Gulmarg in summer is a completely different place from its winter ski-resort self - and it has its own case for being visited. Gondola runs year-round, the meadow turns green and wildflower-covered from June through August. A Kashmiri local's honest guide.
In This Article
Quick Answer: Gulmarg in summer is a completely different place from its winter ski-resort self - and it has its own case for being visited. The gondola runs year-round to Phase 2 (3,980m). The meadow at Phase 1 (2,650m) is green and carpeted with wildflowers from June through August. Temperatures are 10–22°C. Budget ₹3,500–₹8,000 per person per day.
What Gulmarg Actually Looks Like in Summer
In January, Gulmarg is a ski bowl under 3–4 meters of snow. In July, it's a high-altitude meadow surrounded by fir forests, with the Affarwat ridge carrying snow on its upper faces while the main bowl turns green. The meadow at the base has a circuit road for horse rides (₹500–₹800 for 30 minutes) and the Gulmarg Golf Course is open to visitors - one of the highest in the world at 2,650m (greens fee: ₹1,500–₹2,500 for 18 holes).
The 2024–25 winter season saw over 650,000 visitors to Gulmarg, making it Kashmir's most visited hill station by annual footfall, according to J&K Tourism. Summer accounts for roughly 35% of that figure - meaning the experience is genuinely quieter.
Is the Gulmarg Gondola Worth It in Summer?
Yes - but with context. Phase 1 (base to Kongdori, 3,088m) is worth it for the meadow views. Phase 2 (to Affarwat peak, 3,980m) looks over the Nanga Parbat range on a clear day - on a clear morning this view is genuinely staggering.
- ✓Phase 1 return: ₹950 per person. Wait time in June–August: 20–45 minutes.
- ✓Phase 2 return: ₹1,050 additional per person. Temperature can drop to 4–6°C at the summit.
- ✓No online booking as of April 2026 - buy at base station. Arrive early for Phase 2.
- ✓Go to Phase 2 only if Affarwat is visible from the meadow by 8 AM - clouds close in fast.
What to Do in Gulmarg in Summer Beyond the Gondola
Trekking to Alpather Lake (12 km round trip): A glacial lake that sits frozen until June, accessible by foot from Kongdori (Phase 1 gondola exit). The trail takes 3–4 hours return, is clearly marked, and offers views back across the Gulmarg bowl. No guide required; wear proper footwear and carry water.
Outer Circular Trek (14 km loop): Through dense fir forest, passing the ruins of St. Mary's Church (built 1895) and old British-era bungalows. Locals use this as a morning circuit. Takes 4–5 hours. Hire a guide at the main market for ₹600–₹800.
Strawberry farms below town: The road down toward Tangmarg passes several strawberry farms selling directly between May and July. ₹100–₹150 for a small basket. This is not a tourist attraction - it's the actual harvest.
Is Gulmarg Worth Visiting in Summer If You've Already Seen Pahalgam?
Gulmarg and Pahalgam offer different things in summer. Pahalgam has better valley walking, a more varied food scene, and is lower altitude (more suitable for children and altitude-sensitive travellers). Gulmarg has the gondola (which Pahalgam doesn't), higher altitude views, and better trekking above the treeline. Via Kashmir recommends combining both: one night in Gulmarg, two nights in Pahalgam, Srinagar on either end. Custom itineraries here.
How to Get to Gulmarg from Srinagar
Private cab from Srinagar: 51 km on NH 701 through Tangmarg, roughly 1.5 hours. Via Kashmir's cab service covers this route with fixed fares. For a day trip, leave by 7 AM to reach the gondola before the queue builds. Return by 4 PM to beat Tangmarg traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gulmarg in Summer 2026
Is Gulmarg open in summer 2026? Yes. Gulmarg is open year-round. The gondola runs through summer (Phase 1 and Phase 2), the golf course operates May–October, and all hotels and guesthouses are functional.
Is there snow in Gulmarg in summer? The meadow base and Phase 1 are snow-free May–October. The Affarwat summit (Phase 2, 3,980m) has permanent snow patches year-round.
How long should I spend in Gulmarg in summer? One full day is enough for most visitors - both gondola phases, lunch at Kongdori, and a meadow walk. Two days allows the Alpather Lake trek and the Outer Circular.
What should I wear in Gulmarg in summer? Light layers for the meadow (15–22°C midday) plus a fleece and windproof jacket for Phase 2 (can drop to 4–6°C). Hiking shoes essential. Sunscreen non-negotiable at altitude.
Is Gulmarg expensive compared to Pahalgam? Yes - it's the most expensive per-day destination in Kashmir. Gondola tickets add ₹2,000+ per person and food options are limited. Budget 20–30% more than equivalent Pahalgam costs. Via Kashmir is the local platform most travellers use to find verified accommodation.
Planning a Gulmarg trip or a combined Kashmir itinerary for summer 2026?
Plan with Via Kashmir →Kashmir Pulse Editorial
Travel Writer
Writing about Kashmir from the inside — hotels, culture, seasonal travel, and the stories that don't make it into guidebooks.
Ready to Experience Kashmir?
Let our local experts craft a personalised trip for you — hotels, houseboats, cabs, and experiences handpicked for your travel style.