Tourist can hike or trek through the beautiful pine forests to get a view of some of the most beautiful and hidden landscapes of Gulmarg. Tourist can also pack a picnic and head for Khilanmarg or Ningle Nallah and breathe in some cool fresh air and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley.

After a wonderful day of fun filled activities, tourist can indulge in a variety of Kashmiri cuisines available at Gulmarg and end their day on a high note.

So let’s have a look at the exciting activities one can do and make the best of this beautiful place on earth.

Learn Skiing

Skiing was first introduced to Gulmarg by 2 British army officers who had established the first ski club in Gulmarg in the year 1927 but it is only during the last decade that Gulmarg got its due recognition as a skiing destination around the world.

Due to its geographic location Gulmarg receives some of the heaviest snowfalls in Kashmir and is home to some of the highest ski slopes in India, where travelers can indulge in snow sports activities like skiing, snowboarding, heli-skiing and sledging while holidaying in Gulmarg, where the atmosphere is full of serenity and calmness.

So when here, skiing is one thing tourist must try. For beginners, there are baby slopes available along with ski instructors whom you can hire for a day, a week and even for a month and learn skiing to perfection.

For experienced skiers the slopes of the Apharwat peak are ideal, with the smooth and steep gradients making it a perfect place for powder skiing.

Over the years Gulmarg has become a favorite skiing destination with Mumbaikars too, as it is faster and easier to reach Gulmarg from Mumbai than to any other ski destinations in India. For reaching Gulmarg, one has to take a direct flight to Srinagar and then it’s just a 2 hour drive from Srinagar airport.

Furthermore, Gulmarg is an inexpensive ski destination as compared to other ski destination outside India. For example: A place like Switzerland may cost about 100 times the cost of skiing in Gulmarg. Hence during Winters (November to February) Gulmarg is thronged by foreign tourist from all over the world.

Skiing equipment is easily available on rent at Gulmarg on per day basis, at the many government run ski shops. It is also strongly recommended to shop for your winter wear beforehand, especially for skiing, one should get a good water proof and wind proof jacket along with snowshoes, a pair of water-resistant gloves, and also a pair of woolen socks, woolen cap and some good dark sun-glasses would be useful.

Please click here for bookings for Skiing in Gulmarg

Take a Gondola Ride

Of the many things to do in Gulmarg, a Gondola ride is probably the one thing that tops the list of any tourist visiting Gulmarg.

Believed to be the world’s second highest and longest cable car project, the Gulmarg gondola is a 2 stage ride. In the first phase tourist are taken to Kongdoori which is situated at a height of 8,530 feet and in the second phase the tourist are taken to an elevation of 13,780 feet at Apharwat peak. The time taken by the Gondola (cable car) will be around 10 to 15 minutes to reach one phase to the other.

The Gondola has a seating capacity of 6 and is fully covered; the views from the Gondola are truly breathtaking on a clear sky day wherein tourist can witness glimpses of the grand Himalayan ranges apart from getting a bird’s eye view of Gulmarg.

During peak tourist season (March – June) tourist may find long serpentine queues hence tourist are advised to reach early and return early in order to avoid long queues.

Also during peak tourist season (March – June) tourists are advised to book their Gondola rides for both phases online at http://www.gulmarggondola.com (Here they will get the status and current rates for the ride).Once the booking is done online tourists can obtain a printout and exchange it for an original ticket from the e-counter at the Gondola entrance.

During off seasons and non tourist seasons tourists can buy tickets directly of the counter as during this time there is generally a lesser crowd and no long queues.

During winters ski and snowboarding enthusiast can buy a day’s pass for phase-I and do multiple ski rounds using the Gondola throughout the day.

Please note: Remember to carry a photo id of at least one member of your family or group which will have to be produced for e ticketing at the ticket counter to get the boarding pass for the Gondola ride.

Closing time for Phase 1 is  @ 05:00 p.m.
Closing time for Phase 2 is  @ 03:00 p.m.

Try your hand at Golf

Golfing is a way of life in Gulmarg, situated at an altitude of 2650 m the golf course at Gulmarg is known to be the second highest in the world. Set amidst a picturesque surroundings playing golf here is indeed a memorable experience.

