Gulmarg is the most searched hill station in Kashmir for one big reason: it gives you the “Kashmir snow experience” in winter and the “green meadows + pine forests” vibe in summer. From the famous Gulmarg Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak, from beginner-friendly snow play to serious skiing slopes, Gulmarg is an easy win for couples, families, and friend groups.

Below is a super practical Gulmarg guide with tickets, timings, online booking, permits, precautions, kids activities, food, toilets, parking, and where to stay.

Quick facts about Gulmarg

✅ Best season to visit Gulmarg (snow): Late Dec to early Mar (peak snowfall period varies yearly)

🌿 Best season to visit Gulmarg (green meadows): May to June

🍂 Best shoulder season (fewer crowds): Sep to Oct (clear views, crisp air)

🚠 Main highlight: Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1 and Phase 2)

🧳 Trip style: Day trip from Srinagar is possible, but 1 night in Gulmarg feels much better

Srinagar to Gulmarg Distance, How to reach Gulmarg?

✈️ By flight

🛬 Nearest airport: Srinagar Airport (SXR)

🚕 From there, taxi or shared cab to Gulmarg

🚗 By road (common route)

🛣️ Route: Srinagar → Tangmarg → Gulmarg

❄️ In winter snow days, many vehicles stop at Tangmarg and you switch to local chain-fitted taxis (very common)

🚌 Government bus option (JKSRTC)

🚌 JKSRTC lists district routes including Srinagar → Tangmarg (then local cab/shared cab Tangmarg → Gulmarg)

⏰ Timing tip: Departure timings can change by season. Go early morning to Srinagar bus stand/TRC area and ask for the first Tangmarg bus. In winter, keep buffer time because roads can slow down.

💡 Hidden tip: If you want to save money, do Srinagar → Tangmarg by bus, then Tangmarg → Gulmarg by shared cab. You usually get seats faster before 9:00 AM.

Gulmarg Gondola online booking, ticket price, timings

This is the #1 thing travellers search: “Gulmarg Gondola booking online”.

🎟️ Official ticket price (JK Cable Car Corporation)

🚠 Phase 1 (Gulmarg → Kongdori): ₹800

🏔️ Phase 2 (Kongdori → Apharwat): ₹1000

🔗 Official online booking links

🌐 JKCCC official site: https://www.jammukashmircablecar.com/

🎫 Booking portal listed on official site: https://eticket.webfront.in

🕒 Official boarding and return timing (very important)

✅ Boarding starts: 9:30 AM

⛔ Boarding closes: 3:30 PM

🔁 Last return: 5:00 PM

🎫 If you do not get online tickets

🏷️ JKCCC notes on-cabin tickets may be available at the waiting hall 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM (subject to availability and rush)

💡 Hidden tip (Gondola): For the smoothest ride, reach the Gondola base before 9:30 AM. Phase 2 often gets suspended in bad weather, so keep your “Apharwat plan” flexible.

Permissions and ID proof (what you actually need)

🪪 Do you need a permit to visit Gulmarg?

✅ For normal sightseeing: No special permit is usually needed

🎫 For Gondola: carry photo ID and your booking details/QR

🚁 Drone / professional shoots

⚠️ Drone rules can change quickly due to security and local restrictions

📝 If you plan drones or commercial filming, get local permission in writing via your hotel/guide

💡 Hidden tip: If anyone says “Gondola permit only possible through me”, avoid it. Use the official portal only.

Top Places to visit in Gulmarg

(Each spot with speciality, details, and a hidden tip)

1) 🚠 Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1 to Kongdori, Phase 2 to Apharwat Peak)

The Gondola is Gulmarg’s crown. Phase 1 is perfect for families, snow play, and easy views. Phase 2 takes you higher to Apharwat side for dramatic snow fields and serious mountain vibes.

📌 Details

🎟️ Ticket: Phase 1 ₹800, Phase 2 ₹1000

🕒 Boarding: 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, last return 5:00 PM

🔗 Online booking: https://www.jammukashmircablecar.com/ and https://eticket.webfront.in

💡 Hidden tip: If you are travelling with kids or elders, do Phase 1 first. Decide Phase 2 only after checking wind and visibility at Kongdori.

