The Gulmarg Gondola is one of Kashmir’s best-known rides. It runs in two phases. Phase 1 climbs from the Gulmarg resort area to Kongdoori, and Phase 2 continues up the Apharwat slopes. Each phase has its own ticket, and weather affects them differently, so a little planning helps. This guide covers both phases, how to book, what can close the ride, and where to stay if you want to be close to the boarding station.
What is the Gulmarg Gondola?
The Gulmarg Gondola is a two-stage cable car run by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC). It is one of the highest cable car rides in the world. In winter it draws skiers and snowboarders, and in summer it offers green meadows, pine forests and wide mountain views.
Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdoori
Phase 1 starts near Gulmarg at around 2,650 metres and rises to
Kongdoori, a mid-station at about 3,050 metres. The cabins pass over pine forest before the landscape opens into meadows. In summer, the meadows are green. In winter, Kongdoori is a popular spot for snow activities, including beginner ski runs.
Phase 1 suits families, couples and anyone who wants the gondola experience without the higher altitude of Phase 2.
Phase 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat
Phase 2 carries you from Kongdoori to the upper station on the Apharwat slopes, at about 3,980 metres. The upper station is not the summit of Apharwat Peak, but the views of snow-covered ridges and the Pir Panjal range are wide.
The altitude is significant. Take it slowly at the top, stay hydrated, and come back down if you feel unwell. Anyone with heart, lung or other health concerns should check with a doctor before going to high altitude.
Phase 2 is the most weather-dependent part of the ride. It can stay closed while Phase 1 runs, so plan your day around the forecast and the official notices.
Gulmarg Gondola ticket prices
Fares are set by JKCCC and are revised from time to time, so check the official booking portal for the current fare for each phase before you travel.
Phase 1 and Phase 2 are separate tickets. You need a Phase 1 booking before you can book Phase 2.
How to book Gulmarg Gondola tickets
Book ahead, especially on weekends, public holidays and during the winter season, when slots fill quickly.
Go to the official JKCCC booking portal at etickets.jammukashmircablecar.com. Information about the corporation is on jammukashmircablecar.com.
Select your travel date and choose Phase 1, Phase 2 or both.
Pick an available boarding slot and enter the details of each passenger.
Pay online and save your confirmation and QR code.
Keep screenshots or downloads on your phone, as mobile signal near the upper stations can be weak.
A hotel booking in Gulmarg does not include gondola tickets unless your package says so. Treat the gondola as a separate booking.
Gulmarg Gondola timings and closures
The ride does not run on a fixed schedule all year. Snowfall, high winds, poor visibility, technical checks and maintenance can all change operating hours. The operator schedules preventive maintenance closures from time to time, and it has carried out an annual inspection and maintenance closure in September in recent years.
Check the latest notice on the official site before you travel, confirm the boarding slot printed on your ticket, and arrive well before it to complete entry formalities.
Weather and cancellations
Weather is the biggest factor. The ride runs at high altitude, so strong winds, heavy snow or low visibility can pause services. A ticket does not guarantee that the ride will run on your day.
If a closure affects your visit, follow JKCCC’s notice on rescheduling, validity and refunds. A closure does not automatically mean a refund, so check the official terms before you assume one. Keep some flexibility in your Gulmarg itinerary and avoid planning the gondola for your last day in Kashmir.
Best time to visit
Summer (April to June): Green meadows and pleasant weather. Phase 1 is at its most enjoyable, and Phase 2 may still have lingering snow.
Monsoon and early autumn (July to September): Lush greenery, but cloud and rain can reduce visibility.
Autumn (October to November): Golden and reddish forest colours, colder temperatures, and snow depending on the season.
Winter (December to March): The best season for snow activities and skiing. Expect possible interruptions from snowfall and wind.
How to reach Gulmarg
Gulmarg is about 50 to 55 km from Srinagar, usually 1.5 to 2 hours by road depending on traffic and weather. Most visitors fly into Srinagar airport and arrange a transfer through their hotel or travel provider. In winter, snow and icy roads can slow vehicles, and you may need locally operated vehicles for some stretches.
Where to stay near the Gulmarg Gondola
If you want to stay close to the boarding station, two Stay Pattern properties in Gulmarg are a short walk from the Gulmarg Gondola.
Gulmarg Woods by Stay Pattern is a three-star property, and each cottage has its own dining hall.
Shaw Inn by Stay Pattern is a four-star property in Gulmarg, five to seven minutes’ walk from the gondola.
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is a preferred partner hotel of Stay Pattern, for which we offer the best guaranteed rates. Read more on the Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa page.
When choosing a hotel, compare its distance from the boarding station, heating for winter, dining arrangements, parking and facilities for families or couples.
Plan your Gulmarg holiday with Stay Pattern
A gondola ride pairs well with a longer Kashmir trip. Browse our Kashmir honeymoon packages, or speak to our team about hotels, transfers and sightseeing for your dates.
