Kashmir or Cashmere is a place of raw nature, appealing beauty, wilderness and peace. Unlike other places which are mostly modernised, the geographical area of Kashmir is pristine with a large portion of the land under forest cover. The Vale of Kashmir has been visited by many foreign tourists and eminent saints, for a long time. Due to the harsh terrain and remoteness of the area, it was an unknown place to many.
There are endless wonders in Kashmir, but in this blog, we are heading to the world-famous ski resort, Gulmarg. We will discuss Gulmarg as a tourist destination, the facilities and activities available, the kinds of stays and much more.
“All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost”― J.R.R. Tolkien
Gulmarg: Geography
The hill station Gulmarg is located in the Baramulla district, one of the ten districts of the Kashmir division. It rests in the Pir Panjal range of the Western Himalayas at a height of 2,650 metres. At a distance of 45 kilometres from Srinagar city, it is one of the most famous and closest resorts to Srinagar.
The Meadow of Flowers
The destination of Gulmarg has been admired by many rulers and got the name “Meadow of Flowers” because of the many types of beautiful wildflowers, which are abundant here. The Mughal ruler Jahangir used to collect wildflowers from this land and was very fascinated by its charming landscape. In the past times, this meadow was not accessible in the winter because of heavy snow.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Today, Gulmarg has become one of the best ski resorts in Asia and beyond because of its curvy and smooth slopes. It is a heaven for winter sports lovers and is the most important ski resort in India for hosting of Winter Games and allied activities. Many pro skiers and snowboarders land in this winter dreamland to experience the sport and thrill. CNN ranked it as the seventh-best ski resort in Asia.
Other Activities
Talking about the activities besides skiing and snowboarding, this place has many recreations to offer. Horse Riding, Gondola Riding (one of the highest cable cars in the world), having tasty Kashmiri cuisine, trekking, sledging, etc. It is up to you to explore this fairyland. Honeymooners consider this place among the best resorts.
Bootapathri
Blessed with secret places, Kashmir has many treasures for travel lovers. Among these is the place called Bootapathri. It is also known as the “Strawberry Valley” because of the abundant strawberry plants that grow on their own. This place was occupied by the Indian Army as it is near the Line of Control. Converted into a tourist place recently, it is gaining popularity slowly.
Blessed with wild beauty and a large population of tribal people. Getting prior permission from Gulmarg Police Station is necessary and the visiting time is before 3 pm.
Gulmarg Golf course
This is a six-hole, green golf course that holds the title of the highest-altitude golf course in the world. It stands at 2,650 metres and is surrounded by snow-clad mountains and dense forests. Established in the 19th century, it is a place of historical importance.
Alpather Lake
Also known as “Frozen Lake”, this alpine lake is a heavenly sight to see and is among the best trekking locations in Kashmir. It is a small lake but has much importance, as the Ningli Nallah emerges from it. This Nallah is a source of water for many people and is a tributary of River Jhelum.
Khilanmarg
Khilanmarg is an amazing trekking destination in the vicinity of Gulmarg. This beauty is 6 kilometres from Gulmarg and has a flowery meadow and stunning views of nearby mountains. This is a short trek that makes one mesmerized.
Best Season
In the summer season, you can relax in the green carpeted meadows among the aroma of wildflowers. Skiing and other winter sports in the dense snow of Gulmarg, in the romantic weather, can be experienced in the winter. Be it any season, you will fall in love with this place.
It is your choice to select a season, the only difference being that the winter season is a little expensive and filled with a huge number of tourists. If you want a budget vacation with fewer people, summer is apt for you.
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