Top Sightseeing Spots & Tourist Places of Gulmarg in 2024

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Nestled in the stunning snow-capped mountain peaks in the Himalayan ranges; Gulmarg has unveiled the real beauty of nature’s heavenly creation. With its spellbound picturesque hills, lush green backdrop, amazing landscapes, flower gardens with its mind blowing fragrance, tranquil lakes and pleasant climate, Gulmarg has succeeded drawing the attention of millions of tourists from across the globe. With famous sightseeing places of Khilanmarg, Drung, 18 hole Golf Course, Lien Marg, Tangmarg, st. Mary’s church, Alpathar Lake, Maharani Temple, Aphawat Peak, Nagin Valley, Gulmarg looks like a fantasy world to the visitors.

Seldom one finds a location offering so much variety. From young to elders alike, there is plenty to choose from the options. It is a honeymooner’s paradise. Ample of greenery to walk, enough gardens to vanish in, cooler climate to stay together and more for an unforgettable experience.

All religions find solace in Gulmarg. Primarily a Muslim state, it has enough temples, churches and buildings of other beliefs. All one needs to do is ask and set off to explore. Forts, palaces, museums, monasteries, lakes, rivers, boat rides, gondola rides, … the list is unending.

Gulmarg now also features a Chair Lift from Kongdori to Mary Shoulder, having 90 chairs covering a distance of 1.6 kilometers in 11 minutes. Winter sports like Skiing, Tobogganing, Snowboarding and Heli-skiing take place on the slopes of Mount Apharwat reachable by a Gondola lift.

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Known as the “Meadow of Flowers,” Gulmarg is one of the most stunning and captivating places in all of India. This picturesque sanctuary, which is tucked away in the Pir Panjal range of Jammu & Kashmir, has many amazing vistas and exhilarating activities to offer. Gulmarg offers activities for all types of visitors, including history buffs, environment lovers, and adventure seekers. Let’s investigate the must-see tourist attractions in Gulmarg.

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Places to Visit in Gulmarg

Khilanmarg – Gulmarg

Location – 6 km from Gulmarg.
Activities– Skiing, snowboarding, trekking, hiking, photography
Best Time to Visit –Spring, summer, and winter for different activities.

A beauty in the entire Kashmir Valley which can be approached in three ways: by foot or the Gondola or ponies. For this very reason there are no hotels or other residential settlements. It has around 600 meters climb from Gulmarg and a much sought after place especially for offbeat travel enthusiasts. Khilanmarg has ample opportunities for adventure sports like skiing in winters and hence is the preferred destination for thousands of visitors. The beautiful meadows covered with blossoming and aromatic flowers in spring create an awesome experience. The presence of extravagant Nanga Parbat peak and also the twin peaks of Nun and Kun add more oomph.

The height itself makes you feel at the top of the world because most of the lakes Jhelum, Dal and Wular lakes are visible and so is the Shankaracharya Temple. Khilanmarg has almost every ingredient to keep the shutterbugs happy as every nook and corner has something of interest.

Originally named Gaurimarg (“the fair one”) by shepherds in honour of the Hindu Goddess Parvati, the resort was renamed Gulmarg (“meadow of flowers”) by Sultan Yusuf Shah of the Chak Dynasty who frequented the place with his queen Habba khatoon in the 16th century. read more

Golf Course – Gulmarg

Location – 10 min (3.5 km) via Outer Gulmarg Rd from Gulmarg
Popular Activities– Skiing, snowboarding, trekking, hiking, photography
Best Time to Visit –May to November.
Facilities –Clubhouse, equipment rental, and professional coaching.

Standing tall at an altitude of 8,700 feet and located at the heart of the world famous ski resort, it was started in 1911 by the British. At 7,505 yards it is the country’s largest and boasts of at least 16 varieties of wild flowers which bloom between April and September.

This Golf Course is like nothing anyone has seen or imagined before. Its layout is totally different from most golf courses, the land slopes and inclines are just out of this world. It remains covered by snow from December to April and easily playable for the rest of the months.

