If you are looking for the best places to visit in Gulmarg, start with the Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Golf Course, Khilanmarg, Alpather Lake, and Drung Waterfall. These are the top attractions that most visitors enjoy, but there are many more beautiful places worth adding to your trip.
Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kashmir. Some people come here for snow. Others come for skiing. Many simply visit to enjoy the mountains, forests, meadows, and fresh air. If skiing in Gulmarg , the you should visit Gulmarg in the peak winters to enjoy skiing. The good thing about Gulmarg is that it is not just a winter destination. During summer, the hills turn green, flowers bloom across the meadows, and many walking trails open up. In winter, the same places get covered with snow and look completely different.
That is why planning your sightseeing in advance helps. Some places are best seen in summer. Others look their best during winter. Knowing where to go can save time and help you enjoy your trip more.
Places to Visit in Gulmarg: Quick Sightseeing List
If you are short on time, these are the most popular Gulmarg tourist places:
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Apharwat Peak
- Gulmarg Golf Course
- Khilanmarg
- Alpather Lake
- Kongdoori
- Drung Waterfall
- Strawberry Valley
- Seven Springs
- Maharani Temple
- St. Mary’s Church
- Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
- Ferozepur Nallah
- Ningle Nallah
- Outer Circle Walk
- Butterfly Collector’s Trail
- Children’s Park
- Kanchenjunga Museum
- Baba Reshi Shrine
- Tangmarg
1. Gulmarg Gondola
The Gulmarg Gondola is the most famous attraction in town. It is also one of the highest cable car rides in the world. The ride happens in two stages. The first stage takes visitors from Gulmarg to Kongdoori. The second stage goes higher to Apharwat Peak.
As the cable car climbs, you get amazing views of snow-covered slopes, forests, and mountain ranges. Many visitors say the Gondola ride becomes the highlight of their trip.
During peak winter months, queues can be long. It is a good idea to reach early in the morning. Before your visit, check Gulmarg Gondola online booking tips and the latest Gondola ride Gulmarg price information.
Best time to visit: December to March for snow, April to June for clear views. The ride is also popular during warmer months,
Approximate cost: Paid attraction. Ticket prices change regularly, so check the latest rates before your visit.
2. Apharwat Peak
Apharwat Peak is one of the highest places most tourists can reach in Gulmarg. The peak stands at around 4,390 metres above sea level. Snow often remains here for most of the year. Even during summer, you may still find patches of snow near the top.
On clear days, visitors can see parts of the Line of Control area from a distance. This is one reason many travellers are excited to visit Apharwat. The air is colder here than in Gulmarg town, so carry warm clothes.
Read the complere guide on Gulmarg Phase 2 height covers the area in detail.
Best time to visit: December to June.
3. Gulmarg Golf Course
Many people are surprised to learn that Gulmarg is home to one of the highest golf courses in the world. The golf course sits at an altitude of around 8,700 feet and has a long history that goes back to 1911. Even people who do not play golf often visit because the open green landscape is beautiful.
During summer, the course becomes one of the most photographed places in Gulmarg. You can walk around parts of the area and enjoy the mountain views.
Best time to visit: April to November.
4. Khilanmarg
Khilanmarg is one of the most beautiful meadows near Gulmarg. It is located around 6 kilometres from the main town. There is no road for cars. Most visitors either trek or take a pony ride. The route passes through open slopes and mountain views. During spring and summer, colourful flowers cover many parts of the meadow. The walk takes time, but the views make the effort worthwhile.
Best time to visit: May to September.
Approximate cost: Trekking is free. Pony rides are available at local rates.
5. Alpather Lake
Alpather Lake sits at the base of Apharwat Peak. The lake stays frozen for many months each year. During summer, the ice starts melting and the lake becomes easier to access. The mountains around it create a dramatic setting that photographers love.
Many travellers visit Alpather Lake after reaching Apharwat through the Gondola. The area feels peaceful because it is away from the busy market area.
Best time to visit: June to September.
6. Kongdoori
Most people pass through Kongdoori while taking the Gondola, but it deserves its own stop. This area sits between Gulmarg and Apharwat Peak. It offers great mountain views and wide open slopes.
In winter, skiers spend a lot of time here. During summer, visitors enjoy short walks and photography. Those interested in winter sports can go upto Kangdoori Phase 1 skiing, which is one of the most popular beginner-friendly ski areas in Gulmarg. If the weather is clear, spend some extra time here instead of rushing to the next station.
7. Drung Waterfall
Drung Waterfall has become one of the most visited places near Gulmarg. The waterfall is beautiful throughout the year, but winter is when it looks truly special. Large parts of the falling water freeze into huge ice formations.
