Gulmarg Gondola: FAQ

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest and most celebrated cable car rides in the world, lifting visitors from the meadows of Gulmarg to the snow-laden heights of Apharwat Peak. Whether you are planning a winter ski trip or a summer Himalayan trek, these answers cover everything you need to know before you go.

What Is the Gulmarg Gondola?

The Gulmarg Gondola is a ropeway system operated by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation, located in Gulmarg, a hill station in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, India. It runs in two distinct phases, rising from an altitude of 2,650 metres at Gulmarg town to 3,979 metres at Apharwat Peak — making it one of the highest operating cable cars anywhere on the planet.

Phase 1 carries passengers from Gulmarg to the intermediate station at Kongdoori (3,088 m), while Phase 2 continues the ascent to Apharwat Peak. An additional chairlift — sometimes called the Mary’s Shoulder Chairlift — operates from Kongdoori and offers a gentler, open-air ride across the snowfields. Together, the two phases and the chairlift give visitors a tiered experience of the Himalayan landscape, from pine forests and alpine meadows at the base to raw glacial terrain at the summit.

The gondola is rated 4.4 out of 5 based on more than 8,135 reviews, reflecting its status as one of Kashmir’s most iconic and well-loved attractions.

Gulmarg Gondola Ticket Prices in 2026

Below are the current fares for all Gulmarg Gondola phases and the Kongdoori Chairlift. All prices are in Indian Rupees (INR) and cover return journeys unless specified.

If you intend to experience both phases, buying the combined Phase 1 + Phase 2 ticket at ₹1,800 gives you a seamless journey all the way from Gulmarg meadows to the top of Apharwat Peak without needing to queue again at Kongdoori. For those who prefer a shorter outing or are travelling with young children, Phase 1 alone at ₹800 is a perfectly rewarding ride with spectacular valley views.

What Are the Operating Hours?

The gondola operates seven days a week, but with different time windows for each section. Arriving early is strongly recommended, especially during peak tourist season when queues form well before the ticket windows open.

Note that Phase 2 has a shorter window than Phase 1. If you plan to ride all the way to Apharwat Peak, make sure you board Phase 1 early enough to reach Kongdoori well before 10:00 AM, when Phase 2 begins accepting passengers.

Is the Gondola Closed on Any Day?

Yes. The Gulmarg Gondola remains closed on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month for scheduled preventive maintenance. The closure applies to the full ropeway system. Visitors are strongly advised to check the calendar before booking travel or accommodation in Gulmarg, particularly if their itinerary is built around a Monday ride. On all other days, the gondola operates subject to weather conditions.

Is the Gondola Open Year-Round?

The Gulmarg Gondola is available year-round, but operations are subject to weather conditions. Phase 2, which reaches the highest altitude, is more vulnerable to disruption. During periods of heavy snowfall — typically December through February — Phase 2 may be suspended for safety reasons or off-season maintenance. Phase 1 to Kongdoori tends to remain accessible for a greater part of the year.

• Winter (December–February): Heavy snowfall can close Phase 2 temporarily. Skiers still flock to Gulmarg during this period for world-class slopes, but check the status before visiting.
• Spring (March–May): Snow begins to melt; both phases often operational. Stunning views with snow still coating the peaks.
• Summer (June–August): Both phases and the chairlift are typically fully operational. Alpine flowers bloom across Kongdoori meadows. Peak tourist season.
• Autumn (September–November): Crowds thin, air is crisp, and the landscape turns golden. One of the best times to visit for photography.

Where Do I Buy Tickets?

Tickets for the Gulmarg Gondola can be purchased at the ticket counter located at the base station in Gulmarg town, on Alambal Road (PIN: 193403). The official online booking portal is operated by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation and can be accessed at jammukashmircablecar.com. Booking online is a sensible option during peak season, as it can save you significant waiting time at the counter.

Payment at the counter is accepted in cash as well as via UPI and card. Online bookings require you to select your preferred date and timeslot, after which you receive a confirmation that you present at the entry gate.

How Long Does the Ride Take?

Each phase of the gondola takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes one way. A full return journey on both phases — from Gulmarg to Apharwat Peak and back — including time spent at Kongdoori and the summit, typically takes around two hours in total. If you plan to walk around Kongdoori meadows, take the chairlift, or have lunch at the top, budget at least three to four hours for the complete experience.

What Will I See at Each Level?

Gulmarg to Kongdoori (Phase 1)

As the gondola lifts off from Gulmarg, you rise above a dense belt of pine and fir trees. The Gulmarg Golf Course — one of the highest golf courses in the world — comes into view below. By the time you reach Kongdoori at 3,088 metres, the treeline has thinned and you are standing in open highland meadows surrounded by peaks on all sides. In summer, these meadows are carpeted with wildflowers; in winter, they transform into wide, gentle ski slopes.

Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak (Phase 2)

The second phase is the more dramatic of the two. The gondola climbs steeply above the treeline into a high-altitude glacial zone. Snow remains on the ground at Apharwat Peak (3,979 m) for most of the year. On a clear day, you can see the entire arc of the Pir Panjal Range, with Pakistan-administered Kashmir visible in the distance. The air is noticeably thinner at the top, so those with respiratory conditions or low altitude fitness should be mindful.

