City Guide: All About Kashmir's Gulmarg, The Meadow Of Flowers

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that captivates travellers with its stunning landscapes and tranquil ambience. Known for its magnificent snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and pristine alpine meadows, Gulmarg offers a unique combination of adventure and serenity. The destination is renowned for its world-class skiing facilities, allowing enthusiasts to glide down the slopes of the legendary Apharwat peak. Beyond skiing, visitors can also enjoy leisurely walks through verdant forests, explore the region's rich cultural heritage, or simply soak up the mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Gulmarg promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing for more. Must-See AttractionsApharwat Peak: Towering over 13,000 feet, Apharwat Peak is a breathtakingly beautiful attraction that offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The peak is also renowned for its world-class skiing facilities, making it a must-visit destination for skiing enthusiasts. Gulmarg Gondola: The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable car rides in the world, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the region's beauty from a bird's eye view. The ride takes visitors to the Apharwat Peak, offering stunning views of the snow-clad peaks and lush green valleys. Alpather Lake: Located at the foothills of the Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake is a picturesque attraction bound to leave visitors in awe. Snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows surround the lake, offering visitors a serene and tranquil ambience. Golf Course: The Gulmarg Golf Course is one of the highest golf courses in the world, offering visitors a unique golfing experience amidst the region's stunning natural beauty. The course is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows, making it a must-visit destination for golfing enthusiasts. Maharani Temple: The Maharani Temple is a popular attraction in Gulmarg, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by lush green forests, offering visitors a serene and peaceful ambience. Where To ShopThe main market in Gulmarg is located near the gondola base station and is popular among tourists for shopping. The market has a variety of shops selling local handicrafts, Kashmiri shawls, and souvenirs. Several antique shops sell vintage items, including antique furniture, paintings, and jewellery. Here is a list of Gulmarg, Kashmir's top shopping destinations. If you're on the hunt for the top shops in Gulmarg, everything from gifts, cuisine, clothing and the world-famous handicrafts that Gulmarg is known for, visit the locations listed below. Ladakh Art Palace The Ladakh Art Palace, which is a part of the Highland Park Complex, is regarded by many as one of Gulmarg's top shopping destinations. You can buy a variety of things here, including handcrafted products, antiques, and jewellery, to bring home as gifts. One of the items to buy in Gulmarg is carpet, which you may get at this shop. In addition, there is a limited assortment of clothing and dresses in the shop. However, it is well known that the pricing of the things in the store is set. As a result, you will be unable to ask for any discount here. Mr. Khan’s Tailor Shop Mr. Khan's Tailor Shop is a traditional apparel store that is located next to the great mosque of Gulmarg. It is run by a specific Mr. Khan and sells fine phirans that are painstakingly made by the shop's tailors. The clothing selection in the store is reputed to be fairly extensive. Therefore, you could feel lost there if you have no information about the typical Kashmiri things. You need not worry, though, since the shop owner will be present to assist you in selecting the dress that is the perfect fit for you. Faiz shawls Are you planning to buy one of Gulmarg's iconic Kashmiri shawls? After that, be sure to look at Faiz Shawls. The apparel offered by the shop is manufactured from a variety of fabrics, including silk and wool, and is soft but sturdy. In addition, you will have access to a wide range of colour options for the shawls. In addition to the shawls, the store also sells high-quality carpets and items made of silky linen. This location is among the best in Gulmarg for street shopping for yet another reason. Shahab Textiles Shadab Textiles is another retail establishment on the Srinagar-Gulmarg Road that sells wonderful Kashmiri outfits for a reasonable price. Along with textile-made products, the shop also sells premium Kashmiri fabrics in a variety of materials and hues. In addition to all of these, you could purchase safari suits, dress fabrics, and several more traditional Indian outfits. One of the nicest things to buy in Gulmarg is safari clothes and Kashmiri fabrics. What To ShopPashmina Shawls: Kashmir is renowned for its soft and luxurious shawls, made from the wool of the Pashmina goat found in the high altitudes of the Himalayas. The shawls are hand-woven and come in a range of designs and colours, making them a perfect gift for yourself or your loved ones. You can find Pashmina shawls in markets such as the Lal Chowk in Srinagar or the local markets in Gulmarg. Walnut Wood Carvings: Walnut wood carvings are unique from the Kashmir valley. The wood is sourced from the walnut tree, which is native to the region and has a distinctive