About Gulmarg Gondola
Gulmarg Gondola in Gulmarg, Baramulla district, Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the world's highest operating cable cars, operated by Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation. It runs in two phases from Gulmarg (2,650 m) to Kongdoori (3,080 m) and then to Apharwat Peak (3,980 m). Notable for panoramic Himalayan views, access to skiing slopes, and year-round scenic rides over snow-covered meadows and pine forests.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a two-phase cable car ride from Gulmarg base station to Kongdoori Station (Phase 1) and onward to Apharwat Peak (Phase 2). The ride offers aerial views of snow-covered meadows, pine forests and the Pir Panjal range. At Kongdoori and Apharwat, visitors can explore snow fields, viewpoints, photography spots and seasonal ski slopes. Facilities include ticket counters, waiting halls and small food stalls. Operations are weather-dependent.
Key highlights
- 01
One of the highest and longest cable cars in Asia reaching 3,980 m at Apharwat Peak
- 02
Two-phase ride: Gulmarg to Kongdoori (Phase 1) and Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak (Phase 2)
- 03
Panoramic views of Pir Panjal range, Nanga Parbat and Gulmarg valley
- 04
Access to Kongdoori Valley and Apharwat snowfields for skiing and snowboarding in winter
- 05
Year-round sightseeing and photography opportunities over meadows and pine forests
History of Gulmarg Gondola
Developed by Jammu and Kashmir State Cable Car Corporation with technical collaboration with Pomagalski (POMA) of France. Phase 1 from Gulmarg to Kongdoori was commissioned in 1998 and Phase 2 to Apharwat Peak was completed in 2005, making it one of the highest cable car projects in the world.
Culture & Context
A major tourism infrastructure of the Kashmir Valley that supports winter sports and mountain tourism in Gulmarg, a long-established hill station and ski destination.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar, about 60 km away, then by road to Gulmarg |
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