2) 🏔️ Apharwat Peak (Gulmarg)

Apharwat side is all about high-altitude views and deep snow fields. In peak winter, it feels like a white world. It is reached by Gondola Phase 2.

📌 Details

📸 Best for: Snow views, skiing zones (with guides), photography

🌤️ Best time: Clear weather mornings

⚠️ Caution: High altitude, strong winds, sudden weather changes

💡 Hidden tip: Carry a face cover and sunglasses. Sun glare on snow is intense and gives headaches fast.

3) ❄️ Kongdori

Kongdori is where many families stop and spend time. In winter, you will find snow play areas and gentle slopes. In summer, it is open meadows and fresh air.

📌 Details

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for: Kids snow fun, short walks, simple photos

🍽️ Food: There are food options at Kongdori side (JKCCC lists Kolahoi Restaurant at Kongdori)

💡 Hidden tip: If Phase 2 is closed, do not feel disappointed. Kongdori itself is worth time, especially for families.

4) ⛳ Gulmarg Golf Course

Gulmarg’s golf course is famous because it sits high in the mountains and looks unreal in summer. Even non-golfers love walking around the area and taking photos.

📌 Details

🌿 Best time: May to Oct (when meadows are green)

💰 Cost: Green fee varies by season and day. Confirm the latest at the club counter before planning your day around it

💡 Hidden tip: Go around late afternoon for softer light and fewer people in photos.

5) 🌄 Khilanmarg

Khilanmarg is a scenic meadow area that feels quieter than the main Gulmarg tourist line. It is popular for short hikes, pony rides, and wide views.

📌 Details

🥾 Best for: Easy trekking, meadow views, calm time

🍂 Best season: Summer and early autumn

💡 Hidden tip: Start early and carry snacks. Once you move away from the main market zone, food options drop.

6) 🍓 Strawberry Valley

A small, peaceful area that travellers love for photos and a short break.

📌 Details

🌤️ Best time: Summer months

💑 Best for: Couples, families, quiet walks

💡 Hidden tip: Go in the morning for clean light and fewer crowds.

7) ⛪ St Mary’s Church and 🛕 Maharani Temple

These spots give a calm break from the adventure rush and add a little heritage feel to your Gulmarg plan.

📌 Details

📸 Best for: Photos, short visit, peaceful vibe

⏳ Time needed: 20 to 40 minutes each

💡 Hidden tip: Visit in the late afternoon when most crowds are running behind Gondola queues.

8) 🐦 Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

If you love quiet nature, this area is a nice add-on. It is known for birdlife and forest scenery.

📌 Details

🕒 Timings often listed: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

🎟️ Entry fee: Many sources list it as free, but some list paid entry. Rules/fees can change, so confirm at the local checkpoint

💡 Hidden tip: Carry binoculars. Even a simple one makes this place 2x more fun.

Official and Popular Paid Adventure Activities in Gulmarg

Gulmarg is a “choose your own adventure” place. You can do a full day of paid activities like the Gulmarg Gondola, snow rides, skiing, pony rides, and seasonal experiences like golf. Below are the most common paid activities, with what you can expect for timings, fees, facilities, and a practical tip for each.

1) 🚠 Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1 and Phase 2)

✅ What it is

🚠 The biggest attraction in Gulmarg with 2 phases:

🟦 Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdori

🟩 Phase 2: Kongdori to Apharwat

🕒 Timings (official)

🕤 Boarding starts: 9:30 AM

🕞 Boarding closes: 3:30 PM

🕔 Last return: 5:00 PM

🌬️ Operations can change due to wind/weather

💵 Fees (official)

🎟️ Phase 1: ₹800 per person

🎟️ Phase 2: ₹1000 per person

🧩 Facilities provided

🧾 Official ticketing and queue system

🚡 Modern cabins (safe, enclosed ride)

🏢 Waiting hall at base station

🍽️ Kongdori food options listed by JKCCC (seasonal availability can vary)

🔗 Online booking

🌐 https://www.jammukashmircablecar.com

🎫 https://eticket.webfront.in

💡 Hidden tip: Book Phase 1 first, then Phase 2. If weather turns bad, Phase 2 may stop, but Phase 1 often still runs.

