Gulmarg Gondola: Ticket Price, Phases, Timings & Complete Travel Guide (2026)

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest and most spectacular cable car rides in the world, whisking you from the flower-carpeted meadows of Gulmarg up to the snow-dusted heights of Apharwat Peak in the Himalayas. Whether you are chasing winter skiing thrills or summer panoramas that stretch all the way to Nanga Parbat, this single ride redefines what it means to be on top of the world.

• One of the highest cable cars in Asia, reaching 3,979 m at Apharwat Peak
• Two phases available — ride one or combine both for the full experience
• Open year-round, subject to weather; Phase 2 best enjoyed October through May for snow
• Tickets start at just ₹800 for Phase 1 return; combined Phase 1 + Phase 2 is ₹1,800
• A Kongdoori Chairlift (Mary’s Shoulder) adds yet another elevated vantage point
• Closed every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month for preventive maintenance — plan accordingly

What Exactly Is the Gulmarg Gondola?

The Gulmarg Gondola — officially operated by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation — is a two-stage ropeway system that connects the resort town of Gulmarg with the high-altitude Apharwat ridge. It is consistently ranked among the highest cable cars in the world, a distinction that makes it as much an engineering marvel as it is a tourist attraction.

Phase 1 lifts you from Gulmarg village at approximately 2,650 metres above sea level up to Kongdoori Station at around 3,088 metres. From there, Phase 2 carries you further skyward to Apharwat Peak at a breathtaking 3,979 metres. The vertical ascent offers views that encompass glaciers, dense pine forests, alpine meadows, and on clear days, the dramatic silhouette of Nanga Parbat — the ninth-highest mountain on Earth.

In winter, the upper slopes at Apharwat become a premier skiing and snowboarding destination. In summer and early autumn, the same terrain transforms into a trekking and photography paradise. The gondola is truly a year-round attraction, although conditions and accessibility vary by season.

Gulmarg Gondola Ticket Prices (2026)

Pricing for the Gulmarg Gondola is straightforward, with options catering to those who want just a taste of the view and those who want the complete high-altitude experience. All prices listed below are for adults; children may be eligible for concessions — confirm at the ticket counter on the day of your visit.

Insider Tip: If you are visiting for the first time, always book the combined Phase 1 + Phase 2 ticket at ₹1,800. The true magic of the Gulmarg Gondola is Apharwat Peak — the glacier views and the raw Himalayan landscape at nearly 4,000 metres are incomparable. Phase 1 alone feels incomplete once you know what awaits above.

Phase 1 vs Phase 2: Which Should You Choose?

Understanding the difference between the two phases helps you plan both your budget and your time. They offer genuinely different experiences, and your choice may also depend on the season of your visit.

Phase 1 — Gulmarg to Kongdoori

This is the gentler, more accessible leg of the journey. The gondola departs from the main Gulmarg station and rises through pine-clad slopes, offering sweeping views of the golf course — one of the world’s highest — and the broader Gulmarg bowl. Kongdoori itself is a pleasant plateau where you can walk around, eat at the small dhabas, and enjoy views without the thinner air of Apharwat. This phase is suitable for families with young children and travellers who may be sensitive to altitude.

Phase 2 — Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak

This is where the Gulmarg Gondola truly earns its global reputation. The cabins swing upward past dramatic rocky outcrops, permanent snowfields, and often into the clouds themselves. At the top, the terrain is raw and treeless — a moonscape of snow and stone with jaw-dropping 360-degree Himalayan panoramas. In winter, this zone is world-class skiing territory. In summer, it is a landscape that makes even seasoned travellers stop and simply stare. Note that Phase 2 has a shorter operating window (10:00 AM to 3:00 PM), so plan accordingly.

The Kongdoori Chairlift (Mary’s Shoulder)

An often-overlooked addition is the Kongdoori Chairlift, locally called Mary’s Shoulder. This open-air chairlift at Kongdoori runs between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM and offers a different perspective of the intermediate slopes. It is a quieter, more intimate experience than the enclosed gondola and is especially popular with photographers and skiers seeking access to specific runs.

Operating Hours and Timings

Getting your timings right is critical — particularly for Phase 2, which has the shortest window. Arrive early to avoid queues, especially during peak season (December to February for snow, and June to August for summer tourists).

