A destination in Kashmir that is coveted by not only Indian tourists but also by travellers from all over the Indian subcontinent, Gulmarg is nothing short of heaven itself. As the name’s literary translation suggests, ‘The Meadow Of Flowers’ is covered by beds of daisies, lavenders and buttercups in summer. But the most famous characteristic of the Gulmarg Valley that attracts sports persons from around the world is its snow-covered mountain slopes that make for the finest skiing resorts in India. The surrounding valleys and meadows that stretch towards Kupwara on one hand and Srinagar on the other also deserve a special mention, since many of the best places to visit near Gulmarg also happen to be home to natural wonders, ancient monuments and heavenly vistas!
What is The Best Time for a Visit to Gulmarg?
Early spring is characterized by cool drizzles and strong winds that are perfect for activities like paragliding and river rafting. Gulmarg is both a popular summer destination as well as a winter one – so the best time to visit this valley happens to be between the months of March to June and October to February. Even if you come in the off-season, you will be able to enjoy a beautiful autumn or romantic monsoon with your travel group!
The temperature during the summer months fluctuates between 8°C to 20°C and during the winter months is somewhere between -4°C to 11°C. No matter which season you choose you will need warm clothes, windcheaters and raincoats. If you plan to engage in trekking activities, it is best to do so in summer and bring some sturdy footwear with you!
Tourist Destinations For Sightseeing Near Gulmarg: Entry Fee, Activities, Opening Timings & Attractions
1. Khilanmarg
This dreamy meadow is located at a height of 600 m and is simply 6 km away from Gulmarg. Surrounded by the saintly Pir Panjal ranges, Khilanmarg offers a view of famous Himalayan peaks like Nanga Parbat and Nun and Kun. If you are looking for a crowd-safe destination for sightseeing in Gulmarg that offers similar views of spotless snowy hills and cloudy horizons, Khilanmarg will not disappoint. In the summers, dotted by white borders and wild ponies, Khilanmarg can easily be mistaken for ancient Scottish landscapes. Khilanmarg is home to the shrine of Baba Reshi and Ferozepur Nallah.
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours
Time taken to visit: 2 to 3 days
2. Strawberry Valley
This name must top the list of hidden tourist places near Gulmarg – for who in the right mind would want to miss out on the seasonal attraction? The best time to visit is during the summer season when the fields are ripe with scarlet fruits and lush green plantation foliage. A walk through these open orchards is a great way to learn about the different categories of strawberry available. Recently, the Strawberry Valley of Gulmarg has become a fascination among photographers and influencers all thanks to its amazing landscape. On your way you can purchase strawberries of any breed you fancy!
Entry fee: no entry cost
Time taken to visit: 4 to 5 hours
3. Alpather Lake
The journey from the town of Gulmarg to the fabled ‘Frozen Lake ‘ is nothing short of the trek of a lifetime. Surrounded by banks perennially covered in snow, this high-altitude alpine lake is located at the height of 16000 feet. The Alpather Lake is almost always partially frozen, but the melted half looks as clear as a mirror reflecting the bright blue skies. The climb is challenging but takes travellers across hidden meadows, unseen waterfalls and rocky landscapes covered with moss. There is no other destination among the places to visit near Gulmarg which will mesmerize you the same!
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours
Time taken to visit: 1 day
4. Tangmarg
This gem can be directly accessed through both Srinagar and Gulmarg. Tangmarg, a new name among the popular tourist places near Gulmarg, is covered in hotels and homestays these days offering a piece of village life to tourists from all over India. This town is only 3 km away from the Frozen Drung Waterfall, a beautiful natural specimen of shiny spikes of ice. Tangmarg has been praised by visitors for its clean air, delicious Kashmiri, Punjabi and Tibetan food, as well as dense Himalayan forests surrounding the destination. Other places close to Tangmarg include Baderkoot, Gogaldara and Nigli Nullah.
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours
Time taken to visit: 1 to 2 days
5. Seven Springs, Kongdori
This mystical location for sightseeing near Gulmarg is straight out of a fairy tale and can be accessed through the famous Gulmarg Gondola cable ride. It features a gushing stream that comes out through seven different outlets forming seven perennial streams, and is surrounded on all sides by snow-capped, sandy mountain tops. It is a beautiful destination for those who love chilled water bodies and cannot wait to have a steaming hot cup of tea next to them! The Seven Springs also serve as a stunning viewpoint for Kongdori as they provide an unobstructed view of the fine, golden valley below.
