subject: Adventure Holidays In Gulmarg,kashmir,india [print this page] The main reason to come here, at least in winter, is the off-piste, deep-powder, long-run skiing and snowboarding. The adventurers are known to throng the hill resort as soon as the snow falls. The slopes of Gulmarg make it Asia''s only heli-skiing resort.
Historically Speaking
British discovered the hill resort of Gulmarg in 1927 during their colonial rule in India.
Shopping
If shopping is what youre looking for, wed suggest that you shop in Srinagar as there plenty to shop there and is only 56 km from Gulmarg. Jammu and Kashmir is immensely rich in handicrafts and handlooms. Kashmiri shawls and hand-woven silk fabrics are world wide famous. The intricate embroidery
work on the Kashmiri shawls is a must buy while shopping in Srinagar. Also famous for its traditional crafts made of cane and bamboo, and some brassware and silverware, willow baskets and artifacts, are a must buy in Srinagar. You may also find some Tibetan handicrafts here. There are many shopping joints in Srinagar to substitute for the lack of shopping joints in Gulmarg. Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk and Polo View area are the best places to explore.
Night Out
The restaurants and eateries of Gulmarg serve excellent vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. The food is not only delicious but also hygienic at the same time. Rogan Josh, a traditional non-vegetarian dish, is a must try. For some mouth-watering vegetarian food, Bakshi''s Green Punjabi Dhaba, is
the best bet. Global Hotel/Restaurant, 200mtrs in the direction of the Gondola from the Bus Station is the place if youre after some western food.
Activities
Gulmarg is the ultimate destination for skiing. All the ski equipments such as the skis and sticks, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, windproof jackets, goggles, and caps can be hired easily. The slopes in Gulmarg varying between 8,700 and 10,500 feet make the ski runs the highest in
India. It is noteworthy that Gulmarg is the only heli-skiing resort in Asia. Even the amateurs can enjoy with the ski lifts and the chair lifts with the help of the Ski instructors. Gulmarg also boasts of the highest golf course in the world. Situated at a height of 2,650 m, Gulmarg golf course is one of the major attractions of the awesome hill station. Gulmarg also offers some excellent opportunities for trekking. In case you take up the outer circle walk you can enjoy the pine forests and wonderful vistas. The beauty of the Kashmir valley will not fail to mesmerize you. Then there are the Nanga Parbat and the Haramukh that you may explore.
Sights
Gulmarg is dotted with beautiful sites that will enthrall you in its splendor. A Gondola ride (cable car ride) takes you up to Kongdori to enjoy the magnificent sights of the meadow from the top. Khilanmarg is the spot for skiing in winters. You must enjoy the views of the
Kashmir valley and the Himalayan range from Khilanmarg. It takes a couple of hours by pony, to reach Kilanmarg as it is slightly longer on foot. The Alpathe Lake, about 13 km from Gulmarg, is a scenic alpine lake that remains frozen until late June. From Khilanmarg the lake lies across the Apharwat peak. Adventure seekers must take the one-day trip to the Alpather Lake from Gulmarg. Also, while in Gulmarg dont forget to pay your obedience at the famous shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim saint.
How to get there by Air
The nearest airport is in Srinagar, 57 km from Gulmarg. Regular flights connect Srinagar with the other major cities in India.
How to get there by Rail
The railway station in Jammu is the nearest to Gulmarg that caters to the rail transport to the hill resort.
How to get there by Bus
Gulmarg has a good road connection with maintained roads. There is a bus stand at Batmallo from where you can get all sorts of transport to Srinagar.
Best time to Visit
Gulmarg is all year round destination. Winter months from November to February are ideal for skiing while the summer months from May to September offer pleasant weather for the tourists.
There are several hotels and JKTDC tourist huts that cater to the needs of the tourists. Accommodation is easily available and suits every kind of budget. All the basic amenities are available in the hotels to make your stay comfortable. It is advisable that you book your accommodation prior to
your visit especially during the peak season.
Nearby Places
Khilanmarg is the spot for skiing in winters and a picnic spot in all seasons. You must enjoy the views of the Kashmir valley and the Himalayan range from Khilanmarg. It takes a couple of hours by pony, to reach Kilanmarg as it is slightly longer on foot.
For more information for this Destination please check india Travel Guide
