Ski, Ride, Explore, Repeat: The Coolest Things to Do in Gulmarg 

Gulmarg will ruin other hill stations for you. 

Snow on the rooftops, pine trees swaying slowly in the cold air, and the smell of fresh kahwa drifting out from tiny roadside cafés, Gulmarg has that kind of atmosphere that makes people slow down without even realising it. Many visitors first land in Kashmir after booking cheap flights to Srinagar, but somehow the trip never feels complete without the road journey to Gulmarg. Around 50 km separates Srinagar from Gulmarg, a drive of nearly 1.5 to 2 hours. But it rarely feels like a commute; it’s more like watching the city dissolve into the mountains frame by frame.
The closer the car gets to the mountains, the quieter everything becomes. The air feels colder, the peaks suddenly look much closer, and before even reaching the town, conversations usually start shifting toward snow activities, Gondola rides, and all the little things to do in Gulmarg that make the place feel unforgettable. 

Gulmarg Gondola Ride (Apharwat Peak Experience)

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the top attractions in India and a must-do experience in Gulmarg. It takes you from green valleys to snow-covered peaks in two stages: 

Phase 1: Green valleys and pine forests

Phase 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak (a full snow zone)

For those searching for things to do in Gulmarg in December, the Gondola becomes the main highlight because of heavy snowfall and wide mountain views.

Tip: Gulmarg Gondola Ticket Booking (Best Practice)

• Book Early: Book your tickets online before the peak season, and it’s best to book 2–3 weeks in advance.
• Best Time: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy clearer views.
• Peak Season: December to February gets booked quickly. 
• Weather Check: Because rides depend on conditions.

Snow Activities in Gulmarg 

Snow in Gulmarg isn’t just scenery; it’s a full adventure zone. Boots sinking into fresh snow. The cold wind hits your face near Apharwat Peak. People often fall during beginner skiing lessons and start laughing immediately after. That’s why many of the most exciting activities in Gulmarg revolve around snow 

There are also safe snow activities in Gulmarg for beginners near Kongdoori, where instructors help with skiing, sledging, and snowboarding.

The best time to visit Gulmarg for skiing is usually from late December to February, when the slopes turn fully white. And honestly, even people who never planned to ski usually try it once after watching everyone else slide down snowy hills.

Strawberry Valley in Gulmarg 

Among the most unique things to do in Gulmarg, walking through Strawberry Valley feels slower and quieter than the busy Gondola side.

You’ll see:

• Horse riders pass slowly through the trails. 
• Small wooden homes appear between trees
• During summer, the grass looks extra green after light rain.
• There’s no loud tourist chaos here. Just mountain air and long walking paths.

This is also one of the calmer places to visit in Gulmarg if you want a break from crowded attractions. 

Also read: Best Places to Visit in Kashmir – Have You Explored Them All Yet?

Gulmarg in Winter vs Summer 

One strange thing about Gulmarg is that the same place feels completely different every few months.

Things to do in Gulmarg in winter 

Winter feels cinematic. People drink hot kahwa while snow falls outside cafés. Children play with snowballs near hotels. Pine trees disappear under thick white snow after fresh snowfall nights.

You can also enjoy popular things like: 

• skiing
• snowboarding
• Gondola rides
• snowmobile rides
• sledging

Sometimes snowfall can affect road conditions unexpectedly during peak winter months. Many visitors prefer booking a Gulmarg tour package so transport, hotel stays, and local travel feel much easier to manage.

Things to do in Gulmarg in summer

In Gulmarg, summer feels softer. Green meadows replace snowfields, and one of the most beautiful attractions is the Gulmarg Golf Course, which turns into a vast green landscape surrounded by mountains. Thanks to its pleasant weather and scenic surroundings, Gulmarg is often considered one of the best places to visit in India in summer in low budget for travelers looking to escape the heat and enjoy nature without planning an expensive international holiday. 

If you’re wondering what to do in Gulmarg besides skiing, this Gulmarg travel guide will help you explore its quieter summer side.

You can also try these summer experiences:

• trekking
• pony rides
• photography
• meadow walks

Also Read: Food Guide to Kashmir: What to Eat and Where

Best Things to Do in Gulmarg for Couples & Families

When it comes to things to do for couples in Gulmarg, the experience is less about rushing and more about slowing down together in the mountains.

