Gulmarg Gondola Ride | Experience the Highest Cable Car of Asia
Gulmarg Gondola Ride highlights
Please note that Gulmarg Gondola tickets are in extremely high demand, and booking confirmation is not guaranteed. However, our team will make every effort to secure your tickets. In case we are unable to confirm the booking, you will receive a full refund within 7 working days.
Go on an exhilarating ride on Asia's tallest cable car, the Gulmarg Gondola, and admire the breathtaking views of peaks, alpine scenery, and lush meadows.
Ride safely with an English and Hindi speaking guide, offering insights into the scenic landscapes, making your cable car experience more enriching.
Enjoy a comfortable and safe ride in contemporary gondola cabins with French engineering that can hold up to 6 passengers.
Marvel at the breathtaking valley views while enjoying the Phase 1 ride from Gulmarg to Kongdori, listening to interesting facts about Gulmarg.
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Gulmarg Gondola Ride cancellation_policy
- If cancellation is made 15 days or more before the date of travel, no cancellation fees will be charged.
- If cancellation is made between 7 days to 15 days before the date of travel, 50.0% of total booking cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- If cancellation is made within 7 days before the date of travel, total booking cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- In the event of unforeseen weather conditions, union issues, government restrictions, or any other circumstances beyond human control, certain trips or activities may be cancelled. In such cases, alternate feasible options will be provided. However, a cash refund will not be available.
Why Choose Thrillophilia
Gulmarg Gondola Ride overview
Combining adventure and stunning natural beauty, the Gulmarg Gondola, Asia's tallest and longest cable car, provides a guided ride to 4,200-meter Apharwat Mountain. The French company Pomagalski and the government of Jammu and Kashmir collaborated to create this two-stage ropeway, which offers a smooth ride through breathtaking scenery. A knowledgeable guide who is bilingual in Hindi and English will accompany you on the trip and offer insights into the natural beauty of the region. Starting at Gulmarg Resort at 2,600 meters, the journey first ascends to Kongdori Station in a picturesque bowl-shaped valley.
Phase I runs from Gulmarg to Kongdori with a horizontal length of 2,091 meters, carrying up to 1,500 passengers per hour in 72 cabins. The ride travels 2,539.99 meters from Kongdori to Apharwat in Phase II, carrying 600 passengers per hour in 34 cabins. Visitors can pause at Kongdori for admirable views of the meadow. They then continue on to Apharwat, where they can marvel at the breathtaking views of mountains covered in snow. As an alternative, tourists may choose to combine the two stages into a single, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Without a doubt, guests will depart from this Gulmarg gondola with invaluable recollections of their journey to Kashmir.
Activity Timings: 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Activity Duration: 5 hours
Note:
- Travellers must arrive at the starting point of the ride strictly by 7 AM, failing which may lead to cancellation of tickets without any refund.
- Each gondola cabin holds up to 6 people, assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Thrillophilia cannot guarantee a full cabin for a single group.
- For a better experience, guides will accompany the travellers on the gondola ride and their count will be included in the cabin capacity.
- The physical copy of your confirmed Gulmarg Gondola ticket will be provided on-site by the guide upon arrival.
Best Time to Visit the Gulmarg Gondola
The Gondola Ride, Gulmarg offers a beautiful and spectacular experience all year round, with each season offering a unique landscape.
If you are a snow lover and winter sports enthusiast, consider planning your visit between December and February. During these months, Gulmarg turns into a magical snowy landscape that is perfect for skiing. On the other hand, if you wish to enjoy views of the lush greenery and clear mountains, go for a trip to Gulmarg in the months between May and September. The spring season brings blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures, making it another great time to take the ride.
Note: It is best to take the ride in the early morning for optimal visibility, fewer crowds, and a longer time to spend on the Apharwat peak.
How to Reach the Gulmarg Gondola
By Taxi: Visitors can take private taxis and cabs from the Gulmarg city centre, which will take them directly to the Gulmarg gondola ride booking point, which is only a few kilometres away. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views of the Himalayas.
Hike: If you are an adventure seeker, you can take a hike from the Gulmarg main market to the Gulmarg Gondola station. The entire uphill trail is only 1.5 km and will provide you with an immersive experience amidst nature.
Horse Ride: Horses are available to rent near the Gulmarg bus stand and visitors can enjoy this unique way to reach the gondola station while enjoying views of the surrounding meadows on horseback.
