Gulmarg

A Paradise of Meadows, flowers and snow clad mountains

Enchanting! Priceless peace! And Silence. Anyone can delve into these rare experiences, only in Gulmarg. No other travel destination offers such a rich blend of history, beauty and culture like Gulmarg does. Exploring Gulmarg does not demand days of planning and contemplation. Be it for a leisure vacation, honeymoon trip or even the need to unravel a hill station, Gulmarg is the best possible escapade.

Elegantly embracing the changing times, Gulmarg has transformed itself from being the royal abode of Kings to most visited honeymoon, leisure and hill stations of India. Known as the ‘Meadow of Flowers’, this travel hotspot in Kashmir enthralls thousands of visitors every year.

Snow clad peaks, tall Himalayan mountains along with rare variety of flowers, Gulmarg definitely offers a peaceful respite from the fast paced hustle and bustle of city life. Thus, travelling to Gulmarg has evolved as a chief tourist destination for India.

Gulmarg embraces the enthralling historic journey right from the time of Emperor Jahangir and King Yusuf Shah Chak. Interestingly, its previous name ‘Gaurimarg’ which signified the abode of the wife of Lord Shiva was changed to ‘Gulmarg’ which means ‘Valley of Flowers.’ Imposing Himalayan peaks, panoramic virgin beauty of snow laden landscapes along with vast stretches of untouched meadows have added beauty to Gulmarg’s magic. Tiny hamlets and lakes scattered within these meadows along with ample camping destinations have carved out Gulmarg’s appeal in a very distinct manner.

Following are the main attractions of Gulmarg

Khilanmarg: This beautiful valley shrouded in snow, is located approximately six km walk from Gulmarg. It is known for winter ski runs while during summers it is carpeted with beautiful flowers.  Tourists can reach Khilanmarg through cable ropeways of Gondola. One can have the breathtaking view of Wular Lake and Nanga Parbat from Khilanmarg. Tourists also get to buy ski resort souvenirs from Gulmarg.

Alpathar Lake: This triangular lake is nestled at the scenic backdrop of snow clad mountains, colorful flowers and fresh green landscapes. It is located 13 kms away from Gulmarg.  It remains frozen till June. Over the years, Alpathar lake has become few of the most sought after picnic destinations in Gulmarg. Adventure aficionados choose to trek to Alpathar Lake from Gulmarg by crossing Khilanmarg. Pony and horse rides are also made available for the travelers.

Ferozepur Nallah: This captivating stream is located in between the Nurpur Pass and Chinamarg Pass. It is surrounded with lush green meadows and snow capped peaks. It is quite famous for trout fishing.  It is located 5 km away from Gulmarg. The pristine stream is a brilliant location for photographers.

Gulmarg Gondola: It’s the second highest operating cable car in the world. It’s the longest cable car project of Asia. It is known for travelling up to the height of 13,500 feet above the sea level. It gives the bird’s eye view of the panoramic beauty of Kashmir valley. The two stage ropeway is famous for carrying approximately 600 people per hour.

Outer Circle Walk: This trekking trail covers a distance of 11 km embracing Gulmarg and Kashmir Valley. Its offers the unique chance to unravel the mesmerizing vistas of Kashmir. The tourists can get a chance to view Nanga Parbat, Sunset Peak and Haramukh while trekking this trail.

Excursions from Gulmarg
Gulmarg is located 52 km away from Srinagar, Kashmir. It can be easily reached through Srinagar airport. It includes important tourist attractions like Alpine Ridge, Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Ice Skating Ring, Khilanmarg Woods, Nallae Ferozpora Extra Tributaries, Indian Institute of Mountaineering and Skiing, Gulmarg Potato Farm, Ziyarat Park, Babareshie Jama Masjid and Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary.

Shopping in Gulmarg
It includes the local markets selling jewelry, pashminas, handmade linen, exquisitely carved furniture made from walnut, shawls and rugs. Lal Chowk is one of the best shopping destinations in Gulmarg. Kashmiri Faran, the long woolen robe normally worn mostly by Kashmiris can also be bought in Gulmarg.

Best time to Visit: Gulmarg can be visited all over the year. The winter months from November to February are apt for skiing. Pleasing weather offering calm and picturesque rendezvous with nature can be experienced in the summer months.

How to Reach
Air: One can easily travel to Gulmarg from Srinagar Airport through air. Flights can be easily arranged from Delhi and other connecting cities.
Road: One can also reach Gulmarg by car or bus from Srinagar.
Rail: The Jammu Railway station in the nearest railway station to Gulmarg.