Many visitors compare it to scenes from a movie. The waterfall is located near Tangmarg and can easily be added to a Gulmarg day trip.
Best time to visit: December to February for frozen views.
8. Strawberry Valley
Strawberry Valley is a peaceful place away from the crowds. The valley gets its name from the wild strawberries that grow here during the season. That small detail makes it different from many other meadows in Gulmarg.
Families often visit for short walks and photography. The area looks especially beautiful during summer when everything is green.
Best time to visit: May to August.
9. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
Nature lovers should keep some time for the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. The reserve is home to several animals and birds. While wildlife sightings are rare, the area supports species such as musk deer and snow leopard.
Many migratory birds also visit during different seasons. The forest trails make this place a good choice for people who enjoy nature.
10. Seven Springs
Seven Springs is known for its natural water springs and beautiful views. The area gets its name from seven small streams that flow from the hillside.
Many visitors stop here while exploring higher areas around Gulmarg. The view of the surrounding mountains is worth the short visit.
11. Outer Circle Walk
The Outer Circle Walk is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Gulmarg’s natural beauty. The trail passes through forests, open meadows, and mountain viewpoints. You do not need any special skills for this walk. It is perfect for travellers who want a quiet experience away from busy tourist spots.
12. Butterfly Collector’s Trail
This is one of the lesser-known places in Gulmarg. The trail passes through green areas where different butterfly species can be seen during warmer months. Nature photographers often enjoy this route. It is a good choice if you want to explore something beyond the usual sightseeing spots.
13. Children’s Park
Families travelling with young children often enjoy spending some time here. The park has open space where kids can run around and play. Parents can relax while enjoying the surrounding mountain views. It may not be a major attraction, but it can be a useful stop for families.
14. Kanchenjunga Museum
The Kanchenjunga Museum tells the story of mountaineering and military history in the region. Visitors can see old equipment, photographs, and displays related to mountain expeditions. It is a nice change from outdoor sightseeing and works well on rainy days.
15. Maharani Temple
This temple stands on a small hill and overlooks parts of Gulmarg. Many visitors come here for the peaceful setting and scenic views. The temple is also known because it appeared in several Bollywood films.
16. St. Mary’s Church
Built during the British period, St. Mary’s Church adds charm to Gulmarg’s landscape. The stone building looks especially beautiful when snow covers the surroundings. Many visitors stop here for photographs and a quiet walk.
17. Ferozepur Nallah
Ferozepur Nallah is a beautiful mountain stream surrounded by forests and hills. The flowing water and peaceful setting make it a great picnic spot. Many visitors come here to relax after a busy sightseeing day.
18. Ningle Nallah
Ningle Nallah is another scenic stream near Gulmarg. The clear water, green surroundings, and mountain backdrop make it popular among families. It is a simple place, but sometimes simple places leave the strongest memories.
19. Baba Reshi Shrine
Baba Reshi Shrine is an important religious site near Gulmarg. The shrine is dedicated to a respected Kashmiri saint. Many travellers visit for both spiritual reasons and the peaceful atmosphere.
20. Tangmarg
Tangmarg is the gateway to Gulmarg and often gets ignored by tourists. The town has local markets, food stalls, and scenic viewpoints. Many travellers stop here while travelling to or from Gulmarg. It is also the starting point for visiting Drung Waterfall.
Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg by Season
Choosing the right season can improve your trip.
Winter (December to March)
- Apharwat Peak
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Drung Waterfall
- Kongdoori
Winter is also the peak Gulmarg skiing season. This is when the town receives the most snow and attracts ski lovers from around the world. Many visitors come specifically to experience the famous snow quality in Gulmarg, which is often compared with some of the best ski destinations on the planet.
Summer (April to June)
- Golf Course
- Strawberry Valley
- Khilanmarg
- Seven Springs
Monsoon and Autumn (July to November)
- Alpather Lake
- Outer Circle Walk
- Biosphere Reserve
- Ferozepur Nallah
Conclusion
The best places to visit in Gulmarg are not just famous attractions like the Gondola or Apharwat Peak. Some of the best memories come from quiet streams, forest walks, hidden trails, and small moments spent looking at the mountains.
Whether you come for sightseeing, photography, or adventure, Gulmarg offers something special in every season. From green summer meadows to snow-covered winter slopes, every visit feels different.
You can cover many places in a day, but Gulmarg feels much better when you slow down. After all, when was the last time you sat quietly in the mountains and had nowhere else to be?
