Gulmarg: The Renowned Snow Paradise
A place in the north of Kashmir, bounded by snow-capped peaks of the Pir Panjal, showcasing, flowery meadows, lush pastures, dense forests and scenes that are worth mentioning in a fairytale. Gulmarg is one of the best and most visited hill stations of Kashmir. Especially, in the winter months, this meadow of flowers turns into a skier’s paradise with heavy snow making the scenes truly mesmerizing.
Kashmir witnesses many travellers for a snow experience in the winter. Among all the attractions, Gulmarg receives the maximum number of tourists, thanks to its amazing beauty, skiing and snowboarding opportunities, Gulmarg Gondola rides and other recreations.
This guide focuses on the Gulmarg Gondola rides. We will discuss the whole experience of the ride and other important details that may help in numerous ways.
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Asia’s Highest and Longest Cable Car
Gulmarg Gondola is a cable car in the famous ski resort Gulmarg, in the north of Indian Administered Kashmir. This cable car is titled Asia’s highest and also the longest one. It takes a traveller to soaring heights above the mountains of Pir Panjal, leaving you at the Apharwat Peak, at an altitude of around 14,000 feet. The super fine powdered snow and heavenly views of the snow-capped peaks leave you awe-struck. Gulmarg Gondola rides are undoubtedly the best cable car adventures in all of Asia.
Gulmarg Gondola- History
The Gulmarg Gondola ropeway, owned and maintained by the Jammu and Kashmir government has collaboration with the French company, Pomagalski. It has two phases or stages. The primary phase was completed in 1998 and the second one, which gives it the title of the highest and longest ropeway in Asia was completed in 2005. Since the start, this cable car remained the best in cable car adventures in Kashmir.
How to make a Gondola journey?
To experience the Gulmarg Gondola rides, you have to reach Gulmarg first. It is around 40 kilometres from Srinagar city. You can take a private taxi from the Tourist Reception Center, the Airport or the Railway station, leaving you at the Gulmarg Gondola station. After reaching there you have to take the tickets and go on to an adventure to the sky. The tickets for both phases have to be purchased here only. Note that the timings are from 10 am to 5 pm.
Phase I
This phase is located halfway of the Gondola cable car. The cable car transports you to the Kongdori mountain top (8,700 FT.), where you can enjoy sledding, ATV riding, and skiing. You can have a tasty lunch in the multi-cuisine restaurant located here. Absolutely among the top cable car adventures.
Phase II
This phase is reached from the Kongdori station and stands at the majestic Apharwat peak (14,000 FT.), leaving you amid the strong winds and bright sunshine that reflects on the powdery snow. At such a height, a normal person may feel a little dizzy because of the lack of oxygen which is normal. Click pics and have fun with the snow. There is no food available here so you may bring it along. Absolutely, among the best cable car adventures.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Many professional skiers and snowboarders visit Gulmarg to experience skiing in the higher reaches of it. They move up in the Gondola, some moving up till phase two and slide down by skiing or snowboarding. There is also a chaircar available from phase one to phase two that is often used by skiers. Altogether, the pleasant and cheering experience of the Gulmarg Gondola rides is among the best cable car adventures in India and Asia.
FAQs
What are the rates of Gulmarg Gondola rides?
The phase one ticket is priced around Rs 700, and the phase two ticket is priced around Rs 900. So if you are traveling up to the last phase, which you should, you will have to spend a total of 1600 rupees.
What is the timing of the Gondola?
The Gondola is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day.
Is the Gulmarg Gondola safe?
The cable car is safe as hundreds of tourists board it each day.
Is the first phase I better or phase II?
Both are equally beautiful and amazing. If money is not a problem, you should visit both of them.
What is the best time to visit?
The best time would be in January and February.
Author is a student who loves to explore new corners of learning. He likes writing and travelling while taking challenges that question his abilities and skills. His hobbies are helping people and spending time in nature.