2) 🎫 On-spot (on-cabin) Gondola tickets (when online slots are sold out)

✅ What it is

🎟️ Limited on-cabin tickets sometimes available for visitors without online bookings

🕒 Timings (official notice mentions)

⏰ Windows can be mentioned like:

🕣 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM (everyday)

🕘 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (daily)

🧩 Facilities provided

🏢 Ticket counter support at the waiting hall

✅ You are generally expected to board within the slot rules mentioned by staff

💡 Hidden tip: Carry your ticket as a PDF e-copy on your phone (JKCCC advises digital copies).

3) 🚡 Chairlift / Mary Shoulder “Joy Ride” (seasonal)

✅ What it is

🚡 A shorter lift experience used for scenic rides and ski-area access depending on season and operations

🕒 Fees and timing (example from official notice)

💵 Ticket rate mentioned: ₹600 per person

⛔ No halt at Mary Shoulder (to-and-fro on trial terms)

🧩 Facilities provided

🏗️ Chairlift infrastructure

👷 Staff-managed operations

💡 Hidden tip: Check the latest status at https://www.jammukashmircablecar.com/notifications.html before planning your day around it.

4) 🎿 Skiing and Snowboarding (most wanted winter activity)

Option A: 🏫 IISM Gulmarg courses (structured training)

✅ What it is

🏫 Training courses run by IISM (Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering)

💵 Fees (official, IISM admissions page)

🎿 Snow skiing / snowboarding course:

🧑 Age up to 25: ₹10,000 per course

🧔 Age above 25: ₹20,000 per course

🧩 Facilities provided

🧑‍🏫 Structured batches and instruction framework

🏔️ Training environment and institute support (inclusions vary by course)

💡 Hidden tip: If you are a true beginner and want safety plus skill, institute-style training is usually more reliable than random street deals.

Option B: 🧤 Local instructors + gear rentals (flexible, common)

💵 Fees

💰 Varies widely by season and crowd (no fixed rate)

🧩 Facilities usually provided

🧑‍🏫 Instructor guidance (private or group)

🎿 Gear rental options (skis, boots, poles, snowboard, sometimes helmet)

💡 Hidden tip: Before paying, check boots fit, binding condition, and confirm what is included (gear, lift, instructor), plus the exact lesson time and slope location.

5) 🛷 Snow sledge ride (family-friendly winter fun)

✅ What it is

🛷 A seated sledge pulled/controlled by a local operator on snow tracks

🕒 Timing

☀️ Winter daylight hours, best when visibility is good (late morning to mid afternoon)

💵 Fees

💰 Not fixed; depends on route length and crowd (negotiate clearly)

🧩 Facilities provided

🛷 Sledge and operator/handler

🧭 Short ride route (confirm start and end point)

💡 Hidden tip: Fix 3 things before starting: total minutes, exact route, and total final price.

6) 🏍️ Snowmobile / snow bike rides (quick thrill)

✅ What it is

🏍️ Short snow rides on designated tracks (seasonal, depends on snow)

🕒 Timing

☀️ Mostly daytime during winter, weather dependent

💵 Fees

💰 Not fixed; depends on ride duration and route

🧩 Facilities provided

🏍️ Snowmobile and operator guidance

🪖 Helmet often provided, but not guaranteed (confirm first)

💡 Hidden tip: Avoid very fast rides if you are with kids. Ask for a slower family pace.

7) 🐎 Pony rides (classic Gulmarg sightseeing option)

✅ What it is

🐎 Pony rides to scenic areas like meadows/trails (route depends on weather and season)

🕒 Timing

☀️ Daytime when trails are open and weather is clear

💵 Fees

💰 Locally managed, not fixed. Price depends on route and season

🧩 Facilities provided

🐎 Pony + handler (usually walks with you)

🧭 Route-based ride experience

💡 Hidden tip: Always confirm the return point. Many disputes happen because the rider expects a round trip and the operator assumes one-way.

