Gulmarg | Kashmir

Location and Accessibility

Gulmarg is situated at a height of almost 2,650 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level. In winter, this place is a classy destination for skiing and other snow sports, and during summer, this is a refreshing holiday destination. Scenic landscapes surround the town: from towering mountains to dense pine and fir forests and the clear, serene alpine meadows that extend as far as the eye can see.

The town is highly connected by road to Srinagar through a very picturesque 2-3 hour drive. From here, easily accessible from Srinagar, the tourists can delight in the fantastic journey through the wonderful Pahalgam and Tangmarg regions. Its closest airport is Srinagar, which is about 50 km away so reachable with ease for travelers coming from the major cities across India. The Nearest railway station is in Jammu for travelers arriving by train.

Gulmarg is also known for having Gulmarg Gondola, that is one of the highest cable cars in the world providing some of the breathtaking scenery around mountains and being relatively easy to access the higher reaches of this area, especially during winter months.

Why Visit Gulmarg?

Natural Beauty: The entire range of thick green meadows of summer and pure white drifts of the winter all vie with each other in Gulmarg in excellence of natural beauty. Overwhelming landscapes of mountain peaks can be seen reflected through the impressive scenes offered by nature in every season.

Adventure Sports: Gulmarg is the hub of the most fantastic snow-covered slopes in the world, which provides the greatest skiing and snowboarding winter adventure. In the summer, such sports as golfing, trekking, and mountain biking attract adventure lovers.

Historical Importance: The region carries historical importance because one of the prominent places that are of historical importance could be Gulmarg Gondola and the ancient St. Mary’s Church, which displays the influence of the colonial town and British power in the region.

Diversities: Here, one gets to see various species of flora and fauna within the surrounding space. One comes across the famous Himalayan brown bear and wildlife sanctuaries. One finds an extensive collection of species of birds. Some of the natural wonders around Gulmarg include Alpather Lake and Khilanmarg.

Spiritual and cultural appeal: A few of the spiritual centers fall in this region, such as Maharani Temple, Shankaracharya Temple, and Shrine of Baba Reshi, making this region fit the demands of people who seek peace in this soul.

In short words, Gulmarg is an elegant collection of nature, adventure, history, and culture that would not at all miss from any travel trip to Kashmir. Whosoever is looking for adventure, whosoever looks for peace, and whosoever is a nature lover, Gulmarg has something in store for one and all.

Location and Accessibility to Gulmarg

Gulmarg is called the “Meadow of Flowers,” an extremely beautiful hill station in the valley of Kashmir, in north Indian state. Simply breathtaking views, lush green meadows, snow-clad peaks, and adventure activities that are at par with the world, Gulmarg attracts tourists all around the year.

Geographical Location:

Altitude: The altitude of Gulmarg is approximately about 2,650 meters or 8,660 feet above sea level.

Coordinates : The village lies about 34.05° N and at an about longitude of 74.37° E.

Distance from major cities: Gulmarg is at about 51 kilometers or 32 miles from the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar, and at 200 kilometers or 124 miles from Jammu.

Afarwat Peak is at an altitude of 4,200 meters. Nearer to this place, there are numerous lush meadows and dense pine and fir forests that make this town much more spectacular in which panoramic views attract nature lovers and adventure seekers altogether. Gulmarg Accessibility:

Gulmarg is located in the northern part of India while other transport facilities are available through which tourists from India as well as abroad can easily reach the place. The town has a good connectivity by road, rail, and air.

1. Through Air (Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport)

The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, which is approximately 50 kilometers or 31 miles from Gulmarg. All the major cities of India- Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Bangalore, for example-have direct flights from this airport. There are daily services operated by numerous airlines.

Taxis or your vehicle from Srinagar airport are available. The distance is approximately 2-3 hours. On the way, also passes the scenic towns of Tangmarg and Pahalgam.

Helicopter Service: Indirect helicopter services also are available from Srinagar to Gulmarg. Though available in only some seasons, this saves ample time and even avoids all travelling stress. It can however be quite costly.

