Exploring Gulmarg in 6 Days - December 1-6, 2023

Friday, December 1: Arrival and Get Acquainted

Start your adventure in Gulmarg by arriving at Srinagar International Airport. From there, take a scenic drive to Gulmarg, a mesmerizing hill station in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. In the morning, enjoy the breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains and the pristine Alpather Lake. Afternoon activities include a visit to the Gulmarg Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in the world. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the Gulmarg Market, where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs.

• Alpather Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Gulmarg Golf Course: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Gulmarg Market: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• Breakfast: Try Café Pineview for a hearty breakfast consisting of traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• Lunch: Head to Bakshi Restaurant for a delicious lunch featuring a variety of Indian and Mughlai dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
• Dinner: Indulge in a fine dining experience at The Cloves Restaurant, known for its delectable Kashmiri and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.

Saturday, December 2: Gondola Ride and Snow Activities

Start your day with an exhilarating Gondola ride, one of the main attractions in Gulmarg. The ride takes you to Kongdoori Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Spend the morning enjoying various snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Strawberry Valley, famous for its strawberry farms. End the day with a visit to the iconic Maharani Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Gondola Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 750 (Phase 1), INR 1,500 (Phase 2), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Snow Activities: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Strawberry Valley: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Maharani Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Pine-n-Peak located near the Gondola station. They offer a variety of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, dine at Almond Dhaba located near Strawberry Valley. They serve traditional Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit Nedous Dining Hall located in the heart of Gulmarg. They offer a range of Indian, Continental, and Kashmiri dishes in a cozy setting. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Sunday, December 3: Trekking in Apharwat Peak

Embark on an unforgettable trekking experience to Apharwat Peak, the highest peak in Gulmarg. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas as you navigate through the pristine snow-covered landscapes. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature and capture memorable photographs. After returning from the trek, explore the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, home to various wildlife species including the endangered musk deer.

• Trekking to Apharwat Peak: Estimated Cost - INR 3,500 (guide included), Time Spent - 6 hours
• Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, December 4: Exploring Gulmarg's Cultural Heritage

Immerse yourself in Gulmarg's rich cultural heritage by visiting the historic St. Mary's Church, a beautiful Anglican church dating back to the British era. Explore the Baba Reshi Shrine, a 15th-century Muslim shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Baba Reshi. In the afternoon, visit the Gulmarg Ski Museum to learn about the history and development of skiing in the region. End the day with a leisurely horse ride through the scenic meadows of Gulmarg.

• St. Mary's Church: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Baba Reshi Shrine: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Gulmarg Ski Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 50, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Horse Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Time Spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Day Trip to Ningle Nallah and Ferozepur Nallah

Embark on a day trip to the enchanting Ningle Nallah and Ferozepur Nallah, two beautiful valleys located near Gulmarg. Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque landscapes before reaching Ningle Nallah, known for its blooming flowers and gushing streams. After spending some time there, head to Ferozepur Nallah, famous for its charming meadows and peaceful ambiance. Take a picnic lunch and relax amidst nature before returning to Gulmarg.

• Ningle Nallah: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ferozepur Nallah: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Farewell and Departure

Say goodbye to Gulmarg as you depart for Srinagar International Airport. Before leaving, visit the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for various wildlife species including the Himalayan black bear and musk deer. Enjoy the scenic beauty one last time before catching your flight back home, carrying unforgettable memories of your Gulmarg adventure.

• Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the beautiful and secluded Ferozepur Nallah. This hidden gem offers tranquility and stunning natural beauty away from the tourist crowds. Another local favorite is the Apharwat Peak Trek, which provides a challenging but rewarding experience with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Explore these lesser-known spots and embrace the serenity and untouched charm of Gulmarg's hidden treasures.

Check here for hotel and flight prices to plan your Gulmarg trip in December 2023!