8) 🛵 ATV rides (more common in non-snow months, sometimes seasonal tracks)

✅ What it is

🛵 ATV rides on designated tracks (availability depends on season and ground condition)

🕒 Timing

☀️ Typically daytime (operator dependent)

💵 Fees

💰 Not fixed; usually based on minutes and track length

🧩 Facilities provided

🛵 ATV vehicle, supervision, basic instructions

🪖 Helmet may be provided (confirm)

💡 Hidden tip: If you are a beginner, choose a shorter track first. Also confirm whether it is self-drive or operator-assisted.

9) ⛳ Gulmarg Golf Course (summer paid activity)

✅ What it is

⛳ A famous high-altitude golf course experience (best in green season)

🕒 Timing

☀️ Daytime in operating season (mostly late spring to autumn)

💵 Fees

💰 Green fees vary by season and category (confirm at golf office/counter)

🧩 Facilities provided

⛳ Course access

🧰 Equipment rental may be available (depends on season/facility)

💡 Hidden tip: Even if you are not playing golf, the surrounding area is great for photos in summer. Go in late afternoon for softer light.

Best things to do in Gulmarg for kids and adults

👧 For kids (family-friendly)

⛄ Snowman building + snow play at Kongdori (winter)

🛷 Sledge rides (short and safe if done slowly)

🚠 Gondola Phase 1 (best family option)

🚶 Easy meadow walks in summer (Strawberry Valley type spots)

☕ Hot kahwa breaks and photo stops

💡 Hidden tip for parents: Carry waterproof gloves + extra socks. Kids enjoy 2x more when hands and feet stay warm.

🧑 For adults

🏔️ Gondola Phase 2 to Apharwat (when open)

🎿 Ski lessons or snowboarding (winter)

⛳ Golf course day (summer)

🌇 Sunset photos and cafe hopping

🥾 Short hikes and viewpoint walks

💡 Hidden tip for adults: Avoid “too cheap” ski packages from random street sellers. Use hotel desk or established operators.

Food Facilities in Gulmarg

🍽️ What to expect

🍴 Gulmarg has cafes, restaurants, and hotel dining

🏔️ At Gondola and upper points, you will find fewer options (seasonal)

🥘 What to eat

☕ Kahwa (Kashmiri tea)

🍜 Maggi

🫓 Parathas

🍢 Kebabs

🍛 Simple thali meals

🥐 Bakery items in the market area

💡 Hidden tip: Keep dry snacks (nuts, biscuits, chocolates). Weather delays happen and queues get long.

Gulmarg Parking Facilities

🅿️ Parking exists near the market and Gondola base areas

❄️ In peak snow season it fills fast

🌅 Go early morning to avoid walking long distances in snow

Restroom Facilities

🚻 Toilets are generally available near main tourist zones (market/Gondola base) and inside bigger hotels

🏔️ At upper Gondola stations, toilet availability can be limited or crowded

✅ Use restrooms before you go up

Things to be careful about in Gulmarg

🌦️ Weather and health

🧥 Weather changes suddenly. Layer your clothes

🕶️ Sun on snow is harsh. Use sunglasses + sunscreen

💧 If you feel dizzy or breathless, rest and hydrate (altitude effect is real)

❄️ Snow safety

🚫 Do not wander off marked areas near Apharwat side

⚠️ Avoid unknown shortcuts in deep snow

🌫️ If visibility drops, return early

🚠 Gondola planning

🌬️ Phase 2 can shut due to wind. Keep backup plans

⏰ Follow official boarding windows

💰 Cost clarity

✅ Always confirm total price before starting pony rides, sledges, snowmobile, or photos with costumes

💡 Hidden tip: Keep small cash notes. Many places do not accept cards in peak rush.

Where to stay in Gulmarg

💸 Budget stays (₹1,500 to ₹4,000 approx)

🧳 Best for: travellers who spend most time outside

🏨 Budget hotels and guesthouses near Gulmarg market area

🏡 Homestay-style stays around Tangmarg (cheaper, but you travel up daily)

💡 Hidden tip: If you are visiting in heavy snow months, staying in Gulmarg saves time and avoids morning road uncertainty.

