Every year, Gulmarg turns into Asia’s favourite winter wonderland – it is the best place for skiing and snowboarding during winter for adventurers from all over the world! This famous ski resort, located at an altitude of 8690 feet in the Pir Panjal mountain range in Kashmir, is considered the skiing capital of India. From first-time skiers to experienced snowboarders to anyone seeking the thrills of winter in the Himalayas, Gulmarg offers an unforgettable experience that rivals ski resorts around the world.
In this comprehensive Gulmarg Winter Guide 2025, we will discuss the best skiing destinations in Kashmir, the best skiing conditions, alternative winter activities besides skiing, where to stay, safety tips, and everything else you need to plan your ideal winter holiday. Find out why skiing in Gulmarg is synonymous with winter sports in India, from the famous Gondola to great slopes covered with powder!
The timing of your ski trip to Gulmarg is crucial! Gulmarg’s Ski Season runs approximately from mid-December until Early April, although the ski conditions across these dates may vary by skiing ability. Peak ski season occurs from January to February, which are Gulmarg’s peak months for winter sports because, during this time, Gulmarg usually experiences high snowfall totals resulting in deep powder conditions, ideal for advanced skiers/snowboarders.
Peak Skiing Season: January to February
During the peak ski season, the Apharwat slopes are some of their best, with consistent snow conditions and temperatures ranging from -5 degrees Celsius to -10 degrees Celsius. In December, the skiing season starts, and Early December provides an opportunity to take advantage of what could be some great early-season skiing, as well as being able to ski on the lower mountain if it has snow cover.
December: Season Opening
During Early January, it is a little hit or miss because of the possible weak snow cover in some areas, including the lower mountain. However, Mid to Late December tends to provide ample opportunities to experience great skiing conditions, as typically the snowpack begins to build during Late December.
March: Quiet Slopes & Fewer Crowds
March is an excellent opportunity for those who prefer to ski on quiet slopes and away from crowds. Even though March has excellent snow conditions at higher elevations, the number of skiers/tourists in Gulmarg during this time period is significantly decreased, so, therefore, you can enjoy skiing on uncrowded slopes. March also provides a great opportunity for those skiers who do not like the crowds or may have difficulty skiing with crowds; however, depending on the area of the mountain, skiing during this time may be more difficult at lower elevations, as the temperatures begin to rise, which may cause the snow to become “sticky.”
The Gulmarg Gondola has the distinction of being one of the highest cable cars in the world, providing access to some of the best areas for skiing around. It consists of two stages:
Phase 1: A cable car that rises from the village at 2,650 m to the mid-station at Kongdori (3,100 m)
Phase 2: A cable car that continues up to the top of Apharwat Peak at 3,980 m, with a drop height of 1,330 m. The gondola ride itself is a fantastic experience and gives guests a 360-degree view of the Himalayas.
The gondola can accommodate approximately 600 guests every hour. You will want to take the gondola ride, even if you do not ski, when you visit Gulmarg.
Gulmarg’s variety of all levels of skiing terrain makes it the best place in Kashmir for all skill levels of skiers: From beginner to pro.
Beginner-Friendly Slopes
The gentle slopes around the village and the lower Kongdori trail give new skiers the perfect area to learn to ski and master their basic skills. Certified ski instructors provide safe and professional instruction and assistance to beginners as they develop their skills.
Intermediate Terrain
The Med-range slopes between Kongdori and Apharwat are ideal for off-piste skiing. Freestyle snowboarders love these areas for carving and showcasing their skills.
Expert Backcountry
For those who are more advanced, the majestic bowl-like formations and the steeper slopes you find around Apharwat Peak are unparalleled. Because of the deep, fluffy, light powder skiable across the majority of Gulmarg’s terrain, it offers backcountry skiing that rivals any of the world’s great skiing locations.
Although skiing is the primary attraction at Gulmarg in wintertime, there are many other ways for visitors to enjoy their stay and create lasting memories during this season.
Snowboarding at Gulmarg
Snowboarding at Gulmarg’s extensive snowfields is perfect for those who want to be able to experience a range of types of snowboarding, from cruising to technical runs.
Sledding & Snowshoeing
Glacier Sledging and snowshoeing through wooden trails in Gulmarg is an excellent way for families to spend time together. Sledging on soft slopes near hotels along the alpine ridge provides fun for all ages, and snowshoeing through Gulmarg’s majestic pine forests, where one can see an abundance of wildlife up close, offers a peaceful winter trek.
Helicopter Rides
An authorised helicopter tour provides an extraordinary experience of seeing the snow-covered valleys and Apharwat peaks from above. Always make sure to check the operator before booking this type of tour.
