More spectacular than you can ever imagine, Gulmarg has been featured in Bollywood films like Shahrukh Khan’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Shahid Kapoor’s Haider. Nestled in Kashmir’s lush valleys, Gulmarg leaves visitors awestruck year-round. While winter draws adventure enthusiasts for snow sports, summer reveals Gulmarg’s true character as the “Meadow of Flowers,” with bluebells and daisies carpeting the landscape.
Beyond regular sightseeing, summer in Gulmarg offers authentic Kashmiri cuisine, cozy accommodations, and diverse outdoor activities. Here’s why you should plan your summer holiday in this breathtaking destination.
1. Gulmarg Gondola Ride – Breathtaking Spectacle
Asia’s highest and longest cable car, the Gulmarg Gondola at 10,000 feet altitude, ranks as the world’s second-highest cable car line. This iconic experience is divided into three phases:
- Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdori Station
- Phase 2: Kongdori Station to Kongdori Top
- Phase 3: Chair Lift from Kongdori Top to Mary Shoulder
Why visit in summer? Enjoy clear views of the mighty Himalayas, lush forests, and meadows in full bloom.
Details:
- Best time: March to June
- Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Tickets: Phase 1 – ₹740 per adult | Phase 2 – ₹950 per adult | Chairlift – ₹270 per adult
Explore Gulmarg Tour Packages to Plan your Trip
2. Khilanmarg – Vistas of the Great Himalayas
This gorgeous valley offers both tranquility and adventure opportunities. Khilanmarg is among the beautiful places to visit in Gulmarg for spectacular Himalayan views. During spring, wildflowers carpet the landscape, creating a magnificent sight. Enjoy a pony ride through the serene surroundings for an unforgettable experience.
Why visit in summer? Clear skies provide stunning views of Himalayan peaks, while blossoming flowers transform the landscape.
Details:
- Best time: March to June
- Hours: Open all day
- Entry: Free
3. Apharwat Peak – For Trek Lovers
At 4,500 feet, Apharwat Peak offers the perfect setting for picnics and outdoor activities. It’s ideal for trekking, horse riding, and ridge climbing. Beginners can polish their skills here while experienced trekkers enjoy challenging trails.
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Why visit in summer? Witness the remarkable transformation as snow gives way to lush green valleys. See the stream originating from the peak and flowing into the Jhelum river.
Details:
- Best time: March to October
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Entry: Free
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4. Golf Course – Treat for Golfers
The Gulmarg Golf Course, famous as the world’s highest green golf course, is perfect for both golf enthusiasts and nature lovers. Built in 1911 by the British and redesigned in 2011, it has become a leading golfing destination in India.
Surrounded by alpine mountains and meadows, it offers a unique summer golfing experience. Novices can hire equipment and work with trainers to learn the sport.
Why visit in summer? Experience the golf course in full bloom with warm, pleasant weather perfect for a round.
Details:
- Best time: March to June
- Hours: 8:30 AM to 10 PM
- Entry: Indians – ₹800 | Foreigners – ₹1,200
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5. Biosphere Reserve – Perfect for Bird Watchers
The Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve showcases Himalayan flora and fauna across 180 square kilometers. This natural wonder houses rare bird species including Blue Rock Pigeon, Snow Cock, European Hoopes, Kashmir Roller, Griffon Vulture, and Jungle Crow.
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot brown bears, snow leopards, black deer, and the Kashmiri stag. Follow safety guidelines for a memorable visit.
Why visit in summer? Animals thrive in warm weather, and you’ll witness colorful birds against the backdrop of dense conifer forests.
Details:
- Best time: April to June
- Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
- Entry: Free
6. Alpather Lake – Natural Beauty at Its Best
Alpather Lake, situated 4,500 feet above sea level, provides a stunning backdrop for quality time with loved ones. Surrounded by meadows, it’s ideal for photographers and those seeking solitude. Activities include horse riding, trekking, and ridge climbing.
