Gulmarg

Gulmarg, the meadow of flowers, lies at roughly 2,650 metres in the Pir Panjal range west of Srinagar. In summer its rolling grasslands are dotted with wildflowers and ponies; in winter they disappear under deep snow and the town becomes India's best-known ski destination.

The star attraction is the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world. The first stage climbs to Kongdori, where there are snow slopes for much of the year, and the second stage continues towards Apharwat peak at close to 4,000 metres, with sweeping views of the Himalaya and, on clear days, Nanga Parbat in the distance. The second stage is often closed in bad weather, so keep your plans flexible.

Back on the meadow, you can walk or ride to St Mary's Church, the Maharaja's old palace and viewpoints over the valley, or play a round on one of the highest golf courses in the world. Khilanmarg, a short pony ride above the town, offers flowers in summer and gentle snow slopes in winter. Skiing and snowboarding lessons for beginners run through the winter season. See our skiing guide.

Gulmarg is an easy day trip from Srinagar, but a night here lets you enjoy the meadow when the day visitors have left. Our Gulmarg–Pahalgam tour includes two nights. Read the wider Kashmir guide for planning.

Spring (March–May): Snow lingers on higher slopes into April, while the meadow slowly turns green. Pleasant and less crowded.

Summer (June–August): Wildflowers, mild days and cool nights. Ideal for families, golf, pony rides and the gondola.

Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, golden colours and crisp air. The first snow can arrive in November.

Winter (December–February): Heavy snow and the ski season, typically from late December into March depending on snowfall. Very cold, especially at night. The road from Tangmarg is kept open but may need chains after fresh snow.

Families who want green meadows and gentle walks should aim for May to September, while snow lovers and skiers should choose January or February. The second stage of the gondola is most often open in clear, settled weather, so mornings are usually best.

By air: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest airport, around 55–60 km away. Flights from Mumbai and Pune connect directly or via Delhi.

By train: Srinagar is the nearest railhead on the valley line from Katra. Most travellers from Maharashtra reach Srinagar by air.

By road: Gulmarg is around 50 km from Srinagar, roughly 1.5–2 hours, via Tangmarg. The last stretch climbs through pine forest. In winter, local rules may require snow chains or 4x4 vehicles after heavy snowfall, and we arrange suitable transport.

Most visitors combine Gulmarg with a stay in Srinagar, either as a full day trip or with one or two nights on the meadow. Ponies and local guides are available at the main meadow, and walking is the easiest way to get around Gulmarg itself once you have arrived.