Top 10 Places to Visit in Gulmarg for an Ideal Vacation to Cherish

Kashmir’s Alpine Paradise, Gulmarg, will lure you with its pristine beauty of the majestic Himalayan snowscapes and alluring cultural heritage of the heartwarming Kashmiris, offering you an enriching cultural odyssey. If you are planning to visit Kashmir, the Heaven on Earth, never forget to miss out on Gulmarg, the Alpine Paradise of Kashmir, and make a list of famous places to visit in Gulmarg. Ranging from witnessing the majestic frozen Drung Falls for its appealing attributes, marveling at the grand Victorian architectural masterpiece St. Mary’s Church, to walking amid the picturesque and vibrant scarlet plantations in the Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg has a storehouse of surprises for you to unfold. Begin your quest to jostle into adventure and create endless moments of fun and thrill for a lifetime.

Places to Visit in Gulmarg: Gear Yourself up to Plunge into Adventure in the Skiing Destination

Gulmarg’s ethereal beauty is complemented by its rich cultural legacy and welcoming atmosphere. Indulge in the lively local way of life by trying authentic Kashmiri food, perusing handicraft marketplaces, and mingling with the amiable and friendly locals. Gulmarg is a paradise for thrill-seekers, with a variety of outdoor pursuits like hiking, riding horses, golfing, and mountain biking. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, the renowned Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable car rides in the world, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. With a plentiful of places to visit in Gulmarg, it promises an amazing experience full of breathtaking scenery, cultural delights, and exhilarating activities, whether you're looking for adventure, peace, or just to soak in the glory of nature.

Let’s have a glance at the top 10 places to visit in Gulmarg for an ultimate vacation to jostle amid the Alpine landscapes.

Apharwat Peak: Unwind in the Snowclad Himalayas
Drung Waterfall: Marvel at the Frozen Beauty
Alpather Lake: The Serene Oasis Amid White Snowscapes
Tangmarg: Gateway to the Alpine Paradise
Khilanmarg: Explore the Picturesque Meadows
Seven Springs: Sok Yourself in the Majestic Views
Strawberry Valley: Walk Amid Vibrant Scarlet Plantations
Gulmarg Golf Course: Your Ideal summer Destination in Gulmarg
St. Mary’s Church: Pay a Tribute to the Victorian Architectural Wonder
Ferozepur Nallah: Seek Solace and Natural Bliss

1. Apharwat Peak: Unwind in the Snowclad Himalayas

Located at a height of about 14,403 ft height on Pir Pinjal Range, Apharwat Peak is considered a heavenly paradise for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts as it is covered with snow throughout the year. Best known for its snow activities like Gondola rides, skiing, snowboarding, and sledging, Apharwat Peak attracts millions of adrenaline junkies to feel the rush at a different level. Whether you plan your trip in summer or winter, Apharwat Peak never fails to cater to the needs and preferences of every visitor. It is ideal enough to go on a Gondola ride to take in the breathtaking views of the majestic Apharwat Peak, you will be awestruck by its ethereal beauty and majesty. Often considered one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg, Kashmir, you can create some magical moments etched in love with your beloved for a cherishing memory.

Location: Gulmarg, India

Best Time to Visit: December to March

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Famous for: Himalayan peaks, Snow sports

Things to Do: Skiing, Sledging, Gondola Ride, Snowboarding

How to Reach: The best and the most convenient way to reach Apharwat Peak is to take a gondola ride from the Gondola starting point, Phase I from Gulmarg to Kungdoor & Phase II from Kongdori to Apharwat.

2. Drung Waterfall: Marvel at the Frozen Beauty

Tucked amid the mighty snow-clad Himalayas, Drung Waterfalls welcomes the visitors to marvel at its unique natural phenomenon during winter. Located in the Tangmarg region of Gulmarg, Drung Waterfall is a popular tourist attraction in Gulmarg that freezes completely during winter season as the temperature drops below 0 degree. Even though this scenic spot doesn’t have a plethora of activities to do apart from sightseeing and photography, you can spend an hour with your beloved one by clicking some pictures and soaking yourself in the enchanting views amid the tranquil surroundings. Moreover, never forget to take up an ATV ride to reach the Drung Waterfall, one of the best places to visit in Kashmir, by traversing the fascinating snowscapes full of wonders and unparallel beauty.

