Gulmarg Tourism

Introduction

Gulmarg means the 'Meadow of Flowers'. It is a beautiful hill station that is popular for breathtaking views and salubrious weather. Located in the Baramula district in Jammu and Kashmir in India, the region got its name from the Gauri, the Hindu Goddess. Snuggled in the high peaks of Himalayan range, Gulmarg is the preferred destination for tourists visiting North India. As you travel to Gulmarg, you will witness its beauty which is beyond imagination alongwith its Ski Resort that attracts tourist from far-flung areas.

Gulmarg Tourism takes you to an eye catching destination with impressive surroundings, ski resorts, manicured gardens and one of the World?s highest Gondola.

History of Gulmarg

In its golden days, the hill station has served as a summer resort for the kings. The name Gulmarg was given by Yousuf Shah Chak, the former king. Yousuf Shah Chak and Jahangir used the region as their summer resort frequently. During British rule also, Gulmarg has been a preferred choice to spend the scorching summers. Picturesque locations and peaceful aura of the region have attracted everyone who was known to this region.

Major Gulmarg Attractions

An Exhilarating Gondola Ride

It is counted amongst the most popular attractions of Gulmarg. It is actually a cable car ride, which is managed by Jammu and Kashmir State Cable Car Corporations. Divided in two sections, the ride takes you to Kongdori and from there to Apherwat. The ride passes over the pine forests and provides breathtaking views that can spell bind anyone easily.

Baba Reshi Shrine

Dedicated to a Muslim saint Baba Reshi, this sacred mosque was built in 1480, and visited by almost every traveller. The shrine enjoys its popularity due to its age-old history and faith of the locals. Sprawled over a large area, this five century old shrine presents a beautiful combination of Persian and Mughal style architecture.

Alpathar Lake

Triangular shape, calm and beautiful ambience; Alpathar Lake is a popular picnic spot. Snow-capped mountains in the backdrop make the aura more beautiful. The lake remains frozen in the winters. In summers, tourists can enjoy amazing views of bubbling water with floating ice pieces.

Gulmarg Golf Course

One of the largest 18-hole golf courses in India, Gulmarg Golf Course is frequented by many golfing enthusiasts. The golf course sprawls over 7505 yards and enjoys spectacular surroundings. Nearby Also Strawberry Valley should also be visited to taste the juiciest strawberries. People visiting here never forget to pack some strawberries to take back home.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

A favourite haunt of photographers and wildlife lovers; Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve surprises with its collection of flora, fauna, & avifauna. Biodiversity of this park is highly impressive. Here you can spot the endangered Musk Deer apart from Hangul, Leopard, Brown Bear, Black Bear, and Red Fox. Numerous indigenous and migratory birds can also be spotted here.

Skiing in Gulmarg

Apharwat Peak at a height of 4200 m above the sea level is visited by Skiing enthusiasts every winter. It remains blanketed with heavy snowfall and is probably the best place for skiing. Ferozepur Nallah, a mountain stream, is another natural wonder here. The stream flows through lush pine trees, flourishing meadows and soaring snow-capped mountains. The beauty of Seven Springs is also worth appreciating in Gulmarg. From here you can catch glimpses of both the Srinagar and Gulmarg valleys.

Accommodation

Accommodations in Gulmarg can be divided into luxury resorts, budget hotels and even homestays.

Best Time to Visit Gulmarg

From December-end to mid-February, visit Gulmarg to enjoy snowfall and create your own snowman! Summers in Gulmarg start from March which is ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities.

How to Reach Gulmarg

By Air: The nearest airport to Gulmarg is in Srinagar, which is a domestic airport and is well connected to major cities in India by regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Amritsar.

By Rail: Nearest railway station is Jammu which is well connected to the most of the railheads in major Indian cities.

By Road: Gulmarg is 57 kilometres from Srinagar and although it can be reached in 1-2 hours, it takes more time due to the winding high altitude roads.