Things to do in Gulmarg for a Picture Perfect Vacay

One of the prime things to do in Gulmarg is riding the Gondola which is the second highest cable car in the world. Phase 1 of this cable car lift was made operational from May 1998 while the other phase came into running after 6 years in May 2005. An addition was made in the form Chairlift or phase 3 in 2011. Since then it has been a commercial victory for the government of J&K. The construction of this cable car even boosted the tourismin the state. The Gondola ride gives you the most extravagant views of both Gulmarg and Khilanmarg.It captures the beauty and splendour of this place at its best.

Gulmarg is a beautiful location placed in Jammu and Kashmir where one may go along with family and friends and enjoy the beautiful view along with other adventure sports. Apart from all the mesmerising view, you may try skiing, which is one of most popular things to do in Gulmarg. Gulmarg is gaining popularity and number of skiers are also increasing day by day.

Only 6km from the Gulmarg bus station, Khilanmarg is a little paradise carpeted with flowers of varied colors in spring which changes into a skier's dream destination in the winters. The peaks are in clear view from the skiing slopes and they provides a beautiful background to the amusement. Also, the famed Nanga Parbat which is 7100m high is close to it and helps create a perfect scenic photograph.

At the foot of Apharwat peak, it is a one day trek from Gulmarg (13km). The lake stays frozen during winters with striking scenic views. Ducks are seen walking instead of swimming and large chunks of ice float in the lake. During summers, the lake is surrounded with beautiful flowers and trees. One of the most surreal lakes, it is a haven for the likes of photographers, philosophers, poets or people looking for solitude. So, while planning a holiday in Khilanmarg, make sure you include this attraction in your itinerary. Visiting here is one of the top touristy things to do in Gulmarg.

Situated at a height of 4200 metres above the mean sea level, Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg is one of the most breathtaking places in all of India. Imbued with snow clad mountains and surrounded by pearly white meadows, the area is a perfect honeymoon destination and the most picturesque tourist spot in Srinagar. The bird’s eye view from the hill-top provides an enthralling panoramic vista of Gulmarg below, not to forget the mesmerizing experience of the pristine snowfall or the sunglazed scenery. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Gulmarg.

The mesmerising mountain stream flowing through the verdant valley between Chinamarg and Nurpur Pass in the heavenly hill town of Gulmarg, goes by the name of Ferozepur Nallah. Nestled amidst vibrantly blooming meadows, towering conifers and surrounded by pearly white mountain peaks, the stream side is a slice of paradise tucked away from the din and chaos of the city. Graced with bounteous natural bliss and boasting of extreme tranquility, Ferozepur Nallah is an ideal spot for a lakeside picnic, a romantic getaway or just a leisure vacation. Visiting here is one of the top touristy things to do in Gulmarg.

Standing tall, even after a 100 odd years, is this Victorian architectural wonder of the Saint Mary's Church located near the Golf Course in Gulmarg. This might well be your messiah to experiencing the ancient architectural wonders that our country is the most renowned for. More like a tiny countryside chapel in appearance, this church is made of grey stone walls. The church looks the most scintillating during the winter season especially when it is surrounded by snow. Be sure to include visiting here in your bucket list of things to do in Gulmarg.

A hidden attraction in Gulmarg is Strawberry Valley, unexploited by tourism and still holding its nascent beauty and charm. The emerald meadows with budding red strawberries look like a picture straight out from Garden of Eden. Covered in pristine elegance, with clear blue skies overhead and verdant green meads all along, a visit to Strawberry Valley is a delight to the naked eye and an enthralling experience altogether. You can simply stroll along and awe at the beauty of nature or just take a basket of food and enjoy a wonderful picnic with your loved ones. Visiting the Valley is one of the prime things to do in Gulmarg.

Like most of the areas around it, the essential and most popular bits of Gulmarg's cuisine include Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo and Yakhni. A menu bit more local would list down, Qabargaah (Fried Rack of Lamb; The Kashmiri Muslims refer to this dish as "Tabakh maaz"), Modur Pulaav (Sweet Pulao, usually taken as a dessert) and Muj Gaad (Fish with Raddish). Along with this Raazma-Gogji (kidney beans with turnip), Sheer Chai(salted pink tea with almonds), Kehwah (sweet green tea with almonds and cardamom) and Sheekh Kabab (spicy ground lamb on skewers) are preparations which almost define Gulmarg's cuisine.