2. By Road

Gulmarg is well-connected with an excellent network of roads and is very easy to reach by either a bus, taxi, or even private car from Srinagar and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

The most familiar, and definitely the most photogenic route is via the Srinagar-Gulmarg Road, NH 1D, about 51 km and will take 2-3 hours to complete. Road open all year but sometimes severed in the very worst of winter months, when heavy snowfall interrupts communication.

Jammu to Gulmarg : The distance from Jammu is around 200 km or 124 miles, using the Jammu-Srinagar Highway, NH 44. It would take around 6-7 hours.

Private and Shared Taxis: Private and shared taxis are also possible from Srinagar to Gulmarg. They can be made a booking directly or through a travel agency. Additionally, they can be advanced for the journey.

Buses: Govt buses are available from Gulmarg to Srinagar. Not of a big frequency, though but most tourists prefer the taxis as they need comfort and also the way to manage that.

3. By Train (Nearest Railway Station: Jammu)

Gulmarg does not have a railway station, however, the closest big railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station located 200 km (124 miles) from the place.

Trains also connect the town to Gulmarg. From Jammu Tawi station, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Gulmarg which takes approx. 6-7 hours through road. A taxi is available at the railway station too.

By Train: Another way to reach Udhampur is through the Jammu-Udhampur Railway Line from Srinagar. Once one reaches Udhampur, the tourist can take a taxi or drive to Gulmarg.

4. By Gondola (Gulmarg Gondola)

There is the Gulmarg Gondola, which is one of the world’s highest cable cars, a cradle for the tourist and those seeking adventure in height. It is mainly the gondola project that attracts tourists; it’s the most accessible medium to higher parts of the mountain to skiing and snowboarding.

There are two stages of the gondola system:

Phase I: It will take the tourists from Gulmarg to Kongdoori, almost at an elevation of 2,600 meters or 8,530 feet.

Phase II: It will take the tourists a little further up to Afarwat Peak, an elevation of nearly 3,800 meters or 12,467 feet and has simply great vistas in contrast with the mountain and valley.

This gondola also serves as a source of access to the snow-caped slopes through which tourism is done in winters hence it is highly used by those who enjoy skiing .

Best Time to Gulmarg Visit

Summer (May to August): Summer in Gulmarg is cool and pleasant with the range between 10°C and 25°C. The best meadow season and excellent time for trekking and golfing with a beautiful scenario as well.

Winter: December to February – Gulp lacks snowfall. For the winter sports of Gulmarg-skiing, snowboarding, etc., and other snow activities-the temperature varies from -5°C to 5°C; the area is covered by deep snow. It is an ideal time for a winter sports enthusiast.

Gulmarg remains still as a dream destination with ravishing beauty and adventure activities. Gulmarg has excellent connectivity through roads as well as by air as Srinagar is its gateway. Be it the summer meadow or the winter snow, be it the rope car, Gulmarg Gondola, or the town generally, it giveth memories that remain the same to lovers of nature, adventure, and pilgrim travelers.

Food of Gulmarg

Gulmarg in the Kashmir Valley is known for its unblemished natural beauty and adventurous activities, but very few people know about delectable and unique food from this place. Food culture of Gulmarg is the outcrop of the heavy progress made in the culinary traditions of Kashmir over several hundred years by Persian, Mughal, and Central Asian traditions. Characteristic of mutton and chicken use, rice, and abundant use of dairy products for rich gravies marked the robust and aromatic spices in Kashmiri cuisine.

There is much more to be experienced when you go to Gulmarg. Here is a guide to the food you can expect in Gulmarg:

1. Kashmiri Wazwan Cuisine

Wazwan is the lifeblood of Kashmiri food. A feast by a master chef, or Wazir, the meals served are usually multi-course offers with copious amounts of richly meat-based dishes that characterize the influences of Persia and Mughal in the region. In fact, though, it is more about big gatherings and feasts that can be tasted by visitors to Gulmarg.

