Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg in 2026

Gulmarg is a small hill station located in the district of Jammu and Kashmir. The place is highly popular for skiing activity, snowboards and other adventure activities. Gulmarg is the most visited tourist destination in India by honeymoon couples. In ancient times, it was a favorable picnic spot for the Mughals and later for the Britishers.

Whether you visit during the snowy winters or the pleasant summer months, there are plenty of places to visit in Gulmarg for every kind of traveller. From scenic valleys and alpine lakes to famous temples and adventure spots, every attraction offers a unique experience. The beauty of nature including green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and glittering water of lakes provides breathtaking experience to the tourists. Whether you're visiting for adventure, sightseeing, or a relaxing mountain escape, well-planned Gulmarg tour packages can help you experience the destination's top attractions and scenic landscapes with ease.

What Is the best time to visit Gulmarg?

The best time to visit Gulmarg depends on the experience you're looking for. If you want pleasant weather for sightseeing, Gondola rides, and exploring the lush green meadows, plan your trip between April and June. Travellers who dream of witnessing snowfall and enjoying skiing or snowboarding should visit between December and February. Since the weather in Gulmarg varies greatly across seasons, checking the temperature in Gulmarg before planning your trip can help you pack the right clothes and choose the best activities. The table below shows what you can expect during each season.

How Many Days Are Enough to Explore Gulmarg?

Whether you're visiting Gulmarg for a quick getaway or planning a relaxed holiday, the destination can be explored in one to three days. Here's a simple itinerary to help you decide which attractions to cover based on the duration of your trip.

Gulmarg is home to some of Kashmir's most beautiful attractions, ranging from snow-covered mountains and peaceful lakes to scenic valleys and historic landmarks. To help you plan your sightseeing, we've listed the top tourist places in Gulmarg, along with what makes each destination special and why it's worth including in your itinerary.

KONGDORI- GULMARG GONDOLA

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Known for the second highest cable car in the world- Gulmarg Gondola has attracted millions of tourist every year. You can enjoy the marvelous view of alpine forests and snow-capped mountains from cable car. One can capture the beautiful moments and views of both Gulmarg and Khilanmarg through this ride.

Phase 1 of Gondola will make you reach on Kongdori Station up to a height of 8530 ft and the second stage extends up to 12293 ft which provides you an opportunity to adore the magnificent sight of Nanda Devi, Pir Panjal, and LOC.

Also, it is a popular tourist place in gulmarg for powder skiing and snowboarding. Kongdori can be called as skier’s paradise as it is one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg. Cherish the beauty of Himalayan ranges and have the best vacation experience at this place.

Why is the Gulmarg Gondola Ride So Popular?

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the biggest highlights of a trip to Gulmarg and is among the highest cable car rides in the world. Offering spectacular views of snow-covered mountains, alpine meadows, and dense forests, it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The Gondola ride operates in two phases:

• Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdoori Station (approximately 8,530 feet)
• Phase 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak (approximately 12,293 feet)

The Gondola ride is popular among travellers because it offers:

• Panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges.
• Access to skiing and snowboarding areas during winters.
• Photography opportunities throughout the year.
• Snow activities during the winter season.
• Easy access to some of Gulmarg's most scenic locations.

The joy ride in Gulmarg is particularly popular among families, couples, and first-time visitors who wish to experience the beauty of Kashmir from above. Even during summers, the Gondola offers breathtaking views of green meadows and surrounding valleys. For many travellers, the Gulmarg Gondola ride remains one of the most memorable experiences of their Kashmir trip.

KHILANMARG VALLEY

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Located about 6 km away from the Gulmarg, Khilanmarg is a small and elegant valley. The grassland filled with flowers in the spring season that becomes the wonderful winter ski area for the tourists offers a view of the enclosed peaks. It is a perfect place for all those people who sought after offbeat shore.

The place offers you an ample opportunity for adventure sports including skiing in winters which is preferred by almost every tourist. It is one of the favourite destinations of thousands of visitors. The aromatic flowers on the alluring meadows provide you an extravagant experience during your trip to Gulmarg.

The height of this valley will make you feel at the top of the world the beauty of which is sheer matchless that provides the view of Jhelum River, Dal Lake, and Wular Lake. The shutterbugs have lots to capture at this marvelous place where every nook and corner has something special to create interest. After enjoying the valley's breathtaking views and outdoor activities, many travellers choose hotels with bars in Gulmarg to relax with good food, refreshing beverages, and a cosy mountain ambience.

FEROZEPUR NALLAH

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Ferozepur Nallah is an ideal place to spend a sunny afternoon who knows fishing. This beautiful mountain stream is flowing from the top, between the charming Chinmarg and Nurpur Pass on the paradise land.

The sparkling water of the lake, the pearly White Mountain peaks, and the tranquility at the top offers you a unique experience of being at Ferozepur Nallah. The spectacular panoramic view of the landscape is a heaven for nature lovers.

For the adventure lovers, the Ferozepur Nallah is also the base camp for Tosamaidan Trek, which is sprawled over 50 km and enclosed by innumerable mountains. The place is highly recommended to all the tourist of Kashmir to have an unforgettable trip.

MAHARANI TEMPLE

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With its mountain like shape from the top and snowy peaks in the background, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the biggest destinations during the festival of Shivratri which presents a striking picture in a nook of the main grassland in Gulmarg. When you will visit the temple you can easily notice the priest singing prayers and distributing prasad everyday.

