Gulmarg's name translates to "meadow of flowers," and that's exactly what the town is in summer — rolling green meadows used historically as a British-era hill retreat and golf course. In winter, the same slopes turn into one of India's most serious ski and snowboard destinations, served by a gondola that ranks among the highest cable cars in the world. Few Indian hill towns genuinely reward two completely different seasons the way Gulmarg does.
Where Is Gulmarg and How to Reach It
Gulmarg sits roughly 50 km from Srinagar, a drive of about 1.5–2 hours on a well-maintained road. Most Kashmir itineraries treat it as a day trip from Srinagar or a one-night stay en route to Sonmarg or Pahalgam, rather than a standalone multi-day base — a day is genuinely enough to do the gondola and meadows justice, though winter sports enthusiasts often prefer 2–3 nights to get proper ski or snowboard time in.
The Gulmarg Gondola — Phase 1 and Phase 2
The gondola runs in two separate stages, each ticketed individually. Phase 1 climbs from Gulmarg town to Kongdoori station at roughly 3,100 m. Phase 2 continues on from Kongdoori up to Apharwat Peak at roughly 4,200 m — the higher stage that puts Gulmarg's gondola among the highest-altitude cable cars anywhere. Both stages are genuinely worth doing on a clear day for the Himalayan panorama from the top, though Phase 2 is the one most likely to be closed on short notice due to weather, high winds or heavy snow — build flexibility into your schedule rather than a fixed same-day connection elsewhere.
Skiing and Snowboarding in Gulmarg
Gulmarg's ski season runs roughly December through March, with January and February typically offering the most reliable snow cover. Equipment rental and short lessons are available locally for beginners, while Khilanmarg — a meadow above the main gondola area, reachable by a short trek or on skis — is a popular spot for a first proper run. Experienced skiers and snowboarders come specifically for Gulmarg's off-piste terrain accessed via Phase 2, though this requires genuine experience and, in many cases, a local guide — it isn't a beginner zone.
Gulmarg in Summer: The Meadow Season
From roughly April through September, Gulmarg trades snow for one of the most scenic meadow landscapes in the Kashmir Valley, along with one of the highest-altitude golf courses in the world. This is a noticeably quieter season than winter's ski rush, with pony rides across the meadows and the gondola still running for the view rather than the snow. Summer is also the more comfortable season for travellers who want Gulmarg's scenery without winter's cold or the logistics of ski gear.
Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
| Season | Months | What to Expect | Best For |
|---|
| Winter (ski season) | December–March | Reliable snow, cold temperatures, gondola subject to weather closures | Skiing, snowboarding, snow photography |
| Spring | April–May | Snow melting into meadows, fewer crowds | Transitional scenery, moderate weather |
| Summer | June–September | Green meadows, golf course open, mild days | Meadow walks, pony rides, families |
| Autumn | October–November | Crisp, clear, meadows turning gold-brown | Photography, quiet sightseeing |
How Many Days Do You Need?
A single day covers the gondola (both stages, weather permitting) and a walk through the meadows — the standard treatment on most Kashmir circuit itineraries, including our own. Dedicated skiers and snowboarders typically want 2–3 nights to get meaningful time on the slopes rather than rushing it into one afternoon.
What to Pack
Winter: Heavy insulated jacket, waterproof snow boots, thermal layers, gloves, sunglasses or snow goggles (glare off the snow is intense), and sunscreen — altitude and snow reflection both increase UV exposure.
Summer: Light layers for the day, one warm layer for evenings, comfortable walking shoes for the meadows, and a light rain layer given the region's unpredictable mountain weather.
Gulmarg as Part of a Kashmir Circuit
Gulmarg is one stop on most well-planned Kashmir itineraries alongside Srinagar, Sonmarg and Pahalgam — our Kashmir — Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg & Pahalgam package includes a Gulmarg gondola visit as part of its 7-day, 6-night circuit. For the full picture of how Gulmarg fits alongside the valley's other towns, see our complete Kashmir travel guide, or our season-by-season Kashmir guide if you're still deciding when to go.
