Introduction:
The valley of Gulmarg , a large meadow about 3-sq-kms in area,
stands at 2,730 metres, 56-km south west of Srinagar . The
name means 'Meadow Of Flowers' and in the spring it's just
that, a rolling meadow dotted with countless colourful Bluebells,
Daisies, Forget Me Not's and Buttercups. The valley itself
is about 3-km long and up to a km wide. Gulmarg is reach with
magical meadows and mountains. British discovered the hill
resort of Gulmarg in 1927 during their colonial rule in India.Natural
beauty of Gulmarg has attracted tourists since long. In fact
the hill resort of Gulmarg literally means "the meadow
of flowers". A huge cup shaped meadow, lush and green
with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle
of cowbells, Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film and
not surprisingly have been the venue of several films.
Things to do in Gulmarg
Gulamrg is the perfect skiing destination for many adventure
seekers. One can hire all the equipment needed, such as skis
and sticks, snow boots, mufflers, woolen socks, jackets, goggles,
etc here. One can take skiing lessons from ski instructors
too.
Skiing & Heliskiing - Asia's one of the most
famous Heli-skiing resort is at Gulmarg, Kashmir. Come December,
and the verdant green slopes of Gulmarg are blanketed with
snow, forming some of the finest natural slopes for ski runs
of all levels.
Golf Courses - Gulmarg also has one of the
world's highest green golf courses, as well as a clubhouse,
which is a historical building in its own right. For the would-be
golfer, there are golf sets on hire, pros to instruct one
in the game, and temporary memberships. Naturally, these facilities
are available to players as well, except that serious golfers
usually carry their sets along.
Major Attractions in Gulmarg
There are so many major attractions, which draws the attention
of tourists in Gulmarg. Few of them are -
Khilanmarg - This smaller valley is about
a 6-km walk from the Gulmarg bus stop and car park. The meadow,
carpeted with flowers in the spring, is the site for Gulmarg's
winter ski runs and offers a fine view of the surrounding
peaks and over the Kashmir Valley . It's a 600-metre ascent
from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg and during the early spring, as
the snow melts, it can be a very muddy hour's climb up the
hill. The effort is rewarded, if it's clear, with a sweeping
view of the great Himalayas from Nanga Parbat to the twin
7,100-metre peaks of Nun and Kun to the southeast.
Shrine Of Baba Reshi / Ziarat Of Baba Reshi - This
Muslim shrine is on the slopes below Gulmarg and can be reached
from either Gulmarg or Tangmarg. The Ziarat, or tomb, is of
a well-known Muslim saint who died here in 1480. Before renouncing
worldly ways he was a courtier of the Kashmir King Zain-ul-Abidin.
Every year thousands of devotees visit this shrine regardless
of the faith they believe in.
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserves - The reserve area is located at
a distance of 48-km from Srinagar, to its southwest. It is
famous for retaining several rare and endangered species such
as the musk deer, and a rich and varied avifauna.
Alpather Lake - Beyond Khilanmarg, 13-km
from Gulmarg at the foot of the twin 4, 511 metre Apharwat
peaks, this lake is frozen until mid-June and even later in
the year one can see lumps of ice floating in its cold waters.
The walk from Gulmarg follows a well-graded Pony track over
the 3, 810 metre Apharwat ridge, separating it from Khilanmarg,
and then up the valley to the lake at 3,843 metres. The more
adventurous trekkers can climb straight up the boulder-strewn
slope of the ridge and descend the other side to the path.
For horse riding aficionados, Alpather Lake makes an exciting
day's excursion, starting early morning and returning late
evening.
Best Time to Visit : In Summer - May to September
In Winter - November to February
How to reach : Gulmarg can be easily accessed
through air, train or road.
By Air : Gulmarg is in Baramula District and is 56-kms
from Srinagar District . The nearest Airport from here is
situated in Badgam District,which is well connected with all
the major cities of the country.
By Rail : The nearest railhead is at Jammu .
By Road : The journey from Srinagar to Gulmarg takes
approximately 2 hours in bus.
So, what are you waiting for.. Just pack your bags and Get
going for the most adventurous vacation of your lifetime in
Gulmarg with us.
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