9 Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg: Explore Nature & Adventure
Gulmarg is a breathtaking gem of Jammu and Kashmir. It offers awe-inspiring vistas of nature, awesome tourist activities, and an ever-divine peace of mind that cannot be compared anywhere in India.
This picture-perfect hill station is one of the chief magnets attracting tourists worldwide with its verdant meadows, snow-laden peaks, and adventure activities. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a sanctuary-seeker, or someone wanting to immerse in peace, Gulmarg will be a treat to all.
If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful place and want to see all the Kashmir’s best spots, you can book a Kashmir holiday package to see all the location’s best sights and guarantee a smooth journey.
The article sifts through some of the talked-about and best Gulmarg Kashmir tourist places and deals with some of the frequently asked questions regarding this magical destination.
The guide will ensure that you have a complete Gulmag itinerary before you start your Gulmarg trip so that you do not need to worry about finding the best things to do in Gulmarg and visiting attractions here and there.
What is the famous thing in Gulmarg?
Although Gulmarg is known for different places that make people feel like they are in heaven, there is one thing that Gulmarg is most known for. If you want to know what Gulmarg is famous for, then without any doubt, it is the Gulmarg Gondola. Apart from being famous for the stunning views that this cable car ride offers, it also holds the record for being the second-highest and second-longest cable car in the world, which is nothing less than spectacular.
The Gondola allows people to view the entire hill station from a view that is different from the land, and this panoramic view will be etched in your memories forever. This two-stage gondola ride takes you from Gulmarg to Apharwat Peak, offering spectacular panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayan ranges and you can enjoy winter Gulmarg attractions and sports like skiing, snowboarding, and others.
Apart from adventure sports, it’s Gulmarg’s natural beauty, which includes meadows, frozen lakes, and the pine forests surrounding them, that attracts tourists.
Best Places to in Gulmarg: A Paradise for Nature and Adventure Lovers
Whether you are looking for attractions to see in Gulmarg or places to visit near Gulmarg, we are going to make sure that you have all the information that you need. Read about the must-visit attractions that you need to see in Gulmarg.
01
Apharwat Peak: A Snow Lovers' Paradise
Apharwat Peak is one of the most elevated places in Gulmarg, standing approximately 4390 meters high. For winter sports lovers, the peak covered in snow almost all year round is one of the dreams. It is accessed via the second leg of the gondola and is famous for skiing, snowboarding, and trekking. In summer, the green meadows and bright blue sky are invitations for nature walks and photography.
02
Khilanmarg: A Beautiful Meadow
Even if you are visiting Srinagar, you can take time out to see Khilanmarg as this place is located about 6 km from Gulmarg.
Khilanmarg is a beautiful meadow adorned with colorful wildflowers in summer and blanketed with thick snow in winter. The place offers breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat and other peaks of the Himalayan range. It is perfect for trekking, photography, and soaking in the peaceful beauty of nature.
03
Alpathar Lake: The Hidden Gem in Gulmarg
Nestled amid towering peaks is a high-altitude lake that remains frozen for the better part of the year. Located at a distance of about 42 km away from Gulmarg, which can be covered by cab service. This secret place in Gulmarg brings joy to trekkers and nature lovers alike. The trek to Alpathar Lake is moderately hard, but it rewards its visitors with a glance at the picturesque lake encircled by jagged mountains.
04
St. Mary's Church: A Colonial-Era Marvel
For people interested in history and architecture, a visit to St. Mary’s Church is a must. This 100-year-old church in Gothic style is a reminder of Gulmarg’s colonial heritage. The church, blanketed by lush greenery in summer and snow in winter, is a peaceful realm for visitors. You can take some time out of your day to visit this lesser-visited place of Gulmarg Kashmir tourism.
05
Strawberry Valley
Strawberry Valley in Gulmarg is an unknown location with strident meadows of rich green, bright strawberry fields, and stunning Himalayan views. A paradise for nature lovers, this valley offers some of the best views for Gulmarg sightseeing where you can also harvest fresh strawberries. This valley is void of noise and an excellent retreat to the magical, ethereal, and untouched mystery of Kashmir.
