What’s the Best Time to Visit Gulmarg: A Detailed Guide for You

Gulmarg is a captivating holiday destination that can be visited at any time of the year. In every season, this place offers different things for visitors that add to its charm. If you’re a thrill seeker and want to indulge in adventurous sports like skiing and snowboarding, the winter season is the right choice for you. On the other hand, summers are ideal for those who want to try activities like trekking, golfing, etc. Similarly, monsoon is considered the best time to explore the lush green meadows of Gulmarg and admire its natural beauty. 

Dotted with Chinar trees, snow-capped mountain peaks and cascading rivers, Kashmir is fondly called the ‘heaven on earth’. This Indian state is known for being home to some of the most beautiful hill stations in the country, and Gulmarg is one of them. During the British Raj, this picturesque town used to serve as a summer retreat, and its popularity only increased over time. Currently, Gulmarg, Kashmir, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India, known for its natural beauty, adventure activities and vibrant culture.

Before you start making the list of sightseeing places in Gulmarg, there are several other things you need to figure out. Some of these include the ideal time to plan a trip and how to reach Gulmarg.  

How to Reach  

Being a popular tourist destination, Gulmarg is easily accessible from other parts of the country. Here’s how you can get there: 

By Air: The easiest way to reach Gulmarg is by flying to Srinagar Airport, which is located at an approximate distance of 55 km. This airport is well-connected to major Indian cities, including Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai, with regular flights operated by various airlines. After reaching here, you can hire a private taxi to get to Gulmarg.  

By Train: Currently, Gulmarg does not have its own railway station. But if you choose to travel by train, you can reach Jammu Tawi Railway Station which is the nearest at a distance of 290 km. You can find several trains to this railway station from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc. Once reached there, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to Gulmarg.  

By Road: You can also choose to travel to Gulmarg by road. This hill town offers seamless connectivity to nearby cities like Srinagar, Jammu, etc. through well-maintained roads.  

Best Season to Visit Gulmarg 

Gulmarg is a fascinating place that offers different things at different times of the year. So, it is almost impossible to say which is the best season to visit Gulmarg. Here is a detailed explanation of what you can expect in each season.

Winter – (October to March) 

Weather Conditions 

During these months, the average temperature ranges between -4°C and 11°C. Like all other parts of the country, October marks the beginning of the winter season in Gulmarg. At this time, days are cool and pleasant, while evenings become quite chilly. As time passes, the temperature starts dropping, and this hill town starts experiencing stronger winds, followed by snowfall. By December, the entire town turns into a winter wonderland, blanketed in thick sheets of glistening snow. So, this is considered the best time to visit Gulmarg for snowfall.

What to Expect? 

Winter months are generally considered the peak season for Gulmarg, Kashmir tourism. This is the time when visitors from all parts of the world flock here to witness the snowy beauty of Gulmarg. For thrill-seekers, winters are the best time to visit Gulmarg, as they can indulge in all kinds of adventure sports at this time. From skiing to snowboarding, snow scooter riding to ice skating, the list of options is endless.

Places to Visit: 

Strawberry Valley 

Visiting Hours: 07:00 AM – 06:00 PM 

Entry Fee: Not applicable 

Alpather Lake 

Visiting Hours: No specific timings 

Entry Fee: Not applicable 

Alpharwat Peak 

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM 

Entry Fee: Not applicable 

The Ski Resort 

Visiting Hours: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM (phase 1) 10:00 AM – 03:00 PM (phase 2) 

Entry Fee: INR 370 per person (phase 1) and INR 480 per person (phase 2) 

Insider Tips: 

• The winter season is considered the best time to visit Gulmarg for snow, and during these months, the town experiences sub-zero temperatures. So it is important to pack plenty of warm clothes, gloves and comfortable shoes.

• You should also carry some good-quality thermals, wind/waterproof jackets and ankle-length snow boots to protect yourself from the harsh weather.  

• Since this is the peak tourist season, it is advised to make all the bookings well in advance, be it accommodation, travel tickets or anything else.  

• During this season, roads can get blocked sometimes due to snowfall or occasional snowstorms. It is always important to check the weather forecast and real-time traffic updates for the route you’ll be taking.

Summer – (April to June) 

Weather Conditions 

As April starts, the hill station starts experiencing a rise in average temperature. During these months, the temperature fluctuates between 13°C and 29°C. Days are sunnier and far more pleasant as compared to winter months. For those who can’t handle extremely cold weather and prefer warmer climates, this is the best time to visit Gulmarg, Kashmir.

