Welcome to Gulmarg! Start your trip by checking into one of the many hotels available. Use Kayak to find the best hotel deals. In the morning, take a leisurely walk around the charming town, admiring the snow-covered landscapes. In the afternoon, head to the Gulmarg Golf Course for a game of golf amidst picturesque surroundings. In the evening, indulge in traditional Kashmiri cuisine at a local restaurant.
Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious Kashmiri-style breakfast at Café Highland. This cozy café offers a variety of options including traditional Kashmiri tea, freshly baked pastries, and local delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Lunch: For a filling and flavorsome lunch, head to Pine View Restaurant. This restaurant serves a range of Indian and Kashmiri dishes, including mouthwatering kebabs and aromatic biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Dinner: End your day at the Vintage Restaurant, known for its warm ambiance and delightful Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in favorites like rogan josh, yakhni, and dum aloo. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Thursday December 21: Gondola Ride and Skiing
Start your day with a thrilling Gondola ride, one of the highest cable car systems in the world. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks as you ascend. Spend the morning skiing on the slopes of Apharwat Peak. After a delicious lunch at a mountaintop restaurant, continue skiing or try snowboarding. In the evening, relax at your hotel and enjoy the scenic beauty of Gulmarg.
Skiing/Snowboarding: Cost estimate - INR 2000 (rental), Time spent - Full day
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Highland located near Gulmarg Gondola. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options like omelettes, pancakes, and Kashmiri chai. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Kong Posh, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Try their Rogan Josh or Yakhni Pulao for a flavorful experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Nedous Dining Room, a fine dining restaurant known for its romantic ambiance. Indulge in their signature dish, Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional multi-course meal. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Friday December 22: Explore Tangmarg and Alpather Lake
Embark on a day trip to Tangmarg, a nearby town known for its lush green meadows. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature's beauty and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, hike to Alpather Lake, situated at the foot of Apharwat Peak. Admire the crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Return to Gulmarg in the evening and treat yourself to a traditional Kashmiri tea.
Tangmarg: Cost estimate - INR 500 (transportation), Time spent - Half day
Experience the thrill of snowshoeing through the beautiful meadows of Gulmarg. Take in the serene views and enjoy the tranquility of the winter wonderland. In the afternoon, try snow biking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Explore the snowy trails and feel the rush of speed. In the evening, warm up with a traditional Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant.
Sunday December 24: Visit Maharani Temple and Ferozepur Nallah
Start your day by visiting the Maharani Temple, a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Seek blessings and take in the peaceful ambiance of this spiritual place. Afterward, head to Ferozepur Nallah, a scenic stream surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a picnic by the water and soak in the tranquility. In the evening, explore the local markets and shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.
Experience the thrill of snowboarding on the slopes of Gulmarg. Challenge yourself with jumps and tricks or simply enjoy gliding through the snow. In the afternoon, try ice skating at the Gulmarg Ice Rink. Feel the cool breeze as you glide across the ice. In the evening, treat yourself to a cozy bonfire and delicious local snacks.
Snowboarding: Cost estimate - INR 2000 (rental), Time spent - Full day
Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe Kashir located in Gulmarg. Indulge in delicious local Kashmiri cuisine like Kashmiri tea, kehwa, and traditional breads. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Head to Bakshi's Green Punjabi Dhaba for a satisfying lunch. This restaurant offers a wide range of Punjabi dishes, including butter chicken, naan bread, and tandoori specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dinner: Experience fine dining at Nedous Dining Rooms, a beautiful restaurant located in a historic hotel. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner with a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Kashmiri, and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday December 26: Farewell to Gulmarg
As your trip comes to an end, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Gulmarg one last time. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with panoramic views. If time permits, visit the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Bid farewell to this enchanting town and make your way back home with unforgettable memories.
For off the beaten path attractions, head to Ningli Nallah, a serene stream surrounded by pine trees. Enjoy a peaceful stroll and soak in the natural beauty. Another hidden gem is Gulmarg Backcountry Skiing, where experienced skiers can explore untouched slopes and enjoy thrilling descents. Locals love to visit the Baba Reshi Shrine, a sacred shrine dedicated to a Sufi saint, for its spiritual significance and beautiful architecture.