Places to Visit in Gulmarg
Overview
Curious where you can experience snow-capped peaks and peaceful meadows just 50 km from Srinagar?
Silent, solitary, and only 52 km from Srinagar, Gulmarg is a place where it feels like angels come down to rest. Its scenic beauty, home-like warmth, and the pure cold air of the “heaven of the world” create an atmosphere that stays with you long after you leave. There is no better destination to experience the essence of Kashmir than Gulmarg. This guide will help you explore the best places to visit in Gulmarg along with seasonal recommendations for May, August, September, October, and December.
Whether you want snow-capped peaks, skiing slopes, serene meadows, or gondola rides, Gulmarg offers something unique in every season. It is a hill station and a popular tourist destination that remains open for all 12 months. Visitors can travel here any time of the year.
Gulmarg is also known for its world-famous ski slopes. Skiing in Gulmarg attracts thousands of tourists every winter, making it one of the busiest winter destinations in India. At 2690 metres above sea level, it is home to one of the highest ski resorts and cable car rides in the world.
If you are planning a Kashmir tour, Gulmarg must be on your list. The weather remains pleasant during summer, and winters turn the valley into a snowy paradise. Below is a list of top places to visit in Gulmarg in summer and winter, curated with insights from Cliffhangers India’s experienced guides.
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20 Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg Kashmir
01. Gulmarg Gondola
With an affordable ticket and unmatched views, the Gulmarg Gondola is the most popular activity here. The cable car glides over snow-covered pines and misty landscapes, giving a surreal experience of floating through clouds.
While returning from the top station, you can also choose a snow sled for an added thrill. The cold air and the expansive white landscape make it an unforgettable ride.
The Gondola has three phases:
- Phase I: Gulmarg to Kungdoor
- Phase II: Kungdoor to Apharwat
- Phase III: Apharwat to Mary’s Shoulder
This is the best activity to enjoy in Gulmarg throughout the year – whether you are visiting in May, August, September, October, or December.
- Gulmarg Gondola ticket price: Phase 1 approx ₹740, Phase 2 approx ₹950 (prices may change seasonally)
- Timings: 10 am to 4 pm
- Best time to visit: December to March (snow season), May to September (clear views)
- How long it takes: 3 to 4 hours for both phases
- Activities: Gondola ride, skiing, snow biking, photography
The Gondola is the most iconic experience of Gulmarg, taking you through snow-covered pine forests, icy slopes, and the Pir Panjal Range. Phase 1 connects Gulmarg to Kongdoori. Phase 2 goes from Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak, which offers panoramic Himalayan views. During winters, opt for a snow sled while descending for an extra dose of thrill.
Experience snow adventures with: Skiing in Gulmarg at affordable prices.
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02. Strawberry Valley
Strawberry Valley is one of Gulmarg’s most charming and lesser-known attractions. Untouched by large tourist crowds, this valley retains its natural beauty, with blue skies, fresh meadows, and expansive strawberry farms.
The best time to visit Strawberry Valley is May to July, when strawberries fully ripen. You can taste freshly plucked strawberries, walk through scenic farms, and enjoy peaceful views surrounded by rolling hills. Several Bollywood movies have been shot here, adding to its charm.
- Best time to visit: May to July (strawberry harvesting season)
- Location: Around 4 km from main Gulmarg
- Ideal visit duration: 1 to 2 hours
- What to do: Strawberry tasting, photography, nature walks
- Why visit: Hidden, uncrowded, Bollywood shooting spot
Suggested read: Kashmir in April
03. Tangmarg
Tangmarg is a beautiful town located 12 km before Gulmarg and serves as an important stop on the Srinagar–Gulmarg route. It is also one of the best places to visit near Gulmarg, known for its greenery, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings.
It is the main gateway to Gulmarg, and the popular Drung Waterfall is just 3 km from here. Lush green forests, trout-filled streams, and the refreshing Shen Koul (brook of snow) make Tangmarg a delightful stopover.
If you want to experience live snowfall in Kashmir, especially in December, Tangmarg and Drung are among the best winter destinations.
- Distance: 12 km before Gulmarg
- Famous for: Drung Waterfall (3 km away), trout fish, scenic forests
- Best time to visit: All year, especially winter for frozen waterfall
- Perfect for: Quick stopovers, photography, peaceful nature walks
- Altitude: Around 2200 meters
Suggested read: Kashmir in December.
