When it comes to creating bucket list for places to travel in India, Kashmir is probably at the top for everyone. And why shouldn’t it be, from beautiful mountains to mesmerizing valleys, Kashmir is truly heaven on Earth!
There is so much to see, that sometimes 10 days don’t seem enough. I was lucky to experience Kashmir in both the summer and winter season. In this blog, I will be sharing my entire experience of exploring Gulmarg during winters! So lets begin.
Things to know before you travel to Gulmarg
Language: Most people can speak in Hindi fluently. Some are even well versed in English.
Ideal time to visit: Kashmir has an amazing weather all year round. You can visit Gulmarg in all season’s to enjoy its beauty.
Cash and Cards: Both cash and cards are acceptable. However, it is recommended to carry cash as locals prefer cash.
Where to book tickets: It is recommended to book the tickets to the Gulmarg Gondola (prime attraction) in advance. Here’s the link to book your tickets – https://www.jammukashmircablecar.com/
Nearest airport: Srinagar airport
Travel Duration: 1 night 2 days is the perfect duration for an ideal getaway.
Where to stay?
When it comes to stay, Gulmarg has a bunch of options! Mind you, stays at Gulmarg aren’t the most affordable.
If you are someone who is looking for a luxurious stay then my ultimate recommendation would be staying at the The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa.
I stayed at the Pine View Resort. Don’t go by the reviews you read on MMT or Booking.com. The people here are so hospitable and our stay was super super comfortable. They have limited rooms which means customer service is top-notch. Now it is a pricey option but its totally worth it!
Gulmarg Gondola experience
The prime highlight of your Gulmarg trip is the Gulmarg Gondola. Did you know its the world’s second highest gondola ride! The Ride consists of two phases –
Phase 1 – Gulmarg to Kondoor
Phase 2 – Kondoor to Apharwat
My recommendation will be to head to Phase 2 if you have the time. The ticket costs extra but the view is simply breathtaking. You might also find snow during the summer months! Unlike the first phase which is highly commercialized, the second phase is a peaceful abode.
Honestly, I was totally captivated by the beauty of this place. I mean imagine getting out of the Gondola and stepping into a winter wonderland. No wonder, they call Kashmir “Heaven on Earth”. You truly have to see it to believe it!
At the first phase you can indulge in a number of activities like – Sledging, Pony Rides, Motor Bike, Skiing etc.
Pro Tip: Bargain as hard as possible. Locals quote a really high price for activities (almost triple or five times). The locals will initially refuse your offer but will accept eventually!
Other important details
Price of the Gondola ride – INR 750 (USD 9) for Phase 1 and INR 950 (USD 11.46) for Phase 2. Please note you cannot book Phase 2 tickets without booking the Phase 1 tickets.
Timings of the Gondola: 9 am to 5 pm (Last time to take a Gondola to Kondoor 3:30 pm)
Drung Waterfall
While you are exploring Gulmarg, I would highly suggest checking out the Drung Waterfall in Tangmarg. Located 30 mins away from main Gulmarg main market, Drung waterfall is just “Beautiful”.
During the winter months, the waterfall freezes completely with a small stream of water. A thick layer of ice sheet develops on which you can also walk (But I wouldn’t recommend if you aren’t 100% of navigating the path).
The waterfall is completely free to visit and is 3 kms away from the ATV point. You can either choose to hike through the village, book a taxi/jeep for INR 1000 for four people from the taxi stand or take an ATV which costs a whooping INR 2500 per person.
Top tips to remember while booking your trip
1) Go as early as possible. Book the early morning Gondola ride. You’ll be able to enjoy the second and the first phase both 🏔️
2) Don’t fall for all the scams that follow in Gulmarg like renting a pony for INR 1200 to get to the starting point of Gondola. It will be max a 30 minute walk from your hotel/resort.
3) Wear proper clothing. A base layer, sweater, leg warmers, jackets and pants of your choice. The altitude at second phase can hit you pretty bad, so be ready!
4) The queues to get down from Kondoor to base can be a little crazy in the evenings so make sure you are patient and keep your cool 😎
I hope you enjoyed reading this blog and it helps you plan an amazing trip. While there are other things to do in Gulmarg, but if you are short on budget and time this 2 day itinerary is just perfect.
If you have any other queries you can drop them in the comments section below and I will get back to you!
Love,
Rituparna
Checkout my other blogs from Kashmir
Well Explained Keep it up.
Nice blog!