How to Reach Gulmarg and the Gondola Base Station

Gulmarg is located approximately 56 km from Srinagar, and the journey takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by road. The gondola base station sits at the heart of Gulmarg town, a short walk from most hotels and guesthouses.

From Srinagar

The most comfortable option is to hire a private taxi from Srinagar to Gulmarg. The route via Tangmarg is well-maintained and scenic, passing apple orchards and meadows. A shared cab or bus service also operates from Srinagar’s Batmaloo bus stand, though these can be infrequent in the off-season. For travellers staying in Srinagar on a houseboat or hotel, a day trip to Gulmarg with a dedicated taxi is by far the most practical choice — you control your timings and can be at the gondola station well before the morning rush.

From Other Kashmir Destinations

If your itinerary includes Pahalgam or Sonmarg, Gulmarg can be incorporated as a day trip from Srinagar at any point during your stay. Many Kashmir tour packages route guests through Gulmarg on the way back from Sonmarg or as a dedicated day excursion.

Best Time to Visit the Gulmarg Gondola

The honest answer is that the Gulmarg Gondola is rewarding in every season — but what you experience at the top changes dramatically throughout the year.

December to March — The Snow Season

This is when Gulmarg transforms into one of Asia’s finest ski resorts. Apharwat Peak is blanketed in deep powder, the gondola cabins are fogged with breath and ski gear, and the atmosphere is electric. Phase 2 may occasionally close after heavy overnight snowfall or during blizzards, but clear days in winter deliver scenery of extraordinary beauty. Dress in serious layers; temperatures at Apharwat can drop to -15°C and below.

April to June — The Shoulder Season

Snow is still present at Apharwat in April and May, making this a wonderful time for those who want snow without peak-season crowds. The meadows below begin to bloom in May and June, creating the iconic Gulmarg carpet of wildflowers. This is arguably the most balanced time to visit — good weather, reasonable footfall, and both phases reliably operational.

July to September — The Monsoon and Green Season

The meadows are at their most verdant and the upper slopes lose their snow cover, revealing dramatic rocky terrain and clear views. Rainfall can affect Phase 2 operations on some days, but the summer months see the heaviest tourist traffic overall. Book tickets early in the day to avoid long queues.

October to November — Autumn

Perhaps the most underrated time to visit. The crowds have thinned, the air is crisp and crystal clear, the first snows often dust Apharwat in October, and the light is phenomenal for photography. Phase 2 can start seeing closures in late November as maintenance and early-season preparations begin.

Practical Tips Before You Go

Book Tickets Online Where Possible

The official booking portal at jammukashmircablecar.com allows you to check availability and, during peak season, pre-book tickets. On-the-spot tickets are available at the counter but queues during December to February can be extremely long — sometimes hours. Booking online or arriving before 9:00 AM is strongly recommended.

Acclimatise Before Phase 2

At nearly 4,000 metres, Apharwat Peak sits at a serious altitude. Travellers arriving directly from sea level or from low-altitude cities may experience mild altitude sickness — headaches, nausea, or breathlessness. Spend at least one night in Gulmarg (at roughly 2,650 m) before attempting Phase 2. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol the night before, and ascend slowly.

What to Wear

Even in summer, carry a warm jacket for Apharwat — temperatures are significantly colder at 3,979 m than in the valley. In winter, wear thermal underlayers, a waterproof jacket, gloves, and good boots. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential year-round, as UV radiation is intense at altitude.

Photography

The gondola cabins have large windows, and the views during ascent are spectacular. However, glass reflections can be an issue — pressing your lens close to the window or cupping it with your hand helps. At Apharwat, you are free to walk and shoot openly. Morning light (before noon) is generally cleaner and clearer than afternoon haze.

Health and Safety

The gondola is safety-certified and regularly maintained — the twice-monthly maintenance closure is a direct result of the corporation’s commitment to operational safety.Do not add a preamble, just continue.

Passengers with heart conditions, severe respiratory issues, or who are pregnant should consult a doctor before riding Phase 2. Children are welcome on both phases but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The gondola cabins are enclosed and heated, making them comfortable even in sub-zero conditions.

