Gulmarg Gondola 2026 — The Complete Local Guide
The Gulmarg Gondola — officially known as the Gulmarg Ropeway — is one of the highest cable cars in the world and the single most iconic experience in a Kashmir trip. Rising from the meadows of Gulmarg at 2,650 metres to the snow-covered peak of Apharwat at 3,980 metres, it offers views that travellers describe as life-changing.
Our team at Mid Holidays rides the Gondola regularly — here is everything you need to know for 2026.
Gulmarg Gondola Phases Explained
The Gondola operates in two phases:
Phase 1 — Gulmarg to Kongdoori (2,650m to 2,990m)
This is the more accessible phase, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The cable car takes approximately 8–10 minutes. At Kongdoori, you arrive at a broad snow plateau with stunning views of Nanga Parbat and the surrounding Pir Panjal range. There are small cafés, pony rides, and snow activities available here.
2026 Fare (Phase 1): Approximately ₹900 – ₹1,100 per person (prices may vary by season and are set by JKPDC).
Good news: Our Romantic Kashmir Getaway package includes Phase 1 Gondola ride FREE.
Phase 2 — Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak (2,990m to 3,980m)
This is the more adventurous phase. The cable car climbs steeply for another 12–15 minutes to Apharwat Peak. This is a high-altitude environment — the air is noticeably thinner and it can be very cold even in summer. The views from the top are extraordinary — on a clear day you can see as far as Nanga Parbat (8,126m) in Pakistan-administered territory.
2026 Fare (Phase 2): Approximately ₹1,200 – ₹1,500 per person (additional to Phase 1 fare).
Note: Phase 2 may be closed in bad weather or high winds. Always check on the morning of your visit.
Gulmarg Gondola Timings 2026
- Summer (May–October): 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Winter (November–April): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Last ride approximately 1 hour before closing
- Closed on heavy snowfall days and in strong winds
Best Time to Ride the Gulmarg Gondola
For Snow Experience (October – March)
This is when Gulmarg is at its most magical. Phase 1 gives you access to skiable slopes at Kongdoori. Phase 2 takes you to Apharwat where professional skiing runs operate. Even non-skiers love the snow play, sledging, and snowball fights at this time.
For Clear Views (April – June, September – October)
The clearest mountain views occur before monsoon clouds arrive (April–June) and after they clear (September–October). Autumn is particularly stunning with golden light.
Best Time of Day
Arrive early — ideally by 8:30 AM when the ticket counter opens. Queues can be 45–90 minutes long by 10 AM in peak season. Early morning also gives the clearest mountain visibility before afternoon clouds build.
Pro Tips from Our Local Team
- Carry warm clothing even in summer — Apharwat Peak is extremely cold (can be 5–10°C even in July)
- Buy tickets at the counter — no reliable online booking system exists; beware of third-party apps claiming to sell Gondola tickets
- Arrive by 8:30 AM — queues build fast after 9:30 AM in peak season
- Check weather forecast — Phase 2 closes in strong winds; a clear morning is your best bet
- Carry snacks and water — food at the top is limited and expensive
- Wear sunscreen — UV radiation is intense at high altitude, even in winter
- Children under 3 are generally not charged for the Gondola
Snow Activities at Gulmarg (Near Gondola)
Whether or not you ride Phase 2, there are plenty of activities near Kongdoori and in Gulmarg town:
- Skiing and snowboarding (November to April) — instructors available for beginners
- Sledging on snow slopes
- Snow biking (available in winter)
- Horse riding through snowy meadows
- Visit to Maharani Temple (short walk from Gondola base)
- Visit to St. Mary’s Church (historic colonial-era church)
How to Reach Gulmarg from Srinagar
Gulmarg is approximately 54 km from Srinagar city centre — about a 1.5 to 2 hour drive depending on traffic and season. All our Kashmir tour packages include a private cab for Gulmarg day trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book Gulmarg Gondola tickets online in 2026?
As of 2026, the JKPDC (Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation) does not have a reliable public online booking system for individual tourists. Tickets are purchased at the counter on the day. Our packages include Gondola rides and our team handles the queuing for you.
Is Phase 2 of Gulmarg Gondola worth it?
Absolutely, if weather permits. The views from Apharwat Peak are breathtaking and unlike anything else in India. In winter, Phase 2 gives access to the best skiing runs. In summer, the snow and the panoramic Himalayan views are spectacular.
Is Gulmarg Gondola safe?
Yes. The Gulmarg Gondola is operated by JKPDC and meets international safety standards. It has been operating since 1998 and carries thousands of passengers daily. It is one of the highest and longest cable cars in Asia.
Can senior citizens ride the Gondola?
Phase 1 is comfortable for most senior citizens as it is not strenuous. Phase 2 involves high altitude (3,980m) which can cause mild breathlessness. We recommend consulting a doctor if you have heart or respiratory conditions.
Include Gondola in Your Kashmir Package
Our Romantic Kashmir Getaway includes a FREE Phase 1 Gondola ride. For a full offbeat Kashmir experience including Gulmarg, see our Offbeat Kashmir — Doodhpathri & Yusmarg package.
Need help planning? WhatsApp our Srinagar team at +91 910 375 2910 — we reply within the hour.