The Gulmarg gondola ride is a spectacular cable car journey that transports visitors from Gulmarg to Kongdori, and even higher to Apharwat Peak. This gondola ride in Gulmarg covers a distance of about 5 kilometers, offering an exhilarating experience as it ascends to impressive elevations. The ride takes you through lush green meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks, providing a unique perspective of the stunning Kashmir landscape. Each phase of the gondola offers different scenic views, making it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
What sets the Gulmarg gondola ride apart from other cable car rides around the world is its unique combination of height, scenery, and the surrounding natural environment. The gondola ride offers breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal range and the lush valleys below, creating a picturesque backdrop that changes with the seasons, especially during the ski season in Gulmarg.
The Cable car in Gulmarg are equipped with safety features and provide comfortable seating, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views. For all types of visitors, Gulmarg gondola ride promises an unforgettable experience.
Booking your Gulmarg gondola tickets online is a straightforward process that can save you time and help you avoid long queues. First, visit the official website or authorized travel agencies like Travel My Country that offer tickets for the Gulmarg gondola ride. You will need to select the date of your visit and choose between phase 1 and phase 2 or both of the gondola ride. Once you make your selection, you can proceed to add the number of tickets you need, filling in the required personal details for each visitor. Here is the Gulmarg gondola booking link
After confirming your selection, you will be prompted to make the payment. Ensure that you have a reliable internet connection, and use a secure payment method to protect your financial information. Once the payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email along with your tickets. It is not necessary to keep a printed copy of your tickets you can show the soft copy of your tickets, as you will need to present them at the boarding point for the Gulmarg gondola phase. Following these steps ensures a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your adventure in Gulmarg.
Besides online platforms, there is no other options to book Gulmarg gondola tickets. The previous ticket counters near the gondola base station are no longer operational. This shift to online ticketing ensures a smoother experience, especially during peak tourist seasons, by eliminating long queues and reducing wait times. To secure your spot and save time, it’s highly recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance.
To avoid long queues when booking tickets for the Gulmarg Gondola, it’s best to plan your visit during the off-season, as the peak season often sees a surge in tourist numbers. Another effective strategy is to book your tickets online well in advance, ideally several days before your visit. This allows you to secure your tickets and plan your Kashmir trip according to your itinerary. For booking, you can visit the Travel My Country website.
The Gulmarg Gondola usually experiences fewer visitors during the off-season, from July to October. However, during the winter months, there is typically a large influx of tourists, making it difficult for many visitors to book their tickets.
Mary’s Shoulder is third phase of Gulmarg gondola established in 2011.Mary’s Shoulder features 90 chairlifts that connect Kongdoori Mountain to the summit. The average duration of a ride on the chairlifts is approximately 12 minutes. The gentle slopes of Mary’s Shoulder provide excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, making it a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts. This phase is not open for normal tourists or visitors it usually remain open during the winter months and only advanced skiers and snowboarders can utilize these chairlifts. Mary’s Shoulder is situated at an altitude of 3598 meters (11,805 feet), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
Gondola phases | Timing slots | Ticket Price |
---|---|---|
Phase 1 | Slot 1: 9:00 am to 11:00 am Slot 2: 11:15 am to 1:15 pm Slot 3: 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm | Rs. 810 per person |
Phase 2 | Slot 1: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Slot2 : 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm | Rs. 1110 per person |
Operating Hours | 09:00 am to 3:30 pm (subject to weather conditions) | 09:00 am to 3:30 pm (subject to weather conditions) |
Tips | Pre-book tickets to avoid queues. Wear warm clothing and comfortable footwear. | Pre-book tickets to avoid queues. Wear warm clothing and comfortable footwear. |
Required Time | 2-3 hours for the full experience | 2-3 hours for the full experience |
The Gulmarg Gondola ride operates in two phases, and the timings can vary slightly depending on the season and weather conditions.
Understanding the timing of the Gulmarg gondola ride is essential for planning your trip effectively. The gondola operates daily, but its timings may vary depending on the season. Generally, the first phase of the gondola ride opens around 9 AM and continues until around 3:30 PM. However, during peak tourist seasons, such as winter and summer, these hours may be extended to accommodate the influx of visitors.