The Kongdoori Chairlift — An Underrated Addition

Many visitors focus entirely on the two gondola phases and overlook the Kongdoori Chairlift, also known as Mary’s Shoulder. This open-air chairlift runs from the Kongdoori plateau across a ridge that offers outstanding views of the surrounding slopes. At ₹400 one way or ₹600 return, it is an affordable add-on that gives you a completely different perspective — open air, quiet, and wonderfully exposed to the mountain environment.

For skiers, the chairlift accesses specific intermediate runs that the gondola does not serve directly. For non-skiers, it is simply a lovely, unhurried way to spend thirty minutes hovering above the Himalayan landscape. Operating between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, it fits neatly into a full-day itinerary that includes both gondola phases.

Gulmarg Gondola Versus Other Himalayan Cable Cars

How does the Gulmarg Gondola compare with other major cable car experiences in India and the broader Himalayan region? The table below offers an honest comparison to help you understand what makes Gulmarg stand apart.

The Gulmarg Gondola is the clear frontrunner in terms of altitude, scenery, and the sheer scale of the Himalayan landscape it reveals. No other operational cable car in India currently comes close to matching the 3,979-metre summit elevation of Apharwat Peak.

What to Do at the Top — Beyond the Gondola Ride Itself

At Kongdoori (Phase 1 Summit)

• Walk the open plateau and take in panoramic views of the Gulmarg bowl below
• Try local Kashmiri kahwa tea or snacks at the small food stalls
• Rent ski or snowboard equipment in winter from operators based at Kongdoori
• Take the Kongdoori Chairlift for an additional ridge-top perspective
• Photography — the view down onto Gulmarg’s golf course and meadows is exceptional

At Apharwat Peak (Phase 2 Summit)

• Stand at one of the highest publicly accessible points in the Himalayas and absorb the 360-degree panorama
• In winter: ski or snowboard on world-class powder slopes with professional instructors available nearby
• In summer: trek along the ridge — short, clearly defined routes are accessible to moderately fit walkers
• Spot high-altitude Himalayan flora during July and August, including rare medicinal herbs
• On exceptionally clear days, identify Nanga Parbat (8,126 m) on the northern horizon

Weather Watch: Cloud cover at Apharwat can roll in rapidly, especially after midday. If you want clear panoramic views, always take Phase 2 as early in the morning as its 10:00 AM opening allows. By 1:00 PM, mountain clouds frequently obscure the horizon even on otherwise sunny days.

Planning Your Full Day at Gulmarg

To make the most of the Gulmarg Gondola and the surrounding area, here is a suggested day itinerary that works well across most seasons.

A Suggested One-Day Gulmarg Itinerary

• 7:00 AM: Depart Srinagar by private taxi; arrive at Gulmarg by approximately 9:00 AM
• 9:00 AM: Purchase combined Phase 1 + Phase 2 tickets (₹1,800) at the gondola counter or online in advance
• 9:15 AM: Board Phase 1 gondola to Kongdoori; spend 20–30 minutes exploring the plateau
• 10:00 AM: Board Phase 2 gondola to Apharwat Peak; spend 45–60 minutes at the summit
• 11:30 AM: Return to Kongdoori on Phase 2; optionally take the Kongdoori Chairlift (₹600 return)
• 12:30 PM: Return to Gulmarg on Phase 1; enjoy lunch at one of Gulmarg’s restaurants
• 2:00 PM: Explore Gulmarg town — the golf course, Baba Reshi shrine, or simply the flower meadows
• 4:00 PM: Depart Gulmarg and return to Srinagar

This schedule is comfortably achievable as a day trip from Srinagar and leaves room for spontaneity without rushing the gondola experience. If you choose to stay overnight in Gulmarg, you gain the extraordinary bonus of watching the sun set and rise over the Himalayan peaks — an experience that is impossible to replicate from the valley.

Where to Stay Near the Gondola

Gulmarg has a solid range of accommodation options within easy walking distance of the gondola base station, spanning luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.

