GULMARG

Gorgeous Gulmarg, Literally the “Meadow of Flowers” is one of the most unique hill resorts of the world. The natural beauty of Gulmarg with magical meadows and mountains, immense beauty and adventure activities make Gulmarg much more than a cool hill station. The gorgeous green golf course here is the highest in the world and also Gulmarg is the only heli Skiing resort in the Asia. Tourist Attraction Includes- Gondola Ride, Alpather Lake – 13kms, Khilanmarg – 4kms etc.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Gulmarg has a cool and pleasant climate in summers and very cold and chilly climate in winters. Usually there are spell of snow during November to February. The best season to visit Gulmarg is from April to July. In summers and November to February in winters.

Summer: March to May (13º C to 29º C)

Winter: November to February (- 4º C to 11º C)

1. THE GONDOLA RIDE

Gondola Lift is considered as one of the major attractions of Gulmarg. Managed by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation, it is the only cable car system in Asia that travels up an elevation of 13,500 ft above sea level. It is located on the backdrop of the beautiful Himalayan Peaks and Villages of Gulmarg. The Gondola covers the distance from Gulmarg to Kongdoor and from Kongdoor to Apharwat in two stages. The first stage ride will transfer you from Gulmarg (8530 feet) to Kongdoon Station (9840 feet). During this 8 Minutes drive you will traverse bowled shaped Kongdori valley passing over Greenery Flowers, Tall Deodar Pine & Far Trees and over Shepherd Huts and Villages. The 2 ND Stage of Gondola Ride takes you from Kongdori (9840 feet) to Apharwat (13000 feet). The Gondola will take you over Green meadows, scenic beauty and snow.

2. ALPATHER LAKE

Located at a distance of 13 km from Gulmarg, lies a serene and dazzling Alpather Lake. The lake is triangular shaped and perfectly placed in the surroundings of picturesque snow capped hills. The gardens besides the lake add beauty to its backdrop. The lake remains frozen till June and in summer floating ice pieces can be seen in streams of crystal clear water. The place is also a good spot for trekking lovers.

3. MAHARANI TEMPLE

Built in 1915, the temple is well known as Shivalalaya and preserves the deity of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple was constructed by Mohini Bai Sisodia, the consort of the King Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir. Located on a small hill in the centre of the Gulmarg the temple is a visible landmark and is reachable by trekking. The temple grounds offer visitors a place to rest and meditate.

4. GULMARG GOLF CLUB

Located at a height of around 9000 feet Gulmarg Golf Club boasts as having the highest golf course in the world. Also at 7505 yards, it also happens to be the longest one in the country. With land slopes and inclines, the layout of this 18 hole, par 72 golf courses is very striking. Surrounded by towering conifers and with at least 18 different species of wildflowers, in full bloom between the months of June till September the Golf course is picture of beauty and the greatest land mark of Gulmarg. The club is recognized as the highest green golf course In India and is managed and maintained by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation.

5. SNOW SPORTS

Skiing and snowboarding are two activities that have made Gulmarg a popular destination for snow sports in India. Winter arrives here in full glory and covers the hills with thick sheet of smooth snow. The slopes are all natural and are suitable for beginners and professionals. The Indian Institute of Skiing & Mountaineering offers various ski courses for amateurs and advanced skiers. Gulmarg has several ski resorts with all kinds of facilities. Best time to visit is for skiing is in months of January to March.

RESTURANTS:

THINGS TO DO:

• Play Golf at the Highest Golf Ground in the world.
• Enjoy Gondola Ride and Play with Ice at Apharwat.
• Enjoy the beautiful Landscape and Snow of Gulmarg.
• Visit to the Maharani Temple.
• Nature walk – The Green Meadows of Khilanmarg.
• Play with Snow, Sledging, Skiing and enjoy Pony Ride.
• Watch beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets during summers.
• Taste Hot and nourishing Kashmiri Kahwa.