Why visit in summer? The lake is framed by lush trees and blossoming flowers, creating a perfect summer retreat.
Details:
- Best time: April and May
- Hours: Open all day
- Entry: Free
7. Children’s Park – Natural Euphoria
This impeccably designed park keeps young visitors entertained while adults enjoy nature’s glory. With gorgeous flowers and various activities, it’s paradise for all ages. Enjoy zorbing, games, horse riding, and hot air ballooning. The picture-perfect setting includes an artificial lake and opportunities for bird watching.
Why visit in summer? Children can enjoy the warm weather, clear skies, and cool breeze while playing outdoors.
Details:
- Best time: March to June
- Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Entry: ₹20
8. Baba Reshi Shrine – Religious Marvel
This ancient shrine on the slopes between Gulmarg and Tangmarg is dedicated to Baba Reshi, a Muslim saint and scholar who served as a courtier during King Zan-ul-Abidin’s reign. The shrine blends Mughal and Persian architectural styles and offers free meals (langar) to visitors.
The area where Baba Reshi’s grave rests, called “Noor Khwan,” is covered with a satin cloth featuring Quran embroidery and enclosed in glass.
9. Nagin Valley – Pristine Beauty
Reopened to the public in 2012 after 22 years, this picturesque 10-kilometer stretch on the Gulmarg-Botapathri road delights trekkers and nature lovers. The valley, part of the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, features lush alpine meadows and blue pines where visitors might spot musk deer, leopards, red foxes, and Kashmir stags.
Why visit in summer? Experience the pristine, undisturbed beauty with lush meadows and blue pines at their vibrant best.
Details:
- Best time: March to June
- Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
- Entry: Free
Read Also: Reasons Why Kashmir Should be Your Next Holiday Destination
10. Ningle Nallah – Splash of Water
This stunning stream flows from the melting ice of Apharwat Peak and Alpather Lake during summer before merging with the Jhelum river near Sopore. The grassy surroundings make it ideal for families with children. Plan a picnic amidst pine trees and meadows of blossoming flowers.
Why visit in summer? Witness the gushing waters and surrounding meadows in full bloom.
Details:
- Best time: March to June
- Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM
- Entry: Free
11. Strawberry Valley – Juiciest Strawberries
This hidden gem offers emerald green fields dotted with red strawberries—a scene straight from a fairytale. Under clear blue skies, stroll through the plantations or enjoy a picnic surrounded by vibrant greenery.
Why visit in summer? Taste freshly harvested juicy strawberries at their peak ripeness.
Details:
- Best time: March to July
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Entry: Free
12. Lien Marg – Cozy Summer Retreat
At 8,700 feet, Lien Marg attracts honeymoon couples seeking quality time together. Dense pine forests and wildflowers bloom amid sloping meadows, creating a romantic atmosphere. It’s also a popular spot for picnics and trekking adventures.
Why visit in summer? Warm weather, clear skies, and a crisp breeze enhance the romantic ambiance.
Details:
- Best time: March to October
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Entry: Free
13. Kanchenjunga Museum – Honor the Indian Army
Originally a high-altitude warfare school, this museum commemorates the Indian Army’s first summit of Kanchenjunga in 1997. It displays mountaineering equipment, modern warfare gear, and tools used by the Indian Army in mountain operations, including exhibits from the Everest expedition. Visitors can learn about these specialized tools and their functions.
Why visit in summer? Comfortable touring conditions with warm, pleasant weather.
Details:
- Best time: Year-round
- Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (closed on national holidays)
- Entry: Free
Gulmarg truly lives up to its reputation as paradise on earth. Beyond these 13 reasons, countless other attractions make it a destination you’ll never want to leave. Summer visits offer the special pleasure of clear skies, warm weather, blossoming flowers, and lush green meadows.
Planning a Kashmir trip? Explore this Kashmir itinerary 5 days that includes Gulmarg and other magnificent destinations for a memorable experience.
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