The skiing paradise
Gulmarg is a high meadow ringed by forest, about two hours from Srinagar. It is snow country in winter and green grassland in summer, and the gondola runs up to Apharwat in both seasons.
Gulmarg is about 56 km from Srinagar, roughly two hours by road. The last climb starts at Tangmarg, where the road winds up through pine forest. After heavy snow, that stretch can be limited to vehicles with chains or four-wheel drive, and your driver will know on the morning.
The Gulmarg Gondola runs in two stages. Phase 1 goes to Kongdoori, which suits most families. Phase 2 continues to Apharwat, close to 4,000 metres, where it is much colder and the weather changes fast. Book tickets through the official channels. Our guide on booking Gulmarg gondola tickets online walks through it. Tickets are not included in our packages because the price changes by season.
From December to March, Gulmarg is snow. Children spend hours on sledges, beginners take a first ski lesson, and snow jackets and boots are hired at Tangmarg. From May to September the snow melts into meadow. There are pony rides towards Khilanmarg, walks past St Mary's Church and the old Maharani temple, and one of the highest golf courses in the world.
A day trip from Srinagar keeps the cost down and suits most first visits. Staying a night gives you the empty meadow early in the morning, a shorter gondola queue, and sunset over the peaks. It is worth it in winter or for anyone skiing, but rooms here cost more than in Srinagar.
For the drive itself, see our Srinagar to Gulmarg taxi. It covers vehicle choice, what changes the fare, and how to book. We do not print a fare chart, because the quote depends on the day.
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