Spread over 52 sprawling acres of lush land adjoining the Maulana Azad Road, this golf club has all the luxuries that make playing golf a memorable experience. This professional 18 hole course has seen many tournaments providing much publicity for itself.

For newcomers it has a large practice green at the clubhouse. A golf academy with 3 learning holes is also a part of this welcome strategy.

Best time to visit in Gulmarg

Gulmarg is all the year round destination to visit. However summer months from May to September are pleasant time to enjoy beauty of the place.For winter sports activities, winter months from November to February are ideal time.

The Alpather Lake – Gulmarg

Location – 1 hr 44 min (42.3 km) via Afarwat Hill Rd from Gulmarg
Popular Activities– Trekking, photography, nature walks.
Best Time to Visit –Summer (May to September) for trekking, winter for snowy landscapes.
Accessibility–Trek or pony ride from Gulmarg (about 13 km).

Frozen until mid-June and triangular in shape the lake lies at the foot of the twin 4,511 meter Apharwat peaks. The lake is just 13 kms away from Gulmarg and has a backdrop of the very beautiful hilly and snow-capped mountains. The adventurous tourists can easily take the one-day trek from Gulmarg which is dotted with wild flowers that mesmerize one and all.

Summer time—from May till September–is the best time to visit as the frozen lake now turns into sparkling bluish water. The white icebergs, though small, are amazing to watch. Horse riding aficionados merrily use the entire 13 km stretch to arrive here for some grand picnic. Playing or simply relaxing along this picturesque lake is the favourite pastime for tourists.

Shutterbugs keep clicking the pictures irrespective of the fact whether the lake is frozen or not. The natural surroundings, frozen lake flanked by towering mountains and the myriad coloured flowers simply push the photographers to no end.

Bota Pathri – Gulmarg

Location – 17 min (6.7 km) via Outer Gulmarg Rd and Bota Pathri Rd
Popular Activities–Trekking, hiking, nature walks, wildlife photography.
Best Time to Visit –Summer (May to September) for pleasant weather and clear trails.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, then a taxi or local bus to Bota Pathri.

Bota Pathri, sometimes referred to as Nagin Valley, is a quiet and undiscovered location in Gulmarg that offers peace and unspoiled natural beauty. Situated amidst verdant meadows and deep woodlands, it offers an ideal location for birdwatching, nature walks, and picnics. Bota Pathri, which is reachable by a quick hike or pony ride, gives guests an opportunity to see the Kashmir Valley’s natural scenery and tranquil atmosphere.

More About Gulmarg

Drung-Waterfall Gulmarg

Location – 37 min (16.4 km) via NH701A from Gulmarg
Popular Activities–Trekking, hiking, nature walks, cultural experiences.
Best Time to Visit – Spring and summer (April to June) for pleasant weather and clear views.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar via Tangmarg-Gulmarg Road.

Just 14 kms from Gulmarg and 3 from Tangmarg, this Drung tourist spot is one of a kind. It was recently discovered and obviously has no hotels or other accommodations to boast. It makes little difference as the nearby Tangmarg has plenty of options for lodging & boarding. Drung is promoted for trout fishing and rock climbing facilities.

It is an ideal place for short duration trips or even a day’s picnic and it resembles to Pahalgam. The only difference being that though there exists a large stream; it is not as large as Lidder which flows downstream into the spot.

Drung is tucked away too deep in the pine forests and many log bridges can be seen used to cross over the stream. The side effect is that no artificial touches have altered in any way the beauty of this place.

Some monuments over the hills are believed to be the runs of Pandava temples. Only a few of the blocks have survived and the area is not much protected either.

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Biosphere Reserve Gulmarg

Location – 5 km from Gulmarg Bus Station
Popular Activities–Wildlife spotting, nature walks, birdwatching, educational tours.
Best Time to Visit –Spring and summer (April to June) for optimal wildlife sightings and pleasant weather.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar via Tangmarg-Gulmarg Road.