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours
Time taken to visit: 6-7 hours (overnight stay possible)
6. Ningle Nallah
Another exciting location that falls on the way of your Gondola ride, this Nallah flows directly from the melting Alpather Lake. 10 km away from the town of Gulmarg, Ningle Nallah is surrounded by thick coniferous forests and moss meadows where picnicking, stargazing and overnight camping are possible. The Ningle Nallah also happens to be one of the most underrated places to visit near Gulmarg for hikers – the challenging rocky landscape can be traced to the end of the valley on foot! Congratulations, you have now found another awesome pool of icy water to dip your toes in.
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours
7. Botapathri
Gulmarg is strategically located where the alpine Himalayas shine brightest – tourists a glimpse of what these mighty mountains are like beyond the reach of humans. Capture in your heart the essence of traditional Himalayan living by spending a few days at Botapathri, one of the widest and most versatile valleys in all of India. Locals believe that the sacred stream that flows softly down the grass-laden valley can cure thyroid! You can engage in a horse trip to go into the highlands nearby that are covered in tall cedar and deodar forests. One of the most beautiful places to visit near Gulmarg, Botapathri was only opened to the public 2 years ago.
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours (taking a guide with you is mandatory)
Time taken to visit: 2 to 3 days
8. Parihaspora
Also known as Varmul, the Baramulla district has much more to offer than just Gulmarg. The historical town of Parihaspora is dotted with ancient monuments built by Hindu Rajas like Lalityaditya Multapid around 8th century BC. Recent excavations have unearthed ruins of Vishnu temples, Buddha Stupas, Pattan Bazar and a Raj Bhavan, all of which hide mysterious, magical secrets. Parihaspora is located in a mesmerizing natural setting, with some other tourist places to visit near Gulmarg falling on the way – Baramulla Eco Park, Wular Lake and Bandipora being a few must-visit destinations! Doesn’t it sound exciting?
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours
Time taken to visit: 2 to 3 days
9. Aru Valley
Another name for the Adventure Destination of the Central Kashmir Valley, this village is a must-visit. Aru Valley is a fantastic hill station for sporting and sightseeing near Gulmarg as well as Pahalgam. Aru offers accommodation in traditional Kashmiri cottages as well as campsites next to the ferocious but magnificent river Lidder. Several tourist activities like paragliding, trout fishing, river rafting etc are available for interested visitors during the summer. In winter, Aru becomes a second destination to Gulmarg for skiing, sledging and skating. Many gorgeous, arduous treks also start from Aru, just like the Kolahoi Glacier trek.
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: open 24 hours
Time taken to visit: 2 to 3 days
10. Imambara Goom, Ahmadpora
Ahmadpora is located on the way from Gulmarg to Anantnag village. The biggest tourist place near Gulmarg for Muslim, Hindu and Sikh devotees is Imambara Goom, a striking creation from both a religious and architectural point of view. This destination is a homage to Sufi Saint Sayed Janbaz Wali who spent his last years here. The Gurdwara Chatti Padshahi, built after Guru Shri Hargobind Ji is also situated at walking distance. Most tourists prefer to come here in the winter to get a view of the soft, frequent snowfall in the rolling meadows. The serene, soulful landscape is a place for prayers, musings and even photography.
Entry fee: no entry cost
Opening and closing timings: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Time taken to visit: 3 to 4 hours
Frequently Asked Questions?
A. Gulmarg does not receive snowfall in April. Instead, the valley is covered with several exotic species of alpine and Himalayan flowers. In high altitudes, however, tourists will still find deposits of Snow from past winter.
A. Tourists can ride the Gulmarg Gondola phase 1 and 2 to reach the Apharwat Peak Summit.
A. Baramulla is without a doubt one of the most famous places to visit near Gulmarg. It is 35.5 km away and takes about 1.5 hours to reach.
Conclusion
If asked to describe Gulmarg, every tourist will have a different answer. After all, this amazing destination deserves diverse itineraries so that everyone can explore the hidden, underrated destinations that draw them the most. Browse through our breathtaking yet unique Kashmir travel packages that combine the valleys of Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Srinagar and more in one exhilarating memory!
