GULMARG - JAMMU AND KASHMIR
Gulmarg, known as Gulmarg lit. 'meadow of flowers' in Kashmiri, is a town, hill station, popular skiing destination, and notified area committee in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is located at a distance of 31 km (19 mi) from Baramulla and 49 km (30 mi) from Srinagar. The town is situated in the Pir Panjal Range in the Western Himalayas and lies within the boundaries of Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary.
Originally called Gauri Marg (meaning "the path of Devi Gauri"), its name was changed to 'Gulmarg' in the 1500s by Yousuf Shah of the Chak dynasty. Gulmarg is now interpreted as a 'meadow of flowers.
Yousuf Shah Chak, who ruled Kashmir from 1579 to 1586, frequented the place with his queen Habba Khatoon and renamed it 'Gulmarg' ("meadow of flowers"). Wildflowers of 21 different varieties were collected by the Mughal emperor Jahangir for his gardens in Gulmarg. In the 19th century, British civil servants started using Gulmarg as a retreat to escape summers on the North Indian plains. Hunting and golfing were their favourite pastime and three golf courses were established in Gulmarg including one exclusively for women. One of the golf courses survives and at an altitude of 2,650 metres (8,690 ft) is the world's highest golf course. In 1927, the British established a ski club in Gulmarg and two annual ski events were hosted each during Christmas and Easter. Central Asian explorer Aurel Stein also visited Gulmarg during this period.
After the end of British rule in India, Gulmarg became a part of the independent princely state of Kashmir and Jammu. Pakistan planned an invasion of the state called Operation Gulmarg. One of the routes used by the invading militia of Pathan tribesmen, armed and supported by Pakistani regular troops, passed through the Haji Pir pass and Gulmarg onto the state capital Srinagar. Gulmarg fell to the invading army, but the Indian army led by the 1 Sikh Regiment, which had been airlifted to Srinagar only after the Dogra ruler of the state Maharaja Hari Singh had signed an Instrument of Accession with India on 26 October 1947, successfully defended the outskirts of Srinagar. Thereafter, Indian counterattacks pushed the tribesmen back and many towns including Gulmarg were recaptured. In 1948, the Indian Army established a ski school in Gulmarg which later became the High Altitude Warfare School of the Indian army specializing in the snow–craft and winter warfare. On 1 January 1949, the war ended under UN supervision and a Ceasefire line (CFL), which was rechristened the Line of Control (LOC) by the Shimla Agreement of 1972, came into being close to Gulmarg.
After Indian Independence, Indian planners sought to develop a destination for Winter sports in India. The Department of Tourism of the Government of India invited Rudolph Matt, in 1960 to select a suitable location for such a purpose. Matt zeroed in on Gulmarg as a suitable location for the development of a winter sports destination in India. In 1968, the Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering was established in Gulmarg to train ski instructors. Over the next decade, Indian planners invested ₹30 million (US$390,000) to transform Gulmarg into a world-class ski destination. Gulmarg became a centre for skiers from Asian nations. In the mid-1980s, heli-skiing was introduced in Gulmarg in collaboration with the Swiss skier Sylvain Saudan of Himalaya Heli-Ski Club of France. In the 1990s, the rise of militancy in Jammu and Kashmir affected tourism in Gulmarg. With the abatement of terrorism in the area, tourism started to recover in the late 1990s. Work on the cable car project between Gulmarg and Apharwat Peak, which was commissioned in 1988 by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir but was subsequently abandoned due to militancy in 1990, was resumed in 1998. In May 1998, Phase 1 of the project, between Gulmarg and Kongdori, began its commercial operation. In May 2005, Phase 2 of the project was also inaugurated, making it one of the longest and highest ropeways in Asia. The chairlift installed as a part of Phase 3 of the project began its operations in 2011. The National Winter Games were held in Gulmarg in 1998, 2004 and 2008. In 2014, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir drafted a Master Plan–2032 for Gulmarg. The plan includes the development of a solid-waste treatment plant on 20 acres of land close to Gulmarg.