Located on the outskirts of Gulmarg, around 7-8 km away is this famed location. The altitude ranges from 2,400 m to 4,300 m, the fauna and flora keeps varying constantly. September to March is ideal for watching mammals whereas the later two months are ideal for bird watching, which is up to May.

This special area plays host to some exceptional and really exotic species of wildlife. In fact, the Musk Deer is one such species which can be spotted here. Watching key flora species amazes many as they consist of Pinus Griffithii, Aesculus Indica, Cedrus Deodara, Abies Pindrow etc.

Being a dense forest many wild animals treat it as their home. Though one can chance upon a wide range of animals like the Leopard, Musk Deer, Hangul, Black Bear, Red Fox, Brown Bear etc. Spotting many of the endangered and protected species is also a possibility. Photographers should arm themselves with their full gears to capture a stunning moment.

Fast Facts

Vacation Type : Family, Adventure and Honeymoon
Location :52km (32.3 miles) South West of Srinagar
Activities: Gondola Ride, Skiing, Golfing, Horse Riding, Trekking, Camping, Mount Climbing, Paragliding, Zorbing.

Lien Marg Gulmarg

Location – Distance of about 10 km from Gulmarg
Popular Activities– Trekking, camping, skiing (winter), nature walks, birdwatching.
Best Time to Visit –Summer (May to September) for pleasant weather, winter (December to February) for skiing.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, followed by a short drive or pony ride to Lienmarg.

At 8,700 feet Lien Marg is promoted as the preferred destination for honeymooners. The height is inviting enough for couples as the chilly environs promote coziness. The dense pine forests and blooming wildflower buds in the middle of sloping grasslands make for an awe-inspiring strolling location. It is a great spot for picnic, sports and camping as well. It is also suited for winter sports and tourists flock here in great numbers.

Just 10 kms from Gulmarg and has become famous for its meadow of wild flowers. Adventurers don’t mind travelling all the way to reach the place crossing the bridge over the Ningle Nallah on foot. They also need to cross a few pine glades before reaching here. Alternatively, if they don’t like walking they can as well hire ponies for traveling to Lien Marg as well. When a beautiful and pristine location is guaranteed many do not mind the treacherous trek.

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St. Mary’s Church- Gulmarg

Location – 4 km from Gulmarg Bus Station
Popular Activities– Sightseeing, photography, spiritual retreat.
Best Time to Visit –Throughout the year, especially during pleasant weather conditions.
Accessibility– Easily accessible within Gulmarg town, suitable for visitors exploring the area on foot or by local transport.

Saint Mary’s Church is the Victorian Architectural Wonder located near the golf course in Gulmarg. Constructed in early twentieth century, it is made of grey stone walls looks most scintillating during the winters especially when surrounded by snow. Even after the 100 odd years it stands tall, proud of its appearance. The green tiled roof, wooden decorated walls and the overall size indicates it could be more like a countryside chapel. This is your best way to experience the ancient wonders our country is famous for.

Viewed from a distance it looks picture perfect. It is famed for its stained glass artwork and is only accessible by trekking. But then trekking provides one with a chance to experience some adventure. The church is on green field which is surrounded by a golf course on 3 sides whereas the rest is occupied by a mountain. This site is very scenic and it should not be missed by everyone while in Gulmarg.

Some Local Places to Eat in Gulmarg

Here are some local eateries in Gulmarg that offer authentic Kashmiri cuisine and local flavors:

Bakshi Restaurant: Known for its Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo.
Gulmarg Restaurant & Bakery: Offers local snacks, Kashmiri tea (Kahwa), and bakery items.
Greenz Café: Known for its cozy atmosphere and local Kashmiri specialties.
Hotel Highlands Park Dining: Offers a fine dining experience with a focus on Kashmiri cuisine.
Hotel Nedous Dining Room: Famous for its traditional Kashmiri dishes served in a historic setting.
Alpine Lounge: A casual spot for local snacks and light meals with views of Gulmarg’s surroundings.

