Kashmir · Snow, Skiing and the Gondola
Gulmarg
Gulmarg sits at 2,650 m in the Pir Panjal range, 56 km from Srinagar. In winter it's Kashmir's snow town: ski slopes for beginners and experts, the Gulmarg Gondola climbing towards Mount Apharwat, and a wide meadow under deep snow. In summer the same bowl turns green, with a golf course and walks to Alpather Lake.
In winter
Gulmarg in winter
- Snow is surest from mid-January to mid-March. In some years December brings plenty of snow, and in others hardly any.
- On snow days only 4×4s with chains, carrying up to 10 people, may drive the last stretch from Tangmarg to Gulmarg.
- Gondola tickets are sold online only, up to 120 days ahead. It closes on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month for maintenance, and strong wind can stop Phase 2.
- Sightseeing inside Gulmarg runs on the local union taxis; cars from Srinagar can drop you at your hotel.
- New Year week is the busiest of the season, with a winter carnival on the meadow, so book early.
Best time
When to go
- Mid-January – mid-March
- Snow and skiing
- Christmas and New Year
- Festive and busy; snow isn't guaranteed
- June – September
- Green meadows, golf and walks
- October – November
- Quiet autumn colours
Winter 2026-27
Winter trips that include Gulmarg
Highlights
What Awaits You
01Gulmarg Gondola
Phase 1 rises to Kongdoori; Phase 2 carries on up Mount Apharwat to about 3,950 m. Book online before you travel.
02Skiing for Beginners and Experts
Beginners learn with an instructor on the gentle slopes near the village. Confident skiers ride the gondola and chairlift up.
03The Snow Meadow
From December the meadow lies under snow. Sledge pullers take you across it, and snowmobiles run at fixed rates.
04St Mary's Church and the Maharani Temple
Two old landmarks on the meadow: a small stone church and a temple on its own hillock, both banked with snow in winter.
05Summer Meadows
From June to September the bowl is green again, with wild flowers, walking trails and one of the world's highest golf courses.
06Alpather Lake
A high lake below Apharwat that stays frozen for much of the year. The walk up is a summer outing.
Gallery
Through the Lens
Gulmarg in photos, mostly in winter.
Experiences
What You Can Do
Gulmarg has a season for every soul.
Through the year
Every Season, a Different Gulmarg
Winter
Deep snow on the meadow, ski lessons, the gondola above the clouds. Snow is surest from mid-January.
Ready to explore?
