Gulmarg Gondola, the crown jewel of Gulmarg, is a must-visit attraction in the picturesque valley of Kashmir. It is a thrilling cable car ride that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and dense forests. The gondola ride takes you up to an altitude of 4,100 meters above sea level, making it the highest and longest cable car in Asia. In this blog post, we will explore all that Gulmarg Gondola has to offer and why it is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Kashmir.
The history of Gulmarg Gondola
Gulmarg Gondola was first opened to the public in 1998, and it has since become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kashmir. It was built by the French company Pomagalski, and it is operated by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation. The gondola was built to provide tourists with a breathtaking view of the valley and to attract more visitors to the region.
The two phases of Gulmarg Gondola
Gulmarg Gondola is divided into two phases, each with its own unique views and experiences. The first phase takes you from the base station at 2,600 meters to Kongdoori at 3,080 meters, covering a distance of 2.5 km. The ride lasts for about 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The second phase takes you from Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak, which is at an altitude of 4,100 meters above sea level. This phase covers a distance of 3.9 km and lasts for about 12 minutes. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, with panoramic views of the valley and the Himalayan peaks.
Section 3: Things to do at Gulmarg Gondola Apart from the breathtaking views, Gulmarg Gondola offers a wide range of activities for visitors. At the base station, you can rent snow boots and jackets to keep you warm during the ride. You can also enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee at the cafe while you wait for your turn.
Once you reach the top, you can indulge in activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledging. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a hot meal while enjoying the panoramic views.
Tips for visiting Gulmarg Gondola
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
- Dress warmly as it can get quite cold at higher altitudes.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Carry sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
Conclusion: Gulmarg Gondola is an experience that you will never forget. The breathtaking views, the thrill of the cable car ride, and the wide range of activities make it a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Kashmir. With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy this majestic attraction to the fullest. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the beauty of Gulmarg Gondola!