Gulmarg in Winter: Snow, Skiing, the Gondola and Where to Begin
Gulmarg is India's best-known ski resort and Kashmir's snow capital. What it is like from December to March, what to do, how to get there and how to plan your days.
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Quick answerGulmarg is Kashmir's snow capital, about 50 km from Srinagar at around 2,650 m. Snow usually covers the meadow from December or January to March. Things to do: skiing, the Gondola, sledging, snowmobiles and St Mary's Church. Stay at least one night to enjoy it properly.
In summer Gulmarg is a meadow of flowers; in winter it becomes one of the most famous ski slopes in Asia. Snow piles up on chalet roofs, the Gondola carries skiers towards Apharwat and the whole place smells of woodsmoke and kahwa.
Things to do in winter
- Skiing and snowboarding: beginner slopes near the meadow, big terrain from the Gondola. See learning to ski and skiing in Gulmarg.
- The Gondola: phase 1 to Kongdoori, phase 2 towards Apharwat. See the Gondola in winter.
- Sledging and snow play: see sledging.
- Snowmobiles: see snowmobile rides.
- St Mary's Church: a historic church on the meadow, beautiful in snow. See Christmas in Kashmir.
Getting there in winter
- About 1.5–2 hours from Srinagar in normal conditions.
- After heavy snow, Tangmarg to Gulmarg may need chains or 4x4 vehicles.
- Rent snow boots and coats in Tangmarg on the way.
- See winter roads and flights.
Weather
Days are often around 0–5°C and nights well below freezing, colder in January. Read the month guides for January and February.
A 2-day plan
- Day 1: arrive by late morning, Gondola phase 1, sledging, sunset at the church.
- Day 2: beginner ski lesson or snowmobile, lunch, return to Srinagar.
Where to stay
Book heated rooms early in peak season. See where to stay in Gulmarg in winter.
Plan your Gulmarg winter
We book heated stays, chains-ready cabs and ski lessons. Ask through Get My Travel Plan, or see the winter 4 nights 5 days package.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg: Gulmarg hosts the snow events of the Khelo India Winter Games: alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, ski mountaineering and snowboarding.
- Kashmir Tour Packages from Every State of India: Travelling from any of India's 28 states? Find the fastest route to Srinagar, how many nights to plan, the best season for your region and a link to your state's full…
- Best Time to Visit Kashmir: Spring tulips, summer meadows, golden autumn chinars or deep winter snow: here is what each month in Kashmir is really like, and who it suits best.
Frequently asked questions
When is there snow in Gulmarg?
Usually from December or January to March, with the most reliable snow in January and February.
What can you do in Gulmarg in winter?
Skiing, the Gondola, sledging, snowmobile rides and visiting St Mary's Church.
Is one day enough for Gulmarg in winter?
A day trip is possible, but an overnight stay gives you much more time in the snow.
Still have questions about your Kashmir trip?
Our Srinagar-based team answers on WhatsApp, usually within minutes.