Rogan Josh: Rogan Josh is the hot Kashmiri curry dish with spicy, thick gravy flavored with cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves and made tender in the meat. There is a corresponding red tinge to this also, by virtue of the Kashmiri red chili powder used.

Gushtaba: It is a mutton meatballs cooking dish done in yogurt-gravy and spiced with spices. It is sometimes served on occasion, or as part of the Wazwan.

Yakhni: A mild, light curry of mutton or chicken cooked with yogurt, mint, and aromatic spices. It is usually lighter than the rest of the meat dishes.

Dum Aloo: A very popular vegetarian dish of potatoes cooked in a spiced, rich gravy. The dish is generally served with rice and very often accompanies a Wazwan spread.

Kali Mirch Gosht: This encompasses mutton that has been prepared with freshly ground black pepper (kali mirch) and thus will taste pungent, aromatic.

2. Kashmiri Snacks and Street Food

Gulmarg like the rest of Kashmir boasts delicious snacks and street food for munching on while trekking around the area.

Kashmiri Kebabs: At Gulmarg, kebabs are at its highest level, especially seekh kebabs and Chapli kebabs, with the finely minced meat, spices mixed in, and grilled till puffed. The kebab is usually eaten with a flatbread or a riced meal with kebabs on the side.

It is samosa-a hot, savory snack, stuffed with spiced mutton or potatoes-usually accompanied by tangy chutney. These find their way on to the tables during the chilly weather.

Bakarkhani: This is a Kashmiri flatbread that is slightly sweet and crispy. Kahwa-the traditional Kashmiri tea is usually taken with it. Sometimes, this is taken with curries and kebabs.

Kashmiri Pakora: These are deep-fried fritters comprising vegetables or meat, seasoned with the spices of Kashmir, and are generally served as a side dish or appetizer.

3. Rice Dishes

Rice is the staple diet in Kashmiri cuisine, and there are quite a few rice preparations that are part of the meals in Gulmarg. Generally, they are consumed with either meats, vegetables, or lentils.

Kashmiri Pulao: Aromatic dish with basmati rice, saffron, dried fruits, and spices. It may be served with mutton or chicken as the side dish or without it.

Kashmiri Biryani: The Kashmiri treasure, the Kashmiri biryani is also different from the original biryani recipe. This dish is prepared by cooking together rice and pieces of mutton or chicken with aromatic spices like saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon.

Chai Sharbat, or Kashmiri Pink Tea: It is nothing but the traditional Kashmiri tea, prepared from green tea leaves with milk, cardamom, and a dash of saffron that gives the drink its identifying feature-pink color. It usually accompanies a sweet Kashmiri bread, bakarkhani; something really comforting for months leading to winter.

4. Vegetarian Foods

Even though it is a meaty cuisine, there are some heavenly vegetarian dishes mostly cooked using locally-grown vegetables and spices.

Dum Aloo : A very simple vegetarian dish consists of small potatoes which are cooked in spicy gravy prepared with yogurt and Kashmiri spices.

Chaman: A vegetarian dish prepared using paneer, or the cottage cheese. The paneer is cooked in a rich yogurt-based gravy, along with spices.

Nadru Monje: Naaru dum as fritters prepared from lotus stem, nadru and chickpea flour, all the way to give a crispy look once fried.

Kashmiri Guchhi: This is a dish cooked using morel mushrooms, a less readily available ingredient used in Kashmiri cuisine. Guchhi are deep-fried in a spicy sauce and are often taken as a side dish.

5. Desserts

Kashmiri sweets richly melt the mouth in a mixture of aromatic flavors, usually milk, saffron, and dry fruits making an end to the meal sweetly good.

Shufta: Fried nuts and dried fruits in honey, almonds, pistachios, and raisins, spiced with a mix of spices.

Kahwa: A robust, aromatic sweet tea which people of Gulmarg enjoy around the globe. Prepared in a heavy bottomed pan with green tea leaves, saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon, it is served with sliced almonds and dried fruits. It’s widely available in cafes and hotels, and is often enjoyed with Kashmiri snacks.

