General Information
Altitude : 2,730m
Best Time To Visit : In Summer - May To September, In Winter - November To February
Languages : Kashmiri and Hindi.
Attractions : Skiing
Gulmarg - Introduction
Gulmarg, or meadow of flowers, is an apt term indeed for this idyllic flower-laden meadow at an altitude of 2,730 metres, in Baramulla district. Situated at a distance of 51 km from Srinagar, it is a saucer-shaped bowl overhanging the main valley of Kashmir. The towering peaks above the meadow are covered with dense forests of tall conifers and gigantic fir and pine trees, all vying with each other to touch the azure skies. A clear day offers some breathtaking views from Gulmarg : fields of rice; clusters of walnut, pear and mulberry; meadows, ridges and forests that lead to the snow slopes of Khilanmarg; the majestic Nanga Parbat peak over a 100 km away.
An equally popular destination in winter, it is coated with a blanket of thick, soft snow, turning its gentle slopes into some of the finest ski slopes. Surrounded by crests of white, the air seems to sparkle against the ice as skiers flash past in the hush of the snow. The resort has one T-Bar Lift, three modern ski lifts and a chair lift. The beginner's slope makes learning easy, with perfect snow conditions and a gentle gradient. Trained instructors are available and equipment can be hired. Skating, curling, and ski bobbing are some of the activities offered. A cable car, takes tourists up to Kongdori.
Accessibility
By Air : The nearest airport to Gulmarg is in Badgam district.
By Rail : The Jammu railway station is the closest in the vicinity.
By Road :Gulmarg is a two-hour bus journey from Srinagar. Various modes of transport including chartered conveyance are available from Srinagar bus stand at Batmallo. The journey from Tangmarg can also be undertaken on ponies.
Places to Visit
Khilanmarg
A 40-minute journey through valleys of wild flowers from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg offers a breathtaking view of the majestic peaks with their reflections in Wular and other lakes.
Alpather Lake
Streaks of floating ice in this triangular lake, nestled in a hollow under the shadow of Apharwat mountain are a visual delight. A well-graded pony track joins Apharwat Ridge with Gulmarg.