colour and texture. The carvings feature intricate designs and motifs, such as flowers, birds, and Islamic calligraphy, and can be found in various objects, including boxes, trays, and frames. Kashmiri Saffron: Kashmiri Saffron, also known as "the golden spice," is one of the world's most valuable and sought-after spices. It is known for its unique flavour and aroma and is used in various dishes, including rice, desserts, and teas. You can find authentic Kashmiri saffron in local markets, such as the Lal Chowk in Srinagar or the floating market on Dal Lake. Must-Attend FestivalsEid-ul-Fitr is one of the most important festivals celebrated in Kashmir. The festival marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated with prayers, feasting, and the exchange of gifts. People wear new clothes and visit their friends and relatives to celebrate the festival. Shivratri is a popular festival celebrated by the Hindu community in Kashmir, marking the day Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. The festival is celebrated with fasting, prayers, and cultural performances. The Snow Festival is held every year in the month of (January or February). A festival started in the year 2003 is a celebration like no other. Amidst a flurry of snowflakes, skiing events and competitions are held, inviting seasoned athletes and amateurs alike to participate. The festival is alive with music, the tantalizing aroma of delicious food, and much more. The Khelo India Winter Games represent a spectacular nationwide multi-winter sports competition in India, which aims to identify promising talents from the grassroots level. The event includes an exciting array of winter sports, ranging from skiing and snowboarding to ice hockey and figure skating. Where To EatIn Gulmarg, the aroma of spices and dry fruits permeates the air, enticing foodies to indulge in the flavourful and enticing Kashmiri cuisine. Mughal influence is apparent in the rich flavours of this cuisine, where spices and dry fruits have been perfected to combat the chilly weather. If you find yourself in Gulmarg, prepare for a culinary adventure.Rogan Josh Rogan Josh is a popular Kashmiri delicacy known for its fiery lamb gravy. This signature Kashmiri recipe was introduced to India by the Mughals and is prepared with aromatic Kashmiri spices, lots of red chillies, onions, and yoghurt. It is best enjoyed with rice or naan. To taste this dish in Gulmarg, Ahdoos and local outlets are recommended.Gushtaba Gushtaba is a dish made of meatballs floating in a spicy yoghurt gravy. This delicacy is usually prepared with mutton mince and is best enjoyed on cold winter nights. To try Gushtaba in Gulmarg, Nedous Dining Room is the best place. Yakhni Yakhni is a Kashmiri delicacy made of lamb cooked in a yoghurt-based gravy. It is flavoured with malwa flowers, and the sauce comprises yoghurt, onion paste, black and green cardamom, dried mint leaves, and aromatic fennel seeds. Yakhni is best enjoyed with rice. You can find this dish in local eating outlets in Gulmarg and at Nedous Dining Room. Kashmiri Muj Gaad Kashmiri Muj Gaad is a fish dish made with nadur or radish and is served on special occasions. This dish is flavoured with herbs, spices, and lotus stem and is usually served during festivals like Gaada Bata in December. To try Muj Gaad in Gulmarg, Bakshi and Nedous Dining Room are the best places. Dum Olav Dum Olav, also known as Dum Aloo, is a vegetarian dish of potatoes cooked in yoghurt and spiced with powdered ginger, fennel, and other popular Kashmiri spices. It is best enjoyed with roti or naan. The Chinar and other local outlets in Gulmarg are the best places to taste this delicacy. Modur Pulav Modur Pulav is sweetened Kashmiri rice made with cinnamon, ghee, saffron, green cardamom, milk, and dry fruits. The unique taste of this fantastic blend of ingredients will leave your taste buds craving for more.To try Modur Pulav in Gulmarg, Ahdoos and local outlets are recommended. Where To StayTravelers have a few options for accommodations in Gulmarg. They can choose to stay at Gulmarg Resorts or Hotel Heevan Retreat for a more traditional lodging experience. Alternatively, for a more authentic and memorable stay, they can check out Cheese Cottage Homestay or Gulmarg Meadows. For luxury stays, check here. Getting ThereBy Train: The nearest railway station to Gulmarg is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, about 290 km from Gulmarg. You can take a taxi or bus from Jammu Tawi to reach Gulmarg. By Air: The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar International Airport, located at a distance of about 60 km. The airport is well-connected to major cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to Gulmarg. By Road: Gulmarg is well-connected to major cities in North India, including Srinagar, Jammu, Delhi, and Chandigarh. The Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) and private operators run regular bus services to Gulmarg from these cities. Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi or drive to Gulmarg. Best Time To VisitThe best time of the year to visit Gulmarg in terms of weather is during the summer months, from April to June. During this period, the weather in Gulmarg is pleasant, and the temperatures are generally between 13 and 29 degrees Celsius. The snow has melted, and the flowers are in bloom, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.