Tourism in Gulmarg

If you want to see variety of colorful flowers, snow capped mountains, lush greenery, silent valley, pine tree covered areas and also get lot of fresh air then planning a vacation to Gulmarg is the right thing to do. Located in Baramula district of Jammu and Kashmir, this small town is going to let you experience all of the above and much more. Tourists from all over the world throng the hilly resort to witness its amazing beauty and also to enjoy the various sports activity that the small town has to offer.

In case tired of the chaotic lifestyle that you lead in the city, it’s time to pack your bags for Gulmarg to distress yourself and your senses. Everything that catches your attention here will guarantee to hold impression for long period of time. Apart from the magnificent landscape, there are various other tourist attractions in this hill resort that is a must visit when holidaying here.

Tourist Attractions of Gulmarg

Some of the popular attractions are:

Khilanmarg from Gulmarg

Located at a distance of 6 Km from the town of Gulmarg is a small valley which is full of natural beauty that can be found in the form of tall pine trees, green meadows and various varieties of colorful flowers. From this valley you can get a view of the snow capped peaks of the Himalaya Mountains and also get a glimpse of the beautiful Wular Lake. Though equally popular in all the months of the year, the place is especially popular during winters when the area is covered with snow and ideal for snow freaks and ski lovers.

Alpather Lake from Gulmarg

It is a beautiful, calm and composed picnic spot for tourist visiting Gulmarg. It is located at the base of the Afarwat peaks and at an altitude of 4511 meters. The backdrop of the lake which is triangular in shape is beautiful hills which are mostly snow capped. Because of its high altitude the lake is mostly frozen till the month of June and as summer sets in the ice starts melting and one will be able o see clear water alone with floating ice too. Because of its location it is considered an ideal place for trekkers too.

Ziarat of Baba Reshi/Shrine of Baba Reshi from Gulmarg

The shrine of Baba Reshi is popular not only amongst the Muslim who comes here from all over to seek blessings but amongst other religion people also. Visit to the holy place is must when in Gulmarg to get a heavenly experience.

Ningli Nallah from Gulmarg

Gulmarg is located at a very high altitude due to which the winter months have snow formations in various parts. During summers when the temperature rises and the snow begins to melt it results in streams at some places. Ningli Nallah is one such stream which is located at a distance of 8 Km from the town and can be seen only during the summer months.

Cable Car to Kongdor from Gulmarg

Also known as Gondola locally, the ride in Cable car is something which everyone should indulge in when in this beautiful valley. The cable car which starts its operations at 9 am daily can be used to travel to Kongdor from Gulmarg. When on the cable car you can witness the nature’s beauty at its best. It will give you a bird’s eye view of the whole place. One can witness the seven springs, St Mary's Church, Maharani Mandir, Baba Reshi Shrine and also get birds eye view of the beautiful Gulmarg and Srinagar from the cable car. The breathtaking view from here is going to leave you mesmerized. The cable services are available at frequent intervals and the charges are normal too.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve from Gulmarg

Covering a total area of almost 180 sq Kilometer and located at an altitude of 2400 above sea level, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is a must visit for those who are interested in witnessing  the various rare wild life species that are present here. It is visited by ornithologists quite often from all over. Almost 90% of the vegetation that is found there comprise of Conifers.

Various dicotyledonus herbs such as anemone spp, Rumex patientia can be found here. It is also home to different species such as brown bear, Leopard, serow, musk deer, black bear, Hangul, red fox and so on. Here pheasant, migratory as well as resident birds can also be found in large numbers. The most common ones are blue rock pigeon, European hoopoe, snow cock, koklas, griffon vulture, jungle crow, monal etc. March to May is the best time to visit if you are interested in seeing the different variety of birds present here. Whereas September to March are ideal for viewing the animals here. Access to this reserve is quite easy as it is just 57 Km from Srinagar. One can take a flight to Srinagar or train to Jammu and from there any private vehicle can be reserved to reach here.

A visit to the beautiful town of Gulmarg is incomplete without trying your hands on the various adventure sports that can be played here. Amazing activity such as Horse riding, sledging, golf, skiing, trekking and other such winter sports can be availed when here. If nothing of the above appeals you, you can go for that quite walk all alone or with family and friends and enjoy nature at its best. Hence pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful hill stations in India that has something to offer for everyone.