04. Khilanmarg
Khilanmarg is one of the most scenic places to visit in Gulmarg, known for its sweeping meadows, snow-clad Himalayan peaks, and peaceful surroundings. It is a popular spot for Gulmarg sightseeing, especially for travelers who want close-up views of Nanga Parbat and the twin peaks of Nun and Kun. The meadows bloom with vibrant flowers in spring, while winter transforms Khilanmarg into a paradise for skiing lovers. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg throughout the year.
- Best time to visit: March to June for flowers and views and December to February for skiing
- Location: Around 6 km from Gulmarg, reachable by pony ride or an uphill walk
- Ideal visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
- What to do: Skiing in winter, nature walks, photography, pony rides, panoramic viewpoint exploration
- Why visit: Expansive meadows, Himalayan peak views, peaceful atmosphere, ideal for adventure and nature lovers among the top Gulmarg tourist places
05. Seven Springs
Seven Springs is a beautiful natural attraction known for its fresh water emerging from seven different outlets. Located near Kongdoori, this viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of Gulmarg and Srinagar. Most travelers visit Seven Springs during their Gulmarg sightseeing trip by taking the Gulmarg Gondola to Phase 1, which makes the journey even more scenic with views of pine forests, valleys, and mountain ranges. It is easily one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg for nature lovers.
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Location: Near Kongdoori, accessible via Gondola Phase 1
- Ideal visit duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- What to do: Gondola ride, photography, valley views, nature walks
- Why visit: Seven natural water outlets, stunning viewpoints, included in the top Gulmarg tourist places
06. Ningle Nallah
Ningle Nallah is a photogenic mountain stream that flows through lush meadows, snow-fed valleys, and pine-covered landscapes. It originates from Alpather Lake and Apharwat Peak before meeting the Jhelum River. This peaceful spot is perfect for picnics, camping, and family outings. With its postcard-like scenery, Ningle Nallah is often listed among the most serene places to visit in Gulmarg.
- Best time to visit: May to September
- Location: Around 10 km from Gulmarg
- Ideal visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
- What to do: Picnics, camping, photography, nature walks along the stream
- Why visit: Gentle flowing stream, quiet atmosphere, picture-perfect landscapes, one of the must-visit Gulmarg tourist places
07. Ferozpur Nallah
Ferozpur Nallah is a peaceful mountain stream surrounded by pine forests, rocky slopes, and quiet valleys. Known for its untouched beauty, this spot is ideal for couples, nature lovers, and families looking for calm surroundings during their Gulmarg sightseeing trip. The fresh water, scenic meadows, and fishing opportunities make it one of the underrated yet beautiful places to visit in Gulmarg.
- Best time to visit: May to September
- Location: Around 5 km from Gulmarg
- Ideal visit duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- What to do: Trout fishing, picnics, photography, quiet nature walks
- Why visit: Pristine water stream, peaceful picnic spot, scenic landscapes among lesser known Gulmarg tourist places
08. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is one of the most important wildlife attractions in Kashmir and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Spread across 180 sq km, the reserve is home to rich Himalayan flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, and Indian Wolf. It is a major highlight for Gulmarg sightseeing, especially for bird watchers. This ecological zone is often listed among the best places to visit in Gulmarg for its biodiversity and untouched forest landscapes.
- Best time to visit: March to September
- Location: Around 48 km from Srinagar
- Ideal visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
- What to do: Wildlife spotting, birdwatching, photography, forest walks
- Why visit: Rare Himalayan species, dense forests, birdlife diversity, one of the most unique Gulmarg tourist places
09. Baba Reshi Shrine
Baba Reshi Shrine is a revered 13th century Muslim pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees each year. Built in 1480, the shrine showcases beautiful Mughal and Persian architectural styles with wooden carvings, a three-storey structure, and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere. It sits gracefully between Gulmarg and Tangmarg, making it a culturally rich stop during Gulmarg sightseeing. It is one of the most important religious places to visit in Gulmarg.
- Best time to visit: All year
- Location: Between Gulmarg and Tangmarg
- Ideal visit duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- What to do: Offer prayers, explore the architecture, peaceful meditation
- Why visit: Historic shrine, spiritual atmosphere, significant religious site among top Gulmarg tourist places
10. Alpather Lake
Alpather Lake is a stunning high-altitude alpine lake situated below Apharwat Peak. Known for staying frozen for most months of the year, this lake offers dramatic views of snow-covered mountains and crystal-clear water. It is one of the most photographed places to visit in Gulmarg and a favourite among trekkers. In summer, the melting snow reveals patches of greenery that make the surroundings look surreal. Many travellers consider Alpather Lake one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg for its natural beauty and adventure appeal.