These places not only serve delicious local food but also provide a taste of the Kashmiri culinary tradition amidst Gulmarg’s natural beautyembark on a delicious journey through this charming town in Kashmir.

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Maharani Temple- Gulmarg

Location – 4 km from Gulmarg Bus Station
Popular Activities– Religious worship, cultural exploration, photography.
Best Time to Visit –Throughout the year, especially during festivals for a cultural experience
Accessibility–Easily accessible within Gulmarg town, suitable for visitors exploring the area on foot or by local transport.

The Rani Temple was once a royal temple of Dogra dynasty of erstwhile princely state Jammu and Kashmir. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and situated on a small hillock in the heart of Gulmarg town. The most interesting fact about this temple is that it can be seen from all nooks and corners of the town. The Rani Temple, also known as Maharani temple or Mohineshwar Shivalaya was built by Mohini Bai Sisodhia, the wife of Maharaja Hari Singh in 1915. When King Hari Singh was spending his time in royal palace in Gulmarg, his queen used to visit this temple to worship Lord Shiva. Now, the temple remains open every day from 6 am to 9 pm and aarti is perfomed twice a day.

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Ningli Nallah – Gulmarg

Location – Trekking, hiking, nature walks, birdwatching, photography.
Popular Activities– Religious worship, cultural exploration, photography.
Best Time to Visit – Spring and summer (April to June) for pleasant weather, winter for snowy landscapes.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar via Tangmarg-Gulmarg Road, followed by a short drive to Ningli Nallah.

It is the much famed picnic spot which is just 8 kms from Gulmarg. This Ningli Nallah is supposedly a stream that has its origin in Allapatri Naag and it runs through picturesque villages named Wagoora and Kalantara.

Locals often say that trekking is the best way to reach there but caution you to leave early in the morning. Only then you can return safely, well within time, to Gulmarg.

Ningli Nallah is ideal to camp beside the stream provided you have brought all of your camping gear from Gulmarg itself. It is best to explore in the day time and quit around 4 pm and start on your return journey.

Similar to many other streams, Ningli Nallah had some medicinal properties. But currently this property is on the decline yet proves effective for some. Besides being a rich source of stones and sand it is also known for fishes. Despite all these goodies, it was considered the lifeline of this North Kashmir area, it is on the verge of distinction.

Ferozepur Nallah – Gulmarg

Location – 41 min (20.0 km) via NH701A and Srinagar – Gulmarg Rd
Popular Activities– Trout fishing, picnicking, trekking, nature walks.
Best Time to Visit – Spring and summer (April to June) for fishing and picnicking, early autumn for trekking.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, then a short drive or trek to Ferozepur Nallah.

The trout fishing hub Ferozepur Nallah is ideal for spending a sunny afternoon. This pretty little stream is a joy to watch as it meanders freely on the way from Tangmarg Road. When pine covered and snow capped mountains are available for company the Ferozepur Nallah is one pristine sight your lens would definitely love to capture. It is another exquisite mountain stream flowing through the valleys between the beautiful Chinamarg and Nurpur Pass. For the adventurous ones, the Ferozepur Nallah is also the base camp for Tosamaidan Trek, which spans about 50 km and has duration of 3 days. Surrounded by endless mountains and locales rich in grandeur, this place is going to sweep you off your feet. It is highly recommended for picnicking. This Nallah is quite famous for its activity of trout fishing that takes place over here in summers.

Afarwat Hill – Gulmarg

Location – 1 hr 28 min (40.3 km) via Afarwat Hill Rd From Gulmarg
Popular Activities– Skiing, snowboarding, trekking, hiking, heli-skiing, photography.
Best Time to Visit –Winter (December to February) for skiing and snowboarding, summer (May to September) for trekking and hiking.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, then via Gulmarg Gondola to Afarwat Hill.

