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Cable carMust visit

Gulmarg Gondola, Gulmarg

A two-phase cable car ride towards Mount Apharwat

Type
Cable car
Location
Gulmarg, Kashmir
Time needed
3 to 5 hours for both phases, including queues
Best time to visit
December to March for deep snow. April to June for snow at the top with milder weather. Mornings are usually clearer.

About Gulmarg Gondola

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world and the main reason many people visit Gulmarg. It runs in two phases. Phase 1 climbs from the Gulmarg base station through pine forest to Kongdoori, a bowl of meadow and snow at about 3,080 m.

Phase 2 continues from Kongdoori to the slopes of Mount Apharwat, close to 4,000 m. The upper area holds snow for most of the year, and on a clear day there are wide views over the Pir Panjal range. In winter skiers use Phase 2 for long runs back down.

Phase 1 is fine for most families. Phase 2 is colder and the air is thinner, so older travellers and small children should take it slowly. Phase 2 often closes in strong wind or bad weather, so it is worth going in the morning when conditions are usually better. Allow time for queues at the base station and between the two phases in peak season.

Things to do at Gulmarg Gondola

  • Ride Phase 1 to Kongdoori for meadows and snow
  • Continue on Phase 2 to Mount Apharwat on a clear day
  • Play in the snow at the upper stations
  • Ski down from Apharwat in winter, if you are experienced

How to reach Gulmarg Gondola

  • The base station is at the edge of Gulmarg, a short walk or pony ride from the main meadow.
  • Gulmarg is about 50 km from Srinagar, about 1.5 to 2 hours by road.

Tips before you go

  • Book tickets online on the official Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation site, as counter tickets sell out in peak season.
  • Phase 2 tickets are usually sold in limited numbers and may be stopped in bad weather.
  • Carry warm layers, gloves and sunglasses. It is much colder at the top.

Packages that cover Gulmarg Gondola

Nearby places to visit

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Meadow and ski resort

Gulmarg

A wide alpine meadow at about 2,650 m, known for the Gulmarg Gondola, winter skiing and snow at the top for much of the year.

Time needed: 1 day, or 2 days with skiingRead more →
Meadow · Budgam

Doodhpathri

A quieter meadow in Budgam district, about 2 hours from Srinagar, with streams running through open grassland and pine forest.

Time needed: 1 day, including the driveRead more →

Gulmarg Gondola: FAQs

Should I book Phase 1 or Phase 2?

Phase 1 gives you meadows and some snow. Phase 2 goes higher for more snow and wider views. Book both if the weather is clear and everyone is comfortable at height.

How do I book Gulmarg Gondola tickets?

Online on the official Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation website, a few days ahead in peak season. Carry the ID used for booking.

Is the gondola open in summer?

Yes, it runs through the year, subject to weather and maintenance closures.

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