwat.

 

Gulmarg Golf Course

The Gulmarg Golf Course with a 6-hole course was built within a meadow by Colonel Neville Chamberlain in 1890 at Gulmarg, a hill station near Srinagar. In 1922 the first Golf championship was played at the course with the introduction of Nedou's Cup in 1929.

 

The golf course is located on the lower ranges of Gulmarg and has gradually emerged as one of the most popular golfing destinations in India. The golf course, measuring 7505 yards, was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, in the year 2011.

 

St. Mary's Church

Mary's church was built in 1680 when those who lived in the fort needed a place of worship. Earlier, the chaplain would conduct prayers in the dining hall or some such place.” On March 25, 1678, work on the church began under Governor Streynsham Master. As it was Our Lady's Day, the church was named St. Mary's Church.

 

Strawberry Valley

The Strawberry Harvest Season in Mahabaleshwar is from December to February. When you're here, you can enjoy the treats like strawberry jams and shakes from the vendors around the farms.

Maharaja Palace Gulmarg

The ticket price for Maharaja palace in Gulmarg is Rs 30 for one person.

 

Shrine of Baba Reshi

Baba Reshi is said to have been born in 1411 C.E. to a nobleman. As a young man, he himself joined the court of the prince of the region as a minister. He remained there until he decided to give up all his belongings in order to serve the common people.

 

The Ziarat of Baba Reshi is a popular shrine of Baramula, situated near the Alpather Lake at 13 km from Gulmarg and belongs to saint Baba payam-Din. Baba payam-Din was a well-known Muslim saint as well as a courtier of the king of Kashmir, Zain-ul-Abidin.

 

Khilanmarg

Khilanmarg is a small valley in Jammu and Kashmir, India, located about 6 kilometres away from the Gulmarg. The meadow, carpeted with flowers in the spring, is the site for Gulmarg's winter ski runs and offers a view of the surrounding peaks and over the Kashmir Valley.

 

Buta Pathri

Bota Pathri, located about 10 km from Gulmarg, is a restricted area that requires permission from both the police and army to visit.

 

Botpathri is located at an altitude of 9000 ft between Ferozpora and Nighli Nallahs. Botpathri is an erstwhile camping destination for trekkers and shepherds towards the Boniyar, Sultan Pathri and Choor Khud.

 

Durung Waterfall

The main attraction is the Drung Waterfall, which has frozen due to the below freezing temperatures in the valley. Tourists and locals have been flocking to the area to see the frozen waterfall and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

 

The waterfall is located about 42 kilometers from Srinagar and 16 kilometers from Gulmarg. It remains accessible for all 12 months and can easily be included in your trip to Gulmarg. You can visit Drung at any time of the year but it is in the winter season when the waterfall is truly at its best.

 

Seven Springs

Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Adolph Dupre emigrated from Bavaria, a landscaper and horticulturalist by profession. He was also an innovator. He discovered a mountain in southwest Pennsylvania and found it to be very similar to that in his homeland.

 

In 2021, Seven Springs became part of Vail Resorts.

Best Time To Visit Gulmarg

All year round destination

• DEC-MAR

  Peak Season

• APR-JUN

  Moderate Season

• JUL-NOV

  Off-season

• What To Expect:Pleasant and cosy weather throughout the day.
• Things You'll Love:Sightseeing and the beautiful surroundings.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Gulmarg Winter Festival>> December

More about Gulmarg!

Gulmarg: A Paradise in the Himalayas

Gulmarg hill station is blessed with lofty snow-clad mountains, lush greenery, crystal-clear lakes and colourful flowers. It is a favourite holiday destination for travellers from all across the world. Also, it is one of the best skiing destinations in the world which is ideal for trained as well as amateur skiers. The several sightseeing options and the beauty of the places to visit in Gulmarg will take your breath away. The Gondola ride, Gulmarg gives you a birds eye view of the valley in the Pir Panjal range. Some of the several places to visit in Gulmarg are Tangmarg, Ferozepur Nallah, St. Marys Church, Khilanmarg, Baba Rezi Shrine & Maharani Temple. 18-hole Gulmarg Golf Course is a must-visit among places to visit in Gulmarg as it is one of the highest golf courses in India.

Gulmarg Overview

State	Jammu and Kashmir
Tourist Places in Gulmarg	Gulmarg Gondola Ride, Shrine of Baba Reshi, Gulmarg Golf Course, Alpather Lake, St. Mary's Church
Best Time to Visit Gulmarg	April to June
Restaurants in Gulmarg	The Hunters Bar, Bakshi Restaurant, Nedou's Dining Room, Cloves Restaurant
Gulmarg is famous for	Adventure, Hills & Mountains, Relaxation, Food & Culture, Romantic, Honeymoon

When to Visit Gulmarg?

