As the name suggests, Gulmarg is indeed blessed by Mother Nature. It is one of the most beautiful hill stations of India located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is covered with massive fir and pine forests and snow capped mountain peaks. It is also dotted with colourful flowers like bluebells, daisies, buttercups and forget-me-nots. Gulmarg attracts thousands of tourists each year from all over the globe mainly because of its exquisite natural beauty and opportunities for trekking, riding, and golfing during summer months and skiing during winter months.
Location of Gulmarg
Gulmarg, the meadow of flowers, is located at a height of 2730 m above sea level in Baramullah district of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is situated at a distance of 57kms from Srinagar.
What to do in Gulmarg
Skiing: For beginners, skiing is a very good option to be tried in Gulmarg. You can hire skiing equipments from the ski-shop. Gulmarg becomes a favourite destination among skiers in winter months. Some of the slopes have facilities of ski lifts which are suited for beginners and intermediate level skiers. Advanced and skilled skiers often trek in the snow to the very top of Apharwat peak, to make a lasting no more than 30 minutes. You can also enjoy other snow sports like Tobogganing, snow mobile riding, and snow bobbing. The longest ski run in Gulmarg is presented by the Gondola Cable Car, where skiers can come down the slopes from the height of 2213 m.
Trekking: Gulmarg often serves as an important base for short and long treks. It is a wonderful base for trekking in the northern Pir Panjal Range. You can walk up to Freozepur Nala and beyond to the settlements of Danwas, Tejjan, and to Samaidan from the south of Gulmarg. Another interesting walk is that between Gulmarg to Tosamaidan which is considered to be to be three stages long.
Golfing: The Gulmarg Golf Club is a famous golfing course in Gulmarg for over hundred years. Many people visit Gulmarg for enjoying golfing holidays. As a temporary member you can also enjoy a stint at Gulmarg Golf Club by paying a daily fee. You can hire a limited supply of golfing equipment. Horse Riding: You can enjoy horse riding in Gulmarg by hiring horses through the tourist office.
Sledging: Take a flat wooden board up the hilltop and enjoy your slide down the snow-covered slopes. Sledges and sledge-pullers are available on hire.
Excursions from Gulmarg
Sonmarg: Sonmarg is one of the smallest resorts in Kashmir, standing at a height of 9000kms above sea level. ‘Son’ means golden and therefore Sonmarg is known as the “Golden Meadow”. Vishansar and Krishnasar are famous lakes in Sonmarg. You can also see some fascinating glaciers in Sonmarg
Accomodation selection in Gulmarg
There are plenty of hotel options available in Gulmarg. Hill-Top hotel, Royal Park, Zahger, Grand Mumtaz, Pine Palace, and Gulmarg Inn are some of the hotels in Gulmarg.
Best season to visit Gulmarg
Summer is the best time to visit, if you want to go trekking. November to February is best for skiing.
How to reach Gulmarg
By Air: The nearest airport is situated in Badgam district connected with all major cities of India.
By Rail: The nearest station is Jammu.
By Road: You can hire a taxi or catch a bus to reach Gulmarg from Srinagar and Sonmarg.
