Khilanmarg Gulmarg
Overview
Located in the Budgam district, Khilanmarg is a popular attraction of the Kashmir valley. It is at an altitude of about 4000 metres. Tourists who come to Gulmarg often cover it in the trip as it is only 6 kilometres away.
The place is well-known for its abundance of natural beauty. Long sprawled meadows and nearby lakes are a beautiful addition to its charm.
Khilanmarg is a year-round destination. Influx of tourists is seen throughout the year. With a range of activities to offer in every season, the place remains crowded with visitors.
There are several trekking trails to undertake in summer and snow slopes are the main attraction in winter.
Khilanmarg is easily accessible via taxis and cabs. Once you reach Srinagar, start the road trip to Gulmarg. You have to cover a distance of about 50 kilometres. Explore the beauty of Kashmir with our specially curated Kashmir Holiday packages that include visits to the scenic meadows of Gulmarg and Khilanmarg.
As you reach the main town, Khilanmarg is only 6 kilometres away. Some people often trek there while others either choose pony rides or taxis.
Here’s a detailed guide regarding a trip to Khilanmarg, Gulmarg containing places to explore and activities to do. Have a glance!
Weather And Temperature
In the summer season, the temperature ranges from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius. During summertime, the valley has beautiful weather with lush green landscapes and clear blue skies. It is the best to enjoy holidays and trekking and hiking.
In the winter season, it receives heavy snowfall. The entire valley is covered with thick snowfall. The temperature in the winter season goes to sub-zero degrees. At this time, the valley offers one of the popular.
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Things To Do In Khilanmarg
If you are looking for a peaceful trip, this valley is the perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty and many adventure sports. If you are an adventure junkie, you can enjoy many adventure sports here.
Trekking
There are many summer treks that you can do in Khilanmarg, Gulmarg. From May to September, the trails are clear and easy to walk on. Weather is comfortable too.
One of the most famous treks is Khilanmarg to Nanga Parbat base camp. The total distance to be covered is about 20 kilometres and the duration of the trek is approximately 2 days depending on your walking speed and fitness level.
More short treks to do in Khilanmarg are Khilanmarg-Alpather Lake trek, Khilanmarg-Maharani Temple trek, Khilanmarg-Gulmarg Golf Course, etc.
These treks can be completed in a single day. Wear proper clothes according to the weather and carry a water bottle and snacks.
Skiing(winter)
In Gulmarg, Khilanmarg is a popular skiing attraction. As the temperature starts to drop in winter, the slopes With long snow slopes, the place attracts many visitors from all over the world.
Khilanmarg is a good choice for a beginner as well as intermediate skier. You can also heli-ski or backcountry skiing at Gulmarg based on your skill. Whether you are an avid skier or an amateur one, Khilanmarg is the right calling.
There are many skiing schools nearby the meadow where long week courses are offered to novice skiers.
You can rent the equipment and safety gear from the rental shops of Gulmarg town.
Sledging(winter)
Other than skiing, sledging is another winter activity to do in Khilanmarg. The sport is suitable for every age group from children to senior citizens.
Since it is rather easier than skiing, you don’t need special skills for sledging. You just have to sit on a fur seat on a sledging board and slide downhill.
The Khilanmarg meadows offer long trails for the thrilling activity.
While you can book it via tour agencies, even locals of Khilanmarg offer the sport to the tourists. Winter is the ideal time for sledging in Khilanmarg, Gulmarg.
Photography
If you are someone who is into nature-photography, a trip to Khilanmarg should be the next thing you check off your bucket list. Bring your camera and click pictures for memories of a lifetime.
You may have to pay a negligible amount at some places to click pictures but you would not regret it. Best places for nature photography near Khilanmarg are Gulmarg itself and then places like Alpather lake, Maharani Temple, etc.
The place is home to varied kinds of flora and fauna hence, it is an ideal place for wildlife photography as well.
Snowmobile(winter)
Beyond skiing and sledging, Khilanmarg offers the fun sport of snowmobile riding as well. The sport is known to give freedom to explore around at your desired pace.
Gradually, developing as a hobby, the ride is exciting. The extreme snowfall in winters has smooth snow trails, ideal for snowmobiling.
One or two people can ride at one time. Hence, it is ideal for solo travellers and couples. Even group riding is organised for families and friend groups.
The cost depends on the duration of the ride. Both premium and budget services are available.
Horse riding
Horse riding or pony riding is available for tourists to explore nearby local attractions. Those located within 10 kilometres range can easily be visited via horse riding.
Those who aren’t physically fit to walk long distances, often book the rides. Reach places like Alpather Lake in less time and without much effort via horse riding.