• Luxury: Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa and The Vintage Gulmarg are the benchmark properties, offering heated rooms, Himalayan-view restaurants, and direct proximity to the slopes
• Mid-Range: Hotel Highland Park, Hotel Heevan, and several government-run tourist bungalows offer clean, comfortable rooms at reasonable rates
• Budget: Numerous family-run guesthouses are clustered around the main market area and offer simple but adequate rooms, often with home-cooked Kashmiri meals included

Booking accommodation well in advance is strongly advised during the December to February ski season and the June to August summer peak. Rooms can sell out weeks ahead, particularly over national holidays and weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Gulmarg Gondola

Can I book Gulmarg Gondola tickets online?

Yes. Tickets can be booked through the official Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation website at jammukashmircablecar.com. Online booking is highly recommended during peak seasons to avoid long queues at the counter.

Is the Gulmarg Gondola suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome on both phases. Phase 1 is very family-friendly. For Phase 2, parents should be aware of the higher altitude and ensure children are adequately warm and not showing any signs of altitude discomfort. Children must always be accompanied by an adult.

What happens if Phase 2 is closed on my visit day?

Phase 2 closures due to weather or maintenance are not uncommon, particularly in mid-winter after heavy snowfall or during the bi-monthly maintenance days. If Phase 2 is closed, Phase 1 to Kongdoori typically remains operational and still offers beautiful views. Always check conditions on the day and plan a flexible itinerary when possible.

How long does the full gondola experience take?

A return trip covering both Phase 1 and Phase 2, including time spent at Kongdoori and Apharwat Peak, typically takes around 2 hours. Add the Kongdoori Chairlift and you are looking at closer to 2.5 to 3 hours in total. Factor in potential queuing time during peak season.

Is there food available at the gondola stations?

Yes, there are small food stalls and dhabas at Kongdoori offering hot beverages, Kashmiri kahwa, snacks, and basic meals. Options at Apharwat are more limited, so carry water and some snacks if you plan to spend extended time at the summit.

Are there any age or health restrictions?

There are no strict age restrictions, but passengers with serious heart or respiratory conditions, or those who are pregnant, should seek medical advice before riding Phase 2. The altitude at Apharwat (3,979 m) is significant and can affect individuals who are not acclimatised.

Is the gondola open every day of the week?

The Gulmarg Gondola operates seven days a week but is closed on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month for preventive maintenance. Always verify the closure schedule before your visit, especially if travelling from a distance.

Getting the Most From Your Kashmir Trip

The Gulmarg Gondola is undoubtedly the headline act, but Kashmir offers an extraordinary breadth of experiences that deserve equal attention. The Dal Lake houseboats of Srinagar, the meadows of Sonamarg, the Betaab Valley near Pahalgam, and the historic Mughal gardens are all within comfortable reach of Gulmarg on a well-planned Kashmir tour itinerary. Combining these destinations into a cohesive trip — with the right vehicle, the right timing, and the right local knowledge — is what transforms a good Kashmir holiday into an unforgettable one.

For independent travellers and first-time visitors alike, working with a knowledgeable local operator ensures you navigate the logistics seamlessly: hotel bookings, taxi transfers, gondola queues, and the little insider details that make all the difference.

Book Your Gulmarg Gondola Trip with Expert Help

Ready to experience the Gulmarg Gondola for yourself? The team at Kashmir Tour Packages Taxi specialises in customised Kashmir itineraries that include Gulmarg day trips, private taxi transfers from Srinagar, and complete Kashmir tour packages tailored to your group size, budget, and travel dates. Call us at 9149531004 to speak directly with our travel experts, get up-to-date gondola availability information, and book your Gulmarg experience with complete peace of mind.

About the Gulmarg Gondola Operator

The Gulmarg Gondola is owned and operated by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCC), a government body responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of ropeway infrastructure in the union territory. The JKCC adheres to rigorous safety standards, including the mandatory bi-monthly preventive maintenance closures that ensure the equipment remains in peak operational condition. For official information, capacity updates, and online ticket booking, visit jammukashmircablecar.com.

For broader context on Gulmarg as a ski destination and its international standing, the Ski India portal provides authoritative information on snow conditions, skiing courses, and seasonal updates across India’s premier winter resorts, including Gulmarg.

Information last verified: June 2026. Ticket prices, operating hours, and availability are subject to change. Always confirm current details with the official operator or your tour provider before travelling.