Spread over an area of 7505 yards the golf course is a 18 hole course and its layout is different from most golf courses with land slopes and inclines along the area of the course which is of par 72.

Tourist visiting Gulmarg during summer i.e. (April to September) can try their hands at golfing as this is the ideal time to do so. The course remains closed during the winter months from December to April due to heavy snowfall in the region.The golf course also has a 3 hole learning academy where beginners can learn some quick tricks and tips on golfing and can hire a golf kit from the Gulmarg golf club.

Horse Riding

With rolling hills and soothing lush greenery all around, exploring Gulmarg on a horseback is something you will remember for a lifetime. Horse riding or pony riding is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful countryside and meadows of Gulmarg.

Gulmarg is abounding with horses and ponies which are readily available for hire, even if you are trekking or camping; horses can be used for carrying your luggage and trekking equipment’s up to the highlands of Gulmarg.

While horse riding in Gulmarg is something you will enjoy thoroughly while exploring the magical land at the same time you can include various other adventure activities like trekking, hiking and camping during your trip.

This recreational activity can be enjoyed by both children and adults and some of the best routes and locations where tourist can enjoy horse riding are Gulmarg to Khilanmarg – 5 km, Gulmarg to Apharwat 13 km and many more.

Horse riding can be best enjoyed during the summer months (April to June) when beginner’s can learn some horse riding tips from the trainers but, during monsoons and winters horse riding should be avoided as the conditions are not very favorable.

For detailed information on staying options at Gulmarg please click HERE

Trekking

If you are a trekking enthusiasts then, there is good news for you as you will be spoilt for choices when it come to the trekking trails in Gulmarg.

Every year armature and professional trekkers from around the globe throng Gulmarg to enjoy treks along the vales of Gulmarg to the mighty peaks surrounding the alpine town.The main attraction in Gulmarg and its surrounding areas are the walks tourists will enjoy through the grassy meadows and thick pine forests full of rich bird life and harmless wildlife.

Gulmarg is the base for short treks to the Pir Panjal Mountains, a day’s trek to Khilanmarg, Apharwat peak and Alpather Lake.Another popular trek is to Ningle Nallah and Ferozepur Nallah which goes through the brooks, forests and lush green meadows of Gulmarg.

For the more fearless and adventurous trekkers is a 5 days trek to Tsoa Maidan, the trek originates at Gulmarg and spreads across Ferozepur Nallah and beyond to the remote hamlets of Tejjan, Danwas and Tsoa Maidan.

It is advisable to hire a local guide as treks deep into the valley may be pretty harsh, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the terrain of Gulmarg and its surrounding areas.

An ideal trekking program in Gulmarg:

With base at Gulmarg, a wonderful trekking holiday can be enjoyed over a period of 4 days to some of the best trails near Gulmarg.

Day 1 – A trek to Pir Panjal range.
Day 2 – A trek to Khilanmarg.
Day 3 – A trek to Apharwat peak and Alpather Lake.
Day 4 – A trek to Ningle Nallah.

Essential items to be carried during a trek:

Water proof shoes, rain gear, monkey cap, light woolens, walking stick, dry snacks, dry fruits, water, gloves, sun blocks, torch along with a personal first aid kit

Best time for trekking:

For trekking enthusiast the best time to visit Gulmarg is from mid April to August. Trekking should be avoided during early spring (February – March) in Gulmarg as there may be a few showers and also during this time the snow begins to melt and hence the entire plains of Gulmarg gets muddy and mucky which is not favorable for trekking purpose.

So if you have planned a trekking trip to Gulmarg, waste no more time, come to Gulmarg and lose yourself in the legendary beauty of the mighty mountains of Gulmarg.

Please click here for bookings for Trekking in Gulmarg

Other Winter Sports

Snow Mobiles

If you have never ridden a snowmobile before and are keen on experiencing an adrenaline rush then Gulmarg is the ideal place to do so during winters (December to March).

Also locally known as snow machine, a ride on the snowmobiles can be experienced at Kongdoor(phase – I) as the location offers an adventurous escape into the heart of Gulmarg, with miles of perfectly groomed trails and endless powder filled bowls and meadows to explore.