Location: Drung, Jammu and Kashmir 193402

Best Time to Visit: Mid December to Feb

Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Famous for: Frozen Waterfall

Things to Do: Sightseeing, Photography

How to Reach: The best way to reach Drung Waterfalls is to hire a private taxi or a shared taxi from Tangmarg taxi stand. You can even walk or go on an ATV ride to reach the majestic falls.

3. Alpather Lake: The Serene Oasis Amid White Snowscapes

Nestled within the natural environs of Gulmarg, a prominent hill destination in the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir, Alpather Lake is a hidden jewel surrounded by the beautiful Himalayan peaks and one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg. Adventurers can get a glimpse of the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas by trekking through beautiful meadows, deep pine woods, and steep terrain on the way to Alpather Lake. What fascinates the visitors is the majestic frozen scenery of the Alpather Lake during the winter season which attracts millions of tourists from across the world. The cystalline blues of the lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and verdant surroundings, reflect the azure sky, producing an enthralling display of hues. Alpather Lake provides tranquil Himalayan nature settings ideal for carrying out activities like camping, picnicking, and photography.

Location: 28CC+6CP, Apharwat, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

Best Time to Visit: May to September

Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Famous for: Breathtaking views of the frozen lake, Picnic

Things to Do: Sightseeing, Picnic, Trekking, Camping

How to Reach: The best way to reach Alpather Lake is to go on a Gondola ride from Phase II. Moreover, if you are fit enough, you can trek through the wilderness to reach the lake.

4. Tangmarg: Gateway to the Alpine Paradise

Gulmarg, a well-known hill station, is accessible through Tangmarg, a quaint picturesque town set amid Jammu and Kashmir's stunning scenery. Traveling from Tangmarg to Gulmarg is an enthralling experience that takes you through lush meadows, deep woods, and twisting mountain routes. Since Tangmarg is the gateway to the Alpine Paradise, you can plan to explore various scenic spots from Tangmarg like Zandpal, Ningle Nallah, Baderkoot, Gogaldara, and Babarashi. One of the best things to do in Gulmarg is to explore the untamed Himalayan landscape of Tangmarg, with chances for hiking, mountain biking, and nature hikes on the nearby hillsides. With its snow-covered slopes, the area becomes a haven for lovers of skiing and snowboarding throughout the winter, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Location: Baramulla district of Jammu & Kashmir

Best Time to Visit: December to March

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Famous for: Idyllic landscapes, Snowfall, Winter activities

Things to Do: Trekking, Mountain biking, Nature walks, Skiing, Snowboarding

How to Reach: The best way to reach Tangmarg is to hire a cab or taxi from Srinagar, and it is easily accessible since you will cross it on the way to Gulmarg.

5. Khilanmarg: Explore the Picturesque Meadows

Nestled amid the majestic Himalayas which is 6 kilometers away from Gulmarg town, Khilanmarg is an ideal spot for nature lovers who are seeking peace and tranquility, panoramic vistas, verdant landscapes, and serene ambiance and one of the must visit places in Gulmarg. You will enjoy the whole journey from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg unfolding enchanting pathways, winding dense pine forests, extensive blooming meadows, rippling waterfalls and streams which will leave your mind in awe. During the vibrant summer season, indulge yourself in a myriad of activities like horse riding, hiking, picnicking in Khilanmarg’s pristine surroundings. The picturesque meadows are transformed into a wintry paradise during the winter, drawing skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers to its slopes for plunging into winder adventures.

Location: Outer Gulmarg Rd, Gulmarg, Forest Block, 193403

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Famous for: Scenic Vistas, Snow Activities

Things to Do: Skiing, Snowboarding, Hiking, Camping, Golfing, Horse Riding

How to Reach: The best way to reach Khilanmarg is to walk uphill which is 6 kilometers away from Gulmarg.

6. Seven Springs: Soak Yourself in the Majestic Views

Nestled amid the lush green meadows, one of the best things to do in Kashmir is to take a dip in Seven Springs which is a group of seven pristine freshwater springs that combine to create a peaceful stream that meanders through the pristine surrounding areas. For generations, people have valued these springs for their healing and revitalizing qualities, as they are said to have medicinal attributes. Escape the mundane and the daily hustle & bustle of life by delighting your senses to the soothing sounds of rippling water, the gentle rustle of leaves, creating a serene ambiance for you to replenish your tired soul. Not even popular as a scenic spot, it revolves around a myriad of mythological stories, and it is believed that these majestic streams were discovered by the legendary saint called Nund Rishi who was considered the patron saint of Kashmir.

