Background and History of Gulmarg

History of Gulmarg Gulmarg is a combination of the Persian words Gul, which means flowers, and Marg, which means meadows. Thus, it means 'Meadow of Flowers.' Yousuf Shah Chak, the final Chak emperor (who reigned from 1579 to 1586 AD), is credited with discovering this alluring flower meadow.
He frequented the vale with his queen, Habba Khatoon, who was enchanted by it. According to P.N Bamzai, a Kashmiri scholar and historian, Chak coined the name Gulmarg for the hamlet, which was previously known as 'Gaurimarg (the fair one)' by the local shepherds in honour of Goddess Parvati or Gauri, a Hindu deity.

Roots in the Mughal Era The history of Gulmarg dates back to the 16th century. After its capture by Akbar, Kashmir fell to the Mughals, and Akbar’s son Jahangir made Gulmarg his favoured retreat. According to legend, he became so fascinated with the flowers he saw at Gulmarg that he started a collection hobby, collecting 21 different varieties of wildflowers.

British Colonial Influence During the British colonial time, Gulmarg emerged as a prominent hill station. Its amazing landscape and refreshing environment made it a favourite place for the British. They established the Gulmarg Golf Course and a club in the late 19th century, which is one of the best happenings in Gulmarg’s past. The Golf Course, surprisingly is listed among the highest golf courses in Asia.

Skiing Legacy In the early 20th century, Gulmarg’s past witnessed a golden point. The area was recognized as having high potential for skiing. Sir Henry Tyndale, an Englishman, introduced the skiing sport to the area. The establishment of the Ski Club of India in 1927 was another step ahead in turning Gulmarg into a ski heaven.

Tourist Magnet Today, Gulmarg is not merely a marvel of nature; it's a hub for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and others who need a break from normal routine. The area hosts every facility including a beautiful market, luxurious hotels, bus stands, a police station, clean washrooms and internet connectivity. There is also the revered Maharani Temple and the St. Mary Church.

Cultural Heritage Gulmarg’s historical significance increases with the cultural heritage of the area. Having imprints of the Mughal Era, Afghans and others, its cultural diversity can be seen in the temple, church and mosque structures. Gulmarg provides a warm welcome to every soul in the best way possible.

The historical background of Gulmarg and the evolution of Gulmarg has placed it among the most sought-after destinations for family trips, romantic honeymoons, adventure tours and other kinds of travel. We know you can't stop yourself from visiting the place.

Here's a detailed account of the natural and historical marvels in Gulmarg

Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest cable cars in the world, the Gulmarg Gondola offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks of the Pir Panjal range. It's a popular attraction for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Alpather Lake: Nestled at the foot of Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake is a pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by meadows and snow-capped mountains. It remains frozen for most of the year and offers stunning views during the summer months.
Khilanmarg: Located near Gulmarg, Khilanmarg is a picturesque meadow carpeted with wildflowers in spring and surrounded by dense pine and fir forests. It's an ideal spot for picnics and offers panoramic views of the Kashmir Valley.
Ningle Nallah: A charming stream that flows through the heart of Gulmarg, Ningle Nallah is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque wooden bridges. It's a serene spot for nature walks and photography.
St. Mary's Church: Built in the early 20th century, St. Mary's Church is a historic Anglican church located in Gulmarg. It features exquisite architecture with stained glass windows and offers a peaceful retreat amidst the mountains.
Golf Course: The Gulmarg Golf Course, situated at an altitude of 2,650 meters, is one of the oldest and highest golf courses in India. It boasts scenic views of the surrounding peaks and is a favorite among golfing enthusiasts.
Baba Reshi Shrine: A revered Sufi shrine dedicated to the 14th-century saint Baba Reshi, located in the town of Gulmarg. It showcases traditional Kashmiri wooden architecture and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.
Kongdori: A popular destination reachable via the Gulmarg Gondola, Kongdori offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and is a starting point for trekking and skiing adventures.
Ferozpore Nallah: Known for its scenic beauty and cascading waterfalls, Ferozpore Nallah is a refreshing spot for nature lovers and offers opportunities for leisurely walks along its banks.
Apharwat Peak: Standing tall at an elevation of 4,390 meters, Apharwat Peak is a major attraction for skiing enthusiasts during winter. It offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and is accessible via the Gulmarg Gondola.

Background and History of Gulmarg:

Here's a detailed account of the natural and historical marvels in Gulmarg