If you think Gulmarg in winter is only about skiing, think again. There’s much more to the snowy town than the slopes. The weather in Gulmarg opens with heavy blankets of snow every year, giving way to sheets of rain drenching the February skies. It’s when the nearby Drang Falls turns into spikes of ice and a trek through the town leads to the reflective beauty of the frozen Alpather Lake.
Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned skier, Gulmarg has something for everyone. The official ski season is from December to April, but check the snowfall levels before you make sure there is enough fresh snow powder. There is an adequate beginners’ area, options for off-piste, heli-skiing (from 15,000ft) and cross-country skiing. You can access most of the town’s three-acre system via the two gondolas and four chair and surface lifts. If a motorised adventure is more your speed, there are plenty of snowmobile operators to take you through snow-covered meadows. Your best bet is to make your way up to Kongdoor Station on the gondola and start your tour there. Adrenaline junkies can opt for the 45-minute high-speed ride that covers the best viewpoints and brings you as close to the border as you can get. If altitudes make you queasy, race around town on a four-wheel giant quad bike (at the gondola’s base).
At first, the daunting crowds may scare you away, but brave the traffic and reach the very top—it will be the best decision you make. The gondola has two phases; the first one takes you to the Kongdoor Station, which is filled with restaurants, sunbathing chairs and tourists. The second phase, however, takes you to Affarwath Station (at a height of over 13,000ft and open only if the weather permits), which has sparse crowds, a tranquil environment and stupendous views of the snow-coated Himalayas.
Most people plan their trekking trip to the Valley of Flowers during the summer months. However, winter too has thrilling, unique opportunities for serious adventure junkies. A challenging 3km trek from Affarwath Station will take you to the stunning Affather Lake, which lies completely frozen in winter. Walk across the lake or simply admire the mountains reflected in its mirrored surface. There are guided trekking opportunities in Tangmarg (18km away) and smaller treks within the Gulmarg valley area.
If you want to stay away from adventure sports, there are fun, low-key activities for you to do as well. There is an ice-skating rink in the heart of town, near the cable-car station. Rent equipment and find instructors to help you glide about. Alternately, get pulled around on sledges almost anywhere in the town—just call out to one, negotiate a rate and hop on. Pony rides are limited in winter, especially in case of heavy snowfall, but ask around and you are bound to find someone willing to hire one out. Snowshoes are available at most rental shops and are ideal for exploring the neighbouring forest areas.
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