About Apharwat Peak
Apharwat Peak is a high-altitude snow-covered peak at about 4,200 metres in the Pir Panjal range above Gulmarg in Baramulla district, Jammu and Kashmir. Accessible via Phase 2 of the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world's highest cable cars, it is renowned for its panoramic Himalayan views, extensive snowfields and as India's premier skiing and snowboarding destination in winter, with Alpather Lake at its base.
Visitors guide
Visitors reach Apharwat Peak via the two-phase Gulmarg Gondola from Gulmarg base to Kongdori and then to the summit ridge. At the top, expect a wide snow-covered bowl, panoramic views of the Pir Panjal and Greater Himalayan ranges including Nanga Parbat on clear days, and the frozen Alpather Lake below. The area has open slopes for skiing and snowboarding in winter and rocky alpine meadows in summer, with photo points, small food stalls and ski equipment rental near the gondola station.
Key highlights
- 01
Summit elevation of approximately 4,200 metres (13,780 ft) in the Pir Panjal range
- 02
Accessed by Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2, one of the highest operating cable cars in the world
- 03
Panoramic views of Himalayan ranges including Nanga Parbat on clear days
- 04
Premier skiing and snowboarding slopes with long snow season from December to April
- 05
Alpather Lake (frozen in winter) located at the base of the peak
- 06
Year-round snow patches and alpine landscape for sightseeing and photography
Route
| By air | Srinagar International Airport (SXR) about 55-60 km from Gulmarg, then road to Gulmarg and gondola to peak |
|---|---|
| By train | Nearest major railhead is Baramulla Railway Station about 45 km from Gulmarg, connected to Srinagar and Banihal; Jammu Tawi is the nearest major junction for long-distance trains |