This protected reserve is situated 48 km from Srinagar and is the home to many exotic and rare species of the world including musk deer, snow leopard, etc. The reserve boasts of its rich avi-fauna population which are a beautiful sight during the months of migration. You should especially visit here if you are a nature enthusiast. It is one of the topmost things to do in Gulmarg.

Situated in the middle of Gulmarg, the Maharani temple is an example of religions intertwined with a Muslim priest performing rituals in the temple. Maharani Temple was built by Mohini Bai Sisodhi, wife of Maharaja Hari Singh in 1915. This temple belongs to the Dogra Kings of Jammu & Kashmir. The temple is visited by pilgrims and tourists like owing to the striking beauty and picturesque setting of the place.

Situated 10 km from Gulmarg, Ningle Nallah is not just another mountain stream. This place is flanked with snow-capped mountains and lush green pastures from all four sides. The water formed by the melting of ice in Apharwat Peak and Alpather Lake is the main source of Ningle Nallah. After passing through mountains and valleys, this stream unites with River Jhelum. This place is highly recommended for family outings especially if one has their kids along. Be sure to include visiting here in your list of things to do in Gulmarg.

This shrine built in the 13th century is on the slopes below Gulmarg. The Ziarat or the tomb is of a well-known Muslim saint, Baba Payam-Uddin who died here in 1480. He was a courtier to the Kashmir King Zain-ul-Abidin before taking the path of renouncing the worldly ties. With thousands of devotees visiting this shrine every year, regardless of the religion they follow, this shrine buzzes with activities and prayers.

There aren't too many options for shopping in Gulmarg. For the scarce ones that are, the prices tend to be more than double than those in areas around the town. However, if you still want to shop, you can browse the local markets and shop for tiny knick knacks and souvenirs to take back home for your kith and kin. You will find junk jewellery, traditional Kashmiri fabrics and shawls, home decor items, handicrafts and other local accessories etc.

It is the famous stop-over enroute to Gulmarg. It connects Gulmarg by a 13km metal road and an exciting 5km trekking route. During winters, warm clothes, long boots and water proofs are available on hire. Especially popular among the hikers and the trekkers, the place is a popular adventure sport spot and is visited by adventure enthusiasts from all over the world.

Famed as the highest 18 hole golf course in the world, this golf course is also the longest in India. Situated at an altitude of 8700 feet above sea level, this place was used to play golf by Britishers since 1911 and the golf course was inaugurated formally in 2011. The golf course is very beautiful and consists of a meadow with various varieties of beautiful and rare species of flowers. The flowers are in full bloom during the months of June to September. Visitors are allowed to take their cars inside for a ride and enjoy a ride in one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world.

The museum has on display a modest exhibit of modern warfare & mountaineering equipments and gears used by the Indian Army in the mountains. Developed initially as a High-Altitude Warfare School, the museum was set up to commemorate 1997's first summit of Indian Army to Kanchenjunga. Since then, other expeditions like first successful Everest expedition of 2001 have been given a due place here.

Started in 2003 to encourage winter sports and tourism, Gulmar sports festival is a two-day long celebration organized every year by the tourism ministry. The aim is to attract tourists from all around the world and showcase the enchanting valleys through various sports and activities. The fest offers a bouquet of delights to its visitors by organizing snow sporting activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snow - sledding and ice skating. Besides this, cultural performances are organized by the Kashmiri folk artists for a divine experience of traditions in Kashmir. Local delicacies are offered to their visitors for those looking for a toothsome experience.

Seven Springs is the majestic stream, known for its seven different outlets of water. Located on a hillock near Kongdori, the springs offer a spectacular view of the valley of Gulmarg and Srinagar. A gondola cable ride from the base of the Apharwat mountain can take you to this enchanting place with sweeping vistas of snow-capped mountains and the blooming vale below.