Gulmarg | Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg

Gulmarg is one of the famous hill station located in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It was about 2650 meters (8694 feet) above the sea level in the range of Pir Panjal mountain (part of western Himalayas). The temperature of the gulmarg remain cold, even in summer. In Winter (December to March)  there was a heavy snow fall and this time is the best for travelling and see the beauti of place.  

Gulmarg is well known for breathtaking natural beauty, snow-capped peaks, adventure sports like skiing, snowboarding and trekking. 

Nearby Places to Visit

Gulmarg Gondola 

Gondola is considered as the second highest cable car in the world and first highest cable car in India. It is about 4200 meter (13780 feet approx). The ride offer the panoramic views of the Pir Panjal Mountain range, snow cover areas and the tranquil beauty of the kashmir landscape.

 

The Gulmarg Gondala has two main phase

1. Gulmarg to Kongdoori

• Altitude is 2650 m (8694 ft) to 3080 m (10100 ft)
• Duration is about 9 minutes
• Activites :- Ideal for families and general sightseeing, beautiful panoramic views of the gulmarg meadow, Can enjoys mild snow, even during late spring or early autumn.

2. Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak

• Altitude is 3080 m to 3979 m (13058 ft)
• Duration is about 12 minutes
• Activites :- Skiing, snowboarding and alpine adventure, Unmatched views of Nanga Parbat and LOC (Line of Duty), Weather can be extremely cold and widly - warm cloth is essential.

Apharwat Peak

Apharwat Peak is one of the most famous destination place in G ulmarg, It is about 13 km from Gulmarg town in the Pir Panjal Range of western Himalayas. It was situated at an altitude o 4390 meters (14,400 ft) above the sea level (one of the highest points accessible to tourists in Jammu and Kashmir). 

Activities to do in Apharwat Peak

1.  Skiing & Snowboarding :- Apharwat peak is one of the top destination in India for skiing. 
2.  Snow Shoeing :- Snow Shoeing is another popular activity, where the special shoes are designed to walk on snow and prevent from sinking into deep snow.
3. Snow Mobiling :- For a more adrenaline pumping experience, snowmobile can be rented to ride across the snowy slopes of Apharwat Peak.
4. Trekking :- At the time of summer and autumn the Apharwat peak turns into a green land, where the trekking routes that lead to the summit, allowing travelers to enjoys the wildflowers, Lush Valleys and Streams.

Kongdoori

Kongdoori is a bowl shaped valley located between Gulmarg and Apharwat Peak at an altitude of 3100 meter (10200 feet). 

 Activities to do in Apharwat Peak

1.  Skiing & Snowboarding :- Apharwat peak is one of the top destination in India for skiing. 
2.  Snow Shoeing :- Snow Shoeing is another popular activity, where the special shoes are designed to walk on snow and prevent from sinking into deep snow.
3. Snow Mobiling :- For a more adrenaline pumping experience, snowmobile can be rented to ride across the snowy slopes of Apharwat Peak.
4. Trekking :- At the time of summer and autumn the Apharwat peak turns into a green land, where the trekking routes that lead to the summit, allowing travelers to enjoys the wildflowers, Lush Valleys and Streams.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserse

The Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as an important ecological zone. The reserve is home to numerous species of plants, animals, and birds.

 Activities in Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

1. Wildlife Watching :- The reserve is home to a rich diversity of animals life, and many visitors come to spot species like Himalayan brown bear and snow leopard.
2. Trekking & Hiking :- Several trails wind through the regions, offering scenic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding forests and meadows.
3. Bird Watching :- The region is an important site for bird migration, attracting enthusiasts to observe the various species.
4. Winter Spot :- Due to its snow- capped mountain the area is a prime location for skiing, snowboarding and other winter activites.
   

Alpather Lake

The Alpather Lake is located about 4390 meter (14403 feet) above the sea level, it lies about 13 kilometer from the town of Gulmarg, The lake is accessible by a trek from Gulmarg, which typically takes around 4-5 hours depending on the route and the condition of the terrain, 

The lake is known for its breathtaking beauty, surrounded by snow capped peaks, lush green meadows and alpine forests. The lake remains frozen for a significant part of the year, often from November to April, with the ice gradually melting by summer. during the warmer month its surrounded by vibrant wildflowers, and the contrast of the green meadows against the still waters of the lake creates a picturesque scene.

Activities in Alpather Lake 

1. Trekking :- The Trek to Alpather Lake is moderately challenging making it suitable for adventure enthusiasts and those with some trekking experience. the trail is scenic but can get difficult due to the altitude and snow cover during winters. 
2. Photography :- The location is a photographers paradise, especially for those looking to capture the raw natural beauty of the Kashmir Valley.
3. Camping :- Some trekkers choose to camp near the lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere and starry nights. 

Durung Waterfall

The waterfall lies close to the village of drung village in the tangmarg tehsil on the outskirts of gulmarg, durung water fall is about 3 km from tangmarg and 15 km from gulmarg 

Special thing about durung water fall

• Seasonal magic :- In Winter the waterfall freezes into beautiful icicles and ice formations, creating a "fairy-tale" winter scene.
• Less crowded :- Compared to many other tourist spots in kashmir this waterfall is some what off the beaten track so you'll find more serenity.
• Dual - season appeal :- In summer the surrounding greenery and the flowing water give a very differnt lush look in winter it becomes almost a frozen spectacle.

Gulmarg Golf Course

The Gulf Course is located in gulmarg at an altitude of 2650 (8690 feet) above the sea level. The altitude provide stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks which include Mount Apharwat.

Gulmarg Golf Course containing 18 Holes, 72 Par and the total length is about 6760 yards. The Golf Course contain natural slopes, lush greenery and undulating meadows make it both challenges and picturesque.  

St Mary Church Gulmarg

St Mary Church was located right inside the Gulmarg Golf  Course. it offering panramic views of the surrounding mounains. 

It was built by the British Raj when Gulmarg was a popular summer retreat for colonial officers and their families. It served as a place of worship for the British who visited the area during the warmer months.

How to Reach

Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi (approx 290 km)

Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (approx 56 km)