Snowmobile Adventures
Snowmobiling through frozen meadows and trails with licensed operators can add an element of adrenaline to your experience in Gulmarg.
Depending on your budget, you can choose from several types of accommodations at the Gulmarg ski resort (e.g., luxury five-star lodges or budget hostels). Additionally, when looking for lodging, you should take into consideration the distance from the ski slopes to access your skiing day, the overall quality of the facility, and winter accessibility (i.e., whether or not the facility is accessible during the winter).
Luxury Mountain Resorts
Premier hotels offer deluxe heated rooms, gourmet restaurants, and direct ski slope access, best suited for visitors who expect luxury, as well as adventure.
Mid-Range Hotel
Moderately priced hotels provide comfortable and value-oriented accommodations located in the village, conveniently within walking distance of most of the skiing areas.
Budget Options
Budget accommodations (both hostels and guest houses) provide a true taste of the local culture but may have fewer amenities than more expensive hotels.
Winter Weather Preparation
Be prepared for cold weather by packing the appropriate thermal clothing, such as waterproof jackets, insulated gloves, quality goggles, and functional snow boots. Daytime temperatures will typically be between -4 degrees Celsius to -10 degrees Celsius at night. Be sure that you are prepared for these types of extreme temperatures when visiting Gulmarg.
Safety when skiing is always the number one concern, so please follow the tips provided below:
Q1: Is skiing safe for new skiers in Gulmarg?
Gulmarg is one of the safest ski resorts in India because they have professional instructors, marked slopes for safety, and beginner-only terrain for skiers new to the sport. All winter long, certified ski instructors are stationed at the resort, as well as trained staff members, to ensure safe skiing practices. No matter your skill level, always ski accompanied by a friend and use certified ski instructors.
Q2: How Many Days Should I Ski in Gulmarg?
The average visitor to Gulmarg spends between three to five days skiing at the resort. The first day will be the acclimatisation day and the day for beginner lessons. The next 2-3 days will be to developing and refining skiing skills and exploring the terrain. Days four to five will be for intermediate skill level skiers to progress to advanced skill level or to relax after two days of practising their skills. Serious skiers should take advantage of the longer, seven-to-ten-day trips to master their skills and explore the backcountry skiing areas.
Q3: What is the difference between skiing in Gulmarg in January vs. February?January skiing has the freshest and deepest powder and the best snow cover, and is the time of year to experience the vibe of Gulmarg. February skiing has similar great snow, but somewhat warmer weather. Therefore, February is best suited for skiers who would like to ski in Gonzaga and experience slightly warmer temperatures than in January. Both January and February are in peak season; therefore, ski accommodations are higher priced, and skiing in January and February is more crowded than skiing mid-February through March.
Q4: What if I don’t want to ski in Gulmarg?Definitely visit Gulmarg for the Gondola ride and experience some of the greatest views and the stunning scenery on the trails. Gulmarg also offers ice skating, snowshoeing, snowmobile rides, sledging, cultural experiences, and much more.
Gulmarg in winter 2025 offers a unique chance to ski at one of Asia’s top ski resorts without having to travel far. Superb powder snow with easy access to outstanding alpine skiing terrain, combined with the best professional skiing infrastructure, reasonably priced holiday packages and the cultural experience of Kashmir, is a unique proposition to consider this winter.
Whether you want to ski the famous slopes of Apharwat for an incredible descent, enjoy life on the Gulmarg Gondola as you take the perfect Instagram photos, or spend the day immersing yourself in the warm hospitality of the people of Kashmir, you can expect to have an unforgettable winter vacation in Gulmarg. The best time to ski in Gulmarg is now! So gather your friends and family, or come by yourself for an exciting winter holiday.
Make your plans for a ski trip to Gulmarg today with Well Worth Holidays. Our experienced staff creates individual Gulmarg winter holiday packages that include incredible skiing experiences, luxurious accommodations, professional ski instruction, and cultural exposure to the region’s rich history. By booking with Well Worth Holidays, you will have access to insider knowledge, obtain the best deals, and have the confidence and convenience of having all aspects of your trip coordinated from booking to departure.
At Well Worth Holidays, we believe every winter holiday is worth planning for and that every visitor should have an authentic experience while in Gulmarg. Your winter vacation in Gulmarg in 2025 will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will want to repeat every winter. You will be able to explore the unspoiled slopes and experience the culture of the mountains while creating lifetime memories during your trip to the winter paradise of Kashmir. Don’t just go to Gulmarg; go to Gulmarg and let our knowledgeable and caring staff help you enjoy your winter holiday!
