Gulmarg truly is the most exotic ski resort on the planet, not only is it in India, a land synonymous with searing heat and over-population but it is relatively unknown, home to the highest ski gondola in the world and receives STACKS of snow every winter!
Gulmarg lies in the Pir Pinjal mountain range in Indian Administered Kashmir approximately 50km from the capital, Srinigar. The mountain range itself is a finger off the spectacular Himalaya and on a clear day one can see multiple peaks of 7000+ metres in the distance including the massive Nanga Parbat, the eighth highest peak in the world. Gulmarg has long been the premier ski resort in India (yes, there are others) but truly leapt onto the world stage when in 2005 the final stage of the gondola was completed, which now transports people to a staggering 4000m above sea level (asl)! Since 2005 Gulmarg has received a steady increase in winter visitors but is still extremely uncrowded.
The village of Gulmarg sits at an elevation of 2700m asl and is nicely arranged around a large disk-like field, in summer this field is transformed into the highest golf course in the world and thousands of Indians flock here to escape the escalating temperatures on the plains. From the village the ski gondola rises in two stages, the first stage taking you to mid station (Kongdori) at around 3100m and the second phase to the height of 4000m (give or take a few!) From the top of the gondola one can hike in either direction to reach a huge variety of terrain but be aware that altitude sickness is common and the terrain is pretty gnarly. Newcomers should always travel with a guide and everyone should ensure they are carrying relevant safety equipment. A walk from the top of the gondola to the peak of Mt Apherwat (4124m asl) takes roughly 30mins – one hour depending on fitness, skiers with skins are clearly the fastest!