06
Maharani Temple: A Symbol of Spiritual Harmony
Gulmarg is even equipped with a famous religious site of the Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Maharani Temple is a famous place where Hindu devotees go to offer their prayers. Also known as the Rani Temple, it was constructed by Maharani Mohini Bai Sisodia and provides great views of the valleys below. It is a haven of calmness and devotion, attracting tourists and pilgrims.
07
Drung Waterfall: A Winter Wonderland
Drung Waterfall is a beautiful cascade located a short drive from Gulmarg that freezes in winter to create a surreal view. The frozen waterfall is a rare natural wonder, beckoning tourists in search of an offbeat experience. The rocky cliffs and the serene landscapes surrounding the waterfall make the Srinagar to Gulmarg distance valuable.
08
Outer Circle Walk: A Walk Through Paradise
The Outer Circle Walk in Gulmarg is a treat for slow walkers. The beautiful walking trail has the most picturesque sites of Nanga Parbat, Harmukh Peak, and the surrounding meadows. It is a perfect walk to witness the sunrise or sunset and absorb the serenity of nature.
09
Seven Springs
This serene natural outlet valley in Gulmarg is named after the seven springs located in it. You will find this magnificent place located on the top of the little hill Kongdori. Since the place offers majestic and enchanting panoramic views of the hill station, tourists flock to this place to get a picturesque view of Gulmarg as well as Srinagar.
What is the secret destination in Gulmarg?
As we have already mentioned in the article, there are numerous Gulmarg tourist places that people can see and explore in Gulmarg; however, the Alpathar Lake is one of the lesser-known yet spectacular attractions in Gulmarg.
Due to its remote location and challenging trek, it remains relatively unexplored compared to other tourist spots, making it a true hidden gem. The best part of the lake is that it remains frozen from November till mid-June, which is the main reason why this lake is also regarded as the ‘Frozen Lake’.
Is 1 day sufficient for Gulmarg?
Well, if you are visiting Srinagar and you make a plan to visit Gulmarg, then you can easily do the same as the distance between Srinagar and Gulmarg is only 51 km. Even though there are different places to see in Gulmarg, it is possible to explore the major attractions in one day. Here, we will also present you with a one-day itinerary for Gulmarg so that you can easily add Gulmarg to your Kashmir or Srinagar trip.
You start your day by enjoying a healthy breakfast in one of the local cafes and do not forget to try the Kashmiri Kahwa. After this, you need to take the Gulmarg Gondola ride that will take you to the Apharwat Peak. Explore the peak completely and try your hand at some winter sports.
After coming back, you can make your way to St. Mary’s Church and the Maharani Temple, which offer you more breathtaking views of the hill station. If you have time, you can also take a short drive to the Drung Waterfall, which turns into a marvelous frozen wonder in the winter. End your day by taking a peaceful and calming stroll along the Outer Circle Walk and capture memorable Gulmarg photos.
Which is better: Gulmarg or Pahalgam?
Gulmarg and Pahalgam, both in the lovely Valley of Kashmir, are perfect locations for tourists. However, if you do not have the time to explore both these places and need to pick one, then the decision ultimately comes down to the type of experience you are looking for.
- Gulmarg is preferred for snow activities, skiing, and adventure sports. It is a magical wonderland in winter with a beautiful ambiance.
- Pahalgam is a great place for an escape from nature, river views, and trekking. It is famous for places like Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Lidder River.
If you are specifically looking for snow and adventure, then Gulmarg is the perfect choice for you; however, if you are a seeker of lush green meadows and serenity, then you can make your way to Pahalgam.
Conclusion
Gulmarg is a spectacular destination with memories for every kind of traveler. Be it snow activities such as skiing, Gondola rides, discovering hidden lakes, or just immersing oneself in nature’s tranquillity, Gulmarg has it all. A trip to this magical land will spellbind its visitors and leave them hungering for more. Even if you do not have too much time, you can explore authentic Gulmarg and get the complete experience in one day by following the itinerary that we have presented you with in this guide. However, we recommend staying in Gulmarg for a few days to immerse yourself thoroughly in the beauty of this mesmerizing land.