- Best time to visit: May to September
- Location: At the foot of Apharwat Peak, reachable via a trek from Gulmarg or Gondola Phase 2
- Ideal visit duration: 3 to 5 hours
- What to do: Trekking, photography, sightseeing, enjoying alpine views
Why visit: Frozen lake views, summer greenery, top choice for trekkers and nature lovers
11. Drung Waterfall
Drung Waterfall is one of the most magical places to visit in Gulmarg, especially in winter when the cascading water freezes into striking ice formations. The cold air, snowy cliffs, and echoing sound of water create a surreal atmosphere that makes Drung a favourite stop during Gulmarg sightseeing. Visitors often enjoy horseback riding, exploring nearby caves, and walking along fast-flowing streams. It is easily one of the most photographed Gulmarg tourist places.
- Best time to visit: December to February for frozen views and March to June for flowing waterfall
- Location: Near Tangmarg, around 14 km from Gulmarg
- Ideal visit duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- What to do: Horse riding, photography, cave visits, enjoying frozen waterfall formations
- Why visit: Frozen waterfall, winter wonderland experience, scenic landscapes among the best places to visit in Gulmarg
12. Apharwat Peak
Apharwat Peak is one of the most iconic Gulmarg tourist places, standing tall at around 4390 meters. It remains snow-covered for most of the year and is the main hub for skiing and snow adventure sports. The misty surroundings, scenic slopes, and frozen lakes make Apharwat one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg for thrill seekers and nature lovers. The Gulmarg Gondola takes visitors close to the summit, offering panoramic Himalayan views.
- Best time to visit: December to March for snow activities and May to September for clear alpine views
- Location: Accessible via Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2
- Ideal visit duration: 3 to 5 hours
- What to do: Skiing, snowboarding, photography, sightseeing, gondola ride
- Why visit: Snow sports hub, breathtaking Himalayan views, one of the most iconic spots for Gulmarg sightseeing
13. Gulmarg Igloos
Gulmarg Igloos offer a unique winter experience inspired by traditional ice shelters. These snow-built structures provide a cozy atmosphere that feels straight out of Siberia, making them one of the most unusual places to visit in Gulmarg. The igloo cafe, located in a forest setting, attracts tourists who want a warm drink while sitting inside a snow structure. It is a must-visit winter attraction during Gulmarg sightseeing.
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Location: Near Gulmarg Ski Resort area
- Ideal visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- What to do: Igloo cafe visit, photography, winter experiences
- Why visit: Unique snow igloos, cozy winter cafe
14. Gulmarg Golf Course
Gulmarg Golf Course is one of the highest golf courses in the world at around 9000 feet, making it a standout attraction in summer. Surrounded by panoramic mountains, lush green meadows, and clear skies, it offers a refreshing change from winter sports. This scenic course is a peaceful spot for nature lovers and is increasingly highlighted in Gulmarg sightseeing guides. It is considered one of the most serene places to visit in Gulmarg during warmer months.
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Location: Central Gulmarg
- Ideal visit duration: 1 to 2 hours
- What to do: Golfing, photography, leisure walks, enjoying mountain views
- Why visit: World’s highest golf course, lush summer scenery, relaxing atmosphere among top Gulmarg tourist places
15. Maharani Temple
Maharani Temple is one of the most iconic places to visit in Gulmarg, known for its bright red structure that stands out beautifully against snow-covered landscapes. Built by Maharani Mohini Bai Sisodia of Dogra royalty, this temple sits on a small hill and is visible from almost every corner of Gulmarg. It is an important stop during Gulmarg sightseeing, especially for travelers interested in culture and spirituality.
- Best time to visit: March to October
- Location: Central Gulmarg, near the main market
- Ideal visit duration: 30 to 45 minutes
- What to do: Temple visit, photography, exploring heritage
- Why visit: Historic temple, panoramic views
16. Children’s Park Gulmarg
Children’s Park is a peaceful recreational area ideal for families looking for relaxed Gulmarg sightseeing. With open meadows, pony rides, swings, a small lake, and beautiful walking trails, it is a perfect spot for a calm afternoon. Surrounded by pine forests and mountain backdrops, it is often listed among the most family-friendly places to visit in Gulmarg.
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Location: Near Gulmarg Gondola base area
- Ideal visit duration: 1 to 2 hours
- What to do: Pony rides, boating, picnics, nature walks
- Why visit: Family-friendly environment, scenic meadows
17. St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is a 100-year-old heritage landmark known for its English Gothic architecture and calm surroundings. The stone structure, green meadows, and snow-covered pine trees make it one of the most photogenic places to visit in Gulmarg.
