Places to Visit in Gulmarg in Winter: Top Snow Attractions & Scenic Spots
The best places to visit in Gulmarg in winter include the Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Khilanmarg, St. Mary’s Church, Maharani Temple, Gulmarg Golf Course and Strawberry Valley. Together, these places offer snow-covered landscapes, exciting winter activities and some of the most beautiful mountain views in India. Read our complete guide to: Places to Visit in Gulmarg for more attractions around the hill station. When winter arrives, Gulmarg changes completely. Green meadows disappear under a thick white blanket of snow. Pine trees wear fresh snow, rooftops sparkle in the morning light and almost every corner looks like a postcard. Whether you love adventure or simply want to enjoy peaceful mountain views, Gulmarg has something for everyone. We have visited Gulmarg in different seasons, but winter always feels special. The silence after fresh snowfall, the sound of snow crunching under your boots and a warm cup of Kahwa after a cold day outside create memories that stay with you long after the trip ends. Why Visit Gulmarg in Winter? Winter usually lasts from December to March, with January and February bringing the heaviest snowfall. This is also the busiest season because travellers from across India and abroad come to enjoy skiing, snowboarding and the famous Gondola ride. If you are planning your holiday around snowfall, our guide to the Gulmarg skiing season explains when the snow arrives and when the season is at its best. The weather stays cold throughout the day. Temperatures often remain below freezing, especially during the night. If you carry warm clothes and waterproof shoes, exploring Gulmarg becomes comfortable and enjoyable. Many people visit only for skiing, but there is much more to see. Even if you never step onto a pair of skis, you can enjoy snowy forests, frozen landscapes, scenic viewpoints and peaceful walks. Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg in Winter 1. Gulmarg Gondola and Apharwat Peak The Gulmarg Gondola is the biggest attraction in winter. It is one of the highest cable cars in the world and takes you high into the snow-covered mountains. The first phase reaches Kongdoori, where many visitors enjoy snow activities and beginner-friendly skiing areas. The second phase climbs towards Apharwat Peak, nearly 4,200 metres above sea level. During winter, everything around you turns white. Snow-covered mountains stretch as far as you can see. If snowfall starts while you are at the top, the experience becomes even more magical. Watching soft snowflakes fall around you is something photographs can never fully capture. Before your visit, it is a good idea to read about the Gulmarg Gondola online booking process and understand the difference between Phase 1 vs Phase 2 so you can choose the right ticket. Quick Information Distance from Gulmarg Market: Starts within the town Time Needed: 2 to 4 hours Best Time to Visit: Morning for better visibility Entry Fee: Gondola tickets are charged separately for each phase. 2. Apharwat Peak Apharwat Peak is one of the most beautiful places in Gulmarg during winter. Thick snow covers the entire mountain, creating a landscape that looks untouched. This is also where many experienced skiers begin their runs. Even if you are not skiing, simply standing here and looking across the Pir Panjal range is worth the journey. On clear days, the views seem endless. Weather changes quickly at this altitude. Always check the conditions before travelling to the second Gondola phase. Quick Information Distance from Gulmarg: Accessible by Gondola Time Needed: 1 to 2 hours Best Time to Visit: Clear winter mornings Entry Fee: Included with Phase 2 Gondola ticket 3. Khilanmarg Khilanmarg looks very different in winter. The green meadow disappears beneath deep snow, creating a wide open playground for snow lovers. Many visitors come here for short snow walks, sledging and photography. If you enjoy peaceful places away from the busiest crowds, Khilanmarg is a lovely choice. The mountain views become even more impressive after fresh snowfall. Reaching Khilanmarg may involve walking through snow or taking a pony ride, depending on weather conditions. Quick Information Distance from Gulmarg: Around 6 km Time Needed: 2 to 3 hours Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon 4. Gulmarg Golf Course The Golf Course becomes completely different during winter. Instead of green grass, you will find a huge open field covered with soft snow. Families often come here to build snowmen, enjoy snowball fights and let children play freely. It is also one of the easiest places in Gulmarg to enjoy the snow without travelling to higher altitudes. If you visit after fresh snowfall, the scenery feels calm and almost untouched. Quick Information Distance from Gulmarg Market: Around 1 km Time Needed: 1 hour Entry Fee: Free for visitors exploring the area Best Time to Visit: Morning 5. St. Mary’s Church Covered in snow, St. Mary’s Church becomes one of the most photographed places in Gulmarg. The old stone building, colourful windows and snow-covered pine trees create a picture-perfect winter scene. The church is small, but its peaceful surroundings make it worth visiting. Many travellers stop here while walking through the town, especially during the morning when the area is quiet. Spend a few extra minutes outside and enjoy the calm atmosphere before moving to your next stop. Quick Information Distance from Gulmarg Market: Around 700 metres Time Needed: 30 to 45 minutes Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: Morning 6. Maharani Temple The Maharani Temple stands on a small hill overlooking Gulmarg. During winter, the red roof stands out beautifully against the white snow, making it easy to spot from many parts of the town. The short climb to the temple is worth the effort. From the top, you get wide views of snow-covered forests, hotels and mountain slopes. Visit early in the day when the weather is usually clearer and the paths are less crowded. Quick Information Distance from Gulmarg Market: Around 500 metres Time Needed: 30 to 45 minutes Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: Morning 7. Strawberry Valley Most
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