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Ski-resort Hill Station in Jammu and Kashmir, India
Photo: (WT-en) Catchuec at English Wikivoyage, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Gulmarg is a city of about 2,000 people (2011) in the Kashmir Valley. It is noted for lush green meadows and wildflowers in summer and endless snow fields during winter. It is a hub for winter sports activities. It also houses a high-altitude cable car, popularly known as gondola.
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Popularly known as the frozen lake the Alpather Lake is situated at an altitude of 4390 m and is located at the foot of the twin Apharwat Peaks. The lake is surrounded by rocky mountains and lush green meadows, complete with blooming wild flowers. It is located very near the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan and camping is not allowed on the banks of the lake. The lake is connected to Gulmarg by road however the road is for military purposes and civilians are not allowed on the road. The lake is at a distance of 14 km from Gulmarg and is best reached by cable car (Gondola). The lake is about 3 km from the last cable stop beneath the Afarwat Peak. Ponies and guides are available but in snow free condition the path is well marked.
It is the resting place of Sufi saint Baba Payam uddin Reshi. The original structure dates back to 1840 but it has been modified over the years. The shrine and its surrounding garden is a tourist attraction and a destination for pilgrims visiting the shrine. It is situated at a height of 7,000 feet (2,133 meters) on the road to Tanmarg.
The two-stage high altitude cable car is popularly known as Gondola. The first phase operates from Gulmarg to Kongdori. The second phase starts from Kongdori and goes up to the shoulder of Afarwat Peak. Kongdori is connected to the beautiful meadows of Khilanmarg (3 km one way). The second and the higher stops connect to Alpathar Lake, a high altitude lake, which remains frozen for most part of the year.
The golf course sits at a height of 2,650 metres (8,690 ft) above sea level, is the highest golf course in the world. It started as a-6 hole golf course in 1890. Over the years the course has been extended and modified several times. It now has an 18-hole golf course. The golf club is housed in a beautiful, cottage-style wooden building.
The Siva temple is located atop a small hillock and is visible from all over Gulmarg. The temple dates back to 1915 and was built by Mohini Bai Sisodhia, wife of the last king of Kashmir Hari Singh. Since built by the queen it is known as the Maharani Temple.
The St Mary's Church is located in the valley of Shepherds in Gulmarg. The church dates back to 1902. The brick built structure is topped with a green metallic thached roof. The interiors are complete with wood panels and a beautiful stained glass window.
Serves excellent veg food and have a friendly service.
One of the cheapest within walking distance of the Gondola.
Khyber Hotel Gulmarg
A ski resort based in a pine valley in the heart of the Pir Panjal Range in the Himalayas at an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet. For guests of all ages, it provides a beautiful view of the Himalayas.
By bus
A not so well-known (albeit quite economical and reliable) option is to get to Gulmarg by bus. You can get a bus to Gulmarg at least every 30 mins, from 7 am to 5 pm, from Tangmarg.
Getting around Gulmarg is done mostly by foot. No need for a car as there is one road that does a loop around the whole area. Walking around it would take about an hour.
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