While it is more of a summer activity, the pony rides are accessible in winter as well. They can easily walk on snow.
The cost depends on the distance. Remember to book the rides in advance via online websites or you can get one at a nearby bus stand.
Places to Visit Near Khilanmarg
Alpather Lake
The place that is not to be missed when in Khilanmarg is Alpather Lake. The lake is around 11-12 kilometres away from Khilanmarg.
The gradient of Alpather Lake trek is easy to moderate and the trails can be covered in 5-6 hours. It is located at an altitude of 4380m at the foothills of Apharwat Peak.
The lake is fed by the melting waters of the closely situated peaks and is shaped as a bowl. The trek to Alpather lake is undertaken throughout the year.
Famously called the Frozen Lake, it freezes completely in winter. People often camp near the lake and spend the night stargazing and around bonfires. Carry camping gear like tents and sleeping bags.
Gulmarg Gondola
The gondola rides that are present at the base of Gulmarg town is a once in a lifetime experience. From Khilanmarg, Gulmarg is about 6 kilometres away.
The Gulmarg Gondola, as one of the highest and longest cable car rides, is operational year-round.
Through this ride, you can visit different attractions of Gulmarg like Kongdoori in the first phase and Apharwat Peak in the second Phase.
Each Gondola can accommodate 6 people per ride and it takes approximately half an hour or may be 30 minutes to complete the ride.
You can easily get the Gondola passes in advance via online websites.
St Mary's Church
St. Mary’s Church is another historical attraction located in proximity to Khilanmarg. The total distance to be covered to reach the Church from Khilanmarg is about 5 kilometres, taking 2-3 hours via trekking.
Starting from the Khilanmarg, you have to follow the trail of the Gulmarg’s Outer meadows and then reach the main road. Walk up to St. Mary’s Church.
It was constructed way back in 1902 and people still come here to explore this Victorian monument.
It opens at about 10AM in the morning and remains so till 5PM in the evening. It can be visited in both summer and winter.
Maharani Temple
Maharani Temple is only 3 kilometres from Khilanmarg. Since it is a short trail, you can easily walk up to the temple in less than 2 hours.
In Navratri, the spiritually significant place is crowded with pilgrims. The palace was built in local Kashmiri architecture, in the 19th century by Mohini Bai Sisodia, wife of Raja Hari Singh.
Dedicated to goddess Maharani, the temple is famous among locals. It is spread over 8700 sq ft with 15 rooms and a main hall.
The place remains open in every season. Carry a shawl or scarf to cover your head and leave your slippers behind before entering the Temple.
Golf Course
The Gulmarg Golf Course is located at a walking distance of about 5 kilometres from Khilanmarg. With the setting of the course lying in a beautiful meadow and around 18 kinds of flowers blooming here, it is considered one the greenest golf courses of the world.
The 18-hole course was built before independence and has been the point of attraction since then. Both beginners and experienced people can visit here to enjoy some Golfing.
It is an interesting sport accessible here. In winter, skiing and snowboarding in Gulmarg for beginners is accessible at the Course.
Apart from the thrill that can be experienced, the place is a visual treat. Visit here from 9 am to 10 pm.
Best Time To Visit Khilanmarg
Summer: Spend your summer holidays in Khilanmarg, this year. Summer lasts between May to September. The temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C, keeping the weather warm and pleasant.
However, at night, it does drop to around 10°C. As the snow of the winter has melted by now, the place is filled with greenery and wildflowers. Different activities like trekking, horse riding, are available since routes are clear and navigable.
The local attractions situated nearby Khilanmarg are open to the tourists as well. While it does rain in July and August, make sure to bring an umbrella and raincoat. Carry cotton clothes to wear during daytime. You may want to keep one or two light sweaters in case it feels a bit cold.
Winter: Winter is the peak season in Khilanmarg, lasting from December to March. The temperature remains subzero and is around 0°C to -5°C. The meadow receives heavy snowfall throughout the season, especially in January and February.
Due to huge accumulation of white powdery snow, ski slopes are formed. The place is crowded with tourists to enjoy various winter adventures like skiing, snowboarding and sledging.
The slopes formed here are smooth and less steeper. It is a perfect choice among beginners for snow activities. For more challenging terrain, you can visit the alpine regions of the meadow that is at an altitude of about 13,124 feet. The best time to visit Gulmarg is winter season from December to February.
The off-season in Khilanmarg are spring and autumn when the place isn’t very crowded. If you are looking for an affordable trip, these are the convenient times. Everything including accommodation and transport are lower in rates and you can have a peaceful experience.