Firni: A milk dessert consisting of rice pudding. This is flavored with cardamom and rose water, topped with pistachios and almonds.

6. Beverages

Kahwa: Kahwa is talked about above. It is the traditional drink in Kashmir, which is brewed using green tea, saffron, and spices. This is somewhat hot, soothing, especially in the midst of the chilling winter season.

Sheer Chai: Pink colored tea brewed from green tea, milk, cardamom, and saffron. It is usually teamed with bakarkhani.

Top Attractions in Gulmarg

It is among the popular hill stations in the Kashmir Valley due to its beautiful landscape and rich natural beauty. The place is well-known for adventure sports, more popularly known as the “Meadow of Flowers”. The serene environment and panoramic views around the town would offer experiences never to be forgotten. Here are the top attractions of Gulmarg:

1. Gulmarg Gondola

Coming among the world’s highest cable car systems, the Gulmarg Gondola offers excellent places to visit in the area. It gives you panoramic views through various aspects of the Himalayan ranges of mountains, snow-covered slopes, and Gulmarg green meadows.

Phase 1: It takes you from the town of Gulmarg to Kongdoori at approximately about an elevation of 2,600 meters or 8,530 feet.

Phase II: Gondola ride up to Afarwat Peak, around 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) sea level. From here, white-capped mountains and valleys can be clearly seen.

The gondola is one of the major tourist attractions during winter to easily reach tracks for skiing and snowboarding .

2. Apharwat Peak

Amongst one of the highest peaks of Gulmarg, the Apharwat Peak is at about 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). The Gulmarg Gondola has made access to this peak easy. Beautiful views of surrounding valleys, snow-clad peaks, and the Himalayan range all could be taken in together. Additionally, Apharwat is an excellent spot for skiing and other winter sports.

3. Khilanmarg

Khilanmarg is known for a scintillating view of the Apharwat Peak along with its ranges. It has vast places with endless green areas, the display of wildflowers during the summer months and a snow wonderland in the winter months. This is an ideal place for trekking, picnic, and photo shoot for wonderful landscapes.

Best for: Trekking, Photography, Wildflowers, and Scenic Views.

4. Alpathar Lake

Alpathar Lake is a Scenic Alpine Lake, located around 13 Kms from Gulmarg, at the foot of the Apharwat Peak. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and trekkers as it is bounded by snow-covered mountains and greenery all around. Summer would make it look more beautiful when the meadows all around it would be in full bloom.

Best for: Nature Walks, Photography and Trekking.

5. Outer Circle Walk

The Outer Circle Walk is approximately 5-6 km long and boasts dense forests and open meadows, which open up enough panorous views of the surrounding hills and valleys. A paradise for nature lovers, photographers, or those who want to get away from all the crowds.

Good for: Nature Walks, Wildlife Watching, and Photography.

6. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church was constructed during the 19th century. It is one of the most visible ancient reminders during the time of colonization in Gulmarg. This church has very beautiful architecture; it silently stands tall with tall pines, thus bringing along a sense of peace and serenity. It is also a very spiritual destination as well as a photographer’s paradise.

Best for: History, Photography, and a peaceful reflection.

7. Tangmarg

This place is about 13 km from the town of Gulmarg, and in fact, it is the gateway to Gulmarg. It’s very famous for gorgeous orchids of apples, cherry blossoms, and traditional Kashmiri culture. A very good place for those traveling to Gulmarg; it offers tremendous views of the mountains and countryside.

Best for: Photography, Sightseeing, and Cultural Exploration.

8. The Golf Course

Gulmarg boasts as one of the highest rated golf courses in the world. Gulmarg Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course at about 2,650 meters (8,660 feet) above the base of the Apharwat peak. One is surrounded by lush green meadows and snowcapped peaks; the course offers a unique experience for any golf enthusiast. It perfectly blends natural beauty with challenge for any golf enthusiast.

