DAY 1

Gulmarg Gondola

Gulmarg Gondola, the second longest and second highest cable car globally, stands as the primary attraction in Gulmarg. Split into two phases, it transports approximately 600 people per hour to and from Apharwat Mountain, the hub of winter sports activities in Gulmarg.

Phase 1 of Gulmarg Gondola transports individuals from Gulmarg Resort to Kongdoori Station (middle station), starting at 2,990 m with a vertical rise of 400 m. Every hour, it carries 1500 people to the height of 3100 m, providing access to several easy skiing runs. Phase 2 connects Kongdoori Mountain to Apharwat Peak, ascending 1,330 vertical meters to nearly 4,000m, accommodating 600 people per hour. Upon arrival at the station, a 30-minute trek leads to the mountaintop, offering views of the Line of Control (LOC).

DAY 2

Alpather Lake

Alpather Lake, nestled between the twin Apharwat Peaks in Gulmarg, is famously known as the Frozen Lake due to its complete freeze from November to June. A popular one-day trek starting from Gulmarg covers a distance of approximately 13km.

The moderately challenging one-day trek to Alpather Lake from Gulmarg follows the Gulmarg – Khilanmarg – Apharwat Ridge – Alpather Lake route. The lake transforms into a surreal frozen landscape during winters, with ducks walking on its surface. In the summer, the lake is surrounded by vibrant flowers and trees.

DAY 3

Apharwat Peak

Situated at an elevation of 4200 meters above sea level, Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg is a breathtaking location. Located near the Line of Control (LOC) with Pakistan, the region experiences heavy rainfall and remains snow-covered for a significant part of the year. Apharwat Peak is the epicenter for winter sports in Gulmarg.

Surrounded by snow-clad mountains and pristine white meadows, the area is not only an ideal honeymoon destination but also the most picturesque tourist spot in Srinagar.

DAY 4

Skiing in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, a hill town in Jammu and Kashmir, has gained popularity for its ski terrain. Suitable for both amateur and professional skiers, the region boasts several skiing operators and institutes providing tutelage.

Blessed with substantial snowfall, Gulmarg ranks alongside Utah and Niseko in terms of snowfall. Although the average annual snowfall is not precisely documented, estimates suggest around 14 meters, with a notable 20 meters in the year 2004.

DAY 5

Maharani Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the Maharani Temple in Gulmarg sits atop a small hillock, visible from all corners of the town. With its red roof against the green meadows, the temple, also known as Rani Temple or Mohineshwar Shivalaya, gained fame as the shooting location for the Bollywood song “Jai Jai Shiv Shankar.”

DAY 6

Drung Waterfall

The Drung Waterfall, a highly popular tourist attraction in the Tangmarg tehsil of Gulmarg, Baramulla, is a cascading waterfall surrounded by majestic mountains. Freezing completely during winter due to low temperatures, this frozen spectacle is a must-visit in the area.

DAY 7

Strawberry Valley

A hidden gem in Gulmarg, Strawberry Valley remains unexploited by tourism, retaining its natural beauty and charm. The emerald meadows adorned with budding red strawberries create a scene reminiscent of the Garden of Eden. During the summer season, ripe strawberries attract tourists for walks amidst scarlet and verdant plantations, offering an enchanting experience.

DAY 8

Ningle Nallah

Located 10 km from Gulmarg, Ningle Nallah is a mountain stream bordered by snow-capped mountains and lush green pastures. The water originates from the melting ice in Apharwat Peak and Alpather Lake, making it a popular spot for picnics and camping. The stream eventually joins River Jhelum after traversing mountains and valleys, making it an ideal destination for family outings.

DAY 9

St Mary’s Church

Standing tall for over a century, Saint Mary’s Church near the Golf Course in Gulmarg is a Victorian architectural marvel. Accessible only by trekking, the church is renowned for its stained glass artwork. During winter, the grey stone walls of St Mary’s church create a captivating contrast against the snow-covered surroundings.

DAY 10

Seven Springs

Seven Springs, a majestic stream with seven different outlets of water, is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Gulmarg and Srinagar valleys. Accessible via a gondola cable ride from the base of Apharwat mountain, this enchanting place offers sweeping vistas of snow-capped mountains and the blooming vale below.