Each snowmobile is accompanied by an experienced pilot or guide to serve tourist better and help them explore Gulmarg. Be it old or young visiting tourist must experience the breathtaking ride on the snowmobile as the memories of riding it will surely stay with them for a lifetime.

Sledging

Sledging at Gulmarg is one of the most popular activities which can be enjoyed all year round as long as snow remains on the slopes of Gulmarg.

No special skill is required for this activity wherein a flat wooden board is taken up the hill and is allowed to descend downhill on the snow-covered slopes. Sledges in Gulmarg are easily available on hire.

Snow boarding

Snowboarding is relatively new in India and was started about a decade ago to boost tourism; Gulmarg being located on one of the best geographical locations has some of the best natural slopes for snowboarding in India.

There are 2 points from where one can snowboard at Gulmarg. One from Kongdoori (Phase – I) which is a natural slope of 450 m (1400 feet) and offers an exhilarating snowboarding experience to snowboarders and is ideal for beginners.

The second point is from Apharwat peak (Phase – II) which is about 800 m( 2600 feet) descend and offers a once in a lifetime experience. The steep snowy terrain here is strictly for skilled and advanced snowboarders.

Furthermore, Gulmarg has excellent facilities for snowboarding as equipment’s and guides are easily available. Also every year adventure sport operators conduct week long snowboarding courses between December and February so budding adventure enthusiasts can make the most of it during this time.

Please click here for bookings for adventure sport activities in Gulmarg

Go Ice skating at the rink

Winters in Kashmir are exhilarating as the temperature drops to zero or below zero degrees, hence during this time lakes and ponds transform into sheets of ice.

As a result outdoor, skating rinks are set up in frozen lakes and ponds of Gulmarg where ice skating lovers can assemble and take part in regional and national level competitions or simply enjoy some fun filled moments.

The rink in Gulmarg is situated close to the Gondola base station and overlooks the Gulmarg golf course. The ideal time for ice skating in Gulmarg is during the months of January and February. So, if you are keen on learning ice skating several professional operators will provide you with the required equipment’s and instructor.

Heli Skiing

Heli skiing activity was started in Gulmarg in the year 2010 and there is an interesting history to it. A decade ago the famous French skier Sylvain Saudan had started Heli skiing in the Himalayas for European skiers. He would take the skiers by helicopter on top of the mountain peaks surrounding Gulmarg and from there they would ski down from the immense Himalayan slopes.

Heli skiing  in Gulmarg is the ultimate skiing experience; where the helicopter flight experience alone is spectacular and after you have finished taking pictures of the amazing vistas the ride down(skiing) the mountain is even better.

Heli skiing in Gulmarg operates from Gulmarg Ski Village, which is located in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayan Mountains. Punch peak is one of the highest peaks in the Pir Panjal towering at 15,567 feet and offers a descent of more than 6,561 feet vertical drop.

Every year professional skiers from all over the world come here to experience the thrill and adventure of skiing in the vast untouched snow fields of Gulmarg.Tourist keen on heli skiing must ride the absolutely untouched terrain which is without any crowds and the run is absolutely yours.

The entire trip is handled by experienced guides and pilots who are experienced alpine helicopter professionals with safety & security of participants being their top most priority.

Heli skiing base: Apharwat peak.
Heli skiing season: December – March.

Please click here for bookings for Heli skiing in Gulmarg

Outer Circle Walks

Gulmarg is a small alpine town and a visit here makes one feel like living in an artist’s dream. So if you are the one who likes taking long walks then the outer circle trek is just for you. The trek is a 10 km trail
where participants are taken through the outer wider surroundings of the valley which crosses, rows of pine trees, lush green grasslands and beautiful landscapes.

On a clear day one can enjoy the splendid views of the Nanga Parbhat, Haramukh and sunset peak that adds to the memorable
experience of the trek.

The trek lasts for about 2 hours and tourist can enjoy some wonderful Kodak moments while exploring the picture perfect landscape of Gulmarg. Tourists who are handicapped, senior citizens or those who cannot walk for a long distance can opt for a pony ride and enjoy the experience of the outer circle walk.

Best Time: Outer circle walks can be enjoyed in both summers and winters. During summers the entire valley is green and stunning while in winters the entire landscape is covered with thick snow.

