Gulmarg is a popular destination to ski in India and is an enjoyable winter holiday destination. It looked like a place built mostly for skiers and adventure sports enthusiasts before I reached there. Most travel guides seem to focus on snow-covered pistes, skiing and snowboarding, giving the impression that there are limited options for non-skiers. A few hours in Gulmarg soon showed me a place with a far wider appeal. The town offers much more than ski runs and is just as rewarding for travellers interested in sightseeing, photography and mountain landscapes.
Gulmarg is situated in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, about 50 kilometres from Srinagar, at an altitude of around 2,650 metres above sea level. Thick pine woods, wide meadows and lofty Himalayan peaks characterise the landscape throughout the year. Even if you do not indulge in adventure sports, Gulmarg offers unforgettable experiences. It attracts thousands of skiers from India and abroad in winter.
The landscape is the main attraction of Gulmarg
The scenery is one of the main attractions of Gulmarg in every season. Expanses of alpine meadows stretch out to forested hills, and snow-capped peaks loom over the mountains. In spring and summer, wildflowers replace the winter snow and the whole character of the valley changes. In autumn, the forests turn golden, and winter gives us one of the most familiar snow-covered scenes in India.
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I saw these changing sights just by walking through Gulmarg, instead of following a jam-packed sightseeing schedule. The fresh mountain air, tranquil surroundings and open green spaces all encouraged a slower pace of discovery.
Gulmarg Gondola: Amazing mountain views to remember
A trip to Gulmarg is hardly considered complete without a ride on the famous Gulmarg Gondola. It is known as one of the highest cable car systems in the world and takes visitors first to Kongdoori, then, weather permitting, to Apharwat Peak. Throughout the journey, I had an unobstructed view of the Pir Panjal mountain range, its forested slopes and the surrounding valleys.
The gondola is popular with many passengers during the winter season for ski areas, but it’s just as rewarding for non-skiers. The slow ascent reveals dramatic mountain scenery that cannot be fully appreciated from the town below.
Other things to do in Gulmarg apart from skiing
If you’re not a skier, there is a lot to do in Gulmarg in every season. Visitors can stroll leisurely and comfortably through the pine forests. Pony rides are available to nearby viewpoints, and open meadows make for great photography and leisurely walks.
During the warmer months, the Gulmarg Golf Club is a tourist attraction for its magnificent mountain scenery and historical significance. Winter offers plenty of fun possibilities for those who have never skied before or don’t have specialised gear. Many visitors enjoy walking in the fresh snow, riding a sledge or taking photographs of the spectacular winter scenery. These simple activities are easy for first-time visitors and families to experience the snowy surroundings of Gulmarg.
Picking the right Gulmarg hotel adds to the experience
Accommodation is vital for making the most of every visit to Gulmarg throughout the year. Hotels in Gulmarg near the town centre are within easy reach of the Gondola station, restaurants, local markets and transport services. Staying here reduced my travel time between major attractions and for daily sightseeing.
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Travellers who want a quieter environment may choose resorts a little farther from the busiest commercial areas. Many properties provide on-site restaurants, landscaped gardens, heating systems, parking facilities and help with local excursions. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels or budget guesthouses, there’s something for every travel budget across the destination.
The bottom line
For many travellers, Gulmarg is synonymous with skiing before they have even set foot there. Time spent here soon points to a destination for a much wider range of interests. The mountains, gondola rides, walking trails, seasonal scenery, and peace combine to create memories for all who visit. If you’re planning a Kashmir itinerary, Gulmarg should be on your list, irrespective of your skiing experience or outdoor interests.
