Gulmarg Winter Guide: Gondola, Skiing & Snow Tips

On Travel Team 27 Oct 20264 min read

When winter arrives, Gulmarg in Kashmir becomes India's premier snow destination. Its meadows disappear under deep powder, pine forests turn white, and the Gulmarg Gondola carries skiers and sightseers high onto the slopes of Mount Apharwat. Whether you want to learn to ski or simply play in the snow, here is how to plan a winter trip.

Where Is Gulmarg?

Gulmarg lies about 50 km west of Srinagar, at around 2,650 metres. The drive takes about 1.5–2 hours via Tangmarg, and in heavy snow the last stretch may require chains or local 4x4 taxis.

When to Go for Snow

December: early snow; good for first-time snow experiences.
January–February: peak winter with the deepest snow – best for skiing.
March: spring skiing with sunnier days.
April onwards: snow melts on the lower meadows, though higher slopes may keep snow.

Snowfall varies each year, so keep your dates flexible if snow is your main goal.

The Gulmarg Gondola

The Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in Asia and runs in two phases:

Phase 1 – Gulmarg to Kongdoori: goes up to about 3,000 metres. Suitable for everyone, with snow play areas and views.
Phase 2 – Kongdoori to Apharwat: climbs to about 3,900–4,000 metres. Offers spectacular views and serves advanced skiers. It may close in strong winds or poor weather.

Tickets can sell out quickly in peak season. Book through the official channel and arrive early. Do not buy tickets from touts.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Gulmarg offers slopes for every level:

Beginners: gentle slopes near the base with ski schools and instructors. A few hours of lessons are enough to try basic turns.
Intermediate: runs around Kongdoori and the chairlift areas.
Advanced: off-piste powder from Apharwat – only with qualified guides and avalanche awareness.

Equipment – skis, boots, poles, snowboards and clothing – can be rented locally. Choose certified instructors from recognised ski schools.

Other Snow Activities

Sledging: pulled by local sledge-wallahs on the meadows (agree on prices first).
Snow scooters and ATVs: available in designated areas.
Snowshoe walks: quiet walks through pine forest.
Visiting St Mary's Church and the Maharani Temple: both picturesque in snow.

Where to Stay

Gulmarg has hotels ranging from simple lodges to luxury resorts. In peak winter, heating is essential – confirm that rooms have central heating or electric heaters. Many travellers stay one or two nights in Gulmarg and the rest in Srinagar.

What to Wear

Waterproof jacket and trousers
Thermal innerwear and fleece layers
Insulated gloves, woollen cap and neck warmer
Waterproof snow boots (can be rented)
Sunglasses or goggles – snow glare is intense
High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm

Sample 5-Day Kashmir Winter Plan

Arrive in Srinagar; houseboat stay on Dal Lake.
Drive to Gulmarg; Gondola Phase 1 and snow play.
Ski lesson or Phase 2 Gondola (weather permitting).
Return to Srinagar; visit Pahalgam or Sonmarg if roads are open.
Fly home.

Safety Tips

Follow ski patrol and gondola staff instructions.
Never go off-piste without a certified guide.
Keep track of weather and avalanche advisories.
Hire sledges and ponies only from registered operators.
Drive with experienced local drivers; roads can be icy.

Food and Comfort

Warm up with kahwa (Kashmiri green tea with saffron and almonds), noon chai and hearty Kashmiri dishes such as rogan josh and yakhni. Many hotels have cosy bukhari (wood stove) lounges.