Gulmarg lies in a cup-shaped valley in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, at an altitude of 2,650 m (8,694 ft), 56 km from Srinagar. The soil in Gulmarg comprises glacial deposits, lacustrine deposits and moraines of the Pleistocene age covering shales, limestones, sandstones, schists and other varieties of rocks. The natural meadows of Gulmarg, which are covered with snow in winter, allow the growth of wildflowers such as daisies, forget-me-nots and buttercups during spring and summer. The meadows are interspersed by enclosed parks and small lakes and surrounded by forests of green pine and fir. Skiing and other winter sports in Gulmarg are carried out on the slopes of Apharwat peak at a height of 4,267 m (13,999 ft). Many points on Apharwat peak and Khilanmarg offer a panoramic view of Nanga Parbat and Harmukh mountains
Elevation: 2,650 m, Weather: 22 °C, Wind E at 0 km/h, 39% Humidity. In the 2011 Indian census, Gulmarg had a total population of 1,965 over 77 households. District: Baramulla, Union Territory: Jammu and Kashmir
According to CNN, Gulmarg is the "heartland of winter sports in India" and was rated as Asia's seventh-best ski destination. The town is accessible from Srinagar by road via Tangmarg. The road climbs uphill in the last 12 kilometres to Gulmarg passing through forests of pine and fir. Winter sports like skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding and heli-skiing take place on the slopes of Mount Apharwat reachable by a Gondola lift.
Maharani Temple (commonly known as Shiv Temple of Gulmarg) was built by a Hindu ruler Maharaja Hari Singh for his wife Maharani Mohini Bai Sisodia who ruled till 1915. This temple was considered the stately possession of Dogra kings. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and Parvati. This temple is situated on a slight hilltop with greenery. This temple is visible from all corners of Gulmarg.
Elevation: 2,650 m
Weather: 22 °C, Wind W at 3 km/h, 54% Humidity
Population: 1,965 (2011)
District: Baramulla
GULMARG TOUR PACKAGES
Package G N G RRGM 1 : 2 Night 3 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Kashmir Gulmarg + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 2 : 2 Night 3 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Seek the Blessings of Baba Reshi Shrine + Darshan + Aarti + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 3 : 2 Night 3 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing St. Mary’s Church + Pray + Worship + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 4 : 3 Night 4 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 5 : 3 Night 4 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Single Nallah + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 6 : 3 Night 4 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Maharani Temple/Rani Temple + Darshan + Aarti + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 7 : 3 Night 4 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Ferozepur Nallah + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 8 : 3 Night 4 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Drung Waterfall + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 9 : 3 Night 4 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Khilanmarg + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGM 10 : 3 Night 4 Days Stay in Hotel + Sightseeing Strawberry Valley + Breakfast + Dinner
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GULMARG PAHALGAM SRINAGAR SONMARG TOUR PACKAGES
Package G N G RRGPSS 1 : 2 Nights Stay in Pahalgam + 1 Night Stay in Gulmarg + 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGPSS 2 : 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + 1 Night Stay in Gulmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGPSS 3 : 1 Night Stay in Sonmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Pahalgam + 1 Night Stay in Gulmarg + 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGPSS 4 : 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + 1 Night Stay in Gulmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Pahalgam + 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGPSS 5 : 2 Nights Stay in Gulmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Pahalgam + 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGPSS 6 : 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + 1 Night Stay in Sonmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Pahalgam + 1 Night Stay in Gulmarg + 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGPSS 7 : 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + 2 Nights Stay in Gulmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Pahalgam + 2 Nights Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
Package G N G RRGPSS 8 : 2 Nights Stay in Gulmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Sonmarg + 2 Nights Stay in Pahalgam + 1 Night Stay in Srinagar + Breakfast + Dinner
GULMARG TOUR PACKAGES AND ADVENTURE SPORTS
1- Learn Skiing- Now, skiing is one thing that you must try when you come to Gulmarg. Known for its excellent gradients, Gulmarg is the best place to ski in India. For beginners, there are three baby slopes available with expert ski instructors (you can hire ski instructors for a day, a week and even for a month). For veteran skiers, the slopes of the Aparwath Peak are ideal, with the smooth and steep gradients making it a perfect place for powder skiing in India. Apart from skiing, you can try snowboarding and sledging as well.
2-Take a Ride on Gulmarg Gondola- In Gulmarg taking a Gondola ride is a must. Reckoned to be the world’s second-highest cable car project, Gulmarg Gondola is a two-tiered ride. In the first phase, the visitors are taken to Kongdori, which is situated at a height of 2600m; and in the second phase, the visitors are taken to an elevation of 3747m at Aparwath Peak. The view from Gulmarg Gondola is truly commendable as on a clear sky day one can even witness the magnificent Nanga Parbat as well.
