Gulmarg means "meadow of flowers", and the name fits. This wide, bowl-shaped meadow sits at about 2,650 metres in the Pir Panjal range, surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks.
In summer the slopes turn green and are dotted with wildflowers. In winter the whole place goes white, and it becomes Kashmir's main ski resort.
Most families come to Gulmarg on a day trip from Srinagar, but staying a night lets you see the meadow early in the morning before the crowds arrive. A gentle pony ride, a snowball fight with the kids or a proper day on the ski slopes: Gulmarg suits many kinds of travellers. Our team at Roaming Routes can add it to any Kashmir itinerary.
What to see and do.
Ride the Gulmarg Gondola: Phase 1 goes up to Kongdoori, and Phase 2 continues higher towards Apharwat, with wide views over the valley and, on clear days, distant peaks.
Learn to ski or snowboard in winter on the beginner slopes near the meadow, with certified local instructors and equipment available on hire.
Enjoy the snow at Kongdoori and around the meadow with sledge rides, snow play and photos, which kids love.
Visit the Maharani Temple (Mohinishwar Shivalaya), a small temple on a hillock that looks out over the whole meadow.
See St. Mary's Church, a charming old stone church from the British era, set among the pines.
Walk or ride a pony across the meadows and along forest trails to spots such as Khilanmarg and the Strawberry Valley area.
In summer, look out over the high-altitude golf course. In winter, stop at Drung waterfall near Tangmarg, a short detour by road, which can freeze in very cold spells.
From the valley
Local tips.
What we tell our own guests before they head to Gulmarg.
Book Gondola tickets online in advance through the official booking portal, especially in peak season. Check current rates, timings and rules before you go.
Phase 2 of the Gondola can close at short notice because of wind or weather, so keep your plans flexible. It goes much higher than the meadow, so take it slowly if anyone has breathing or heart problems, and stay within marked areas on the snow.
Local sightseeing around the meadow uses local union ponies, sledges and transport. Agree on the route and the charges clearly before you start.
Carry warm layers even in summer, because the weather changes quickly up here. In winter, wear waterproof boots and gloves, which you can also hire locally.
Start early from Srinagar to avoid traffic and to get the most out of your Gondola time.
Trips
6 trips go to Gulmarg.
From ₹15,999 per person · twin sharing. Every plan can be changed to suit your dates, and the final price is confirmed in writing.
Prices shown are starting prices, per person on twin sharing unless marked per couple or per group. Your final quote depends on travel dates, hotel category, vehicle and group size.
Good to know
Gulmarg, answered.
Anything else? WhatsApp us: a real person from the Batakote office will answer.
Yes. Gulmarg is about 50 km from Srinagar, roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way depending on traffic, so many visitors go up and back in a day. Staying a night is more relaxed and gives you quiet mornings on the meadow.
Will there be snow when I visit?
Snow is most likely in the winter months, usually from around December to March, and higher up near the Gondola it can stay longer. Snowfall varies every year, so no one can promise snow on specific dates. Check recent conditions closer to your trip.
Do I need to book the Gulmarg Gondola in advance?
It is strongly recommended, especially in peak season, when tickets can sell out. Book through the official online portal and check current rates and rules first. Phase 2 may close in bad weather.