Recommended for: Golfing, Scenic Views and Relaxation

9. Skiing and Snow Sports

Gulmarg is already an extremely popular ski destination, snowboarding, etc. The hill station transforms into a beautiful place as it becomes totally covered with snow during winters. Thousands of people come to Gulmarg from all corners of the world to experience the same. There are numerous skiing slopes present- those for beginners, those for professionals, and through the Gulmarg Gondola.

Visit for: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Winter Sports.

10. Baba Reshi Shrine

Baba Reshi Shrine is actually one of the holy shrines of the Muslims that lies about 10 kilometers away from the town of Gulmarg. This shrine consists of the sanctity of the 15th-century saint Baba Reshi. It stands as sacred in terms of beauty and is a major pilgrimage among the locals besides being a tourist location. The serene environments and breath-taking views make it one of the best places for quiet reflection and tranquility.

Recommended for: Spiritual Contemplation, History, and Photography.

11. Ferozepur Nallah

Ferozepur Nallah is a very pretty stream in Gulmarg. Glaciers, forests, and snow-covered mountains form the backdrop of the beautiful meadows surrounding this stream. Excellent place for nature walks, photography, and of course, serenity.

Best for: Nature Walks, Photography, and Tranquility.

12. Wildlife Watching

Gulmarg and its surroundings support an exquisite variety of wild life, which includes the Himalayan brown bear, musk deer as well as the snow leopard. Other bird species include pheasants and himalayan griffon vultures. There are nature and wildlife reserves in the area through which one can get into a safari or guided walks to view wildlife.

Best for: Wildlife watching and Photography.

RICHNESS IN BEAUTY AND DIVERSITY

Gulmarg is one of the picturesque towns and is located in the range of Pir Panjal in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Beauty and diversity are at their best here. Here’s a closer look into the richness of beauty and diversity of Gulmarg:

1. Scenic Beauty:

Snow-Covered Peaks: The very literal name of Gulmarg means “the meadow of flowers.” It is famous for lush green meadows during summer. During winter, it becomes a wonderland of snow-covered mountains and the ethereal beauty of Pir Panjal range adds magic to it.

Alpine Meadows: is wildflowers in colors as the spring and summer months create a serene atmosphere. It has sprawling fields flanked with towering peaks thus complementing an idyllic natural canvas.

Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest cable cars in the world offering stunning panormamic views of majestic mountains and verdant landscape. From the upper station, one can even spot the entire valley and distant line of Himalayan peaks.

2. Flora and Fauna Diversity:

Flora: Gulmarg is nature lover’s paradise. Spreading alpine flora, including wildflowers and different varieties of shrubs in the meadows, for higher altitudes fir and pine trees add to the ecological richness of the area.

Fauna: It also accommodates a plethora of fauna. It is extremely rich in its avifaunal population, and most of its species are migratory birds. Some of these birds consist of the Himalayan monal, which also features as the state bird of Jammu and Kashmir. Red foxes and musk deer together with a few snow leopards found their dominion in the varied habitat.

3. Adventure and Ecological Diversity:

Winter sports: Gulmarg derives popularity because of winter sports, which include skiing, snowboarding, and sledging. It is a major tourist destination from around the world, with one of the top ski resorts in India, frozen terrain, and heavy snowfall.

Hiking and Trekking: Among the adventure seekers, are a number of treks to view some excellent vistas in Gulmarg, which include treks to the Apharwat Peak and the alpine lakes in this neighborhood-including the legendary Nigeen Lake and the crystal-clear Tattapani. Treks tend to open up varied ecosystems that would drive a traveler closer to the varied landscape and fauna of the region.

4. Cultural and Historical Diversity:

Along with a rich cultural heritage, Gulmarg is influenced by Kashmiri customs, music, and food. And at a distance, the cultural richness brought closer by the presence of Srinagar city with its houseboats, gardens, and temples. Local cuisine such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Wazwan dishes introduce a new flavor for the tourists.

Religious Diversity: The town boasts of several religious communities. Ancient places like the Shankaracharya Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the St. Mary’s Church in Gulmarg, are some indicators of this religious diversity.

