January 6, 2025
Nestled in the lush valleys of Kashmir, Gulmarg is more spectacular than you can imagine. The area welcomes thousands of tourists all year round, but the allure of Gulmarg in winter is more due to the numerous snowy adventure sports.
Loosely translated as the "Meadow of Flowers," it presents a bloom-shower in the summer months, and the winters, on the other hand, beckons snowsport enthusiasts around the globe. It is the best season to bask in the glory of snow, frosty winds, and serenity. The surreal beauty of witnessing live snowfall on the treetops and manicured grounds is breathtaking.
The delightful little hamlet turns into a wonderland for all kinds of adventure sports, making it one of the Best Places to Visit in Kashmir. From skiing to snowboarding and driving snow scooters to wooden sledges, gondola rides, and cable cars, there are so many different ways to experience the magical phenomena of snow!
Although the best time to visit Gulmarg depends on your preference, this guide aims to showcase the array of attractions the region has to offer in winter. From exploring evolving weather patterns to skiing down pristine slopes, this guide unravels the beguiling appeals of winter exploration. So, join us in this piece as we provide a detailed guide and get a perspective on why you should take the Gulmarg tour packages during this time.
Gulmarg in winter is the best time to experience snow. For those who wish to enjoy the cold weather and snowfall, this is one of the best places to visit in winter in India. If skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg is on your bucket list, then this is the best time to visit Gulmarg for skiing. This season lasts from October to March. Apart from skiing, snowboarding, playing with snowballs, and creating a snowman are just some of the fun activities one can engage in Gulmarg in January.
Gulmarg temperature in February drops down to 3°/ -5°, providing a perfect setting for exploring the picturesque charm of this hill station.
Month |
High/Low (°C) |
January |
-0°/ -8° |
February |
3°/ -5° |
March |
8°/ -1° |
April |
13°/ 2° |
May |
17°/ 4° |
June |
19°/ 8° |
July |
22°/ 12° |
August |
21°/ 11° |
September |
22°/ 10° |
October |
15°/ 4° |
November |
8°/ -1° |
December |
4°/ -5° |
If you are wondering How to reach Gulmarg in winter, continue reading this section for a comprehensive overview.
Route Name |
Distance |
Time |
Srinagar to Gulmarg |
51 km |
1h 31min |
The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar Airport, which is well-connected with all the major airports nationwide. From the airport, you can hire a cab to reach Gulmarg in winter. There are prepaid taxi booths in the airport arrival hall and outside.
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR) - 35 km from Gulmarg
Gulmarg is well-connected with the major cities of Jammu and Kashmir and a few cities in Himachal Pradesh. Direct buses are available from Delhi to Gulmarg. Both government and private deluxe and luxury buses ply on this route. However, keep a few buffer days in hand when visiting Gulmarg winter season, as roads can be blocked by snowfall.
Gulmarg is around 60 km from Srinagar by road, and it can be reached by self-drive car. However, due to winding high-altitude roads, it is advisable to hire an expert.
The nearest railway station to Gulmarg is Jammu railway station, which is 290 km away. This can be one of the easiest ways to reach the area if you are looking for How to Reach Gulmarg. From here, you can catch a bus from Jammu to Srinagar, or you can hire a cab directly to Gulmarg.
Gulmarg in winter is the shoulder season that lasts from October to February. The temperatures drop below freezing point and range from 11 degrees Celsius to a low of -4 degrees Celsius. These temperatures hinder a lot of visitors from considering Gulmarg in the winter season.
However, if you decide to visit the area during these months, you will have a feast waiting for you as it is the best place to visit in North India for snowsports. During winters, a large amount of snowfall covers Gulmarg in pristine white snow, completely transforming the hill station into a snowy paradise. The hills near Gulmarg also form an ideal place for skiing and other adventurous sports that you must not miss. Additionally, the over-the-top Christmas celebrations in December and the extraordinary Gulmarg Snow Festival also beckon tourists worldwide.
Gulmarg is among the finest places to visit in Kashmir in February due to its natural beauty and the plethora of snowsports it offers. Travelers, adventure enthusiasts, or love birds can easily visit between December and February when the region is blanketed in a pristine layer of snow. This snow transforms Gulmarg into paradise, offering a range of thrilling snow activities.
Gulmarg in February is the ideal time, as visitors can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and even ice skating. The gondola ride offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks, while the charming town provides a cosy escape amidst the winter wonderland.
While looking at the Things to do in Gulmarg in winter, experience the captivating vistas, relish the local delicacies, and plunge into the treasures of nature. Here is a comprehensive list of what you can expect.
Gulmarg Gondola is a cable car ride from Jammu and Kashmir that takes you to the Pir Panjal mountain range's breathtaking heights. The journey is two-staged, starting from Gulmarg and ascending again to Kongdori and further to the majestic Apharwat Peak.
The ride offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, valleys, and alpine forests, proving it to be one of the best snowfall places In India you must visit. Whether you're an adventure sports enthusiast or a nature lover, the Gulmarg Gondola is bound to give you an experience you'll never forget. From skiing and snowboarding to simply gorging on the scenery from the summit, it's a peak experience that anyone must not miss while visiting Gulmarg.
