Places To Visit In Gulmarg
Any trip to Jammu & Kashmir would be incomplete without visiting the iconic jewel of the state: Gulmarg. Known to be one of those beautiful places to visit in India in December, especially if you want to try out skiing in India, the many places to visit in Gulmarg await your arrival. Nestled in the Pir Panjal range at an altitude of about 8690 ft. Gulmarg is one of those Kashmir tourist places that really don’t need an introduction. But if we can somehow convince you to book that Gulmarg trip in November, trust us – it’s going to be a magical experience.
Let’s have a look at some of the places to visit in Gulmarg that showcase the best of Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism.
In this Blog
Places To Visit In Gulmarg
When it comes to mapping out the perfect Kashmir itinerary, the attractions in Gulmarg should definitely be on your bucket list of places to visit.
1. Drung Waterfall
Picture Credits: marc_renken via Unsplash
If you are looking for the best place to see snow in November, Drung Waterfall is your answer. It is an extremely popular tourist destination in Kashmir and is located in the Tangmarg tehsil of Gulmarg. And the best time to visit Drung Waterfall is in the winter when this majestic and famous waterfall in India freezes completely offering a beautiful experience for those exploring the many places to visit in Gulmarg. The waterfall plunges from a height of 30 meters, creating a misty effect adding to the beauty of this place. If you are planning a summer vacation to Kashmir then, one can spend some quiet time here while enjoying views of the waterfall, lakes, streams, and surrounding greenery as well as exploring the caves. Drung is also famous for being a picnic spot for trekkers and adventure seekers.
How to reach Drung Waterfall?
Drung Waterfall can only be accessed through ATV or the chain taxis that are available in Tangmarg. It costs around Rs. 2000 to 2500 to hire a cab for Drung Waterfall from Gulmarg.
2. Alpather Lake
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Known to be one of the best lakes in India, this Gulmarg tourist attraction is set between the twin Apharwat Peak. It’s also called as the Frozen Lake of Gulmarg and remains completely frozen between the months of November to June. If you are looking for some adventure in Gulmarg, a trek to Alpather Lake should be on the list for you. It covers a distance of 13 km and starts from Gulmarg. The trekking route also covers Khillanmarg and Apharwat Ridge and is quite moderately paced for beginners. If you planning a family trip to Gulmarg and don’t wish to embark on this trek, this frozen lake can also be accessed from the Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2 of Mt. Apharwat – it’s a 1.5 km walk from there.
3. Outer Circle Walk
Picture Credits: shubhojitchatterjee via Unsplash
Another gem among the many places to visit in Gulmarg is the very famous Outer Circle Walk. If you are planning a trip to Gulmarg in winter, then this winter trek is best explored from May to November. All the more reason for you to plan a trip to Gulmarg in November. The difficulty level for this trek in Kashmir is quite moderate and can be easily completed by trekkers with all levels of expertise. The Outer Circle Walk in Gulmarg, Kashmir is a popular trekking trail that offers an experience that is bliss for all nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This adventure in Gulmarg is 11 km. Kashmiri trek that takes you around the captivating attractions of Kashmir Valley and Gulmarg – each turn promising a scenario straight out of a storybook with tall pine trees, lush meadows, and landscapes that make for an aesthetic Instagram reel.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
Main Highlights of this trek in Kashmir: Views of the Nanga Parbat, Haramukh, and Sunset Peak
4. Rani Temple – One of the filmy attractions in Gulmarg
Remember the iconic song “Jai Jai Shivshankar” performed by Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz? Then you must also be familiar with its iconic location as well. If not, here’s a little fact for you: This song was shot at Rani Temple – also known as Maharani Temple by the locals which is one of the famous places to visit in Gulmarg. This is one of those temples in Kashmir that is dedicated to Shiva and Parvati built by Queen Mohini Bai Sisodia, wife of the former king of Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh who ruled here till 1915. The structure of the temple is constructed in a true Hindu style of architecture and the temple premises along with its surrounding areas continue to be well maintained. It’s also built in a way that you can see it from any of the attractions in Gulmarg. You can also get to attend the morning or evening aarti which is a spiritual experience one should not miss.
Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM
5. Gulmarg Gondola
Picture Credits: ankitgirwal via Unsplash
Known to be “Asia’s Longest Cable Car”, the Gulmarg Gondola ride is one of the most famous things to do in Gulmarg. Divided into 2 phases, here’s where you are bound to experience Gulmarg’s snowfall in November and also get to participate in many adventure activities. Phase 1 of Gulmarg Gondola Ride, ferries people from Gulmarg Resort to Kongdoori Station (middle station). Phase 2 of Gulmarg Gondola Ride, connects Kongdoori Mountain to Apharwat Peak. After arriving at the station, you can further have a 30-minute trek to reach the mountaintop. From here the LOC or the Line of Control is visible.
Things to keep in mind:
- Gondola services can get interrupted during winter when the weather gets bad.
- Each car is allowed to carry 6 people, 3 in each row.
- During winter, a chairlift is available for people partaking in skiing activities
FAQs about Gulmarg
1. What are the special Gulmarg attractions in November?
Gulmarg is a winter wonderland in the months of November and December where one can often experience snowfall. Here are a few of the places to visit in Gulmarg if you are planning a Kashmir budgeit trip in November:
- Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve.
- Gulmarg Golf Course.
- St. Mary’s Church.
- Strawberry Valley.
- Shrine of Baba Reshi.
- Khilanmarg.
2. What’s the ice skating price in Gulmarg?
The price of ice skating in Gulmarg, Kashmir may vary as per the season and the type of services you choose. It generally varies between Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2500 per person. Prices can be higher if you plan your Kashmir itinerary during the peak winter months.
3. What is the Gulmarg Snow Festival?
The Gulmarg Snow Festival has been celebrated since 2003 and is a 2-day festival. It aims to draw a lot of tourists to this city to highlight the captivating beauty, culture, and traditions of Kashmir through various sports and adventure activities. There is skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more which makes Gulmarg one of the top places to visit in India in November and December.
4. What is the distance from Srinagar to Gulmarg?
From Srinagar Airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Gulmarg which takes around 2 hours. There is no railway station in Gulmarg; the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT), which is located about 290 kilometers away. The Srinagar to Gulmarg taxi fare ranges from Rs. 2500 to Rs. 3500.
5. Which is better, Doodhpathri or Gulmarg?
While Doodhpathri is an offbeat place to visit in Kashmir, Gulmarg is where most tourists flock thanks to its varied experiences which also include Gondola rides, skiing, and golfing.
Also Read:
1. Places To Visit in Pahalgam
2. Restaurants in Srinagar
3. Things to do in Pahalgam
4. Winter Treks in India: Top 5 destinations for trekking this winter
