First Time in Gulmarg? Here's Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Picture this: You step out of your room, and the first thing that hits you is the crisp mountain air. All around you, there’s nothing but white. Pure, untouched snow covering everything like a soft blanket. The mountains stand tall in the distance, and for a moment, you just stand there, taking it all in. This is Gulmarg, and trust me, it’s going to stay with you forever.
I still remember my first morning there. The snow was falling gently, and I was standing outside Gulmarg Ski Hill Resort, just watching the world wake up. It felt like stepping into a dream. If you’re planning your first trip to this beautiful place, let me share everything you need to know.
Why Gulmarg Should Be on Your Travel List
Gulmarg is not just another hill station. It’s where you go to feel alive again. Away from the honking cars and crowded streets, this place offers you something rare: peace. Real peace.
Whether you want to glide down snowy slopes, ride Asia’s highest cable car, or simply sit with a cup of kahwa watching the snow fall, Gulmarg welcomes you with open arms.
When Should You Visit Gulmarg
This is the question everyone asks, and honestly, there’s no wrong time to visit Gulmarg. Each season paints this place in different colors.
Winter months from December to March are when Gulmarg becomes a winter wonderland. The snow is thick, fresh, and perfect. I visited in January, and waking up to see fresh snow every morning felt magical. The entire landscape transforms into something out of a fairy tale. If you’ve never touched real snow before, this is your chance. If skiing has been on your bucket list, this is your time.
But here’s what they don’t tell you: it gets cold. Really cold. The kind of cold that makes your fingers numb even inside gloves. So pack smart.
April to June brings a different kind of beauty. The snow starts melting, revealing bright green meadows dotted with wildflowers. The weather is pleasant, perfect for long walks and photography. The air smells fresh, and you can actually spend hours outdoors without freezing.
Getting to Gulmarg
The journey starts from Srinagar. The airport there is your gateway to Gulmarg. From Srinagar, Gulmarg is about 50 kilometers away, which sounds close, but the mountain roads make it a two-hour journey.
Take a taxi from Srinagar. The drive itself is an experience. You’ll pass through small villages where life moves slowly, apple orchards that stretch for miles, and roads that wind up the mountains like ribbons. My driver stopped at a few viewpoints, and I’m so glad he did. Some of the best photos from my trip were taken on that drive.
Pro tip: Book your taxi in advance or ask your hotel to arrange one. It saves you the hassle of negotiating prices when you’re tired after a flight.
Where to Stay in Gulmarg
Let me be honest with you. Where you stay in Gulmarg matters. A lot.
After reading countless reviews and comparing options, I chose Gulmarg Ski Hill Resort, and it turned out to be the best decision of my trip.
The resort sits at the top of the hill, close to the Gondola station. This location is gold. Imagine waking up, having breakfast, and being at the cable car in just five minutes. No rushing, no long drives. Just convenience.
But what really made my stay special were the little things. The warmth of the staff who treated us like family. The view from my room window where I could see snow-covered peaks every morning. The cozy room that felt like a warm hug after a day in the cold.
They have different room types. I stayed in a Premium room, and it was perfect. Spacious enough, super clean, and the bed was so comfortable that I slept like a baby every night. The bathroom had hot water, which you’ll appreciate more than you think when it’s freezing outside.
The in-house restaurant became my favorite spot. The food tasted like home. After a long day of skiing and exploring, sitting there with hot soup and fresh rotis felt like heaven. Plus, eating at the resort saved us money and time.
If you’re looking for comfortable accommodation in Gulmarg that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, Gulmarg Ski Hill Resort is worth every penny.
Things You Must Do in Gulmarg
The Gondola ride is non-negotiable. This cable car takes you up to Apharwat Peak, and the views from there will leave you speechless. It’s divided into two phases. The first phase takes you to Kongdori, and the second phase goes all the way up to Apharwat.
I spent almost three hours up there, just sitting, looking at the mountains, breathing in the cold air. It’s peaceful in a way that’s hard to explain. You feel small but also connected to something bigger.
Skiing is the heart of Gulmarg. Even if you’ve never skied before, try it. Yes, you’ll fall. A lot. I did too. But that’s part of the fun. There are beginner slopes where instructors will teach you the basics. You can rent all the equipment there, so don’t worry about bringing anything.
The feeling of gliding down a snowy slope with mountains all around you? Unforgettable.
But Gulmarg isn’t just about action. Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing at all. Walk through the snow. Sit at a cafe with a hot drink. Watch locals go about their day. Pet the horses that stand ready for rides. Let the place seep into you slowly.
What to Pack for Gulmarg
If you’re visiting in winter, pack like you’re going to the North Pole. Heavy jackets, thermal wear, woolen socks, gloves, caps, mufflers. Layers are your best friend. I learned this the hard way when I stepped out in just a sweater on my first morning.
Good boots are essential. The snow can be deep, and you don’t want wet feet.
Even if you’re visiting in summer, carry a light jacket. Mountain weather is unpredictable, and evenings can get chilly.
Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses. The sun reflecting off white snow is harsh and can burn your skin.
Final Thoughts
Gulmarg changed something in me. Maybe it was the silence of the mountains. Maybe it was the purity of the snow. Or maybe it was just being away from everything, surrounded by nature in its rawest form.
Standing there in the snow, outside Gulmarg Ski Hill Resort, watching the sun set behind the peaks, I felt grateful. Grateful for the journey, for the experience, for the memories I was creating.
If you’re planning your first trip to Gulmarg, go with an open heart. Let the place surprise you. Let it show you a different pace of life. And most importantly, let yourself slow down and truly experience every moment.
Pack your warmest clothes, book a comfortable place to stay, and get ready for an adventure that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Gulmarg is waiting for you, and trust me, it’s worth every bit of the journey.