Gulmarg is a pictorial hill station in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, renowned for its pristine powdery snow as well as its diverse terrain making for an unforgettable skiing experience. Gulmarg, in winter season, offers skiing slopes that cater to all types of people, from first-time adventurers to well-seasoned skiers, ensuring a thrilling experience for every adventure-seeker. Combined with the breathtaking scenery, the fun of carving through fresh, pristine snow adds to the experience in Gulmarg.
The outer circle road runs around the Gulmarg golf course and covers almost everything that Gulmarg in January has to offer. One loop on the outer circle is roughly 10 km, and the terrain is flat with a few easy uphill and downhill sections. It takes around two and a half to three hours to finish the walk at a leisurely pace.
During the walk, you’ll get splendid views of snow-covered peaks, including the Nanga Parbat, which is roughly 8,500 meters. Additionally, a number of attractions of Gulmarg, like the main market, children’s park, Shiva temple, and the Ice skating rink, can be covered during the outer circle walk and a few detours from the main outer circle road.
For the brave and adventurous, a walk along the outer circle during winter evenings is awe-inspiring. Take a trip to Gulmarg in winter and get a chance to see the orange lights of the golf course and the hamlet, shrouded in a fog, giving it a ghostly appearance.
Dining at the Glass Igloo Cafe in Gulmarg is a truly unique and unforgettable experience, especially if you are visiting in winter. It is one of the best places to enjoy snowfall in February in India. This transparent igloo sits amidst snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
This cafe provides a range of delectable food while you bathe in a warm ambiance, which contrasts with a winter wonderland seen outside. The site is ideal for lovebirds looking for a romantic getaway or for families looking to create wonderful memories. The Glass Igloo Cafe is not just a restaurant but rather a living experience that combines the beauty of nature with delicious food.
Gulmarg Ski Shop provides you with easy access to such thrilling adventure activities in Gulmarg. The shop provides rental equipment, including skis, snowboards, boots, and all the safety equipment. Expert instructors are available to teach you the basics of snow sports when you take the Kashmir tour packages so you can be safe while you ski. The shop's convenient location and its professional staff make it your starting point for a winter adventure in Gulmarg.
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is located in the Pir Panjal Range of the western Himalayas. Spread over 180 square kilometres, it is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering a diversified photogenic terrain. The reserve is home to a rich flora and fauna, including some rare ones like the musk deer, brown bear, and hangul. The reserve also features rich birdlife, the Himalayan monal pheasant, and golden eagle, among many others.
Whether you go looking for a peaceful nature walk, an adventurous experience, or just to marvel at the beauty of the Himalayas, the Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg in winter take you to the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, providing you with an experience not to be forgotten.
The Gulmarg Snow Festival encourages winter sports and tourism. It is a two-day celebration organised by the tourism ministry every year. The festival attracts many tourists from all over the world who come to witness the enchanting valley through multiple sports and activities.
Visitors love this festival because it offers a glimpse of Gulmarg in winter and adventurous snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, snow-sledding, and ice skating. Apart from these exciting sports activities, tourists also enjoy delicious delicacies and cultural performances organised by Kashmiri folk artists.
A vacation to Gulmarg in winter is indeed a unique experience. In January and February, the small village experiences considerable snowfall, and a blanket of white completely covers the entire area. Tourists from all over the nation come here to enjoy the splendour of the winter season and participate in ski competitions. If you are planning to visit around this time, here are some tips you should follow:
Gulmarg remains a popular tourist destination throughout the Gulmarg in Winter season, with all hotels remaining open and operational.
One thing you should keep in mind is that there are no affordable hotels in Gulmarg. During the winter, the price rises even further.
If you do not want to spend that much money, a better option would be to stay in Srinagar and make the trip during the day to experience Gulmarg in winter weather.
It is extremely cold in Gulmarg in winter. Pack all of your warm clothes, such as fleece, thermal, snow jacket, snow goggles, and snow gloves, particularly if you are travelling to Gulmarg in January and February.
When considering what to wear in winter, opt for thermal clothing, a thick woollen jacket, and waterproof boots. To combat the cold and snow, don’t forget gloves, a beanie, and warm socks.
Snow boots are better to bring if you are travelling at the best time to visit Gulmarg for snowfall.
Trip Planners India will help you plan the best trip to Gulmarg with complete India tour packages tailored to your interests and requirements. We can help you book flights, hotels, and transportation so that no hassle is involved.
Our expert guides will accompany you on sightseeing tours, treks, and other activities and share insights and knowledge about the place. Whether you're looking for adventure, rest, or cultural assimilation, contact a reliable tour operator, and you'll find an exclusive package that suits your needs.
With the best tour planner in India, you do not need to worry about all the nitty-gritty details; our team of experts will take care of them so you can sit back and enjoy the beauty of Gulmarg.
So, please choose one of our pre-crafted packages for Gulmarg in winter or contact our team for a customised solution.