Ideally take the outer circle walk during late afternoon’s around 04:00 p.m. so that at by the end of the trek you can enjoy views of the beautiful sunset at Gulmarg.

Please click here for bookings for Outer Circle Walks in Gulmarg

Enjoy Kashmiri Cuisines

Just like its picturesque beauty the cuisines of Kashmir are heavenly. A trip to Gulmarg is incomplete without tasting the rich delicacies like Wazwan and other exquisite dishes.

The cuisines of Kashmir are a blend of different cooking styles that of Kashmiri pundits, Muslims and Mughals which have a unique flavor and aroma that makes it hard for any tourist to resist.

A visit to the famous hotels and restaurants of Gulmarg will give tourist an experience of enjoying Kashmiri tea (Kahwa) and various vegetarian and non vegetarian dishes that they will never forget in a lifetime.

So, don’t miss to relish some of the local delicacies of Kashmir during your trip to Gulmarg.

For more information on Eating options in Gulmarg please click HERE

Gulmarg is situated 55 km from Srinagar at an altitude of 8694 feet and is a year round destination and travelers can plan their visit depending upon their area of interest.

What is fascinating about Gulmarg is that it can be experienced in all seasons, equipped with modern facilities and the warm hospitality of the locals attracts visitors from all over the world in all seasons.

So here is a month wise breakup of the weather conditions of Gulmarg so travelers can plan their visit better.

October – February

As October sets in the air in Gulmarg becomes cooler and the temperature begins to drop starting with the month of November which marks the onset of winter.

Winters in Gulmarg has a different charm and it offers its visitors a snow draped beauty to enjoy. During this time honeymoon couples and adventure sport lovers (Skiers and Snowboarders) begin to throng Gulmarg.

The maximum temperature is 2 degree Celsius and minimum temperature can dip as low as – 14 degree Celsius during peak winter season and during this time Gulmarg begins experiences heavy snowfall.

In the last week of December during Christmas Gulmarg is host to the renowned 2 day Snow Festival which is a major festival celebrated with great fanfare and enthusiasm by visiting tourist from all over the world.

There are a number of snow sport activities that take place during the 2 day festival(snow cycling, night ice skating, snowman making competition, sledge race, snow scooter races, skiing, ice hockey and snow rugby) and tourists can enjoy a large variety of Kashmiri delicacies during the festive season.

For detailed information on adventure activities in Gulmarg click HERE

The months from January to mid March, Gulmarg experiences consistent snowfall hence adventure sport activities like skiing, heli-skiing, snowboarding and other winter sport activities are in full swing. Gulmarg during this time is full of foreigners and becomes a hot spot for winter sport activities.

Winters is the best time to engage in adrenaline pumping skiing as travelers can take off from high altitudes of 14,000 feet or simply indulge in exciting activities like creating snowmen, having fun filled snow fights or making snow angels.

During this time travelers must come packed with heavy woolens as the temperature can drop drastically.

For information on staying options at Gulmarg in winter please click HERE

March – June

March is the beginning of summer and with it begins the peak tourist season which lasts up to September.During this time the snow begins to melt and disappear from the plains and very little snow remains on the higher altitudes while the entire surroundings of the valley turns into its natural colors.

During this time Gulmarg begins to turn into a meadow of flowers as it is popularly known and the weather becomes pleasant and does not exceed more than 29 degree Celsius making it an ideal time for sightseeing and adventure activities like trekking, hiking and camping.

Visitors from all over India visit Gulmarg during this season as it is a refreshing change and an escape from the summer heat wave which takes over major parts of India.

For detailed information on places to see in Gulmarg click HERE

So, if you plan to visit Gulmarg during summer then feel free to pack cotton clothes, a pair of sun glasses, trekking shoes and umbrella so you can protect yourself from the unpredictable weather that changes often.

For information on staying options at Gulmarg in summer please click HERE 

July – September

Though the month of July is one of the warmest months it brings in a bit of rainfall though not heavy. Monsoons have its own charm and walking through the meadows of Gulmarg and listening to the raindrops is a memorable experience of its kind.

Gulmarg does not have a proper monsoon season because of its location but whatever rainfall does occur does not create any disturbance and it is the best time for visitors to spend in the lap of nature and also enjoy a few adventure sport activities.