5. Ecological and Sustainable Tourism :

Conservation is the pursuit taken to conserve the natural environment of Gulmarg and to ensure that its ecological diversity remains unaltered. Sustainable tourism is promoted besides curtailing the number of newly emerging resorts and measures being taken against deforestation.

The part that these efforts take in creating the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is extremely important as it protects flora and fauna from the region while keeping the tourists close to nature.

6. Local Crafts:

Handicrafts: The other attraction of the place is the Kashmiri handicrafts. Hand-knotted carpets, beautiful Pashmina shawls, and intricately designed paper-mâché are some of the products that speak to the cultural and artistic diversity in the region.

The excellence of Gulmarg lies in its fantastic natural beauty, diversified ecosystems, and the vibrant culture which weaves through every aspect of town. It stretches from the alpine meadows to the majestic mountains covered with snow, the wildlife to the cultural mosaic of Kashmiri life, and offers a multi-faceted experience that speaks straight to the heart and senses.

LOCAL CULTURE AND TRADITIONS

The local culture and traditions of Gulmarg are part of the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. Located in the Pir Panjal Range, Gulmarg exemplifies the broader traditions of Jammu and Kashmir while taking on unique local customs. Here’s a closer look at the cultural aspects that define Gulmarg:

1. Kashmiri Traditions and Heritage

Language: Overall, Kashmiri is the predominant language in Gulmarg. However, Urdu, Hindi, and English are also widely used by a great number of citizens, especially in tourist regions.

Music and Dance: Folk music and dance of the region become significant in this regional culture. Festivals and cultural events often feature the traditional instruments of the region, which include the santoor, rabab, and tabla. Wangoo is a common Kashmiri dance among women during wedding and festival celebrations.

2. Kashmiri Cuisine

Wazwan : This has probably been the most significant Kashmiri tradition- Wazwan is a great multi-course meal prepared by traditional chefs known as “Wazas.” The feast is featured by meats such as lamb and chicken. And among lots of dishes prepared, there are Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Dum Aloo, and Gushtaba (meatballs in rich gravy).

Kahwa : A traditional green tea of the Kashmiris, prepared with saffron, cardamom, and almonds; a symbol of hospitality and warmth offered to guests.

Kashmiri Rice: Kashmiri rice, Koshur Chawal, is staple food and mostly presented in every course. The speciality about rice is its aroma and length.

3. Traditional Handicrafts and Arts

Pashmina Shawls: Deep art of weaving fine Pashmina woolens has found intelligent fingers of weavers in the laboratories of Kashmiri Arts. The finest designs and designs on these exemplary handicrafts make them so highly demanded all across the globe.

Kashmiri Carpets: Extending Vivacity: Kashmiri carpet is famous for its bright colors and fine work. It is a product of beautiful wool or silk adorning ornaments having motifs found in nature and Mughal gardens, to mention only the bare essentials; naturally, Persian designs also remain quite fashionable.

Paper-Mâché: Another art form of Gulmarg and Kashmir is paper-mâché. Beautifully designed bowls, trays, and decorative pieces hand-painted with floral or geometrical motifs, a very fascinating creation.

4. Religious and Spiritual Diversity

Islamic Heritage: Most of the inhabitants at Gulmarg are Muslims, and hence, the town has several mosques and shrines, which do reflect the significance of Islamic cultural heritage in the region. Makhdoom Sahib Shrine that lies in another town of Srinagar is one of the major sites in the region for religious purposes.

Hindu Traditions: Kashmir has a great heritage of Hinduism, and it is within Gulmarg that one finds the Shankaracharya Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the valley. Religious festivals such as Maha Shivaratri are fulfilled with dedication.

Christian Influence: The St. Mary’s Church, constructed by the British in their regime at Gulmarg, is one of the most important monuments. For the people, it itself reflects history with Christianity over there and in itself is a peaceful abode of worship.