3- Try Your Hands at Golfing- If you are visiting Gulmarg in summer time it is ideal to try your hands at golfing. Gulmarg is reckoned to have the world’s second-highest golf course, which is situated at an altitude of 2650m. It is an 18-hole golf course and is spread over an area of 7505yards. The golf course also has a 3-hole learning academy, where the novice can learn some tricks and tips. It is a lovely place as it is adorned with different varieties of flowers and is surrounded by lofty mountains. Amidst such picturesque surroundings, playing golf is indeed a perfect choice!
4- Trekking (Spend a day at Alpather Lake)- Alpather Lake is one exciting place for a day trip from Gulmarg. Situated at the feet of the twin Aparwath Peaks, the lake is around 13kms from Gulmarg. Aparwath Lake is one of the most scenic places you could be and it remains frozen till mid-May even in the month of June one can see several ice chunks floating on the water. It is a great idea for a day excursion as one can then either have a good trekking experience or can enjoy a thrilling pony ride.
5-Photography – Head to Single Nallah to click one of the best pictures of your life. The snowy peaks, lush green pastures, and vibrant wildflowers add perfect colours to the whole scene. This mountain stream is formed by the melting of ice from Apharwat Peak. This stream unites with River Jhelum. The banks of Single Nallah is also considered to be one of the best sites for camping and picnic.
Best Time to Visit: Summers are the best to visit here.
6-Pony Ride – This gorgeous valley offers an atmosphere of calmness of nature with the excitement of adventure sports. Due to the lack of motorable roads, the best way to get here is either on foot or on a pony. Enjoying some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks, a pony ride to Khilanmarg is an experience in itself. Blooming with several aromatic flowers is the additional bliss to this great valley. It is also a great spot for ski-lovers.
Best Time to Visit: From December to Mid-February. Make sure to pack heavy woollens.
7-Fishing in Gulmarg- During the summer months, the ski resorts are generally crowded. It’s recommended to go fishing at the Confluence, where streams from Ferozepur Nallah and River Bahan meet. These streams are an angler’s heaven!
8-Tea Plucking in Gulmarg- A holiday to Gulmarg would be incomplete without a visit to the terraced tea plantations. Go tea picking and sample some Kashmiri Mahwah or the odd blend of salt and soda in sheer tea.
9-Picnics in Gulmarg- Make the most of Gulmarg’s cascading meadows and valleys. Pack your picnic basket with goodies and lay out your spread in a secluded corner. If lugging a picnic basket is not your idea of fun, there are a few open-air Dhabas at Kongdori that serve a typical fare of parathas, French fries and of course, hot tea. Single Nallah and Ferozpore Nallah are other scenic picnic spots.
10-Outer Circle Walk in Gulmarg- Outer Circle Walk is a popular trekking trail, which covers a distance of 11 km around the heavenly Kashmir Valley and Gulmarg. Passing through tall pines, verdant meadows and breathtaking landscapes, this path offers a refreshing nature walk with mesmerising vistas to behold. While traversing the rugged terrains of this circle, tourists can enjoy splendid views of Nanga Parbat – the world's fourth-highest mountain crest. Harajuku and Sunset Peak, two frequented tourist hotspots of the region, can also be seen while trekking this beautiful route.
GULMARG DAY PACKAGES
Package G N G RRGM 1 : 1 Day Learn Skiing Package + Pickup & Drop By Cab From Hotel
Package G N G RRGM 2 : 1 Day Take a Ride on Gulmarg Gondola Package + Pickup & Drop By Cab From Hotel
Package G N G RRGM 3 : 1 Day Try Your Hands at Golfing Package + Pickup & Drop By Cab From Hotel
Package G N G RRGM 4 : 1 Day Photography Near Single Nallah Package + Pickup & Drop By Cab From Hotel
Package G N G RRGM 5 : 1 Day Try Wazwan and Kahwa Kashmiri cuisine Package + Pickup & Drop By Cab From Hotel
Package G N G RRGM 6 : 1 Day Pony Ride Near Khilanmarg Package + Pickup & Drop By Cab From Hotel
Package G N G RRGM 7 : 1 Day Trekking (Spend a day at Alpather Lake) Package + Pickup & Drop By Cab From Hotel
HOW TO REACH GULMARG
BY AIR
The nearest airport to Gulmarg is in Srinagar which is 56 kilometres away. It is a domestic airport and is well connected to major cities in India by regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Amritsar.
BY TRAIN
Jammu is the nearest railway station, at a distance of 290 kilometres. Jammu railway station is well connected to most of the railheads in major Indian cities. Some of the popular trains are Jammu Rajdhani, Himgiri Express, Swaraj Express, Andaman Express and Himsagar Express which connects the farthest railhead in Trivandrum city.