April to June is the peak season to explore places to visit in Gulmarg. It is the best time to visit Gulmarg as Gulmarg weather in May is pleasant, cosy and ideal for outdoor activities. Gulmarg temperature hovers between 15°C to 30°C. Monsoons start from July and continue till September. The rains are intermittent making it difficult for travellers to carry out outdoor plans at places to visit in Gulmarg. Gulmarg weather is extremely cold during the winter months. During winter the places to visit in Gulmarg may not be suitable for people who cannot withstand subzero temperatures The temperature goes as low as -2°C and the valley is sprinkled with fresh snow. If you want to experience snowfall in Gulmarg, winter is the best time to visit Gulmarg.

How to Reach Gulmarg?

Srinagar is the closest airport to Gulmarg. If you want to fly to Gulmarg, you will have to take a flight from your destination to Srinagar. Srinagar airport is well-connected to most of the major cities in India. It takes approximately 90 minutes from Srinagar to Gulmarg by road. You can get buses from Srinagar that take you to Gulmarg, from where you can explore the places to visit in Gulmarg. If you prefer to travel by train, Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station to Gulmarg. It is 290km from Gulmarg and receives trains from all important cities of the country.

What are the Things to See & Do in Gulmarg?

Places to See in Gulmarg

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Out of all the places to visit in Gulmarg, this place is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to the vivid flora, fauna and birds that inhabit the valley. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is spread across a sprawling 180 sq km and located at an altitude varying between 2,400 m and 4, 300m above the sea level. In the reserve's deep woodlands, you may see hangul, serow, brown bear, leopard, red fox, and black bear once in a while. The forest is dominated by conifers which account for 90% of the vegetation. It is one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg especially for wildlife photographers.

Alpather Lake

This serene blue lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, green meadows and pretty wildflowers making it one of the rarest gems in the list of places to visit in Gulmarg. It remains frozen from November to mid-June. It is a perfect trail (13 km) to trek for the adventurers who can lace up their trekking shoes and start from Gulmarg. It takes almost a day to trek to Alpather Lake. You can also take a Gondola ride, Gulmarg and trek or ride a pony to cover the remaining 1.5 km. The wildflowers that bloom in the summer around the lake attract many photographers, artists and poets.

Gulmarg Golf Course

A popular tourist spot among places to visit in Gulmarg, Gulmarg Golf Course is a massive 18-hole golf course that is situated at a staggering height of 9000 feet. The highest green golf course in the world, it looks amazing with the snow-clad mountains in the backdrop. There are trained professionals to help you with the game even if you are an amateur.

St Mary's Church, Gulmarg

This church, built 100 years ago, was inspired by the Victorian style of architecture. It is located close to the Gulmarg Golf Course. These two destinations are among the unmissable places to visit in Gulmarg. St Mary's Church looks unparalleled during the winters when it is laden with Gulmarg snow. The wooden walls of the church are beautifully decorated. The stained-glass artworks and frescoes add up to the beauty of the church and make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gulmarg. At night the church looks pretty with strings of light.

Maharani Temple

The royal temple of the Dogra dynasty, the rulers of Jammu and Kashmir, looks magnificent lying amidst the green meadows. The temple is dedicated to Shiva-Parvati. It is one of the most religious places to visit in Gulmarg. In 1915, it was built by Mohini Bai Sisodhia, the wife of Maharaja Hari Singh. The Hindu style of architecture was used to design this temple. A lot of visitors come here to attend the “Arti” (holy fire ritual). Dont forget to add this place to your list of places to visit in Gulmarg.

Food to Try in Gulmarg

Gulmarg is known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine. Places to visit in Gulmarg have many food outlets where you can taste the authentic Kashmiri delicacies that are made using generous amounts of spices and dry fruits. The food in this region has been heavily influenced by the Mughal cuisine. If you are a non-vegetarian, dont forget to try Mutton Rogan Josh. This recipe has made its way to Indian kitchens owing to its subtle flavour and rich aroma. You will find it in most of the restaurants near places to visit in Gulmarg. Mutton Goshtaba is another dish that is a must-try for mutton-lovers. Try Dum Olav(aloo) with roti or naan. Potatoes are cooked in yoghurt gravy and are garnished with Kashmiri spices. Modur Pulav is sweetened rice made by adding ghee, milk, dry fruits and spices to the rice. Other popular dishes that are not to be missed as you plan a trip to various places to visit in Gulmarg are Yakhni, Kashmiri Tujj, Nader Monjje, Kahwah, Tabakh Maaz etc.

Things to Buy in Gulmarg

While you go around different places to visit in Gulmarg you might get tempted to buy souvenirs for your friends or family. You will find beautiful Pashmina shawls and wraps in Gulmarg. You can pick a variety of winter clothes from the local shops. Silk carpets, Kashmiri Pherans, wooden knick-knacks, papier-mache collectables and stone jewellery are found in the shops close to places to visit in Gulmarg.

have many food outlets where you can taste the authentic Kashmiri delicacies that are made using generous amounts of spices and dry fruits. The food in this region has been heavily influenced by the Mughal cuisine. If you are a non-vegetarian, dont forget to try Mutton Rogan Josh. This recipe has made its way to Indian kitchens owing to its subtle flavour and rich aroma. You will find it in most of the restaurants near places to visit in Gulmarg. Mutton Goshtaba is another dish that is a must-try for mutton-lovers. Try Dum Olav(aloo) with roti or naan. Potatoes are cooked in yoghurt gravy and are garnished with Kashmiri spices. Modur Pulav is sweetened rice made by adding ghee, milk, dry fruits and spices to the rice. Other popular dishes that are not to be missed as you plan a trip to various places to visit in Gulmarg are Yakhni, Kashmiri Tujj, Nader Monjje, Kahwah, Tabakh Maaz etc.

