Gulmarg Gondola: The ultimate guide to India’s highest Cable Car Ride

While the Gondola rides remain operational the entire year and are just as stunning in both winter and summer, the best time to visit completely depends on what you are seeking from this experience. In winters the whole region is covered in thick layers of snow, making it look like a white paradise, and the Gondola rides become a passage to this paradise. This is also the perfect time for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter adventures. If you’re eagerly waiting to take pictures in snowfall, winter is the best time for you.

However, if skiing is not your thing and you are not looking forward to bone-chilling weather, Gulmarg in summer might just be your pace. This time of the year, the rush fades away, the temperature is pleasant, and views from the ropeway ride are of green meadows with snow-covered mountains in the distance.

Once you have arrived in Srinagar, your next stop is Gulmarg town. There are three ways you can get there. You can book a car, which is a 50 km ride, and you’ll reach Gulmarg in about two hours, or you can take a bus to Tangmarg and then a local taxi to Gulmarg. Some people prefer booking self-drive cars, though during winters the snow-covered roads pose a challenge.

From Gulmarg town, the Gulmarg Gondola base station is only 1.5 km away. If you want to take in the sight, you can take the hiking trail, though keep in mind that it is a long way and might not be suitable for everyone. However, if you’re looking for a more fun and thrilling way, you can also get a pony to get you there! For a more comfortable, economical, and quick ride, you can also book a local taxi to get you to the base station. It is recommended that you reach the base station, preferably an hour early from the scheduled time, for a smooth experience.

The cable ride is more than just a ride; it takes you through the very essence of Kashmir. The course of the ride is as simple as it gets. After you arrive at the base station and pass through the ticket-checking counter, you will reach the primary hub. There, you will enter your first cable car, which seats six individuals altogether. The cable car is surrounded by transparent glass, and the view is beyond imagination. You will reach your first stoppage, phase 1 (Kongdoori), where you can wander around, eat at the restaurants, and take pictures. Then you can approach the second hub at phase-1, which will take you to phase-2 (Apharwat). This part is where the ride gets truly thrilling. The dramatically high altitude gives you the stunning view of Kashmir, justifying its title “Heaven on earth.” The welcoming, pleasing slopes transform into the steep cliffs. After exploring phase-2 to your heart’s content, you can either continue your journey up to phase-3, which is suitable for skiing, or you can take the same path down to the base station.

For a memorable and hassle-free experience, you need to keep a few things in mind for your trip to Gulmarg. The Gondola ropeway rides are operational from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, but to avoid standing in long queues, get there a little early. Children below the age of 10 years are not allowed in phase 3, so book your tickets accordingly. While the views are panoramic and the experience is unmatchable, some people might experience a little altitude sickness, which is completely normal.

The contents of your suitcase highly depend on what time of the year you’re planning to visit. If you’re visiting in summer, two layers of clothing, gloves, and thermal socks should do it. Don’t be fooled by the snow-covered mountains; you will need sunglasses and sunscreen. Additionally, if you’re planning to take a hike, don’t forget your hiking boots. For winters, layer as much as you can; bring heavy woolen coats and windproof jackets. Good thermals, snow-proof gloves, mufflers, and woolen socks are a must.

To make the experience at Gulmarg Gondola smoother and to keep the ticketing process fair, Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCC) is introducing an on-spot cabin ticketing facility for phase 1.

Here’s all you need to know:

• When & Where: The tickets will only be available for visitors who arrive at the GGP waiting hall from 8:00 am to 8:30 am.
• How much: Tickets for Indian visitors are ₹800 for phase-1 and ₹1000 for phase-2.
• Restrictions: Pets, inflammable items, and heavy luggage.
• How long: The whole trip on average should take you approximately 2-3 hours.
• Important: This ticket counter closes strictly at 8:30 am. This system is in effect from 22nd January 2025 to 15th March 2025.

The Gulmarg Gondola Cab Ride is more than just a means to an end; it's an experience that beautifully sums up the paradise that is Kashmir. The ride has a little something for everyone. You can take beautiful pictures, take part in snow sports, and fulfill your childhood dream of building a snowman. To make this better and completely stress-free, you can check out our Gulmarg package. Any trip to Kashmir is incomplete without this ride to remember.

Is the cable car ride safe?
Yes, the cable car ride is completely safe, with all necessary safety measures in place to make this experience smooth as well as secure.

What are some things to do in phase 1 & phase 2?
At phase 1, make sure you don't miss out on the delicious food from local vendors and restaurants. At phase 2, you can warm up with a hot cup of coffee or traditional Kashmiri Kahwa. All of this adds up to the breathtaking views in front of you. And of course, capture these moments.

What are some snow sports to take part in at Gulmarg gondola?
In winters, you can take part in skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing. In summers, you can enjoy trekking and mountain biking as well as photography as you take in the stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.