BY BUS
Gulmarg is well-connected with regular bus services from Srinagar, Sonmarg and other neighbouring towns in Kashmir. You can choose from regular, deluxe and luxury buses operated by both government and private companies
WHEN TO VISIT GULMARG
Gulmarg in Summer (April-June)
The summers in the hill station of Gulmarg ideally last from March to June. During these months, the temperatures range from 13 degree Celsius to 29 degrees Celsius. These temperatures give way to pleasant climates which is perhaps one of the hotter weathers for this place. Gulmarg in the summers is ideal for sightseeing as visitors do not have to deal with below-freezing temperatures or an avalanche of snow. This also makes for a perfect time to visit as the flowers are in full bloom and create an incredible spectacle that is worth witnessing with your very own eyes in the hill station hidden far above the mountain ranges.
Gulmarg in Monsoon (July-September)
Monsoons in Gulmarg are not as awe-inspiring as the summers and nor is the winter onslaught of cold hard snow covering the entire town. Gulmarg also receives a minimal and rather insignificant amount of rainfall in the monsoons which makes the temperature increase by a few degrees rather than decrease. However, if you are planning on visiting Gulmarg while avoiding the tourists and crowds, monsoon might be the season for you. Lakes and waterfalls during these monsoon months are also shining against the natural flora which makes for a rather beautiful sight if you find yourself visiting the hill station during this season.
Gulmarg in Winter (October-March)
The winters in Gulmarg that last from October to February are not everyone’s cup of tea. The temperatures during the winter months drop down to below freezing and range from a bearable 11 degrees Celsius to a low of -4 degrees Celsius. These temperatures hinder a lot of visitors from considering Gulmarg is the winter season. However, if you do decide to visit the nestled mountain town during these months, you indeed have a feast waiting for you. During winters, a large amount of snowfall leads Gulmarg to be covered in pristine white snow which completely transforms the hill station. The hills near Gulmarg also form an ideal place for skiing and other adventurous sports that are applicable for the winter season. When visiting during these months, you must not miss the over-the-top Christmas celebrations in December or the extraordinary Gulmarg Snow Festival. This festival is held every year for two days and was started to promote not only tourism in the hill station but also to encourage playing and appreciation of winter sports. The festival attracts many sports enthusiasts and is a massive spectacle in the hill station.
TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN GULMARG
- Khilanmarg
- Gondola Lift
- Golf Course
- Nagin Valley
- Alphather Lake
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Baba Reshi Shrine
- Himalayan Ski Guides
- Himalayan Ski School
- Kashmir Gulmarg
- Kashmir Adventure Tours
- Gulmarg Backcountry
- The Gulmarg Ski Area
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GULMARG
- Hotel Marina
- Hotel Green
- Hotel Signature
- Pine View Resort
- Hotel Affarwat
- Highlands Park
- Shaw Resort 11
- Apple Tree Resorts
- Shaw Inn Gulmarg
- Hi-Speed Resort
- Hotel Heevan Retreat
- Hotel Mama Palace
- Royal Park Hotel
- Gulmarg Meadows
WHERE TO EAT IN GULMARG
- Rizk
- Mehfil
- Raja Hut
- Taste Ride
- Pine View
- Hotel Hilltop
- Kolaigreen
- Skylark
- Sabah Khana
- Ahdoos Hotel
- Kazi Kashmir
- Bhat vegetarian
- Khan Restaurant
- Panjabi Dhaba
- Hotel Zam Zam
- Amiri Da Dhaba
- Mana restaurant
- Tarboosh Foods
HOMESTAY IN GULMARG
- Ahdoos Hotel
- Hotel Sadaf
- Lala Resort
- Hotel Al Sarah
- The Residency Hotel
- Radisson Srinagar
- Hotel Kashmir Inn
- Mascot Houseboats
- Houseboat Sweet Star
- Gulmarg Meadows
- Rah Bagh, Srinagar
- Shaw Inn Ne
- Heevan Retreat
- Hotel Poshvan
- Hotel Hilltop
- Welcome Hotel
- Gulmarg Sahara
- Roseland cottage.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GULMARG
Q1-Why is Gulmarg famous?
Ans. Gulmarg is very famous for its skiing scenes in India. This town is located on the Pir Panjal Range, which is a part of the western Himalayas.
Q2-What is the best time to visit Gulmarg?
Ans. July to September: Besides being the warmest month, monsoon season starts in the month of July. Although the rains are not that heavy in Gulmarg, people often visit during this time as it is off-season and many hotels offer attractive deals during this time.