The Gulmarg Gondola is divided into two main phases, each with its own operating hours. Phase 1 typically operates from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, taking visitors from Gulmarg to Kongdoori. Phase 2, which ascends from Kongdoori to Apharwat, also starts at 9:00 AM and runs until around 3:30 PM. However, these hours can fluctuate based on weather conditions and maintenance schedules. Additionally, the timing for Phase 1 is divided into three slots: Slot 1 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Slot 2 from 11:15 AM to 1:15 PM, and Slot 3 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.
Phase 2 is divided into two slots: Slot 1 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and Slot 2 from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. When booking tickets, you will need to select your desired slot.
Phase 1 is generally more popular among casual tourists and families, while Phase 2 attracts adventure seekers, experienced skiers, and those looking for more dramatic, high-altitude views.
The best time to enjoy the Gulmarg gondola ride depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. For skiing enthusiasts, the winter months from December to March are ideal, as the slopes are blanketed in fresh snow, creating perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. During this time, the gondola ride offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape, making it a picturesque adventure.
Alternatively, if you prefer lush greenery and clear skies, visiting during late spring to early summer, from April to June, is recommended for a different perspective of the resort. The meadows bloom with vibrant wildflowers, and the temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities. The ride during this season allows you to enjoy the stunning vistas of the Himalayas without the winter chill.
During the Gulmarg Gondola ride, visitors can expect a breathtaking journey through the stunning landscapes of Gulmarg.
Before starting your Gulmarg Gondola ride, make sure you have enough memory on your mobile phone, as this ride will offer countless photo opportunities to capture the magic of this extraordinary journey. Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenic views that unfold before your eyes. The journey begins with a gentle ascent, as the gondola glides smoothly over the lush green forests dotted with colorful flowers and traditional Gujjar Bakarwal huts, locally known as ‘Kotha.’ As you ascend higher, the landscape transforms dramatically, revealing the majestic Pir Panjal mountain range. The panoramic views of the valleys below and the snow-capped peaks in the distance create a stunning visual experience that is truly unforgettable.
Once you reach Kongdori and Apharwat via the Gulmarg gondola, a world of adventure awaits you. At Kongdori, visitors can engage in various activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding during the winter months. The gentle slopes are perfect for beginners, while more experienced skiers can challenge themselves on the steeper runs. In addition to winter sports, Kongdori is also a beautiful spot for hiking, pony riding and enjoying picnics in the summer.
Moving on to Apharwat, the higher elevation offers even more exhilarating opportunities. Here, you can indulge in advanced skiing and snowboarding on the challenging slopes, or simply revel in the breathtaking views from the peak. Also you can walk to the famous frozen Lake known as the Alpather Lake.The area is also known for its stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
While riding the Gulmarg ropeway, there are several important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, always follow the guidelines provided by the gondola staff, as they are there to ensure your safety. Make sure to board the gondola in an orderly manner, and avoid any unnecessary movements while the gondola is in motion. It’s also advisable to dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly between the base station and higher altitudes, especially in winter.
Additionally, be sure to carry your Gulmarg gondola ticket with you at all times, as you will need to present it when boarding
There are several attractions near the Gulmarg Gondola. One of them is the historic St. Mary’s Church, located near the gondola base station, which adds a touch of culture to your visit. Other nearby attractions include the Rani Mandir, Gulmarg Golf Course, Baba Reshi Shrine, Shrunz Waterfall, Drung Waterfall, Khilanmarg, Bota Pathri, and many other scenic spots and points of interest.
The Gulmarg Gondola is a cable car ride that takes visitors to breathtaking heights, offering panoramic views of Gulmarg’s snow-covered peaks and lush meadows. It’s one of the top attractions in Kashmir.
You can book tickets online through the official Gulmarg Gondola website or authorized travel agents. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
The ticket prices vary depending on the phases. For Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kungdoor), the cost is ₹810 per person, and for Phase 2 (Kungdoor to Aparwath), it is ₹1010 per person. Prices may vary, so check the official website for updates.
Yes, prior booking is highly recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter and summer holidays.
Yes, prior booking is highly recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter and summer holidays.
The Gondola ride is divided into two phases:
Yes, children are allowed. However, for safety, it’s recommended that children are accompanied by adults at all times.