Location: Forest Block 193403, Gulmarg

Best Time to Visit: April to June

Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Famous for: Snowfall, Pristine slopes, Winter Activities

Things to Do: Skiing, Snowboarding, Gondola ride

How to Reach: The best way to reach Seven Springs is to take a Gondola ride from Apharwat Peak.

7. Strawberry Valley: Walk Amid Vibrant Strawberry Plantations

One of the lesser-known attractions in Gulmarg, Strawberry Valley, is known for the lush green meadows filled with vibrant strawberry farms. If you want to get an immersive experience amid the pristine surroundings, Strawberry Valley is ideal enough to visit during summer as it is turned into the busiest spot during the harvest season. Indulge yourself in interacting with the locals and the farmers while taking a leisurely stroll all along the rows of strawberry plantations, pluck some ripest strawberries and savor the rich flavors. One of the best things to do in Strawberry Valley is to plan a picnic with your family or loved one and unwind in the best possible way. Never forget to capture some captivating sights of Strawberry Valley, one of the best places to visit in Gulmarg in summer, which is aesthetically pleasing to relive your Garden of Eden dreams.

Location: 399F+H97, Alva Farm Road, Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

Best Time to Visit: March to July

Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Famous for: Strawberry plantations, picturesque landscapes

Things to Do: Picnic, Strawberry picking

How to Reach: The best way to reach Strawberry Valley is to book a cab or taxi from the hotel itself. You can even go on a walk if your hotel is nearby, or you can go on a horseback ride.

8. Gulmarg Golf Course: Your Ideal Summer Destination in Gulmarg

Located in the Baramulla district of Gulmarg, the Golf Course is an ideal spot for the golf lovers to master their skills with the calm surroundings and majestic landscapes at a height of 8690 ft., and one of the best places to visit in India in summer. With the panoramic vistas of the snowcapped Himalayas, lush meadows, and dense forests, the Golf Course features an 18-hole layout and the country’s longest hole offering a challenging yet thrilling experience for the players to cherish for a lifetime. It holds a great significance in Gulmarg's history dating to the colonial era, making it a quintessential cultural landmark that portrays Gulmarg’s perennial charm and alluring beauty. If you are a nature enthusiast, you can marvel at the diverse range of exotic wildflowers along with the creeping bent on the plants which is specially imported from the United States.

Location: 394R+2J7, Forest Block, Jammu and Kashmir 193403

Best Time to Visit: April to November

Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Famous for: Serene landscapes, Golfing

Things to Do: Golfing, Sightseeing

How to Reach: You can directly hire a cab or taxi from your hotel location to reach Gulmarg Golf course.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In India For A Memorable Experience

9. St. Mary’s Church: Pay a Tribute to the Victorian Architectural Wonder

Located in proximity to Gulmarg Golf Course, St. Mary’s Church is a majestic Victorian architectural treasure which looks like a countryside chapel nestled amid the verdant landscapes of Gulmarg. With the grey stone walls and wooden roofs, the church gets a vintage look which had undergone many restoration stages and endears visitors from across the world. Built in 1902, the church is one of the major highlights that reflects the age-old glory and historical past of Gulmarg by overlooking the majestic backdrop enriched with lush green meadows, towering pine trees, majestic mountains. You will be awestruck by the classic, yet elegant interiors adorned by stained glass and wooden wall panels and frescoes portraying scenes from the Holy Bible, making it one of Gulmarg visit places.

Location: Gulmarg Baramulla Jammu and Kashmir, 193403

Best Time to Visit: April to November

Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Famous for: Architecture, Scenic landscapes

Things to Do: Sightseeing, Trekking

How to Reach: The best way to reach St. Mary’s Church is to hire a cab or taxi from the hotel. Or you can even take a horseback ride to discover this treasure.