Q3-Is Gulmarg worth visiting?
Ans. It is a prime location to indulge in various winter sports including skiing, making it Asia's seventh top ski spot. If you are tired of your monotonous routine and looking for a break or simply want to beat the heat then there is no better place than Gulmarg that can uplift your mood and bring life on track.
Q4-Can we stay in Gulmarg?
Ans. We are suggested that Hotel stays in Srinagar would be more comfortable than in Gulmarg. There will be plenty of snow by March's end. So if you want to enjoy the snow, stay overnight in Gulmarg.
Q5-Is Gulmarg in India or Pakistan?
Ans. Gulmarg (Hindustani pronunciation), known as Gulmarg (Kashmiri pronunciation; lit. 'meadow of flowers) in Kashmiri, is a town, hill station, popular skiing destination, and notified area committee in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Q6-How many days is enough for Gulmarg?
Ans. 2 days of stay excluding travel time is sufficient. One day to enjoy in Gulmarg and another day for Gondola ride till the second phase. over a year ago.
Q7-How can I go to Gulmarg by flight?
Ans. The nearest airport to Gulmarg is in Srinagar which is 56 kilometres away. It is a domestic airport and is well connected to major cities in India by regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Amritsar. Outside the airport, you can hire a prepaid cab which will cost you around Rs. 1500 one-way.
Q8-What is a chair lift in Gulmarg?
Ans. During winter time Chair lift is kept in operation for ski players. After reaching Gulmarg you have to walk 1 KM on a flat road to reach the boarding point of the Gondola. After reaching the parking area you will be approached by horse owners offering you drop at the boarding point or take you to different places.
Q9-How much is a gondola ride in Gulmarg?
Ans. Entry Fee: The price is INR 700 (11 US$) for the first stage and INR 900 (15 US$) for the second stage. The Chairlift price is INR 300. Opening and Closing Time: The timing of the Gulmarg Gondola is from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Q10-Which one is better Gulmarg or Sonmarg?
Ans. Gulmarg is way better than Sonamarg. Gulmarg has lots of activities to do whereas Sonamarg doesn't have anything apart from the lookout. moreover, the unions at Sonamarg are not at all systematic and are crazy behind money and looting tourists.
Q11-Is Gulmarg expensive?
Ans. Gulmarg in general is an expensive place. Finding a hotel here for anywhere under Rs. 2000 per day is going to be a task impossible. Even the food here is expensive.
Q12-Are private cars allowed in Gulmarg?
Ans. Yes and No, You can drive your own car to the Gulmarg entrance, park it over there. However from there, to go up, you have to take Either a Bus or a Local Taxi to drive you up to the Tourist attraction place(To see Snow and go to Gondola).
Q13-Can we complete Gulmarg one day?
Ans. I suggest you stay at least one day in Gulmarg. You never know when it will snow in Gulmarg and then you will regret it. For most visitors the only attraction at Gulmarg is Gondola and it can be comfortably done in a day.
Q14-What sport can you do in Gulmarg?
Ans. Skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding and heli-skiing are some of the few winter sports which are popular here. Let's take a brief look at a few winter sports that can be enjoyed in Gulmarg
Q15-What are the popular points of tourist interest in Gulmarg Kashmir?
Ans. The most popular tourist attractions in Gulmarg are Gondola Ride, Shark Fin, Baba Reshi Shrine, Golf, Apharwat Peak, Skiing, and Snowfall.
Q16-What safety tips must one consider while skiing in Gulmarg?
Ans. Here are some basic safety tips for skiing in Gulmarg and anywhere else:
1. Strictly adhere to the instructions given by trainers
2. Use good ski equipment
3. Wear a helmet and goggles
4. Follow signboards
5. Know your limits/level as a skier
Q17-What are the famous cuisines in Gulmarg?
Ans. Kashmiri Cuisine is the most popular cuisine in Gulmarg. Rice is a major element that is usually served with mutton, chicken or fish. Paneer and vegetables are usually cooked with gravy. Kashmiri Wazwan and Kahwa are two of the most famous recipes in Gulmarg.
Q18-How far is Gulmarg from Srinagar?
Ans. Gulmarg is located at a distance of 51 Km from Srinagar and can be reached within 1 hour and 40 minutes via Srinagar – Tangmarg road.
Q19-Is it safe to visit Gulmarg?
Ans. Yes, Gulmarg is a safe destination for travellers. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, maintaining safety is one of the key concerns of the government.
