Snowfall in Gulmarg is the most exciting and awaited season in Kashmir. As one of the top tourist destinations in India, tourists look forward to visiting this hill station during their winter vacation. This is the part of Heaven where you would want to throw yourself in the snow, indulge in snowball fighting, and dine at the world’s largest Cafe Igloo. Some of the best and most unique experiences are found here in Gulmarg. From riding Asia’s second-highest cable car ride to sliding Asia’s seventh-best ski slopes, and unending snow adventures such as mountain biking, heli-skiing, ice skating, biking to camping and more, the snow here makes up for the perfect winter adventures. 

Besides, who wouldn’t want to witness the wintry attire of Gulmarg in its pure white bliss? The Meadow of Flowers becomes a thick blanket of glistening snow during winter, and so begins the thrilling adventures of winter with tightly packed snow. If there is a place offering the best view of snowfall, it is Gulmarg! Observing snowfall for the first time is no less than a magical moment. Your heart feels the warmth even in the sub-zero temperature, and the snow particles tug at the heartstrings. 

Best Tourist Places in Gulmarg

With no limit to its snowy adventures, know the Gulmarg’s tourist places to add them to your bucket list once you arrive at this winter wonderland.

Apharwat Peak

For the longest ski slope and most intense adventures, look no further than Apharwat peak. This majestic peak is located at an altitude of 4390 meters and is popular among thrill-seekers for skiing, sleighing, and snowboarding. You can reach the peak by riding the second phase of Gulmarg’s Gondola, which takes about 12 minutes. The mountain connects the Kongdoori Valley, making it the perfect place for an adventure.

Alpather Lake

The Alpather Lake, more commonly known as the Frozen Lake, is stunningly beautiful and remote at the foot of the Apharwat peak. This glacial lake is situated at an altitude of 4390 meters, and during the winter months of January and February, the lake freezes completely over, thus earning its name. If you are visiting Apharwat peak, be sure to take the time to visit this idyllic lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and wildflowers.

Ferozepur Nallah

At a distance of 5 km from Gulmarg lies a mountainous stream, popularly known as Ferozepur Nallah and locally known as Shinmahinyu. It is a famous destination for tourists interested in trout fishing and trekking. A 3-day trekking expedition can take you to Tosaimaidan, approximately 50 km from Ferozepur Nallah. Although an ideal time to visit this freshwater lake is during the summer, winter visits can also provide a unique experience, provided you’re physically fit enough to endure the lower temperatures.

Ningle Nallah

Ningle Nallah is a beautiful stream situated 10 km from Gulmarg. Sourcing its water from Alpather lake and Apharwat peak, this mountainous stream goes on to then reunite with the River Jhelum. The stream is surrounded by majestic snowy mountains, providing a dream-like setting with its pristine beauty and pastures blanketed in thick snow. 

Gulmarg Gondola

A trip to Gulmarg is complete with getting on to the highest ropeway operating in three phases, Gulmarg Gondola. The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the main attractions in Gulmarg and a must-do for any visitor, especially in winter. The cable car ride takes you to the top of the Apharwat peaks, where you can see the beautiful snowfall and the heavy snow covering the mountains. The second phase of the Gondola ride leads you to the most-famous Apharwat peak, and thus begins the most extreme winter sports to try.

Best Time to Visit Gulmarg

The best time to visit Gulmarg for Snowfall is from January to February.