Gulmarg in Winter and Summer: A Comparative Guide

Gulmarg, located in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, is a well-liked vacation spot for tourists looking for adventure and scenic beauty. Gulmarg has much to offer all year round, with its beautiful meadows, magnificent mountains, and gorgeous panoramas. However, the experience of visiting Gulmarg varies massively between the summer and winter months. Here's what you can expect during both seasons.

Summer in Gulmarg:

Summer in Gulmarg is a beautiful time to visit and explore the valley with pleasant weather and lush green meadows. From May to September, you can enjoy various activities amidst the scenic beauty of Gulmarg. Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Gulmarg during summer:

1. Explore the Meadows:

Gulmarg is renowned for its lovely meadows, which turn into lush carpets in the summer. These meadows are ideal for picnics, horseback riding, or just relaxing and admiring nature. During the summer, Khilanmarg, Alpather Lake, and Strawberry Valley are a few of the meadows in Gulmarg that you just must see.

2. Take a Gondola Ride:

Gulmarg Gondola is one of the top attractions in Gulmarg, offering breathtaking views of the entire valley. The gondola ride is divided into two phases, with the first taking you to Kongdoori Station and the second taking you to Apharwat Peak, the highest peak in the vicinity. The Gondola operates from May to September, making it a must-do experience during your summer trip to Gulmarg.

3. Trekking and Camping:

For people who enjoy the outdoors and trekking, Gulmarg is a fantastic place. Numerous walking routes exist in and around Gulmarg that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Summer camping in Gulmarg may also be pretty enthralling since you can set up a tent amidst the tranquil beauty of the natural world.

4. Visit the Shrines:

Gulmarg has several shrines worth visiting, including the Baba Reshi shrine, which is well-known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. You may also visit Tangmarg's famous Shiva Temple, known for its unique sculptures and intricate artwork.

Winter in Gulmarg:

Winter in Gulmarg is a magical experience that attracts ski enthusiasts worldwide. Gulmarg gets covered in snow from December to March, offering a completely different experience. Here are some of the best things to do in Gulmarg during the winter season:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding:

The skiing and snowboarding facilities of Gulmarg are renowned across the world. The ski resort at Gulmarg is one of the highest in the world and provides skiers with an unmatched experience. You may ride the Gondola to the top and rent skiing gear from nearby rental shops. Professional instructors will then lead you down the slopes.

2. Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling:

Apart from skiing, you can also try other winter sports activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Snowshoeing lets you explore the pristine and untouched snow trails, while snowmobiling allows you to enjoy the winter scenery on a thrilling ride.

3. Enjoy the Scenic Beauty:

Gulmarg is ideal for photographers in the winter since it offers spectacular vistas of the snow-capped mountains and the shimmering meadows. You may take a stroll around the winter wonderland or rent a horse-drawn carriage to see it.

4. Attend the Snow Festival:

In January, Gulmarg hosts an annual Snow Festival, a colorful celebration of winter sports and activities. The festival features skiing competitions, ice hockey matches, snow sculpting contests, and cultural events that attract tourists worldwide.

Places to Stay:

Gulmarg has several accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. During summers, you can stay in one of the charming cottages or homestays in Gulmarg that offer scenic views of the meadows and mountains. During winter, booking your accommodation in advance is advisable, as it can get quite crowded due to the influx of ski enthusiasts.

Hotel Heevan Retreat- The city center may be reached in about 5 minutes by car from this opulent inn. Watch the breathtaking views of the majestic mountain ranges. This cozy hotel's suites and rooms are incredibly big and centrally heated. The most delicious food is served at the multi-cuisine restaurant, and the home chef prepares it with the utmost care. To guarantee you the best possible experience in your fully equipped hotel room, the Hotel Heevan Retreat offers you a power supply.

Hotel Pine Spring -  Next to Gondola Near Pine Palace, Gulmarg where the lovely Hotel Pine Spring is situated, is just a short distance from the magnificent city of Gulmarg. Your stay will be opulent and pleasant at this 4-star hotel. For a great family vacation, the Hotel Pine Spring is ideal.

Places to Visit in Gulmarg:

Besides its meadows, shrines, and ski resorts, Gulmarg has several other places worth visiting, including:

1. ​​​​​​​ St. Mary's Church, the Maharani temple (Mohini Bai Sisodhia, wife of Maharaja Hari Singh in 1915), the Maharaja Palace (it was once the royal residence of the Maharajas of Jammu and Kashmir and stands as a testament to the region's rich history.The building incorporates elements of traditional Kashmiri architecture, characterised by intricate woodwork and elegant designs, as well as influences from British colonial architecture, reflecting the period's aesthetic) and lastly the Ningli Nalla wildlife sanctuary.

So, whether you choose to visit Gulmarg in summer or winter, rest assured that breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures surround you. Plan your trip to Gulmarg with OurGuest, and let us be your trusted travel partner in creating extraordinary memories in this Himalayan haven.