Gulmarg is known as the best ski destination in Kashmir and the Himalayas, and for good reason. It receives the most snowfall in India, with fresh powder regularly falling throughout the season. The gondola ride to the top of the mountain offers stunning views of the white-capped pine trees below.
With its world-class skiing terrain, stunning Himalayan scenery, and abundance of fresh powder, Gulmarg offers an unparalleled skiing experience.
The best way to reach Gulmarg will depend on your starting point. Here are some ways to reach this skiing haven tucked inside one of the many folds of the mighty Himalayas:
By Flight
The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar Airport (SXR), which is located about 56 kilometers away. There are several airlines that offer direct flights to Srinagar from major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From Srinagar Airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Gulmarg. It journey will take close to 2 hours.
By Train
There is no railway station in Gulmarg; the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT), which is located about 290 kilometers away. From Jammu Tawi Railway Station, you can take a taxi or bus to Gulmarg. The journey takes about 6-7 hours. You can also fly from Jammu to Srinagar.
(Note: The road from Jammu to Srinagar is often closed down as a result of winter weather during this season. If this happens, you can book a flight from Jammu to Srinagar.)
By Road
Gulmarg is also well-connected by road to major cities in Kashmir, such as Srinagar and Pahalgam. There are frequent buses and taxis that ply between these cities and Gulmarg. The journey from Srinagar to Gulmarg is close to 56 kms and takes about an hour and a half. The road from Srinagar to Gulmarg is a stunning drive up out of the Kashmir Valley. Shared cabs will work out to be lower in cost than private cabs. Both are easily available. Buses run frequently from both Sonmarg and Srinagar as well as several other nearby towns.
(Note: Make sure that the price you negotiate for a taxi includes Gulmarg as your final destination. Sometimes, cabs will drive you up to Tangmarg, a town 39km from Srinagar and request you to shift to another cab more suited for the final snowy ascent for an additional cost which is also quite high.)
Whichever mode of transport you choose, the journey to Gulmarg is absolutely stunning. The road winds through the picturesque Kashmir Valley, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows. Once you arrive in Gulmarg, you will be greeted by the warm hospitality of the locals and the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.
Hope you see you on the ski slopes soon!
