At present there are 3 Slots in Gulmarg Gondola Phase-1 [9-11 , 11-1 , 1-3] & Only 1 Slot in Phase-2 [9 AM to 3 PM ]
Previously there was one special slot 8 AM - 9 AM to cater more guests and rush but it has been closed now as on 30 May 2023
Slotting is only applicable for Phase-1 as Phase-2 does not have any slots its open from morning to evening 3.
The decision of time slotting is important as you have to reach on the assigned Date & Time.
At all times reaching Early and First slot is recommended and preferred rather than the 2nd Slot which is selected by most of the guests.
For Summers
In Summers the day-time is more in Kashmir so you can choose even the second or third slot but if you have Second phase booked then Go for First 2 slots only.
For Winters
If you have stay in Gulmarg the preceding night then you can be in queue and enjoy more time in Mount Afarwat or Phase-2. Phase-2 has snow there all around the year. Phase-1 in Summers in not that big of a deal and can be reached by horses as well.
Normal shoes in Summers and Long boots in Winters
They should avoid Phase-2
This is on high altitude so weather changes are unpredictable.