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Essential Information For Khilanmarg Gulmarg
How to Reach
There are many ways of transport available for you to reach here which include buses, trains, taxis, flights, etc.
By Air: The nearest airport is the Srinagar international airport which is located only 67 kilometers from the Gulmarg. It is well connected to many major cities of India such as Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi etc. From Srinagar, you can hire a cab/ Kashmir taxi to reach Gulmarg. It is 6 kilometers from the Gulmarg, from Gulmarg take a walk to reach Gulmarg or take a pony ride.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is the Jammu Tawi Station which is the main railway head in Jammu and Kashmir. The distance from Jammu Tawi station to Khilanmarg is 346 kilometers, the railway station is well connected to major cities of India. From here take a cab or shared cab to reach Gulmarg, from there you can walk 6 kilometers uphill to reach Khilanmarg.
By Road: Coming here by road is the best way to enjoy the trip. You will enjoy the views on your way. The nearest destination you can reach is Gulmarg. Gulmarg is very well connected to many cities such as Chandigarh, Jammu, and Delhi. Bus services are also available from major cities that are connected to Gulmarg.
Stay Options
The Khyber Himalayan Resort And Spa: This is one of the luxurious hotels in Gulmarg. The hotel is surrounded by magnificent views of the Apharwat and Pir Panjal Mountain ranges. It offers visitors luxurious comfort and great hospitality. The food services and the staff are also very good.
Grand Mumtaz Resorts Gulmarg: This is a 5-star hotel in Gulmarg. The hotel provides the best comfortable and luxurious rooms for visitors. The surrounding views from the hotel are stunning, one can enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountain peaks. The hospitality and the food services are excellent.
Hotel Pine Spring: This is the other best option to stay. The hotel is very near to Gulmarg Gondola. The rooms are clean and the services are very excellent. The interior decor of the rooms is excellent. The wifi and parking services are free.
Welcome Hotel Gulmarg: The hotel has beautiful rooms with modern amenities. The views from this hotel are breathtaking. The hospitality and the other services are excellent.
Khilanmarg Trek
Trekking from Gulmarg to Khilmarg is categorized as an easy-to-moderate trip that is ideal for hikers of all experience levels. The trail is clearly defined and provides breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and meadows that are located in the area. The Khilanmarg Trek is around 2 hours long and covers a distance of about 4 kilometers. During the hike, you will make your way past many streams and waterfalls, which will only serve to enhance the natural splendor of the trek.
During the hike, you will make your way past several streams and waterfalls, which will only serve to enhance the natural splendor of the trek.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Khilanmarg Gulmarg is a spectacular place in Jammu & Kashmir that provide a one-of-a-kind combination of breathtaking natural scenery and exhilarating outdoor activities. These locations offer a variety of recreational opportunities, from hiking and skiing to golfing and horseback riding, so that visitors of all ages and tastes may have a good time. Due to the heavy Snowfall in Gulmarg it looks wonderland and this the famous destination for skiing.
The stunning scenery of the mountains, forests, and meadows that can be seen in the surrounding area is certain to take your breath away and make an incredible impact.
If you are planning to visit this beautiful region, you can choose Cliffhangers India for the tour. We provide a tour package that covers not only your travel but also your lodging and your meals.
This makes it an easy and stress-free approach to take in the region’s breathtaking scenery. The tour package that Cliffhangers India has to offer is an excellent way to make the most of your stay in this breathtaking part of the world.
FAQ's
Distance from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg?
The distance between Gulmarg and Khilanmarg is 8 kilometers (km). The driving time required to cross the distance between the two locations is around thirty minutes. However, another option is to travel by foot, which will take approximately two hours. The journey from Gulmarg is often regarded as one of the most beautiful hikes in the area since it allows travelers to take in stunning vistas of the scenery in the vicinity.
Distance from Srinagar?
The distance from Srinagar to Khilanmarg is 60 kilometers. Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. It takes around two and a half hours by car to travel from Srinagar. However, if you’d prefer to not drive, another option is to hire a cab or a bus from Srinagar.
Is Khilanmarg Worth Visiting?
It is the place where you can beat the summer heat. It is well known for its stunning picturesque beauty which makes it a worth visiting place. You can visit this beautiful place in the summer season because the valley looks vibrant and the flowers are blooming at this time.
How is the road from Srinagar to Gulmarg?
The road conditions from Srinagar to Gulmarg are good. Regular basis buses are available from Srinagar to Gulmarg, there may be some stretches in the road which is narrow. The drive from Srinagar to Gulmarg will take you around 3 hours to reach the Gulmarg.
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