The word ‘Gulmarg’ means ‘Meadow of Flowers’ and the undulating downs are covered with a variety of wildflowers in late spring and summer. Most of the architecture is unaggressive and blends well with the terrain – and attractive wooden houses predominate with languid curves and easy dips and rises along the inner and outer circular roads that encircle Gulmarg.
A walk right round the outer one, at an easy pace, will take a couple of hours.
Gulmarg rests on an edge of the Pir Panjal mountains. Clearly visible is the western marker of the Himalaya mountains, the 8,126 meters high Nanga Parbat. Several other peaks also ring the area. The ski club dates back to 1927. A fresh dimension was added when a gondola car became operational â the second phase was completed in 2005.
This is able to carry serious skiers almost to the top of the 4,100 meters (null,451.4 feet) Mount Apharwat from where long runs over varied faces, bowls and ridges have become available on good powder snow.
Gulmarg Ski Resort
Embark on a journey to a place that combines snow and big mountain skiing, cultures and above all, thrill. Gulmarg Resort is a big ski hill at about 4000 meters with the summit of Mount Aparhwat about 100 meters above it. This provides about 1500+ meters of a vertical and legendary terrain. The resorts provide high-quality equipment and an experienced training staff.
Apharwat Peak
Gulmarg or “ground of flowers” (‘gul’ meaning ‘flowers’) is the most beautiful hill station of Srinagar. Situated in Gulmarg at the height of 14,403 feet above sea level is the summit of Apharwat Peak that remains thickly covered with snow, almost throughout the year. This peak is near Alpathar Lake and is popular for being the ultimate skiing destination.
Rani Temple
Located in the heart of Gulmarg town, the Rani Temple is one of the last remnants of the Dogra Dynasty which once ruled the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. The temple was built by Maharaja Hari Singh and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. His wife Maharani Mohini Bai Sisodhia used to perform prayers every day here, the temple is, therefore, named after her.
Ningle Nallah
A few kilometers from Gulmarg is this beautiful white stream of Ningle Nallah. It later merges with the River Jhelum near Sopore. Wide and grassy pastures located the stream form a perfect place for a family picnic with light snacks and yes, lots of pictures. You can even set a camp here! One can sit here for hours and admire the surrounding meadows, chirping birds, gushing sound of water, and rich culture this dream-like location offers.
Alpather Lake
The Alpather Lake lies at the foot of 4,511-meter twin peaks of the Apharwat. It is a triangular shaped Lake and features a backdrop of snow covered mountains, breathtaking to say the least. A cool breeze gently caresses your face as you stand near the lake, which remains frozen until mid-June. Post-June, small flecks of ice with clear blue water are seen floating on the surface of the lake.
Baba Reshi Shrine
Located in Baramullah district (Rambodh Village), is the beautiful shrine of Sufi Saint Baba Payam Uddin Reshi. It is a three- storey monument situated at an altitude of about 7000 feet. This is a popular tourist and pilgrim destination. Baba Payam Uddin is said to have given all his belongings to serve common people. He lived at this location that later became his tomb site.
Gulmarg Children’s Park
Gulmarg Children’s Park is acres of open land amid breathtaking surroundings. You can walk up to the park or hire a pony. This park is like a big garden surrounded on all sides by big mountains. The park entrance has a token system having nominal charges. A mini car ride can be enjoyed by children inside.