The entire setting of Gulmarg during this time is beautiful with mild breezy winds, the aroma of mud, black clouds passing by, the greenery of trees and the fine rain droplets showering from the sky makes you fall in love with the beautiful season of monsoon.

As this period is an off-season tourist visiting during this time will get heavy discounts and attractive offers from all hotels in Gulmarg. Finally, do not forget to carry your rain gear and take a walk through the meadows, glistening with raindrops and wild flowers still in full bloom.

For information on staying options at Gulmarg  during Off-season please click HERE 

For booking and guided tours at Gulmarg please click HERE

Today, Gulmarg is one of the preferred destinations for travelers living in major cities of India, but mostly thronged by couples and families for sightseeing and leisure during summers and is a popular skiing destination in winter.

Gulmarg is dotted with beautiful places that will enthrall you in its splendor so Let’s have a look!!!

Maharani Temple:

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Maharani Temple is perched atop a hillock in the middle of the beautiful town of Gulmarg and is easily visible from every corner of this beautiful town and whenever someone rings the temple bell, one can hear across the valley.

The Temple was built in the year 1915 by Queen Mohini Bai Sisodhia, the wife of the erstwhile ruler of Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh and thus is named as Maharani Temple or Rani Temple.The temple is in good shape and is one of the last few monuments that belonged to the Dogra dynasty who ruled over the princely state of Jammu & Kashmir.

The temple is extremely popular as it was seen as the backdrop for the song ‘Jai Jai shiv shanker, kaanta lage na kankar’ starring Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz.The views from temple complex are excellent and one can spend some time here in peace looking at snow capped peaks.

The temple can be visited on all days of the week from 06:00 a.m. – 08:00 p.m.

St. Mary’s Church:

Built in the beginning of the 20th century during the British rule, this Roman Catholic Church is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture.

The church is set amidst a meadowsque’s golf course of Gulmarg and has been the setting for a number for Bollywood movies from the good old 70′s to the recent ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’. A nice and peaceful church with surrounding mountains adds to the atmosphere beyond comparison. The beauty, serenity and the quietness of the place attracts the mind of all ages, though no service (prayers) happens here but once in a month a priest comes from Srinagar. The care takers of the church are nice and friendly and visiting tourist can learn more about the church from them.

The church is only accessible by trekking and there is no entry fee for visiting. The church can be visited on all the days of the week between 10:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

For booking and guided tours at Gulmarg please click HERE

Gulmarg Golf Course:

Gulmarg Golf Club is one of the highest golf courses in the world situated in the valley along with other picturesque parks, lakes and fish ponds.

Golf in Gulmarg began in early 1920’s when the officers of the British army came here to spend their summers. Ever since then golf tournaments have been frequently held here between armatures and professionals.The golf course was redesigned in the year 2011 and at 7505 yards it happens to be the longest golf course in the country with 18 holes and par 72 making golfing a unique experience.

The golf course is open to all and anyone can learn and play a quick game of golf and there are guides, trainers along with caddies at your service.

The golf course generally is operational from April to September and is closed during winter months. Apart from golfing tourist can also try their hand at Billards and Table tennis at the Gulmarg Golf Club.

Children’s Park:

The Children’s park in Gulmarg is picturesquely located amidst large meadows and is surrounded by snow peaked mountains at the backdrop. While tourists enjoy sightseeing their children can play and have fun at the park which is full of exciting games and activities.

Believed to be the highest children’s park in the world the park is home to a beautiful lake and activities like horse riding, buggy riding and zorbing ball are one of the most popular activities enjoyed by both children and adults alike.

Kongdoor (Phase – I):

The gondola lift (cable car) operates in 2 phases; Phase – I (Kongdoor) @ 8,530 feet and Phase – II (Apharwat Peak) @ 12,300 feet above sea level.

Perched at an altitude of 8,530 feet lies Phase – I known as Kangdoor valley. The bowl-shaped Kongdori valley is a little paradise in its own right and is carpeted with fragrant and blossoming flowers in summer and becomes a ski destination during winter.

During Summer(May to September) the Kongdoor valley emanates pristine beauty and is surrounded by greenery from all sides thus making it ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities like trekking and hiking.

During Winter(December to March) the valley is covered with snow and is the best place for tourist to indulge in snow fights and enjoy winter sport activities like sledge rides and snowmobile rides.