10. Ferozepur Nallah: Seek Solace and Natural Bliss

Ferozepur Nallah, also known as Shinmahinyu, is a small mountain stream that originates from the Ferozepur Peak which is an ideal destination for visitors seeking peace and tranquility amid the picturesque and calm surroundings. Even though the stream is mostly used by the locals for drinking water, visitors find it an ideal spot to indulge in trout fishing. You can even carry your favorite novel, take a basket of edibles and plan a picnic out there for a tranquil getaway. Most of the locals believe that the place has been blessed by the good spirit of the mountains. You can even trek through the wilderness of Tosamaidan, located around Ferozepur Nallah, which can be reached after trekking for about 3 days. Moreover, this destination is ideal enough to spend quality time with your family and one of the best places to visit in July in the world.

Location: Outskirts of Gulmarg

Best Time to Visit: March to October

Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Famous for: Sightseeing, Leisure activities

Things to Do: Picnic, Fishing

How to Reach: You can directly hire a cab or taxi to reach Ferozepur Nallah which is 5 kilometers away from Gulmarg.

Amid the Himalayas' beautiful snowscapes, Gulmarg is a mesmerizing Alpine destination that offers visitors looking for peace, adventure, and natural beauty an experience they will cherish for a lifetime. Make a list of places to visit in Gulmarg, from the serene landscapes of Alpather Lake to the immaculate slopes of Apharwat Peak, to immerse yourself in its unparallel beauty. The renowned Gulmarg Golf Course invites golf players to master the art of playing golf in one of the most breathtaking settings on earth, situated amid lush greenery and surrounded by gorgeous mountains. The journey to Gulmarg will offer you endless opportunities for exploration, and to experience the warm hospitality of the Kashmiris. Book your Kashmir tour packages with us to embark on a scenic journey to heavenly paradise.

Places to Visit in Gulmarg FAQ’s

Q1. What is special in Gulmarg?

Gulmarg is best known for its snowcapped Himalayas, picturesque meadows and verdant valleys, rippling waterfalls and gentle streams which create a panoramic view. Moreover, Gulmarg is famous for the Gondola ride and skiing activity.

Q2. Is 1 day enough for Gulmarg?

No, 1 day is not enough for Gulmarg. You need to spend at least 2 days in Gulmarg to cover the major highlights of the destination like the Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake, Seven Springs, Strawberry Valley including the snow activities.

Q3. What are the top 5 places to visit in Gulmarg?

Gulmarg is enriched with a plethora of natural splendors and cultural landmarks that shed light on the region’s history and culture. The top 5 places to visit in Gulmarg are:

Apharwat Peak
Drung Waterfall
Alpather Lake
Seven Springs
Strawberry Valley

Q4. What are the top 5 things to do in Gulmarg?

Gulmarg will cater to the needs and preferences of every traveler irrespective of the seasons. It offers a plethora of activities to feel the adrenaline rush amid the Alpine landscapes. The top 5 things to do in Gulmarg are:

Skiing
Gondola Cable Car Ride
Snowboarding
Sledging
Golfing

Q5. What is the secret destination in Gulmarg?

Even though Gulmarg is the home to an array of offbeat destinations best known for its ideal blend of serene and breathtaking landscapes. But Strawberry Valley is considered the best kept secret of Gulmarg which is known for the vibrant strawberry plantations with the majestic backdrop enriched by the Himalayas.

Q6. What is the best time to visit Gulmarg?

The best time to visit Gulmarg is from April to June, which are considered ideal for pleasant weather conditions. You can even go on a proper sightseeing tour and take up summer and winter adventure activities for unlimited fun.

Q7. What is the ideal time for skiing in Gulmarg?

If you are an adventure lover and would like to master your skiing skills, you should plan a trip to Gulmarg from the beginning of January to end of March. These months are considered ideal for skiing and gliding through the gentle and rugged slopes.

Q8. What is the best time to go on a Gondola ride?

The best time to go on a Gondola ride in Gulmarg is between March and June when the weather remains pleasant. You can immerse yourself in the majestic views of the Himalayan landscapes and the blooming meadows.

Q9. Which waterfalls are frozen in Gulmarg?

Drung Waterfall is the only frozen waterfall in Gulmarg which offers breathtaking sights to the visitors for an alluring experience. It is a must-see attraction in Gulmarg which gets frozen during winter season as the temperatures drop down.

Q10. What are the two phases of Gulmarg Gondola rides?

Gulmarg Gondola ride is the prime attraction of the region which attracts millions of visitors from across the world. The two phases of Gulmarg Gondola rides are: