8 Best Tourist Places to visit in Gulmarg Kashmir in 2025
Gulmarg, often referred to as the ‘Meadow of Flowers,’ is one of the most visited and famous tourist attractions in the Kashmir Valley, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, adventure sports like skiing, Gondola rides, ATV rides, pony rides, and its tranquil environment. As per the Jammu Kashmir tourism director nearly 16 lakh tourists visited Kashmir as of June 30 2024.
When planning a trip to Gulmarg, the first thing that comes to mind is the best tourist places to visit in Gulmarg. To make your Gulmarg trip easier, in this blog post we will explore some of the top attractions in Gulmarg, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this heavenly destination.
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1. Gulmarg Gondola
Located just around 500 meters from the Gulmarg taxi stand, this area is usually crowded due to the Gulmarg cable car. The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world, offering an unparalleled view of the snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys. The ride is divided into two phases: Phase 1 takes you from Gulmarg Resort to Kongdoori Station, while Phase 2 ascends to the Apharwat Peak. During winter, the Gondola is a gateway to some of the best skiing and snowboarding experiences in India. To enjoy your Gondola ride hassle free you need to book Gulmarg Gondola tickets online prior to your visit.
Suggested Read: Gulmarg Travel Guide
2. Bota Pathri Gulmarg
Bota Pathri is one of the picturesque places to see in Gulmarg. Bota Pathri was once a restricted area where no one was allowed to visit. Now, the place is open for tourists, but you need to get permission from the Gulmarg police station and return before 5 p.m. Bota Pathri is just around 10 kilometers from Gulmarg Children’s Park and takes about 30 minutes to reach. It is one of the beautiful and lesser-known destinations in Gulmarg. Don’t forget to see the small and beautiful lake near Bota Pathri.
3. Khilanmarg Gulmarg
Khilanmarg is just a short trek from gondola phase 1. You can visit Khilanmarg either by foot or hiring a pony ride. It is a small valley that comes alive with vibrant flowers during the summer months. This place offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and is a popular spot for picnics and day hikes. In winter, Khilanmarg transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for winter sports activities in Gulmarg.
4. St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is number 4 on our list of top Gulmarg tourist places. This charming church, built during the British rule, is a fine example of Victorian architecture. Surrounded by tall alpine trees and offering a peaceful ambiance, St. Mary’s Church is a must-visit place in Gulmarg for history those looking for peace and tranquility. The church is especially beautiful during the winter, covered in a blanket of snow.
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5. Gulmarg Golf Course
The Gulmarg Golf Course, situated at an elevation of 2,650 meters (8,690 ft) above sea level, is the second highest green golf course in the world and is a recommended place to visit in Gulmarg. It is an 18-hole golf course and is one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg. This golf course was established by the British in 1911. During the months of May to August, the meadow blooms with a variety of vibrant flowers, and during winter, it is covered in snow, where tourists enjoy many snow sports activities.
6. Alpather Lake
Alpather Lake is a high-altitude lake that remains frozen until late June. It is located at the foot of the Apharwat Peak. There are two options to reach Alpather Lake: The first is a trek from Gulmarg to Alpather Lake via Khilanmarg, which is around 13 km and may be difficult for some visitors. The second option is a short hike of 1.5 km from the Gondola Phase II at Mt. Apharwat. To reach Phase 2 of the Gulmarg cable car, you need to book tickets for both phases of the Gulmarg Gondola – that is, for Phase 1 as well as Phase 2. It is considered one of the peaceful and major Gulmarg tourist places.
7. Maharani Temple
Also known as the Rani Temple, this historical temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on a small hillock in the middle of Gulmarg. This tourist place in Gulmarg is famous because the shooting of the popular song ‘Jai Jai Shiv Shankar,’ starring Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz, was filmed here. This temple was built by Maharaja Hari Singh in the early 20th century, the temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. This tourist attraction in Gulmarg is one of the places to visit in Gulmarg in 1 day.
8. Drung waterfall Gulmarg
Drung Waterfall is a beautiful destination situated along the route to Gulmarg near Tangmarg. This tourist places in Gulmarg is becoming a major attraction for both tourists and locals. Visitors often stop at this place while en route to Gulmarg. Drung Waterfall is one of the best tourist place near Gulmarg and is just 3 km from main Tangmarg. This is the last place on our list of major Gulmarg tourist places.
Conclusion
Gulmarg is a destination that enchants every visitor with its natural beauty and adventure opportunities. From the thrilling Gondola rides to the serene Alpather Lake, each attraction in Gulmarg offers a unique experience. Don’t forget to add these top tourist places to visit in Gulmarg to your itinerary for an unforgettable trip.
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Some additional information about Places to visit in Gulmarg
Here, we have provided a quick recap of the best places to visit in Gulmarg so that you get a clear overview of tourist attractions in Gulmarg.
Best Tourist Places in Gulmarg
| Name | Description | Highlights | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gulmarg Gondola | One of the highest cable cars in the world, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. | Cable car ride, panoramic views, skiing, snowboarding | December to March (winter sports), May to September (scenic views) |
| Khilanmarg | A picturesque valley known for its vibrant flowers in summer and snow-covered landscape in winter. | Flower meadows, day hikes, skiing, horse riding | April to June (flowers), December to February (snow) |
| Alpather Lake | A high-altitude lake nestled at the foot of Apharwat Peak, remaining frozen until late June. | Trekking, serene environment, photography | May to June (frozen lake), July to September (thawed lake) |
| St. Mary’s Church | A charming Victorian-style church built during the British rule, surrounded by alpine trees. | Victorian architecture, peaceful ambiance, historical significance | All year round |
| Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve | A haven for nature lovers, home to diverse flora and fauna including the endangered Musk Deer and various bird species. | Wildlife spotting, nature walks, bird watching | March to May (spring), September to November (autumn) |
| Maharani Temple | Also known as Rani Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. | Religious site, historical significance, panoramic views | All year round |
| Strawberry Valley | A hidden gem known for its wild strawberries during summer, offering lush green surroundings and a sweet aroma. | Wild strawberries, nature walks, picnics | May to July |
| Drung Waterfall | A stunning waterfall near Gulmarg, especially mesmerizing in winter when it freezes into a magical ice formation. | Frozen waterfall, photography, picnics | December to February (frozen waterfall), March to May (spring) |
Some FAQ’s about Best Tourist Places in Gulmarg
Q: What is the best time to visit Gulmarg?
A: The best time to visit Gulmarg depends on your interests. For snow sports like skiing and snowboarding, visit between December and March. For pleasant weather and blooming flowers, plan your trip between May and September.
Q: How can I reach Gulmarg?
A: Gulmarg is well-connected by road. The nearest airport is Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport in Srinagar, about 56 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use our Kashmir Cab Service for a comfortable journey to Gulmarg.
Q: How can I reach Ladakh?
A: Ladakh can be reached by air and road. There are daily flights from New Delhi to Leh throughout the year. By road, you can travel via the Leh-Manali Highway or the Leh-Srinagar Highway, though these routes are closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.
Q: Is Gulmarg safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Gulmarg is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to stay updated on current travel advisories and follow local guidelines for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Q: What are the main tourist attractions in Gulmarg?
A: Major attractions in Gulmarg are Gulmarg gondola, Apharwat peak, Alpahtar Lake, Khilanmarg, Bota pathri, Strawberry valley, Maharani temple and many other places.
Q: What are the must-visit places in Gulmarg?
A: Some of the must-visit places in Gulmarg include the Gulmarg Gondola, Khilanmarg, Alpather Lake, St. Mary’s Church, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Maharani Temple, Strawberry Valley, and Drung Waterfall.
Q: Do I need any special permits to visit Gulmarg?
A: No special permits are required for tourists to visit Gulmarg.