5. Festivals and Celebrations

Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha: These festivals are celebrated by Muslim sects to mark the end of the Ramadan fasting period and to remind the world about the sacrifice of Ibrahim. During the celebrations, people usually go to mosques for prayer, families meet each other, and there is feasting.

Shivaratri: One of the most important Hindu festivals is being seen at the Shankaracharya Temple, where the devotees belonging to the region offer their prayer to Lord Shiva.

Baisakhi: The festival of harvest falls during the month of April every year as feasting, dancing, and singing echo throughout the air.

Lohri and Diwali: These festivals are also held in villages specifically with folk performances and communal functions.

6. Apparels

Pheran: It is the traditional dress for the people of Gulmarg and the entire Kashmir region. The Pheran is a woolen, loose-fitting long robe that both men and women wear. Indeed, it is an ideal dress worn in this cold climate. Men also wear a woolen pagri (headgear), while women wear scarves or head covers.

Kashmiri Embroidery: Kashmiri embroidery style is one of the most fashionable traditions. Even wraps and jackets and head scarves are mostly decorated by floral or paisley threads beautifully made of silk or gold.

7. Architecture

The architecture of Gulmarg is a combination of the Kashmiri and Mughal styles. The local houses typically wear wooden facades with wondrous etching inside. At Srinagar town close to this resort is the Kashmiri houseboat, another demonstration of the region’s architectural ingenuity.

Historical Architecture of Gulmarg: St. Mary’s Church and the Station of Gulmarg Gondola does carry an elegant feel of colonial architecture whereas other religiously oriented places have stone structure with ancient architecture of Kashmir.

8. Hospitality

Wazwan Tradition of Hospitality: Kashmiri hospitality is very legendary. Visitors to the region are given warm hospitality in general; it is auspicious to offer Kahwa or grub to them as a gesture of respect.

Guest Houses and Resorts: There are many traditional guest houses in Gulmarg, known as “Dastarkhwan,” where visitors can enjoy pure local Kashmiri food and culture, immersing them in the regional traditions.

9. Spiritual Significance

Gulmarg is said to be a scared place since ancient days. Legend has it that the sage Rishi Kashyapa, after whom the region is named, used to meditate in this region. Gulmarg is also a favorite destination for pilgrimages and spiritual retreats by people who like to find peace and solitude.

10. Rural Traditions

Sheer amount of influences is still visible in Gulmarg that reflects the influence of traditional rural Kashmiri life. They are engaged in cultivating crops like saffron, apples, and walnuts and have orchids in the surroundings. Agricultural activities and rural way of living are highly responsible for the local culture.

Activities in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, sitting at the Pir Panjal range in Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the best destinations for any nature and adventure or a serene getaway enthusiast. Reputed for its snow-capped mountains, lush meadows, and varied flora, Gulmarg is paradise through out the year. It offers quite different activities to visitors. Whatever the season- come and visit during winter to have all wrapped in snow or come in the summer to see the sun-bathing wildflowers in its meadows, Gulmarg has everything to offer to everybody.

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

Gulmarg is among the premium skiing destinations in India. It goes on to become a snow sports destination throughout the winter time from December to March. It has deep snow, varied terrain, and excellent infrastructure which caters from a beginner’s to a professional’s high level. The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world that sends adventurers on a trip to the Apharwat Peak, with some of the finest slopes in the country for skiing.

White meadows of Gulmarg prove to be just the right playground for snowboarding, another winter sport that finds wide following. Thrilling in themselves are glimpses of people from various places sliding down the Himalayan peaks. Yet for those who like taking life easy, another form of wintry beauty presented by Gulmarg is offered by sledging down the soft slopes.

2. Gondola Ride

This is the Gulmarg Gondola that connects Gulmarg to Apharwat Peak and offers panoramic views of the entire region including towering snow-clad peaks and green valleys. At any time, the prime attraction for any tourist would be this Gulmarg Gondola. The gondola ride in particular during the winters presents an eye view of the whole snow-clad landscape and a contrast for the summer months with the blooming meadows. One of the best views and indeed an unmatched experience is to watch the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys while one sits atop the peak of Apharwat.

