Skiing in Gulmarg
AN EPIC HIMALAYAN ADVENTURE
Nestled in the picturesque region of Kashmir, at the western edge of the Himalayas in northern India, and in proximity to the border with Pakistan, lies the enchanting ski resort of Gulmarg. This welcoming village has earned its reputation as the mecca of backcountry skiing thanks to its dependable powder, an impressive 2-kilometer vertical drop, and diverse terrain offerings. The introduction of the gondola cable car in 2005 provides mechanized access to the expansive backcountry area at Mt. Apharwat, culminating at its peak station at 3,960 meters (13,000 feet). With the "world's highest ski lift," short ski tours, descents that are a considerable distance from the lifts, and extended ski days, the ski runs at Gulmarg are undeniably epic.
Gulmarg offers a multitude of options. From steep alpine runs, thrilling pillow lines, and rugged couloirs that cater to expert skiers seeking challenging mountaineering experiences, to gentle open powder bowls and sparsely forested areas ideal for intermediate and advanced riders, there is something for every skier and snowboarder. Dive into the bowls that overlook the picturesque valley of Kashmir and Nanga Parbat (8,126 meters) and carve through the vast, untouched slopes and tree-filled glades. Explore the buzz surrounding the epic powder in Baba Reshi, and relish the joy of skiing untracked lines each time. The forests of Baba Reshi, Monkey Hill, and Tangmarg offer excellent tree skiing, making them a great option for inclement weather days. We ensure you can ski every day, even when the storm disrupts the operation of the lifts.
Gulmarg remains a hidden gem within the Himalayas. This ski resort is visited by only a few hundred skiers/riders per week during the high season, attracting a dedicated community of riders who consider it the "Powder Heaven on Earth." Here, amidst the heart of the Pir Panjal, the brilliance of the Himalayas beckons with its pristine snow.
SEPTEMBER 2023 UPDATE FOR FOREIGN VISITORS PLANNING TO EXPLORE GULMARG SKI RESORT IN THE 2023/2024 WINTER SEASON
India has reopened its doors to foreign tourists as of November 15, 2021, with the resumption of commercial flights and the availability of tourist visas for the first time since the March 2020 lockdown. As of July 19, 2023, most of the COVID-19 related requirements have been eased. You can find the complete revised guidelines on the Ministry of Health's website. It is essential to obtain a visa before your trip to India.
Gulmarg Packages 2024
FreeridingFreeride Adventures
Discover the thrill of fully guided off-piste adventure skiing and snowboarding packages in Gulmarg. Our "All-Inclusive" programs allow guests to choose the time and duration of their stay.
Read more here: Freeride Details
SNB CampsFreeride Training
[Currently Not Available}Thanks to a recently completed chairlift, we are now delighted to offer beginners' backcountry snowboarding courses in Gulmarg. Alongside exploring off-piste terrain, our guests also receive training on how to manage avalanches and handle accidents.
Read more here: Camp Details
Heli-SkiingHeliski in Kashmir
Experience the excitement of heliskiing in Gulmarg as a captivating addition to our backcountry programs. You can include it as part of our "Prime" package or arrange it on short notice while you're in Gulmarg.
Read more here: Heliski Details
Gulmarg Accommodations
ENJOY COZY ROOMS, DELICIOUS CUISINE, AND WARM HOSPITALITY
Accommodations in the charming village of Gulmarg offer a wide range of choices. You can find luxurious 5-star resorts and deluxe hotels, as well as more basic Gulmarg hotels with modest decor, where hot water and heating are available only during specific hours of the day.
The hotels where we accommodate our guests adhere to the following criteria: proximity to the gondola, a welcoming atmosphere, surpassing the standards of typical Western 3-star lodging, reliable central heating, and 24-hour hot water.
It's important to note that the cost of lodging in Gulmarg, even in more straightforward hotels, is often relatively high for the quality provided. This situation was exacerbated during the pandemic, as domestic tourists began flocking to Kashmir.
View HotelsExplore Gulmarg with us!
Extensive Local Knowledge
Skiing and snowboarding in mountainous terrain come with inherent risks and rewards. Our guides are dedicated to prioritizing your safety. We collaborate with a team of local guides who are well-versed in first aid and avalanche safety, possessing intimate knowledge of the backcountry areas we explore.
About Us
Satisfied Guests
Having ventured through the remarkable ski resort of Gulmarg with us, freeriders from around the world have endorsed our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction. With our small groups and a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4, we easily tailor our programs to match the preferences and abilities of our guests, ensuring the creation of memorable experiences.
View Testimonials
Safety - Our Foremost Concern
The lift-accessible backcountry area of Mt. Apharwat, situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters, offers exceptional opportunities for skiing. However, it is classified as "complex, high-alpine terrain" with limited avalanche and rescue services. When you venture into the backcountry, rest assured that our team is dedicated to your safety, making every effort to provide the best skiing experience, while ensuring it is both thorough and safe.
More about GuidesThe Ultimate Backcountry Skiing Paradise in the Himalayas
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What our Guests Say about Gulmarg
Epic terrain and snow!
"Gulmarg is truly astonishing and spectacular! A visit to this place leaves an indelible mark on your soul. Experience the best riding of your life, the freedom of the Himalayas, and the endless possibilities they offer. With its breathtaking steeps and sub-alpine trees, the terrain is nothing short of fantastic. The cultural experience of Kashmir adds a special dimension to the adventure. This place offers far more than just powder. Thanks to our exceptional local guide, Manzoor, we consistently discovered fresh powder lines. From airport pickup in Srinagar to the hotel and jeep transfers, everything was impeccably arranged. These memories will last a lifetime! Thank you, GSL!"
Leo, Munich/Germany
Great ski adventure!
"This ranks among the greatest ski adventures I've ever had, and I've had many. I wholeheartedly recommend GSL, as they provide outstanding guiding services in the area to help you make the most of your visit. Backcountry touring here is an absolute blast. Ski as much as your legs and the daylight allow. Even during Gulmarg's version of a "storm" day, you'll find yourself skiing the deepest tree runs. While it may not always be like this, I once skied in waist-deep, low-density "champagne powder" in Babareshi. It was truly exhilarating! Every little detail was well coordinated, and we had a fantastic and dependable contact in Gulmarg. Savor the "curry powder," and let Gulmarg Snow Leopards handle the rest. I can't wait to come back."
Charles, Boulder/Colorado
A place like no other!
"Gulmarg is an otherworldly resort that provided us with a magnificent experience. When we discovered GSL, we decided to entrust the organization of our trip to a seasoned professional, and we had no regrets. He flawlessly managed all lodging and ground transportation arrangements, and his expertise in planning our trip was invaluable. Coming from Japan, we arrived in Delhi well-rested and were able to hit the slopes for an afternoon session on the day we reached Gulmarg, catching the opening of the chairlift. It was nothing short of epic! Skiing tight chutes on Shark's Fin with him on another day was a remarkable experience. What's more, the place itself is like Heaven on Earth, a memory that still lingers in our dreams. We loved it even more than Japan, without a doubt."
Lukas, Gothenburg/Sweden