- Best time to visit: March to December
- Location: Near Gulmarg Golf Course
- Ideal visit duration: 30 minutes
- What to do: Photography, heritage exploration, quiet meditation
- Why visit: Beautiful architecture, peaceful ambience, iconic historic spot among Gulmarg tourist places
18. Kongdoori Valley
Kongdoori Valley is a stunning bowl-shaped valley reached through Gondola Phase 1. Known for its green meadows in summer and powdery slopes in winter, it is one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg for adventure lovers. The valley offers panoramic Himalayan views and serves as a base for skiing, ATV rides, and snow biking.
- Best time to visit: December to March for snow and May to September for greenery
- Location: Gulmarg Gondola Phase 1
- Ideal visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
- What to do: Skiing, snow biking, photography, gondola rides, meadow walks
- Why visit: Adventure hub, scenic valley landscapes
19. Tangmarg
Tangmarg is the beautiful gateway town to Gulmarg, surrounded by pine forests, waterfalls, and village landscapes. It is known for its calm atmosphere, local markets, and apple orchards. Many travelers stop here during their journey to explore food stalls, scenic streams, and handicraft shops.
- Best time to visit: March to November
- Location: 13 km before Gulmarg
- Ideal visit duration: 1 to 2 hours
- What to do: Local shopping, photography, visiting viewpoints, trying Kashmiri food
- Why visit: Scenic gateway town, local culture, calm atmosphere among Gulmarg tourist places
Places to Visit in Gulmarg in May
May is one of the best months to explore Gulmarg, as the snow begins to melt and green meadows and blooming flowers emerge. For those searching for places to visit in Gulmarg in May, Khilanmarg is a must-visit with its lush meadows and panoramic Himalayan views, perfect for nature walks and photography. Strawberry Valley also comes alive this month with ripening strawberries, offering visitors the chance to taste fresh produce while enjoying quiet scenic walks. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, where spring brings out vibrant flora and makes it easier to spot Himalayan fauna. The pleasant weather makes May ideal for trekking, photography, and nature exploration across these iconic Gulmarg tourist places.
Places to Visit in Gulmarg in December
December transforms Gulmarg into a true winter wonderland, making it perfect for those looking for places to visit in Gulmarg in December. Apharwat Peak becomes the main hub for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow adventures, while Drung Waterfall freezes into stunning ice formations that are a photographer’s dream. Gulmarg Igloos provide a cozy and unique winter experience in the forest, giving visitors a glimpse of traditional snow shelters. With the snow-covered landscapes, visitors can enjoy skiing, ice photography, trekking, and a magical winter atmosphere across these popular Gulmarg sightseeing spots.
Places to Visit in Gulmarg in September
September is an ideal time to explore Gulmarg for those who prefer mild weather. The top places to visit in Gulmarg in September include Seven Springs, where clear streams and blooming wildflowers create a serene environment. Ningle Nallah offers lush green pastures, making it perfect for family picnics, while the Gulmarg Golf Course provides a peaceful setting for golf and photography. Visitors can enjoy trekking, nature walks, and outdoor leisure activities without the summer crowds, making September perfect for sightseeing and capturing the beauty of Gulmarg tourist places.
Places to Visit in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam
A combined trip to Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam is perfect for travelers looking for variety. In Srinagar, Dal Lake offers iconic shikara rides and houseboat stays, while the Mughal Gardens like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh provide stunning views. Shankaracharya Temple offers panoramic city views for sightseeing enthusiasts. In Gulmarg, visitors can explore Apharwat Peak, Khilanmarg, Kongdoori Valley, Drung Waterfall, and the Igloo Café for adventure and nature experiences. Pahalgam offers Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, and the Lidder River for trekking, horse riding, and fishing. This combination provides a rich experience of Gulmarg sightseeing and the natural beauty of Kashmir.
Places to Visit in Gulmarg in October
October brings vibrant autumn foliage and mild weather, making it ideal for travelers searching for places to visit in Gulmarg in October. Khilanmarg offers autumn flowers and clear Himalayan views, while the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve allows wildlife spotting in crisp weather. Tangmarg and local markets provide opportunities to explore Kashmiri crafts and seasonal fruits. Trekking, photography, and birdwatching are popular activities during this month, giving visitors a rich experience of both nature and culture across top Gulmarg tourist places.