The Apharwat Peak has an altitude of 4,390 meters or 14,403 feet in Gulmarg. It receives the heaviest of snowfalls and remains covered with snow almost throughout the year. It lies in the second phase of the Gongola ride from Gulmarg which lifts from 1,330 meters height and covers nearly 5 km distance to 3,980 meters on the Apharwat Peak. The rest of the distance can be traversed on foot and is not too tough. The LOC (Line Of Control) with our neighbouring country is barely a few km away.

The slopes here are the longest and the highest ski slopes in Asia and most ski enthusiasts visit here at least once. Skiing on snow slopes is possible in north-west and southeast directions. For the newcomers some gentler slopes are available. Most of the equipment needed can be hired locally as many vendors keep track of tourists arriving here.

Places to Stay in Gulmarg

When planning a stay in Gulmarg, consider these options for an unforgettable experience amidst the picturesque Himalayan landscapes:

Gulmarg Resorts

Rs.9000/Night
One of the premiere holiday resorts in the area, Gulmarg Resorts has the best view of pines and meadows. The hotel is situated at just five minute wal…

Hotel Khyber Resorts Gulmarg

Rs.40,000/Night
One of the premiere holiday resorts in the area, Gulmarg Resorts has the best view of pines and meadows. The hotel is situated at just five minute wal…

Hotel Royal park Gulmarg

Rs.4300/Night
The hotel has a regal retreat that stands in splendid solitude, amidst lush landscaping, shimmering fountains, arched bridges and artistic stone carvi…

Location – 12 min (3.9 km) via Outer Gulmarg Rd
Popular Activities– Trekking, hiking, camping, birdwatching, photography.
Best Time to Visit –Summer (May to September) for pleasant weather and clear views.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, then a short trek or taxi ride to Nagin Valley.

A haven for trekkers and nature lovers, this Nagin Valley stretches for 10 kms on the Gulmarg-Botapathri Road. Located just 5 kms off of the official Line of Control, it is guarded by snow-capped mountains. This stunningly beautiful valley is part of the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve which is famous for its lush alpine meadows, blue pines and wildlife which proudly includes the musk deer, leopard, red fox and Kashmir stag.

This valley was out of bounds for tourists for almost 22 years and opened just recently in 2012. With Gulmarg getting busy with tourists especially during the peak season, opening of Nagin Valley was great news for travelers looking for pristine, undisturbed natural beauty.

The almost wet climate results in lovely blooms all year round. Ecologically, it’s a fragile place and the tourist influx damages the natural balance. You can visit here no doubt, but do not expect to put any camps. A day’s trip peeping in every nook and corner is always advisable and no one restricts the tourists for the same.

Kongdori Valley- Gulmarg

Location – 14 min (3.4 km) via Heevan Retreats
Popular Activities– Gondola ride, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, photography.
Best Time to Visit –Winter (December to February) for skiing and snowboarding, summer (May to September) for sightseeing and adventure activities.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, then via Gulmarg Gondola to Kongdori.

Kongdori Valley in Gulmarg is a breathtaking alpine valley renowned for its panoramic views and pristine natural beauty. Accessible via the Gulmarg Gondola’s second phase, it offers visitors a stunning vantage point to admire the snow-capped peaks of the Pir Panjal Range and the lush green meadows below. The valley is a popular spot for trekking, skiing, and photography, attracting adventure enthusiasts year-round.

During winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing adventures, while summer unveils vibrant wildflowers and grazing cattle against the backdrop of majestic Himalayan vistas, making it a must-visit destination in Gulmarg.

Seven Springs – Gulmarg

Location – 3 hr 42 min (150.1 km) via NH 44
Popular Activities– Sightseeing, trekking, hiking, photography.
Best Time to Visit – Sightseeing, trekking, hiking, photography.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, then via Gulmarg Gondola to Kongdori and a short trek to Seven Springs.

