Things to do in Gulmarg

When we talk about the things to do in Gulmarg, our bucket list gets overloaded with fun, thrill, and excitement! Gulmarg is an exquisite place that remains snow-covered for the most part of the year. The snow-capped mountains, beautifully laid out meadows, and water streams create a breathtaking view that is a treat to the eye.

There are plenty of adventure things to do in Gulmarg. Skiing, sledding, trekking, etc. are some of the favourite tourist activities here. Although it is more popular for winter activities, there is also a plethora of sightseeing opportunities in the region. So, while you are preparing your itinerary, here are some of the popular Gulmarg things to do.

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1. Skiing in Apharwat Peak

The peak of Mount Apharwat has some of the best adventure things to do in Gulmarg. One of them is skiing. Every year hundreds of adventurers and winter sports lovers gather here to have a great time skiing. It is also the best place to ski in India.

For beginners, three slopes are available which an expert instructor guides. You can hire one of them for a day or a week and learn to ski at the magnificent mountaintop. It is one of the most adored Gulmarg things to do among the veteran skiers. The steep and smooth gradient of the slopes creates an ideal place for skiing and snowboarding.

2. Riding a Gulmarg Gondola

( Gandola cable car in Gulmarg Kashmir India during the winter season. )

Do you want to add a little more thrill while enjoying the best things to do in Gulmarg? Take a ride on a Gulmarg Gondola. It is a two-tiered ride. The first phase will take you to Kongdori, situated at an elevation of 2600 m. On the second phase of this journey, you will arrive at Apharwat Peak, which has an elevation of 3980 m. It is also the place, where you will find the best tourist activities in Gulmarg.

3. Golfing on Second Highest Golf Course

One of the fun and relaxing tourist activities in Gulmarg is trying hands on golf. Gulmarg Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course that is spread over an area of 7505 yards. As you put your feet on this magnificent golf course, you will have a feeling of being at the top of the world, because it is also the world’s second highest golf course.

( A view of the golf court from the top of Pari Mahal. )

The verdant meadows and the comely views of distant mountains will make you feel relaxed. Very few crowds and no hustling and bustling noises of vehicles. Just you, having a great time with the best Gulmarg things to do.

4. Trek to Alpather Lake

The magical charm of this lake invites numerous tourists to trek through the mountainous routes and witness its beauty. This lake is located at the foot of twin Apharwat Peak, and the trek from Kongdori to Alpather Lake is one of the best things to do in Gulmarg.

From Kongdori, it is about 4 km and as you start your trekking journey, you will see the change in the environment. The more you come closer to the lake, the more soothing it becomes. For the most part of the year, it remains frozen. Huge chunks of ice float around that add sparkle to its nature. After exploring the valley with all the Gulmarg things to do, it is a perfect place to relax.

Suggested Read: Places to visit in Gulmarg

5. Exploring Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

For a perfect family holiday, exploring the rich diversity of this region is one of the best tourist things to do in Gulmarg. It is home to various species of flora and fauna, and a haven for photographers and nature lovers. This biosphere reserve is located 48 km from the capital city and is elevated at 2400 m above sea level.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reverse — ( A view of Mount Apharwat, Gulmarg, Kashmir as seen from the Biosphere Reserve below )

It is a shelter for many wild animals like Himalayan musk deer, red fox, brown bear, etc. and the more you go deeper into exploring it, the more you will be amazed. It also houses other adventure things to do in Gulmarg, such as bird watching. Every year thousands of migratory birds make a visit to this comely region and watching them flying and twittering is an experience of a lifetime.

Suggested Read: How to Reach Gulmarg

6. Riding a Pony to Khilanmarg

This gorgeous valley offers a tranquil and calm atmosphere with some of the most exciting and adventurous things to do in Gulmarg. This valley lacks a motorway and the only way to witness its environment is by either foot or riding a pony. Since we suggest you enjoy a pony ride, it will take you through the magnificent views of landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and tall deodar trees. Moreover, the vibrant flowers will be your entourage for a blissful journey.

7. Clicking Instagram Worthy Pictures in Ningle Nallah

The picture perfect scenery of this valley invites countless tourists to have a great time doing the popular tourist activities in Gulmarg. The snowy peaks, vibrant flowers, lush meadows, and water streams are some of the things that visitors crave, and this valley has it all.

It is an ideal location to enjoy a picnic with your family or friends. The place also offers couples to enjoy some of the romantic things to do in Gulmarg. Moreover, you cannot resist taking some Instagram worthy pictures. The cool water streams formed by the melting of ice from Apharwat Peak create a picturesque sight that is a treat to the eye.

8. Trying Local Cuisine – Wazwan and Kahwa

Trying local Kashmiri cuisine is one of the special things to do in Gulmarg. Wazwan is a special platter that is served with 32 dishes, and in which, Gushtaba and Regan Josh are the highlights. All of the 32 dishes have their own specialty, and every bite you take will fulfil your entire excursion of Gulmarg.

Trying Kashmiri Cuisine — ( Trying local Kashmiri cuisine is one of the special things to do in Gulmarg )

As humans, we say that when our tummy is happy, we are happy. After having one of the most fulfilling Kashmiri dishes, Kahwa is what you need. It is a traditional Kashmiri tea prepared by boiling green tea leaves with saffron, cinnamon bark, and cardamom. Kashmiri roses are also added in order to enhance their aroma. It is served with sugar or honey and crushed nuts.

Having Kahwa after a heavy meal is important, as it helps digestion of the food. And it is a great way to end exploring the best Gulmarg things to do.