Whenever
you talk about skiing in India, the very first name which comes to mind is
Gulmarg in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. Gulmarg in North India is the
paradise for skiing. Gulmarg is also known for its legendry beauty and its
prime location which makes it one of the premier hill resorts of the
country. This meadow of flowers, situated at a distance of about 52
Kilometers from Srinagar. This hill station is 2653 meters above sea level
and covered with gigantic fir and Pine forests. This place was discovered by
the romantic Kashmiri King Yousuf Shah Chak in 16th Century. The best part
of Gulmarg is that one can enjoy watching whole of soft snowy undulations
from any point. Gulmarg hill station is pollution, noise and smoke free
tourist peak.
Gulmarg was a favorite haunt of Emperor Jehangir who once collected 21
different varieties of flowers from here. Today Gulmarg is not only known
for its exceptional beauty but also for its highest green golf course in the
world, at an altitude of 2,650 m.
Major Tourist Attractions in Gulmarg
Skiing - Gulmarg is better known for its adventure
skiing. The town has the best skiing resort in the entire country. This
place offers its gentle slopes which are perfect for the beginners and
skiing down from the gondola car at Kongdor are for more adventure. In
winters, the entire landscape of the town changes and the vast snow slopes
becomes the perfect locations for indulging in hail skiing from the
mountaintop.
Golf - Gulmarg provides the royal game of Golf to play
for its visitors. Gulmarg has two of the highest golf venue in the world. It
was locus for state championship until 1990. The golf course offers
temporary memberships too, along with good golf sets.
Treks - Gulmarg is also one of the best places in North
India for trekking. Affarwat, the highest peak of Gulmarg is a popular place
for trekking. Trek starts from Inner Ring Road and covers 7 kms walk and
then 11 kms of walk to Outer Ring Road.
Pilgrimage in Gulmarg - Gulmarg has one famous and old
pilgrimage point called Maharani Temple. Just after that you can move to St.
Mary's Church that has a conspicuous absent caretaker. Still if you want to
see Kashmiri life then move to Tanmarg at the site of hugely popular shrine
called as Baba Reshi.
Gondola Lift - Gondola lift is popularly known as cable
car. The lift in Gulmarg extends till the top of Affarwat peak to an
elevation of 3980 m. During the travel in this lift it provides absolutely
breathtaking views of Gulmarg and nearby areas. The Gondola lift also
connects to the ski resort.
Alpather Lake - Alpather Lake is around 13 km away from
Gulmarg. This is one of the best and favorite picnic places for locals and
visitors where you can spend time by the side of the lake. The main feature
of the lake is that the water of the lake remains frozen till the month of
June.
Activities to Do in Gulmarg
If
you are the adventure seeker then Gulmarg is the ultimate destination for
you. Gulmarg is the best place in India for skiing. Here you may easily hire
the skis and sticks, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, windproof jackets,
goggles, and caps. There are lots of slopes in Gulmarg varying between 8,900
and 10,800 feet which make the skiing suitable for adventure lovers. Gulmarg
is the only heli-skiing resort in Asia. Gulmarg also boasts of a gorgeous
green golf course that happens to be the worlds highest too. Gulmarg also
offers some excellent opportunities for long walks.
How to Reach Gulmarg
The nearest airport of Srinagar from Gulmarg lies at a distance of 56 kms.
Regular flights connect Srinagar with the other major cities in India. Jammu
is the closest railway station from Gulmarg. For every major city and state,
trains are available from here. Gulmarg is also well connected with
efficient and smooth network of roads.
Hotels/ Resorts in Gulmarg
Accommodation in Gulmarg is very easy to get as it is one of the best
tourist destination of this region. There are several hotels and huts that
cater to the needs of the tourists. There are lots of budget classes to
luxury class hotels which are known for their hospitality. All the basic
facilities are available to make your stay in Gulmarg comfortable. The best
part about these hotels is that accommodation and meals suit all budgets.
Some of the best hotels of Gulmarg are:
» Nedous Hotel (Heritage)
» Hotel Highland Park (Heritage)
» Hotel Highlands Park (3 Star Hotel)
» Hotel Hilltop (3 Star Hotel)
» City View (Budget)