Seven Springs in Gulmarg is a hidden gem nestled amidst dense pine forests, offering a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Named after the seven freshwater springs that bubble up from the ground, these natural fountains are known for their pristine clarity and reputed therapeutic properties.

Located along scenic trekking trails, the springs provide a refreshing stop where visitors can unwind, rejuvenate, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Kashmir’s pristine wilderness. Surrounded by lush greenery and with views of snow-capped peaks in the distance, Seven Springs offers a picturesque setting for picnics, photography, and connecting with nature.

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Baba Reshi – Gulmarg

Location – 18 min (6.3 km) via Gulmarg Road
Popular Activities– Pilgrimage, sightseeing, meditation, photography.
Best Time to Visit – Throughout the year, especially during the annual Urs celebration.
Accessibility– By road from Srinagar to Tangmarg, then a short drive to Baba Reshi.

Baba Reshi Shrine in Gulmarg is a revered spiritual site dedicated to the 14th-century Muslim saint Baba Payam-Uddin, known as Baba Reshi. Surrounded by tranquil forests and set against the backdrop of the Pir Panjal Range, it attracts devotees seeking solace and blessings in Kashmir’s serene mountainous landscapes.

Gulmarg Children’s Park – Gulmarg

Location – it is around 1 to 2 kilometers
Popular Activities–Family outings, picnics, children’s play area, recreational activities.
Best Time to Visit –Family outings, picnics, children’s play area, recreational activities.
Accessibility– Easily accessible from Gulmarg town center by a short walk or a quick taxi ride.

Gulmarg Children’s Park is a delightful recreational spot nestled in the heart of Gulmarg. Ideal for families and young visitors, the park features playgrounds, swings, and open green spaces where children can play freely amidst the picturesque Himalayan backdrop. Surrounded by towering pine trees and offering views of snow-capped peaks, it provides a serene environment for picnics and leisurely strolls.

The park’s well-maintained pathways and benches make it a peaceful retreat for parents to relax while their children enjoy the facilities. Located conveniently near Gulmarg’s main attractions, it ensures a memorable and enjoyable outing for families visiting this mountainous paradise.

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Igloo Cafe – Gulmarg

Location – it is around 800 meter From Gulmarg
Popular Activities–Dining, enjoying scenic views, experiencing unique igloo structures.
Best Time to Visit – Winter (December to February) for the igloo dining experience.
Accessibility– Easily reachable by walking or a short taxi ride from Gulmarg’s main market area.

The Igloo Cafe in Gulmarg stands out as a unique dining experience amidst the snow-covered landscapes. Constructed entirely of ice, it offers visitors a chance to enjoy hot beverages and snacks in a cozy, icy ambience. Located near the Gulmarg Gondola, it provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The cafe is a popular attraction during winter months, combining adventure with a memorable culinary experience in Kashmir’s high-altitude charm.

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Strawberry Valley – Gulmarg

Location – 12 min (3.9 km) via Outer Gulmarg Rd
Popular Activities–Strawberry picking, nature walks, photography.
Best Time to Visit – Summer (May to August) for strawberry picking and pleasant weather.
Accessibility–By road from Srinagar to Gulmarg, then a short walk or taxi ride to Strawberry Valley.

Strawberry Valley in Gulmarg is a serene retreat known for its lush greenery and panoramic views. Accessible via a short trek from Gulmarg, it offers a tranquil escape amidst pine forests and meandering streams. Visitors can enjoy picnics, photography, and the natural beauty of Kashmir’s landscapes in this idyllic setting.

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Conclusion

The Kashmir Valley’s stunning natural splendor is exemplified by Gulmarg. Every location, from the tranquil waters of Alpather Lake to the expansive views of Apharwat Peak, provides a different experience that draws tourists in all year long. Gulmarg promises an amazing journey, regardless of your interests—you may be an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or you could just be looking for peace and quiet among snow-capped mountains. See its many sights, become engrossed in its vibrant culture, and learn why Gulmarg is still a beloved location for tourists looking for adventure and comfort in the heart of the Himalayas.”