🏨 Mid-range stays (₹4,000 to ₹9,000 approx)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for: families and couples wanting comfort

🛏️ Comfort hotels and resorts with heaters, hot water, in-house restaurant

💡 Hidden tip: Ask about power backup and heating type before booking (very important in winter nights).

👑 Luxury stays (₹10,000+)

💑 Best for: honeymoon, premium comfort, spa experience

🏔️ Premium resorts and top hotels (book early in snow season)

💡 Hidden tip: In peak snow, choose a property with easy road access and strong support staff for luggage in snow.

Nearby Tourist places from Gulmarg

1) 🏘️ Tangmarg

A perfect quick stop to stretch, grab snacks, and reset before the Srinagar drive.

🍴 Best for: tea, snacks, fresh bread, quick shopping

⏳ Ideal time: 20 to 40 minutes

💡 Hidden tip: If you need snow chains or local taxis in winter, Tangmarg is the most practical place to arrange it.

2) 🌊 Drung Waterfall

A short detour that gives you amazing photos, especially in colder months when the waterfall looks dramatic.

📸Best for: photos, short walk, quick nature stop

⏳ Ideal time: 30 to 60 minutes

💡 Hidden tip: Wear shoes with grip. The path can be slippery in winter and muddy in early spring.

3) 🛶 Srinagar

A calm finish to a high-energy Gulmarg day. Sunset on Dal Lake feels peaceful and worth it.

🌅 Best for: sunset, shikara ride, boulevard walk

⏳ Ideal time: 1 to 2 hours

💡 Hidden tip: Do not book the first shikara price you hear. Ask 2 to 3 boats and choose calmly.

🗓️ Gulmarg 1-day Itinerary (from Srinagar)

🕢 7:30 AM depart Srinagar

🕤 9:30 AM reach Gulmarg, start Gondola queue/entry

🕙 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM Gondola Phase 1 (and Phase 2 if open)

🕑 2:00 PM lunch in Gulmarg

🕒 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM snow play / short meadow walk / church-temple stop

🕔 5:00 PM start return

2-Day Itinerary (Gulmarg 1 day + Srinagar 1 day)

This plan is perfect if you are staying in Srinagar and want one full adventure day plus one relaxed city day.

Day 1: Gulmarg Day Trip (from Srinagar)

🕘 Morning: Srinagar to Gulmarg drive

🚗 Start early from Srinagar (aim 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM)

📍 Road distance is commonly listed around 50 to 51 km (time depends on traffic and weather).

💡 Hidden tip: If you want to avoid long queues for the Gondola, try to reach the base station before 9:15 AM.

🚠 Late morning: Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1 then Phase 2 if open)

🚡 Boarding starts: 9:30 AM

⛔ Boarding closes: 3:30 PM

🔁 Last return: 5:00 PM

✅ Do Phase 1 first, then decide Phase 2 based on weather and visibility.

💡 Hidden tip: Keep Phase 2 flexible. Wind closures are common at higher points, so enjoy Kongdori properly even if you cannot go further.

🏔️ Noon: Snow play or meadow time (season-based)

❄️ Winter: snow play, sledge rides, beginner slopes near Kongdori

🌿 Summer: meadow walks, viewpoints, photography spots

💡 Hidden tip: In snow season, carry sunglasses. Snow glare can cause headaches and eye strain fast.

🍽️ Lunch: Gulmarg market area

🍜 Quick meals like kahwa, Maggi, parathas, simple thali options are easiest

🧴 Use restrooms before heading out again (upper areas may have limited facilities)

💡 Hidden tip: Keep dry snacks and water. Lines and weather delays can happen suddenly.

🐎 Afternoon: Pony rides or short sightseeing

🐴 Pony rides towards Khilanmarg side are a classic option

⛪ Quick photo stops: St Mary’s Church, Maharani Temple

🛍️ Small shopping in Gulmarg market

💡 Hidden tip: For pony rides, confirm the route, total time, and return point before you start. Most misunderstandings happen here.

