Snowfall In Gulmarg
Overview
Gulmarg has achieved popularity as a world-renowned winter destination. Gulmarg or ‘Meadow of Flowers’ is often the most-picked town for experiencing snowfall. With its sprawling meadows, frozen lakes and snow-capped mountains, the valley transforms into a frosty paradise in winters.
From sheer natural beauty to snow sports like skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling, a wholesome trip can be enjoyed here.
Gulmarg is the 3rd highest ski resort in the world and attracts tourists from every corner of the globe. During snowfall in Gulmarg, the hill station is packed with adventure bluffs trying out different sports and playing with the white snow.
For the unforgettable experience of snowfall, there’s no better place than Gulmarg. You’ll be pleasantly amazed to see the mesmerising beauty of the place. Are you ready? Let’s take a look at different aspects of visiting Gulmarg in winter for snowfall.
When Does It Snowfall In Gulmarg?
Snowfall in Gulmarg starts from December till February. With subzero temperatures ranging between -5°C to -15°C, it is extremely cold in the town. From landscapes to verdant forests, everything is fully covered in thick layers of snow.
Lakes freeze with icebergs seen floating on the surface. As winter starts to set from December, snowflakes are seen but they melt off easily. In months like January and February, it snows frequently these months are the best to witness snowfall in Gulmarg.
The quality of the snow is powdery, perfect for building snow castles and enjoying multiple snow sports in Gulmarg.
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Best Time To Visit Gulmarg For Snow
The best time to visit Gulmarg for snow is certainly winter, i.e., December to February. In winters, Gulmarg tourism is at its peak. People from far and wide visit the city for the unending fun of snowfall and various activities it offers.
Winter gives you the rare chance of catching a live snowfall. You can enjoy yourself in the shower of snow.
For the rest of Kashmir, summer is the peak season where tourists flood the valley but Gulmarg sees the influx in the cold months.
As a popular skiing destination, the reasons are quite obvious. Visit Gulmarg for a memorable time!
Read our blog: Best Time to Visit Kashmir for Snowfall
What To Wear In Gulmarg During Snowfall?
- Walking on snow is more difficult than walking on a normal road. The first thing to consider would be gumboots that are suitable for such extreme weather in Gulmarg. Avoid wearing your normal shoes.
- Layer yourself with enough woollen clothes including thermals, windproof jackets.
- Accessories like gloves, muffler, beanies, and warm socks are essential as well.
- For skiing, rent the equipment from a nearby rental shop situated at different ski slopes. Wear safety gear like goggles, helmet etc.
- Read Here: What to Wear in Kashmir in Winter
Most Famous Snow Activities In Gulmarg
Skiing
There’s no more popular winter sport than Skiing in Gulmarg. Synonymous with Gulmarg, the snow activity has been one of the most adventurous things to do in the city.
As one of the highest ski resorts in the world, Gulmarg is crowded with skiers the entire winter. People from far and wide come here to experience the thrill.
The slopes formed here are magnificent and continuous till kilometres. Highly famous ski attractions in Gulmarg include Kongdoori, Apharwat Peak, Mary’s Shoulder, Khilanmarg, Bota Pathri etc. Skies, sticks, gumboots, and other safety gears are easily accessible at the ski rental shops.
Snowboarding
After skiing, snowboarding in Gulmarg is the next sensational sport that has been more popular as a hobby. You can’t find a better place than Gulmarg for this winter activity. From Kongdoori to Bota pathri, beginners can practise it.
For a more advanced level of snowboarding and heli-snowboarding, head to Apharwat peak and Mary’s Shoulder. You can get the boards on rent at an affordable rate.
Various local agencies even offer courses to learn it from scratch. From basics to professional level, you are accompanied by a local instructor.
Snow-biking
Snow- biking or as it is famously called snow- mobiling is a great snow sport to explore the world-class slopes of Gulmarg.
It provides you the liberty to experience the adventure at your own pace. Get in the thrill space of Gulmarg with snowmobiling.
The long slopes of Kongdoori and Apharwat peak are the popular slopes for the sport. Charges are based on the duration of the ride.
From one-hour to the entire day, you can enjoy it. January and February are the best months for snowmobiling.
Heli-skiing
Take the adventure to the ultimate level with heli-skiing in Gulmarg. Imagine getting dropped off a helicopter in an alpine area fully covered in snow.
As you are there, you ski down, feeling the greatest rush of dopamine in your veins.
Gulmarg is the only place offering heli-skiing in India. Apharwat peak and Mary’s Shoulder are just the right place for heli-skiing. It might sound a bit risky but with proper training and experienced guides, you can surely plan this.
Snow-sledging
Apart from Skiing, snow sledging is another activity to do in Gulmarg in Winter. With lesser risk and equal fun, you often see thrill seekers wandering in the slopes on a sledge.