Places to Visit in Gulmarg in August
August is the peak of summer in Gulmarg, offering pleasant weather and lush green landscapes. For those searching for places to visit in Gulmarg in August, Strawberry Valley is perfect for strawberry picking and quiet walks. Khilanmarg and Kongdoori Valley are ideal for trekking and enjoying the scenic alpine meadows. The Gulmarg Golf Course provides leisure and adventure in sunny weather. Outdoor activities like hiking, photography, and nature exploration are at their best during this month, making it a perfect time for Gulmarg sightseeing.
Places to Visit in Gulmarg and Sonmarg
For travelers interested in exploring beyond Gulmarg, a day trip to Sonmarg is highly recommended. In Gulmarg, Gondola rides, Apharwat Peak, Khilanmarg, and meadows provide adventure and scenic beauty. Sonmarg offers Thajiwas Glacier for trekking and frozen rivers, Zoji La Pass for panoramic mountain views, and scenic streams for picnics and photography. Combining these two locations allows visitors to enjoy both snow-capped landscapes and alpine meadows, making it one of the most memorable Gulmarg tourist places experiences.
Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
Gulmarg is a year-round destination. Winter (December–February) is ideal for snow activities, while spring (March–May) offers blooming meadows and pleasant weather. Summer (June–August) is perfect for trekking, golf, and sightseeing. Autumn (September–October) is great for wildlife spotting and colorful landscapes. Each season offers unique experiences for travelers exploring Gulmarg tourist places.
How to Reach Gulmarg
- By Air: Srinagar Airport (50 km away)
- By Road: Private taxi, cabs, or buses from Srinagar
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Srinagar
Once in Gulmarg, many destinations like Apharwat Peak, Khilanmarg, and Kongdoori Valley can be reached via Gondola rides, pony rides, or short walks.
Where to Stay in Gulmarg
- Luxury: The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, The Vintage Gulmarg
- Mid-range: Hotel Pine Spring, Hotel Hilltop
- Budget: Guesthouses in Tangmarg and Gulmarg town. Many accommodations provide easy access to top places to visit in Gulmarg and adventure activities.
Travel Tips for Gulmarg
- Carry warm clothes even in summer at higher altitudes
- Book ski passes and gondola tickets in advance during peak season
- Stay hydrated and carry water when trekking or sightseeing
- Always check weather forecasts before planning snow-related activities
FAQ's
The best places to visit in Gulmarg include Apharwat Peak, Khilanmarg, Drung Waterfall, Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg Golf Course, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, and Kongdoori Valley. These destinations offer a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and nature experiences suitable for all types of travelers.
For winter visitors, Apharwat Peak for skiing, Drung Waterfall for frozen landscapes, Gulmarg Igloos for cozy snow experiences, and Kongdoori Valley for snow activities are must-see attractions.
Summer highlights include Khilanmarg meadows, Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg Golf Course, Ningle Nallah, and the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. These spots are perfect for trekking, sightseeing, photography, and enjoying nature without snow.
Gulmarg is approximately 50 km from Srinagar. Travelers can hire a taxi, take a private cab, or use bus services from Srinagar. The journey passes through scenic routes and Tangmarg town, which is a popular stop before reaching Gulmarg.
Apharwat Peak and Kongdoori Valley are the main adventure hubs. Skiing, snowboarding, trekking, and snow biking are popular activities in winter, while summer offers hiking, golf, and pony rides.
Yes, Gulmarg is family-friendly. Ningle Nallah, Seven Springs, Children’s Park, and Strawberry Valley are excellent for family outings, picnics, and easy walks. Activities are available for all ages, making it one of the most versatile Gulmarg tourist places.
- Winter (December–February): Best for skiing and snow activities
- Spring (March–May): Blooming meadows and flowers
- Summer (June–August): Pleasant weather, trekking, golf, and sightseeing
Autumn (September–October): Mild weather, colorful landscapes, wildlife spotting
Yes, Baba Reshi Shrine and Maharani Temple are the most notable religious sites. Baba Reshi Shrine attracts Muslim devotees, while Maharani Temple is a historic Hindu temple. Both are scenic and culturally significant for travelers.
Yes, it’s possible to plan a 5–7 day trip covering Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Srinagar offers houseboats, Dal Lake, and Mughal Gardens; Gulmarg provides adventure and scenic meadows; Pahalgam is perfect for trekking, riverside walks, and valleys like Betaab and Aru.
Yes, Gulmarg is safe for solo travelers. Popular tourist areas are secure, and guided tours or treks add extra safety. Solo travelers can enjoy trekking, sightseeing, photography, and adventure sports without concern.