3. Trekking and Hiking

Trekking and hiking are certainly among the most rewarding activities one could ask for within the surrounding of Gulmarg, best suited for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The region offers various trails that go from easy walks to challenging climbs. The most famous trek to the top of Apharwat Peak is viewed as the place with fantastic views of the valleys. The trek takes visitors through dense forests, alpine meadows, past glistening streams, and provides a visitor with many opportunities of getting up close and personal with Gulmarg.

Another favorite trek is Khilanmarg trek: it is short but identical in beauty to any of those that are really long. For instance, the trail gives closer views of local flora and fauna, such as wildflowers, meadows, and varieties of birds and animals. The Ningle Nallah trek among many others will take the trekkers through dramatic changes in landscapes that include luscious greenery to rocky, snow-covered terrain.

4. Horse Riding

One of the most significant and old-time activities in Gulmarg that attract visitors is horse riding. One explores the breathtaking meadows at a slow pace. In the summer, they usually take a route across flower-filled meadows, whereas in winter, they go there across snow-covered landscapes. Traveling into the wilderness of these surrounding hills on a horseback ride is also a unique experience of the majestic beauty of Gulmarg.

One of the best options in summer time for exploring all the colors of meadows and wild flowers is a horse ride. The winters allow us to explore landscapes of frozen snow for longer periods compared to other times of the year.

5. Golfing

It has one of the highest golf courses in the world. This site, located at an elevation of about 2,650 meters, offers a breathtakingly beautiful 18-hole course that attracts golf enthusiasts from the entire world. This lush green course gives golfers a marvelous setting while surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It offers golf for visitors during summer, amidst the spectacular scenery.

6. Nature Trails and Wildlife watching

Many prefer things comparatively more easy and walking nature trails around Gulmarg, to experience the beauty of this region in all its glory without a workout at all. For example, in the un-parallel biosphere reserve called Gulmarg; one will relish the rich flora and fauna. Visit avenues within this sanctuary include guided walks into the forests and meadows for a glimpse of the Himalayan Monal-the state bird of Jammu and Kashmir, the musk deer, and red foxes, to name but a few. Bird watching is also another thrilling activity in this region, which abounds with varieties of bird life, especially the migratory birds.

7. Nigeen Lake Fishing

Even angling can be attempted by the tourist at the nearby Nigeen Lake which lies just beyond Gulmarg. The lake with its crystal-like water and soothing ambience is the best place for the angler who would endeavor to catch varieties of local fishes. Thus, glistening peaks, silvery ashen pinions and alive with green spread form a perfect haven that even the busy bee of daily life cannot disturb.

8. Historical and religious tourist attractions

There are crowds of history and culture here. Places of religious importance and historical landmarks stand in plenty, like the Shankaracharya Temple – a religious place dedicated to Lord Shiva, sited on a hilltop giving a panoramic view of Gulmarg and its surroundings. Of them, one site that should not be missed there is St. Mary’s Church- an attractive colonial architecture building, which occupies a serene environment for reflection.

Apart from Gurdwara Chatti Padshahi, another very important spiritual place for the Muslims of Kashmir and a place of faith in the town of Srinagar is the Makhdoom Sahib Shrine.

9. Shopping and Local Crafts

Gulmarg also offers a scope to imbibe the local Kashmiri culture, through visits to handicrafts and local bazaars. There are some traditional shops from where the famous Kashmiri Pashmina shawls, the hand-knotted carpets, and the paper-mâché items can be bought. The local bazaars stock artistic souvenirs, and purchasing one item as a souvenir of Gulmarg’s art would be a perfect way to treasure the memories of the visit.

10. Snowshoeing and Ice Skating

Aside from skiing, the place also has activities in store for snow sport-lovers that can be done on the snow-friendly terrain. It is thus possible to walk on deep snow while using snowshoes that keep visitors afloat while ice skating can also be performed on frozen lakes during very low temperatures. These add a dash of adventure to the winter charm of Gulmarg.