Kongdoori Chairlift (Mary’s Shoulder)

The open-air chairlift at Kongdoori runs across the snowfield to Mary’s Shoulder, offering a completely different sensation from the enclosed gondola cars. You are exposed to the mountain air and have an unobstructed 180-degree view of the slopes. It is particularly popular with skiers in winter and with photographers in summer for the uninterrupted sky-and-snow compositions it enables.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Gulmarg Gondola

Is Phase 2 worth the extra cost?

For most visitors, yes. The Apharwat Peak vista is substantially more dramatic than Kongdoori, and the experience of standing at nearly 4,000 metres on a clear day is difficult to replicate anywhere else in Kashmir. The extra ₹1,000 for Phase 2, or the combined ₹1,800 for both phases, represents genuine value for the scale of scenery on offer. If budget is a concern, Phase 1 alone is still a rewarding experience, but most first-time visitors who skip Phase 2 report wishing they had completed the full journey.

Can children ride the Gulmarg Gondola?

Children are welcome on both phases. However, parents should note that Apharwat Peak sits at a high altitude where the oxygen level is lower, and younger children or those unaccustomed to altitude may feel discomfort. Phase 1 to Kongdoori is generally suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Carrying water and wearing layered clothing for children is strongly recommended.

What should I wear?

Even in summer, temperatures at Kongdoori and Apharwat Peak are significantly colder than in Gulmarg town. A warm jacket, gloves, and closed shoes are essential at any time of year. In winter, full ski or snow gear is necessary for Phase 2. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also important at altitude, where UV exposure is higher than at sea level.

Is it possible to ski at Gulmarg from the gondola?

Yes. Gulmarg is one of Asia’s premier ski destinations, and both gondola phases lead directly to ski runs. In winter, the slopes above Kongdoori and around Apharwat Peak are used by skiers and snowboarders. Ski equipment rental is available at Gulmarg. The Ski India programme and several private ski schools operate out of Gulmarg during the winter season.

Are there food and facilities at the top?

Basic food stalls and small eateries operate at Kongdoori, particularly during peak season. Options at Apharwat Peak are more limited. It is advisable to carry snacks, water, and any medications you may need. There are basic toilet facilities at Kongdoori; facilities at Apharwat are minimal. Do not count on mobile data connectivity at the higher altitudes, though this is improving year on year.

Is the gondola suitable for people with mobility limitations?

The gondola cars themselves are enclosed and accessible at ground level, making boarding relatively straightforward for most visitors. However, the paths around both Kongdoori and Apharwat Peak involve uneven terrain, snow, or gravel, which can be difficult for those with limited mobility. Visitors who use wheelchairs or have significant mobility impairments should contact the J&K Cable Car Corporation in advance to discuss arrangements.

How do I reach Gulmarg from Srinagar?

Gulmarg is approximately 56 kilometres from Srinagar and is accessible by road. The drive typically takes around one and a half to two hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Taxis and shared cabs operate regularly between Srinagar and Gulmarg. Private cab hire from Srinagar remains the most convenient option for families and groups, giving you full flexibility over your departure time and stops along the way.

What is the best time of day to visit?

Arrive as early as possible — ideally by 8:30 AM before the ticket counter opens. Queues build up quickly, particularly during school holidays and long weekends. Arriving early also means you benefit from clearer skies; cloud cover often rolls in during the afternoon at higher altitudes, reducing visibility. If you are visiting in peak summer or the winter ski season, an early start can be the difference between a two-hour queue and a twenty-minute one.

Getting the Most from Your Visit

• Book online: Use the official portal at jammukashmircablecar.com to reserve your slot and avoid long on-site queues.
• Check the maintenance schedule: Remember the gondola is closed every 2nd and 4th Monday. Confirm your travel date before booking accommodation.
• Combine with Gulmarg sightseeing: The Maharani Temple, Baba Reshi Shrine, and Gulmarg Golf Course are all within easy reach and make a full day of it.
• Carry cash: While digital payments are accepted, having cash on hand for small vendors and porters at the base is practical.
• Acclimatise if arriving from a low altitude: If you have come directly from sea level, spend a day in Srinagar (1,585 m) before heading to Gulmarg and especially before riding Phase 2.
• Photography tip: Morning light on Apharwat Peak is exceptional. A clear morning in autumn or late spring offers the best combination of visibility and golden light.

Plan Your Gulmarg Trip with Us

Ready to experience the Gulmarg Gondola as part of a well-planned Kashmir holiday? Call Kashmir Tour Packages Taxi at 9149531004 to speak with our team about customised tour packages, taxi transfers from Srinagar to Gulmarg, and everything in between. We help you plan every detail — from gondola timings to hotel stays — so your visit goes smoothly from the first gondola car to the last.

Information on this page reflects operating conditions and prices as of 2026. Fares and schedules are set by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation and may be revised. Always verify current details at jammukashmircablecar.com before your visit.