For Couples (Romantic & Slow Experiences)

Couples usually enjoy:

• Gondola rides during winter snowfall
• Fog-covered windows in warm cafés
• Pine forest walks with scenic views

These moments make Gulmarg feel private and calm – perfect for couples looking for peaceful mountain time.

For Families (Easy & Enjoyable Experiences)

For Gulmarg sightseeing places with family, the best experiences are simple and accessible:

• Pony rides in wide open green meadows
• Snow play areas for kids
• Easy skiing zones for beginners with instructors to help 
• Simple walking trails through meadows with beautiful views 

Families usually prefer these relaxed activities because they balance fun, safety, and sightseeing in one trip.

1-Day vs 2-Day Gulmarg Itinerary

Gulmarg 1-Day Itinerary 

If you only have one day, these are the things to do in Gulmarg in 1 day that cover the main attractions while making the most of your time:

• Gondola ride to Apharwat Mountain
• Snow activities like skiing or sledging
• Café break with traditional kahwa 
• Quick exploration of nearby viewpoints

This plan is fast-paced but still gives you the best experience of Gulmarg in a short time.

2-Day Gulmarg Itinerary (Recommended) 

If you can stay longer, the things to do in Gulmarg in 2 days open up a much deeper experience of the mountains:

• Khilanmarg exploration for wide Himalayan views
• Leisure café hopping and slow travel moments
• Local pine forest walks
• More time for snow sports and skiing
• Sunset views over snow-covered valleys

With 2 days, Gulmarg stops feeling like a checklist and starts feeling like a place you actually live in for a while.

Also Read: Top 10 Hotels in Kashmir: Luxury Stays with Breathtaking Views

Quick Gulmarg Travel Table

What Is the Best Day and Time to Book a Flight for Gulmarg? 

Many people wonder, “What is the best day and time to book a flight for Gulmarg?“ Since Gulmarg is reached via Srinagar Airport, flights booked 4 to 8 weeks in advance often offer better availability and fares. Mid-week departures, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are a popular choice, while morning flights provide more time to reach Gulmarg the same day. 

Travel Tips That Actually Help

• Gloves matter more than expected near Phase 2.
• Morning Gondola rides usually have shorter queues.
• Snow boots are easy to rent locally.
• Booking hotels in Gulmarg early is helpful during the snowfall season.
• If you’re traveling during the colder months, opt for hotels in hill stations with heated indoor pools for a more comfortable stay after spending the day outdoors.  
• Travelers booking a Kashmir tour package often combine Gulmarg with Srinagar and Pahalgam.

Closing Note

Whether it’s a peaceful Gondola ride above snow-covered forests, warm kahwa after chilly winds, or simply walking beneath pine trees while clouds drift across the mountains, Gulmarg somehow makes even the smallest moments feel unforgettable 

If Gulmarg is not on your travel list yet, it probably should be. Save this guide for your trip, because this is one of those places you don’t just visit – you experience it.

And if your next trip is already on your mind and it’s an international one, you can explore Akbar Travels’ online visa service to make your travel planning simple and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions: Things to Do in Gulmarg

What activities can be done in Gulmarg?
It depends on the season. In winter, you can enjoy skiing and go snowboarding, and in summer, you can see pony rides and easy walks around the meadows. 

What is Gulmarg famous for?
Gulmarg is known for the Gondola ride and skiing. The snow activities and those wide Himalayan meadows just make it even better. 

How many days are sufficient for Gulmarg?
Usually, 1 day covers the main highlights, but 2 days are better if you want to explore Gulmarg without rushing. 

What is famous in Gulmarg to buy?
Popular items include Kashmiri handicrafts, woollen shawls, wooden carvings, and saffron products, which are commonly bought as souvenirs. 

What is the best gift from Kashmir?
Kashmiri saffron, Pashmina shawls, and dry fruits are widely considered some of the best gifts to take back. 

What should I wear in Gulmarg?
Warm layered clothing is best in winter, like jackets, gloves, woollen caps, and thermal wear. 

What to do in Gulmarg except the Gondola?
You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, Strawberry Valley walks, pony rides, and café experiences depending on the season.  

Is Gulmarg called Mini Switzerland?
Yes, Gulmarg is often called the “Mini Switzerland of India” due to its snow-covered meadows and scenic Himalayan mountain views. 

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