Gulmarg Gondola Ride: Phases and Levels
Phase I: The first phase of the Gondola ride, Gulmarg runs from Gulmarg base station to Kungdoor and takes visitors from 2650m to 3050m above sea level. It’s a 10-minute ride that offers breathtaking views of the Kashmir valley and even gives access to the best spots for winter activities like skiing and snowboarding.
Phase II: In the second phase of the ride, the Gulmarg gondola ascends to Apharwat Peak at 4200m from Kungdoor. This level is known for its deep snow, off-site skiing and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks like the Pir Panjal range. The ride to the top takes about 12-15 minutes and provides visitors with a breathtaking experience above the clouds.
History of Gulmarg Gondola Ride
The Gulmarg gondola ride was launched as a joint initiative between the Jammu and Kashmir government and the French company ‘Pomagalski’ in the year 1998. The aim of this project was to boost tourism in the beautiful hill city of Gulmarg, which is also one of India’s most famous ski destinations.
In the beginning, the project only included operations for Phase 1, but Phase 2 was later added and opened in 2005, making it one of the highest cable car rides in the world. The Gulmarg cable car ride has since then become a major attraction, drawing travelers from around the world.
The Specialty of Gulmarg Gondola
1. Enjoy Breathtaking Panoramic Views
The Gulmarg gondola ride offers mesmerising panoramic views of snow-covered peaks of the Pir Panjal range & Harmukh range, dense pine forests and lush meadows of Kongdori Valley. As you ascend to the top on one of the most scenic cable car rides in the world, you will be standing on the shoulders of the Apharwat Peak.
2. It is Perfect for Snow Lovers & Winter Sports
In winter, the entire area is covered in thick snow blankets, making it a paradise for thrill seekers. If you are an adventure seeker, you can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and sledding at Kungdoor and the Apharwat Peak.
3. A Memorable & Unique Experience
The Gondola ride, Gulmarg is more than just a mode of transport - it is a fulfilling experience in itself. Whether you are traveling solo, with your family, or on a romantic getaway, this journey offers visitors unforgettable moments above the clouds.
4. Easy & Accessible for Everyone
Visitors can very easily book their gondola ride online as the Gulmarg gondola ride booking system is easily available. The cable car itself is a hassle-free and unique experience for people of all ages. Even visitors with disabilities can easily get access to the cable car ride, making it ideal for everyone - from families to adventure enthusiasts.
How the Gulmarg Gondola Ride is Conducted
1. Booking: The Gondola ride, Gulmarg booking process is very simple to follow and efficient. You can always book the tickets online in advance or choose to purchase them at the counter itself (subject to availability).
2. Journey: The gondola ride operates in two different phases, and visitors can wait for their turn in the fully equipped waiting rooms at each station. Each of the gondola cars can accommodate up to six passengers, who can enjoy the most stunning views of the surrounding valley and peaks.
3. Safety Measures: The management team strictly follows all the safety measures, including regular maintenance and emergency protocols. The Gulmarg cable car ride is well-regulated, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Tip: If you are traveling in peak season, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid long queues.
Gulmarg Gondola Ride faqs
Is the Gulmarg Gondola cable car ride safe?
Yes, the Gulmarg cable car ride is absolutely safe and undergoes regular maintenance. Professional operators present on the ground ensure the smooth functioning of this unique activity. Additionally, the gondola cars are fully enclosed, offering protection from the harsh weather and winds at such heights.
What is the distance between Gulmarg and the Gondola boarding point?
The Gulmarg Gondola ride boarding point is about 1.5 km from the town's main market. Visitors can choose from a local private taxi, a pony ride or even choose to hike to the boarding point if looking for a more adventurous experience.
What are some things to do in Phase I and Phase II of the Gulmarg Gondola?
Visitors will find plenty of things to do in both phases of the Gondola ride, Gulmarg. In phase 1, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and sled rides at Kungdoor. In phase 2, you will ascend to Apharwat Peak, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Nanga Parbat and Harmukh Mountain, get more hiking opportunities, and advanced skiing routes.
Are cameras allowed on the Gulmarg Gondola cable car rides?
Yes, you can definitely carry your camera or mobile phone on the Gulmarg cable car ride and capture the stunning scenery around. However, if you are planning on a professional drone shoot, you might need to get prior permission from the concerned authorities.
Is it possible to book Gulmarg Gondola tickets offline?
Yes, visitors can purchase their tickets offline at the ticket counter on-site. However, due to high demand, it is advisable to complete your Gulmarg Gondola ride booking online in advance to secure a spot.
Gulmarg gondola opening and closing time?
The Gondola ride, Gulmarg, operates daily from 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM. This time is subject to changes due to weather conditions and it is recommended to check for updates before planning your visit.