What to Expect? 

With plenty of sunshine and comfortable weather, this time is ideal for sightseeing as well as certain adventure sports. Gulmarg is home to the world’s highest green golf course, which is situated at an elevation of 2,650 meters (8,690 ft) above sea level. This 18-hole golf course is known for its rolling landscapes which lead to a unique golfing experience. Other than this, you can also enjoy activities like hiking, trekking, etc., in the summer season. 

Places to Visit  

Gulmarg Golf Course 

Visiting Hours: 08:30 AM to 10:30 PM 

Entry Fee: INR 800 for Indians and INR 1200 for foreign nationals  

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve 

Visiting Hours: 10:30 AM to 04:00 PM 

Entry Fee: INR 500 per person 

Children’s Park 

Visiting Hours: 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM 

Entry Fee: INR 20 per person 

Insider Tips: 

• Although this is the summer season, temperatures can still drop in Gulmarg, leading to breezy evenings and chilly nights. It is best to keep enough warm clothes along with regular ones.  

• The summer season is the best time to go to Gulmarg and enjoy activities like trekking, golfing, etc. So, it is essential to pack all the required accessories, like trekking shoes, etc.

• For summer-specific activities, it can get a little difficult to arrange last-minute bookings. While planning a trip, it is recommended to make all the arrangements beforehand.  

Monsoon – (July to September) 

Weather Conditions 

Like the majority of hill stations, Gulmarg, Kashmir, also turns into a mystical affair in the monsoon season. During these months, the average temperature ranges between 18°C and 35°C. Although this town doesn’t experience heavy downpours, occasional drizzles are enough to make it even more beautiful. With pleasant days with no sign of humidity, Gulmarg enthrals a large number of nature lovers at this time.

What to Expect? 

If you’re someone who loves the combination of rain and hills, this is the best season to visit Gulmarg. Although you can’t enjoy a few sports activities due to slippery surfaces, there are plenty of other things to do at this time. For example, you can go for nature walks and plan overnight camping. Nothing can beat the feeling of sipping some hot tea or coffee while admiring the rain-washed beauty of Gulmarg. Apart from this, you can also head out for sightseeing and learn more about the local culture.

Places to Visit: 

Maharaja Place 

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM 

Entry Fee: INR 30 per person 

St Mary’s Church 

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM 

Entry Fee: Not applicable 

Maharani Temple 

Visiting Hours: 06:00 AM to 09:00 PM 

Entry Fee: Not applicable 

Ningle Nallah 

Visiting Hours: No specific timing 

Entry Fee: Not applicable 

Insider Tips: 

• While visiting Gulmarg during the monsoon, it is recommended to pack wind/rainproof clothing and shoes along with an umbrella. Also, while heading out, always make sure that your camera, phone, and other devices don’t get exposed to rain.  

• In hilly areas, it gets a little difficult to move around the town during heavy rainfall. So it is suggested to avoid travelling at such times.  

• Since the tourist crowds start thinning in monsoon season, you’ll find plenty of good deals on accommodation, activities, etc. It is best to compare multiple options and take advantage of these affordable prices.

Wrapping it up! 

The best time to visit Gulmarg entirely depends on your personal preferences. This is an enchanting place that can be visited at any time of the year. Whether you’re aiming for a rejuvenating trip to experience the serenity of nature or a fun holiday filled with a lot of adventure, this hill town ticks all the boxes. All you need to do is figure out the kind of Gulmarg trip you want and embark on the journey.

 

FAQs

Which season offers the best weather for enjoying Gulmarg’s outdoor activities?

For outdoor activities like hiking, gondola rides, and sightseeing, the best season is late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is mild, the skies are clear, and trails are accessible without snow.

When can tourists experience the famous Gulmarg Gondola without long waits?

The off-peak months of April, early May, and September are great for shorter lines and less crowded gondola rides, giving tourists a more relaxed experience with stunning views.

Is it better to visit Gulmarg in winter for snow sports or in summer for nature?

It depends on your interest! Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summer months are perfect for trekking, golfing, and enjoying alpine meadows in full bloom.

How does the tourist crowd vary with seasons in Gulmarg?

Winter and peak summer holidays bring in many tourists, making Gulmarg lively but crowded. For a quieter trip, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons like April or September, when the weather is still pleasant but fewer tourists are around.

Are accommodations and services fully operational throughout the year?

Most hotels and resorts operate year-round, but some may close during heavy snowfall months or off-season. It’s best to book in advance during winter and summer peaks to ensure availability.