🌙 Evening: Return to Srinagar

🚗 Start return by 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM (earlier in winter for safety)

🛶 Optional: quick sunset view near Dal Lake if you still have energy

💡 Hidden tip: Keep a buffer for the return. In peak season, exit traffic from Gulmarg can be slow.

Day 2: Srinagar City Day (Dal Lake + Gardens + Old City feel)

🕗 Morning: Dal Lake Shikara ride

🛶 Do a shikara ride early morning for calmer water and softer light

📸 Best time for photos and fewer crowds is morning

💡 Hidden tip: If you plan shopping on Dal Lake (saffron, dry fruits, shawls), browse first and buy later. Compare 2 to 3 boats before final purchase.

🌸 Late morning: Mughal Gardens

🌿 Visit one or two gardens based on time (Nishat, Shalimar are common picks)

📷 Great for family photos and relaxed walking

💡 Hidden tip: Visit gardens before noon if possible. The light is better and the place feels less crowded.

🍽️ Lunch: Srinagar local food stop

🍛 Try Kashmiri meals if you like mild spice and rich flavors

☕ Kahwa or noon chai is a nice break

💡 Hidden tip: Keep some cash. Some popular small eateries prefer cash during rush hours.

🕌 Afternoon: Old city or temple viewpoint

🛍️ Explore Srinagar old markets for souvenirs and local crafts

🏞️ Optional: a viewpoint stop like Shankaracharya area (time and traffic dependent)

💡 Hidden tip: If you are buying shawls or handicrafts, ask for a proper bill and packing. It helps during travel.

🌆 Evening: Boulevard Road walk + sunset vibe

🚶 Short walk on Boulevard Road

📸 Sunset photos near Dal Lake

💡 Hidden tip: Carry an extra layer even in summer. Srinagar evenings can feel chilly near the lake.

3-Day Itinerary Options (Add 1 nearby place on Day 3)

Pick ONE based on your season and interest.

Option A: Day 3 Sonamarg Day Trip (best for big mountain views)

🕗 Travel

🚗 Srinagar to Sonamarg is commonly listed around 80 to 81 km and around 2 to 3 hours depending on road and stops.

🏔️ What to do in Sonamarg

🧊 Thajiwas Glacier side experiences (seasonal conditions apply)

📸 Sindh River viewpoints

🐎 Pony rides and short snow experiences in colder months (route and access depend on weather)

💡 Hidden tip: Start very early for Sonamarg. Returning late can become tiring because the drive is longer than Gulmarg.

Option B: Day 3 Pahalgam Day Trip (best for riverside and valley views)

🕗 Travel

🚗 Srinagar to Pahalgam distance is commonly listed around 100 km, around 2.5 to 3 hours.

🌲 What to do in Pahalgam

🌊 Riverside walk and viewpoints

🐎 Local valley trips usually use local taxis (common system)

📸 Great for relaxed nature photos and family time

💡 Hidden tip: Keep your day simple in Pahalgam. Choose one main valley route instead of trying to cover everything fast.

4-Day Itinerary (2 to 3 days extension idea)

If you have 2 to 3 days more, add one offbeat meadow day that is easy from Srinagar.

Option C: Yusmarg Day Trip (quiet and less crowded)

📍 Yusmarg is listed as about 53 km from Srinagar and under 2 hours by road.

🌿 Great for peaceful meadows, light walks, picnic-style day

💡 Hidden tip: Carry snacks and water. Food options are limited compared to Gulmarg and Srinagar.

Gulmarg Short Day Map (places you can cover easily)

Use this as a simple route plan. Pick 2 to 4 stops based on your time and season.

🗺️ Route flow (easy to follow)

🏔️ Gulmarg (Main day)
                       ⬇️

🌲 Tangmarg (tea + quick break)
                       ⬇️

🌊 Drung Waterfall (photo stop)
                       ⬇️

🛍️ Srinagar (Boulevard Road + Dal Lake sunset)
                       ⬇️

🌙 Dinner in Srinagar (Wazwan or cafe)

💡 Hidden tip: If you want sunset at Dal Lake, try leaving Gulmarg by around 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Gondola last return can be close to 5:00 PM, so plan your last ride slot carefully.