Apharwat Peak (Phase – II):

The Gondola ride to Apharwat peak (Phase – II) is amazing with a view of snow clad mountains and pine trees, the Apharwat summit (Phase – II) is located at a height of 12,300 feet above sea level. The summit receives heavy snowfall all round the year and is a few km away from the LOC with Pakistan. Reaching phase – II is highly dependent on weather conditions.

The views from summit are spectacular comprising of panoramic vistas of the Himalayan ranges, Gulmarg and its surrounding valleys. Apharwat peak is quite popular with skiing enthusiast and the snow covered landscape provides enough challenge for even the most experienced skiers.

When here, tourist can dig into the powdery snow and go for a fun snow fight or make their own interesting versions of snowman and create wonderful memories with their loved ones.

During summers, the Apharwat peak is entirely different from what it looks like in winters; the lush surroundings will make you feel very close to nature. All in your entire trip to Gulmarg will be incomplete without a visit to the Apharwat Summit (Phase-II).

For booking and guided tours at Gulmarg please click HERE

Alpather Lake:

Alpather is a small meadow 13 kms from Gulmarg at the base of the Apharwat peak and the Alpather Lake is one exciting place for a day’s excursion from Gulmarg.

The lake is triangular in shape and has snow covered mountains at its backdrop. Apart from being a picturesque sight, the lake also provides an adventurous opportunity to the visitors, who can take up activities like horse riding, trekking and ridge climbing to reach the lake.

The lake remains frozen till mid May and even in the month of June one can see several chunks of ice floating on the water.

Best way to reach: Take a gondola ride up to Phase two, after that a pony ride or a trek if you’re fit and love hiking.

Ningle Nallah:

Ningle Nallah is a striking stream and an impressive meadow which is carpeted with wildflowers. Located at a distance of 10 km away from Gulmarg the beautiful stream receives water from the melting ice of the Apharwat peak and Alpather Lake in summers.

Tourists generally visit the Ningle Nallah between the months of March to October and it is a very popular picnic spot and is visited by both locals and tourists alike. The stream makes its way passing through a few mountains and lush green valleys.

When here one can see beautiful meadows full of blooming flowers, surrounded by snow capped mountains as well pine trees.

This is an ideal spot for a family picnic or a camping trip with friends. The ambiance of the place is very relaxing and enjoyable and is located en route to Lienmarg and Khilanmarg and is easily accessible by road.

There is no entry fee for visiting the Ningle Nallah and can be visited all days of the week from 09:00 a.m. – 07:00 p.m.

For detailed information on adventure activities in Gulmarg click HERE

Ferozepur Nallah:

Ferozepur Nallah is an exquisite mountain stream flowing through the valleys between the beautiful Chinamarg and Nurpur Pass.

Camping during summers beside this stream is one of the best things to do and also trout fishing is permissible here, hence it definitely makes an ideal picnic spot to enjoy with friends and family. Tourist visiting here during winters can also enjoy skiing on the mountain slopes near it.

Pine covered and snow carpeted mountains surrounding Ferozepur Nallah is one sight your lens would absolutely love to capture. For the more adventurous ones, the Ferozepur Nallah is also the base camp for Tosamaidan Trek, which spans about 50 km and lasts for a duration of 3 days.

Timings: All days of the week; 08:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.

For booking and guided tours at Gulmarg please click HERE

Khilanmarg:

The beautiful valley of Khilanmarg is one of the most popular sightseeing spots near Gulmarg.Tranquil and Serene, Khilanmarg is adorned by a variety of flowers during summers and one can easily trek to Khilanmarg and enjoy spectacular views of the Nanga Parbat and twin peaks of Nun and Kun of the Himalayan ranges.

During winters Khilanmarg becomes a skiing destination and is ideal for adventure sport activities like skiing and snowboarding.

Khilanmarg is 4 km from Gulmarg and can be easily reached by trekking or on horseback. There are several scenic spots located in the proximity of Khilanmarg and tourist can enjoy some of the most fantastic views of nature.

No Entry Fee.
Timing: 07:00 to 05:00 p.m. (All days of the week).