For novice sledges, Kongdoori is the right place while experienced individuals can visit Apharwat peak for the same.
Shop different sledging equipments like the wooden board and safety gears from the rental shops. Needless to say, December to February is the ideal time.
Top Places In Gulmarg To Experience Snowfall
Gondola I & II Phase
Gondola is undoubtedly the top attraction of Gulmarg town. Tourists get Switzerland -like fun and adventure right here in this small hill station.
The first phase takes about 9 minutes taking you from Gulmarg ski resort to Kongdoori. Kongdoori offers gentle slopes that are ideal especially for beginners.
The second starts from Kongdori to Apharwat Lake which is the highest ski resort in Asia. From skiing to heli skiing, the place remains abuzz with adventure buffs the entire month.
These two places are the most sought-after places to visit in Gulmarg for snowfall. Apart from the winter sports, engage in fun activities like building sandcastles and snowmen here.
Khilanmarg
Khilanmarg Gulmarg is a majestic meadow of Gulmarg. It lies in the Baramulla district of Kashmir. Located at a distance of just 6 kilometres from the main town, trek here or hire a pony ride.
Covered in thick snow in winters, it turns into a winter wonderland. The snow-laden mountains in the backdrop adds a completely different allure to the vista.
The place is one of the top places to experience snowfall in Gulmarg. Bring your cameras to click the magnificent beauty that this place holds.
Visit the meadow for some unforgettable experience and engage in activities like trekking, sightseeing, bird-watching etc.
St. Mary’s Church
The magnificent St. Mary’s church dating back to colonial times is one of the best places to enjoy the snowfall in Gulmarg.
Built in the Victorian architecture style, the church’s interior design seems like a dreamy painting. While the wooden walls are a highlight itself, the roof tiles are greenish.
The most distinguishing feature would be the stained glass artwork. In winters, the entire surrounding including the church is covered in powdery snow, creating a magical scenery.
It is closely located to Gulmarg Golf course and visitors often trek here. Spend some serend time sitting in the big hall of the church. It remains open seven days a week.
Bota pathri
With verdant forests, clear water streams and frosty peaks, Bota pathri in Gulmarg is a remotely located attraction of Gulmarg. Visit the place for border tourism as the India and Pakistan Border is in proximity ,i.e., a few kilometres away.
With temperature fluctuating between -10°C to -5°C, a sufficient amount of snow sprawls in the area.
Considered as a top destination for live snowfall and winter activities. Gujjar shepherds inhabit the place.
You may get a chance to speak to them and get a quick insight about the local traditional lives in the mountains from the horse’s mouth. Homestays are a popular accommodation option here in Bota Pathri.
Golf Course
Ranked as the highest green golf course in the world, Gulmarg golf course is a 18- hole course, established in 1911. The place not only offers golfing here but the sleek natural beauty is also mind-blowing.
Situated in a stunning meadow, just 1 kilometres from the Gulmarg Town, it is one of those places you can visit to experience Snowfall.
The grandeur of the golf course is enhanced in winters when the white snow covers the area completely.
Hike to the course as the trail is an easy one and filled with gorgeous sights. Pay an entry fee of INR 800( for Indian visitors) and 1200 ( for foreigners).
Tips To Visit Gulmarg In Winter
- Winter is certainly the time when the city is buzzing with tourists and is extremely crowded. Make your plane and accommodation bookings in advance. This saves you from last-minute hustles. Gulmarg Gondola should be booked prior to the trip via online websites. It is quite convenient.
- Winter is quite extreme in Gulmarg with temperature dipping down in minus and heavy snowfall. Make sure you have worn all the warm clothes and accessories mentioned above.
- Book a private vehicle or cab to reach Gulmarg from Srinagar. Since roads are slippery, a local experienced driver should be with you acting as your guide too. Avoid self-driving or if you do, practise caution.
- Remain updated about the road conditions and current weather forecasts so that you don’t end up stuck in unnecessary traffic.
FAQ's
Which month does it snow in Gulmarg?
In Gulmarg, it snows from December onwards and lasts till February or mid -march. These months are the ideal ones for enjoying snow sports and visiting Gulmarg.
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Which month is Gulmarg closed?
What is Gulmarg famous for?
Which month of snow is heavy in gulmarg?
Where to see snow in gulmarg?
The entire town receives snowfall throughout summer but if you wish to see the snow slopes, visit Kongdoori, Apharwat peak, Mary’s Shoulder etc. You walk on routes literally made of snow.
For comfort Journey, see: Srinagar Taxi Service
How much does a gulmarg trip cost?
A Gulmarg trip can cost you somewhere between INR 15000-40000. It depends on the number of days you stay there and travel style you pick. Cliffhangers India offers premium as well as under budget packages.
Read our trip plans: How Much does a Kashmir Trip Cost
What should I wear in Gulmarg during snowfall?
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