Things to Buy in Gulmarg

While you go around different places to visit in Gulmarg you might get tempted to buy souvenirs for your friends or family. You will find beautiful Pashmina shawls and wraps in Gulmarg. You can pick a variety of winter clothes from the local shops. Silk carpets, Kashmiri Pherans, wooden knick-knacks, papier-mache collectables and stone jewellery are found in the shops close to places to visit in Gulmarg.

Places to visit Near Gulmarg

Gulmarg offers a range of experiences for tourists, including scenic beauty, adventure sports, and cultural and historic attractions. Here are some of the top attractions around Gulmarg.?

Srinagar

Located about 51 km west of Gulmarg, Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir and is known for its beautiful lakes, gardens, and houseboats. The city's famous Dal Lake is a popular attraction and is surrounded by Mughal-era gardens such as Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. Srinagar is also known for its handicrafts, including handwoven carpets and embroidered shawls. Tourists can also visit the Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Shrine, and the Jama Masjid mosque.

Pahalgam

Located about 98 km from Gulmarg, Pahalgam is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for trekking, camping, and white-water rafting. The town is situated at the confluence of the Lidder River and the Sheshnag Lake and is surrounded by meadows, mountains, and rivers. Pahalgam is also the base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra, a Hindu pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave.

Anantnag

Located about 107 km south of Gulmarg, Anantnag is a historic town that was founded by King Lalitaditya in the 8th century. The town is known for its ancient temples, including the Martand Sun Temple, which is one of the largest and most well-preserved temple complexes in India. Anantnag is also known for its scenic beauty, including the Kokernag Spring and the Aharbal Waterfall.

Baramulla

Located about 35 km north of Gulmarg, Baramulla is a historic town that has several ancient temples and mosques. The town's Dastgeer Sahib Shrine is a popular attraction and is visited by both Muslims and Hindus. Baramulla is also known for its natural beauty, including the Manasbal Lake and the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary.

Kupwara

Located about 74 km north of Gulmarg, Kupwara is a scenic town that is surrounded by mountains and forests. The town is known for its apple orchards and is a popular spot for hiking and trekking. Tourists can also visit the Lolab Valley, which is known for its stunning beauty and is home to several other small villages.

Conclusion

Places to visit in Gulmarg are the crowning glory of a Kashmir trip. If you are visiting Kashmir, your trip will remain incomplete without going around places to visit in Gulmarg. Even before you reach Gulmarg, the vistas on the way will steal your heart away. You will get ample backdrops for postcard-perfect shots. Gulmarg translates to “Meadows of flowers”. It offers a magnificent view of the valley from the cable car. Plan a trip to Gulmarg and experience this beautiful creation of nature to the fullest.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Gulmarg

What are the places to visit in Gulmarg?

Gulmarg Golf Course, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Shrine of Baba Reshi, St. Mary’s Church, Seven Springs, The Maharani Temple, Alpather Lake, Strawberry Valley, Apharwat Peak, Ferozepur Nallah and Ningle Nallah are some of the places to visit in Gulmarg. Soak in the serene beauty of this town and go back home with a bag full of memories.

What is the best time to visit Gulmarg?

Although Gulmarg is a year-round destination, you can plan your visit depending on what you would like to do there. From October to February, winters begin. Skiing and snowboarding options are excellent during this time. From March to June, summer starts in Gulmarg, but this is also the peak tourist season. You would find the surroundings in their natural colours. Witness the true Gulmarg which is known as the Meadow of flowers during this season. From July to September, monsoon season starts, although rains are not that heavy in Gulmarg, it is off-season, and many hotels offer attractive deals during this time.

What makes Gulmarg a perfect holiday destination?

Exotic flowers, snow-covered hills of the magnificent Himalayan range and panoramic views till your eyes can gaze at that is the beauty of Gulmarg which makes it a perfect holiday destination. Gulmarg is a popular destination for visiting when it's covered with snow as you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding around this time and many honeymoon couples come to visit Gulmarg, especially during winters. There is enough snowfall for you to create a snowman. Why wait? Plan your holiday to this dream destination now!

What are the best hotels to stays in Gulmarg?

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Heevan Retreat, Nedou's Hotel, Alpine Ridge, Hotel Affarwat, Grand Mumtaz Resorts, Pine View Resort, Khaleel Palace, The Rosewood Hotel, Royal Park Hotel, Apple Tree Resorts, Hotel Fluorescence, Welcome Hotel, OYO 6032 Hotel Marina, Zahgeer continental Gulmarg, Pine Palace Platinum and Hotel Gulmarg House are some of the best hotels to stays in Gulmarg.