Nagin Valley:

The Nagin valley or Nageen valley was opened to public in the year 2012 after being kept hidden from tourist for almost 22 years due to instability in the region. The picturesque valley is a 10 km stretch on the Gulmar – Botapathri road and is a haven for nature lovers and trekkers.

The valley partly lies in the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve which is popular for its lush alpine meadows, blue pines and wildlife which includes musk deers, leopards, red fox and Hangul.

When here tourist can enjoy walking through the clouds which is truly a wonderful experience and while exploring one will notice the mountains change their colors as the sun makes its journey towards the west.

Today Nagin valley has been developed as an eco tourism destination and for adventure enthusiasts there are well equipped camping sites available in the valley.

Strawberry Valley:

Walk down the valley and explore the hidden gem of Gulmarg the “Strawberry Valley”. Gulmarg produces some of the juiciest strawberries in India and tourist can get a taste of the fresh strawberries while visiting Gulmarg during summer.

Apart from fresh strawberries the beautiful valley is famous for being the backdrop of many Bollywood movies.Tourist can spend a small picnic and captures some beautiful moments between the strawberry farms.

Lienmarg:

Situated 10 km from Gulmarg is a stunning meadow ‘Lienmarg’ blooming with wild flowers and surrounded by thickets of pine forests where one can enjoy the glory of mother nature at its best.

During summers Lienmarg attracts a lot of tourists especially campers and trekkers because of its idyllic beauty. While in winters its serves as a perfect destination for winter sport activities.

Reaching Lienmarg is an adventurous experience as one has to cross the Ningle Nallah and then pass by beautiful meadows and pine forests which can be done on horseback. There is no entry fees for this place and the entire meadow can be seen in duration of 3 to 4 hours.

For booking and guided tours at Gulmarg please click HERE

Baba Reshi Shrine:

Dedicated to Baba Payamuddin the shrine was built in 1480, the year of his demise. Baba Reshi was a renowned Muslim scholar in the court of King Zain-ul-Abidin who ruled Kashmir in the 15th century.

This 500-year-old shrine was constructed in the architectural style of that era and it was dominated by Persian and Mughal influences. Inside the tomb are beautifully-crafted wooden artworks reminiscent of the bygone era. The tomb can accommodate more than a 1000 devotees at any given time. Surrounded by lush green lawns, this shrine attracts hordes of visitors both for its religious and historic significance. It is also believed that childless couples are blessed with
one after praying here.

The shrine is on the way from Tanmarg to Gulmarg and one can visit the shrine any time from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on any day of the week.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve:

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is a blend of enormous wild flora and fauna. The reserve is spread over an area of 180 sq km, and is famous for retaining several rare and endangered species.

Whether you are a bird lover, naturalist or simply looking for adventure, a hike through the rich vegetation of the biosphere is must for every tourist visiting Gulmarg.

The main attraction of this reserve is the presence of a Musk Deer while the other animals that can be sighted are snow leopards, Hangul, Black bears, Red fox, and Brown bears to name a few. The biosphere is also a delight for bird watchers as a variety of resident and migratory birds can be traced in this reserve. Those looking for more adventure can opt for spending a night at the camping sites close to the reserve.

Best time to watch mammals at the reserve: September to March.

Best time for bird watching: March to May.

Kanchenjunga Museum:

Have you ever thought how our brave soldiers make their way through the ice cold Himalayan ranges, glaciers and ridges and fight wars with the enemy??

If you are keen to know then head straight to Kanchenjunga Museum where you will see on display old and modern warfare and mountaineering gears and equipments used by the Indian army since 1947.All these equipments have been displayed very nicely in the museum.

The museum is housed in the premises of high altitude warfare school (HAWS) which is a training school of the Indian army.

No Entry Fee
Timing: Summer – 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. Winter – 10:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.

Finally, Gulmarg is best explored on foot as this is the best way to enjoy and absorb its beautiful landscape. Tourist can also hire ponies and explore the beauty of Gulmarg at their own pace. Also skiing along the slopes of Apharwat and Kandoor is a precious feat which one can achieve being in the beautiful settings of Gulmarg.So go prepared and absorb the inimitable essence of skiing at this amazing winter destination and share the same with your loved ones.

For Staying options at Gulmarg please click HERE

]]> http://www.tripplatform.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=1610 0