The red sloppy roof of this holy shrine is visible from every part of the Gulmarg. Here, many Bollywood suites have been recorded after which the shrine has become more popular among tourist. This temple is also known with the name “Rani Temple” and “Mohineshwar Shivalaya” that was built by Mohini Bai Sisodhia.

If you want to attend the aarti at this temple then you must reach at this place at 7 am or 7 pm. However, the temple remains open from 6 am to 9 pm.

ALPATHAR LAKE

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A perfect destination for all the shutterbugs which offers a splendor view of the mountains and wildflowers with sparkling water. Situated about 13 km away from Gulmarg, the Alphater Lake is the ravishing place for all the tourist. You can experience the eternal natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the verdant meadows that surround Alphather Lake.

The nature lovers and shutterbugs just love the breathtaking views of this destination. The lake remains frozen during winter but still looks alluring with striking scenic views including walking ducks and floating chunks of ice in the lake. Plan your trip to Gulmarg and enjoy the stunning view of meadow with flowers and ample sunshine. The serene surroundings, breathtaking views, and peaceful atmosphere also make Gulmarg one of the most cherished romantic places in Gulmarg for couples seeking memorable moments amid nature.

Situated at the foot of the twin Apharwat Peaks, the trek to this lake consist of only 1 day from Gulmarg. While on the trek, you will be welcomed by unparalleled views of the entire valley. Although, it is hike challenging to reach on a high altitude but you can trek at anytime throughout the year.

ST. MARY’S CHURCH

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Situated near the Golf Course in Gulmarg, St. Mary Church is constructed in a Victorian architecture style with large grey stone walls, tile covered roof and wooden decorations. The surroundings of the Church are filled with lush green spaces, tall pine trees and a backdrop of mountains.

The church looks like a scintillating pearl in the winter when covered with snow. Individuals can have an access to this holy place by on foot walking through the golf course or by detour to the outer circle. Notice the wonderful ancient architecture crafted on this property for which a Gulmarg’s culture and history known for.

If you are looking for a tranquil place then St. Mary’s Church is the answer to your need. It remains open from 7 am to 5 pm everyday and there are no entry charges for anyone. The nearby tourist attractions like Shiva temple and the mosque can be clubbed with your visit to the Church.

GULMARG BIOSPHERE RESERVE

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The best place for shutterbugs and wildlife lovers and also the home for numerous flora and fauna, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is the most attractive place for tourist. It is popular for endangered species like deer. However, you can also see Leopard, snow Cock, Griffon, Brown Bear, Red Fox, Pigeon Monal and other.

While exploring this property, you can observe the green herbs and conifers that provide an entire scenic view. This provides an opportunity for the photographers to capture the animals in scenic settings. It is not only the favorite place of wildlife lover but also a paradise to many ornithologists.The reserve has a large number of migratory birds including Kashmir Roller, Jungle Crow, Blue Rock Pigeon Monal, Griffon, Vulture, etc. The Biosphere Reserve remains open from 10 am to 4 pm.

From iconic cable car rides and serene lakes to ancient temples and picturesque valleys, the tourist places in Gulmarg offer something for every type of traveller. Exploring these attractions at a relaxed pace lets you experience the true beauty of Kashmir.

Apharwat Peak

Located at an altitude of around 4,200 metres (13,780 feet), Apharwat Peak is one of the highest and most scenic places to visit in Gulmarg. The peak can be reached via Phase 2 of the Gulmarg Gondola, making it one of the easiest high-altitude mountain experiences in India.

During winter, Apharwat transforms into a paradise for skiing and snowboarding, attracting adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Even during summer, visitors can witness snow patches, panoramic Himalayan views, and breathtaking landscapes. On clear days, the surrounding Pir Panjal Range creates an unforgettable backdrop for photography.

Gulmarg Golf Course

Surrounded by pine forests and snow-covered mountains, the Gulmarg Golf Course is one of the highest green golf courses in the world. Spread across lush meadows, it offers spectacular mountain views even for visitors who don't play golf.

During summer, travellers can enjoy leisurely walks around the beautifully maintained course, while photographers love capturing its vibrant green landscape against the Himalayan backdrop. In winter, the entire area gets covered with snow, creating a magical setting for sightseeing.

Children's Park

Located close to the main market and Gondola area, Children's Park is a pleasant recreational spot for families travelling with young children. The park features open green spaces, small play areas, colourful flower beds, and beautiful mountain views.

It is an ideal place to relax after sightseeing while children enjoy outdoor activities in a safe environment. During summer, the blooming gardens and cool weather make it one of the most peaceful places in Gulmarg for a family outing.

How Far is Gulmarg from Srinagar and Pahalgam?

Gulmarg enjoys excellent road connectivity with both Srinagar and Pahalgam, making it one of the easiest destinations to include in a Kashmir itinerary. Many travellers prefer covering Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam together to experience the region's scenic beauty, adventure activities, and local culture.

• The Srinagar to Gulmarg distance by road is approximately 50 km and can usually be covered in 1.5 to 2 hours. Since the Gulmarg distance from Srinagar is relatively short, it also makes for a convenient day trip for travellers staying in Srinagar.
• The Gulmarg to Pahalgam distance is approximately 140 km, and the journey generally takes around 4 to 5 hours by road. Likewise, the Pahalgam to Gulmarg distance remains the same, making it easy to travel between these two popular destinations while exploring Kashmir.

Travellers planning a 5 to 7-day Kashmir holiday can comfortably include Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam in their itinerary. Spending at least a day in Gulmarg gives you enough time to explore the major attractions in Gulmarg, including the Gondola ride, Khilanmarg Valley, Alpather Lake, and Maharani Temple.

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