Ride From Gulmarg to the High Himalayas
The Gulmarg Gondola carries visitors from Gulmarg through Kongdoori and onward toward the high-alpine terrain below Mount Apharwat.
Ride for the mountain views, add it to a family sightseeing day, or use the Gondola to access higher ski terrain during winter.
The Gulmarg Gondola climbs the mountain in two stages, with each phase offering a different experience.
The first phase travels from Gulmarg to Kongdoori, taking you above the forests to a broad mountain area with views across the surrounding Pir Panjal.
Best for: Sightseeing, families, first-time Gondola visitors, and access to mid-mountain ski terrain
Upper station: Approx. 3,050 m
During winter, Kongdoori provides access to skiing and snowboarding terrain for progressing riders. Outside the ski season, it's a popular stop for mountain views and exploring the higher landscape.
The second phase continues above the tree line toward the upper slopes of Mount Apharwat.
Best for: High-altitude sightseeing and experienced skiers or snowboarders accessing upper-mountain terrain
Upper station: Approx. 3,980 m
Conditions at this elevation can be very different from Gulmarg below. Weather, visibility, snow, and operational conditions can affect access.
Phase 1 is a good starting point if your main goal is enjoying the cable-car experience and mountain scenery.
When Phase 2 is operating and conditions allow, continuing higher offers a very different high-alpine experience.
The Gondola is also an important part of Gulmarg's winter mountain access.
Which phase you need depends on your ability, lesson or guiding plan, and the terrain you intend to ski.
Explore Skiing in Gulmarg →A little preparation can make the experience easier.
Gondola tickets can be in high demand, particularly during busy travel periods. Plan ahead rather than relying on same-day availability.
Mountain weather can affect Gondola operations. Delays, temporary closures, or changes to upper-mountain access are possible.
Conditions at Kongdoori and Apharwat can be significantly colder and windier than in Gulmarg. Bring suitable layers, comfortable footwear, sun protection, and winter clothing when appropriate.
Phase 2 reaches close to 4,000 meters. Move at a comfortable pace and be aware that some visitors may feel the effects of altitude.
If you're planning accommodation, transfers, skiing, sightseeing, or other activities with us, we can also help you plan the Gondola into your itinerary and advise on the appropriate phase for your trip.
Ticket availability and Gondola operations remain subject to the official booking system and operating conditions.
Plan Your Trip (opens in a new tab)In winter, the Gondola becomes an important gateway to Gulmarg's higher ski terrain as well as a popular sightseeing experience.
Snow and mountain conditions can change quickly, and access to higher areas depends on Gondola operations and current conditions.
Explore Winter Activities →As the snow recedes, the journey becomes a scenic way to see Gulmarg's alpine landscape from above and access the higher mountain environment.
Pair a Gondola day with hiking, sightseeing, or other summer activities around Gulmarg.
Explore Summer Activities →Learning to ski or snowboard? Start with the appropriate terrain and progress higher when your ability allows.
Explore Ski School →Build the Gondola into a wider winter day with skiing, snow activities, or sightseeing.
Explore Winter Activities →Combine your Gondola ride with trekking, mountain scenery, and other warm-weather experiences.
Explore Summer Activities →Phases, tickets, operations, and what to expect.
Phase 1 connects Gulmarg with Kongdoori at approximately 3,050 meters. Phase 2 continues from Kongdoori toward the upper slopes of Mount Apharwat, reaching approximately 3,980 meters.
Phase 1 is suitable for many sightseeing visitors and families. Phase 2 takes you higher into the alpine environment when it is operating and conditions allow. Which option is right for you depends on your plans, comfort with altitude, weather, and current access.
Planning ahead is recommended, especially during busy travel periods when demand can be high. Ticket availability is controlled through the official Gondola booking system and can vary by date.
We can help you plan Gondola access as part of your wider Gulmarg itinerary and advise on the appropriate option for your trip. Ticket availability remains subject to the official booking system and Gondola operations.
Operations can be affected by weather, wind, maintenance, mountain conditions, and other operational factors. Avoid planning an itinerary that depends entirely on guaranteed Gondola access on one specific day.
Beginners generally start on Gulmarg's gentler practice terrain before progressing higher. Your instructor can advise when you're ready for different terrain.
Suitability depends on the individual child, current conditions, operating requirements, and comfort at altitude. Families should consider the weather and high elevation before deciding whether to continue to Phase 2.
Dress for mountain conditions rather than the temperature in Gulmarg alone. Layers, a warm outer layer, suitable footwear, sunglasses, and sun protection are useful, with full winter clothing required in colder or snowy conditions.
Allow enough time for ticketing, boarding, the cable-car journey, time at the upper station, and possible delays. Rather than planning the Gondola tightly between other activities, give yourself some flexibility.
Tell us your dates, group size, and what else you'd like to experience while you're here.
We'll help you plan the Gondola alongside accommodation, transfers, skiing, or other activities to create a more complete Gulmarg itinerary.