Gulmarg Gondola: A Complete Visitor's Guide

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world and a highlight of most Kashmir trips.

We book gondola rides for our guests almost every day of the season. Here's everything we tell them: the two phases, how to book, and how to avoid the common mistakes.

What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2?

Phase 1 goes to Kongdoori; Phase 2 goes much higher, towards Mt. Apharwat.

Phase 1 climbs to Kongdoori, a meadow with snow play in winter and pony rides in summer. It's suitable for everyone, including children and older travellers.

Phase 2 continues to nearly 4,000 m on Mt. Apharwat, where there's snow for much of the year. It may close in bad weather or high winds.

How do you book Gulmarg Gondola tickets?

Online, on the official website.

Tickets are sold by the J&K Cable Car Corporation on its official website, which takes bookings up to 120 days in advance. You need a Phase 1 ticket to book Phase 2. Carry the same photo ID you used to book.

When is the best time to ride?

Early in the morning.

Queues are shorter and the views are clearer before the afternoon clouds roll in.

What should you wear?

Warm layers, even in summer.

It's much colder at the top than in Gulmarg town.

Which packages include Gulmarg?

Almost all of them. See our Gulmarg tour packages or the Srinagar package for 3 nights.

What is the Gulmarg Gondola?

The Gulmarg Gondola is a cable car that climbs from the Gulmarg meadow towards Apharwat peak, and it is one of the highest cable cars in the world. It carries visitors up in two stages, opening a world of snow in winter and high meadows in summer that would otherwise take hours to reach on foot.

For most visitors it is the single highlight of a Gulmarg day, offering sweeping views, snow play at the top even in summer, and access to the ski slopes in season. It is operated by the J&K Cable Car Corporation, and because it is so popular, a little planning around tickets and timings makes a big difference to your experience.

The two phases of the Gondola

The Gondola runs in two phases. Phase 1 climbs from the Gulmarg meadow to Kongdoori, a gentler, lower stage that suits families, young children and anyone who wants a taste of the heights without the full cold and altitude. It offers lovely views and, in winter, plenty of snow.

Phase 2 continues higher, towards Apharwat peak, into a starker, colder, high-altitude world of snowfields and, in season, the main ski terrain. Phase 2 is more weather-dependent and closes on bad-weather days, so it is not guaranteed. Many families do only Phase 1, which is shorter, warmer and still thrilling, while skiers and the adventurous aim for Phase 2 when conditions allow.

How to book Gondola tickets

Book your Gondola tickets in advance through the official J&K Cable Car Corporation, especially in peak season, because counter tickets can sell out by mid-morning. Booking ahead saves you a long queue and the disappointment of arriving to find tickets gone.

Each phase is ticketed separately, so decide whether you want Phase 1 only or both. Keep your booking confirmation and carry ID. Fares are set by the corporation and can change, so check the current prices when you book rather than relying on older figures. Arriving early also means you ride before the biggest crowds and have more of the day at the top. Always use the official channel to avoid touts and inflated prices.

When is the best time to ride the Gondola?

The Gondola runs year-round, weather permitting, but the experience changes with the season. In winter, roughly December to March, the slopes are deep in snow, making it the time for snow play, skiing and the classic white-mountain views. In summer, the meadows are green and flower-strewn, with snow lingering only near the top of Phase 2.

Whatever the season, go early in the day for the clearest weather, the best light and the shortest queues, and to maximise your chance of Phase 2 being open before afternoon clouds build. Clear mornings offer the finest views; by afternoon, especially in winter, the weather can close in and halt the higher phase.

What to wear and carry for the Gondola

Dress warmly for the Gondola whatever the season, because it is significantly colder at the top than in the meadow below. In winter, full winter kit is essential: a heavy jacket, thermals, gloves, a cap and waterproof boots with grip for the snow and ice. Even in summer, carry a warm jacket, as the top of Phase 2 holds snow and a cold wind.

Add sunglasses and sunscreen, since the sun on snow is intense, and sturdy footwear for the slippery ground. Carry some water and snacks, as options at the top are limited and pricey, and a power bank for your camera or phone. Dressing right is the difference between enjoying the heights and cutting your visit short.

Tips for the best Gondola experience

A few habits make the Gondola day smooth. Book tickets online in advance and arrive early, both to beat the queues and to ride before the weather turns. Decide between Phase 1 and both phases based on your group; families with young children are often happiest with Phase 1 only.

Keep some flexibility, since Phase 2 can close at short notice on bad-weather days, and do not be disappointed if it does, as Phase 1 is still wonderful. Dress warmly, carry water and snacks, and keep cash for the small extras. Finally, pair the Gondola with a walk on the Gulmarg meadow and the old church for a full, memorable day in the resort.

Frequently asked questions

How many phases does the Gulmarg Gondola have? Two: Phase 1 to Kongdoori and Phase 2 towards Apharwat peak. Do I need to book in advance? Yes, especially in peak season, as counter tickets sell out by mid-morning; book through the official corporation. Is Phase 2 always open? No; it is weather-dependent and closes on bad-weather days. What should I wear? Warm, waterproof clothing even in summer, as it is cold at the top. When is the best time to go? Early in the day for clear weather and short queues. For the official bookings and fares, check the J&K Cable Car Corporation, and for more Gulmarg ideas, the Kashmir tour packages guides on Travel Wiki pair well with this one.

Have a question about planning your trip? Message us on WhatsApp or contact our Kashmir team for a free itinerary.