13 Amazing Things To Do In Gulmarg In Summer

Then, here is the complete travel and stay guide for spending a fun vacation in Gulmarg in Summer months.

Should I visit Gulmarg in Summer or Winter? is one question that haunts all the tourists, as Gulmarg is popular for Skiing and other snow adventure sports in Kashmir. 

It is true, however, there are many exciting things to do in Gulmarg in Summer, as well, so worry not and fasten your seatbelts, we are off to Kashmir!

Exciting Things to Do in Gulmarg in Summer

• Trekking in Gulmarg in Summer
• Camping
• Fishing
• Gulmarg Gondola Ride
• Paragliding in Gulmarg in Summer
• Horseback Riding in Gulmarg in Summer
• Exploring Gulmarg in Summer Festivals
• Spotting Rare Wildlife at Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary
• Playing a Game of Golf
• Try Summer Sports in Gulmarg
• Visiting Historical Sites
• Trying Kashmiri Culinary Scenes
• Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

People visit Gulmarg for snow treks but there are several excursions and hikes to do in Gulmarg in Summer:

Apharwat Peak Trail: This hike is renowned for its stunning views of the nearby valleys in Kashmir and snow-capped massifs. It offers the perfect blend of difficult to moderate levels of hiking, which is just right for every kind of hiker. 

Alpather Lake Hike: A demanding yet gratifying trek that takes you to the gorgeous Alpine waterbody, Alpather Lake, situated at the foot of Apharwat Peak. 

This hike is one of the best activities to do in Gulmarg in Summer, as the lake looks even more stunning during this season.

Khilanmarg Trail: This hike is famed for its lush meadows, blooming with vibrant wildflowers, offering a stunning and picturesque sight to the hikers. 

For tourists seeking a serene retreat in the heart of nature, Khilanmarg is among the must-visit places to visit in Gulmarg in summer.

Ningle Nallah Trail: Ningle Nallah is a tranquil scenic waterway, perfect for a calm and pacifying excursion. 

Tourists love to sit across this gurgling stream, go camping, or sit around a bonfire, it is among the most exciting things to do in Gulmarg in summer, as the weather is just right for such outdoor activities. 

Ningle Nallah Trail is a beautiful short trail that passes through lovely scenery and leads to a stream that is a favoured spot for picnics.

Ferozepur Nallah Trail: Recognized for its pristine waters and sweeping vistas, this trek is optimal for those seeking to discover the natural splendour of Gulmarg in summer.

Imagine yourself, stationed next to a free-flowing alpine river, whose water is purer than any water filter can even provide, you have an orange-coloured tent made out of thick fabric for a home, and to the farthest corner of the scenery, all you can see is the stunning natural beauty of Gulmarg in summer. 

There are several camping places in Kashmir, but Gulmarg in summer, especially is among the best spots in Kashmir for experiencing the true flavours of natural goodness.

Fishing in Gulmarg in summer is among the popular activities to do in Gulmarg in summer. Places like Ningle Nallah and Ferozpur Nallah are specifically known for being abundant with various fish species. 

The Gulmarg Gondola journey is an enjoyable leisure pursuit and stands as a top attraction for Gulmarg’s tourism scene. Tourists visiting Gulmarg in summer or winter can both enjoy it. 

It has been in service for over twenty years, providing a distinctive experience for visitors. 

Gulmarg in summer is blooming with lush meadows and bright flowers and tourists can get magical views of the beauty of Gulmarg in summer, from a staggering height, while taking the gondola ride.

People of all ages can join in on this exciting adventure when they come to Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir. 

During the ride, participants enjoy a cable car journey from Gulmarg to Kungdoor Station, followed by a trip to Kongdoori Mountain and Apharwat Peak. 

At these stops, guests have the opportunity to relax among the snow-covered peaks and towering pine trees and sip on a warm cup of coffee while taking in the breathtaking views.

This sport will leave you in awe of the splendour of India’s most stunning destination, and experience the most incredible, cooling wind on your skin. 

Try this adventure activity in Gulmarg in summer with all the necessary precautions and skilled guides. They’ll be right there to assist you and ensure your safety. 

With paragliding in Kashmir here, you can feel as light as a bird and enjoy the sensation of their wings for 5-10 minutes.

The verdant, expansive meadows of Gulmarg, along with their diverse array of wildflowers render the landscape appear as if it were from a divine realm. 

Getting these breathtaking views while you slowly tread through the coniferous forests and grasslands on a pony back, is an experience to remember.

Apart from skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, visitors can also enjoy horseback riding in Gulmarg in summer. 

Horseback riding can be done all year round but the weather in Gulmarg in summer is perfect for this activity, as there is no snow and it is safer and easier for the horse to climb and descend steep slopes and sharp edges. 

The horseback ride begins in Gulmarg and leads you to the summit of Khilanmarg. Throughout the journey, you will encounter numerous hills covered in snow. 

Another horseback ride, which is longer than this one, departs from Gulmarg and ends at Apharwat. 

Numerous hikers opt for horseback rides to transport their belongings and ensure a safe ascent to the mountain’s peak.

Attendees can sample a range of mango types, participate in maximum mango-eating contests, and appreciate authentic Kashmiri music and dance shows. 

The event features cooking shows where regional cooks demonstrate various dishes that feature mango as the primary component. The Mango festival is among the most vibrant festivals in Gulmarg in summer, and is quite popular amongst tourists.

The Tulip Festival stands as one of the top attractions in Gulmarg in summer and spring seasons, drawing in visitors from across the globe. 

This event occurs amidst the tulip season, during which the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden which is among the best places to visit in Gulmarg in summer as it is decorated with countless hues of tulips. 

Attendees can leisurely walk through the garden, capture breathtaking photos, and partake in cultural events, food vendors, and art displays throughout the festival.

Nature lovers can spot a variety of species here such as Musk Deer, Common Leopard, Barking Deer, Asiatic Black Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Wolf, Snow Cock, Chakoor, etc.

Due to its proximity to the lower regions of the Indian subcontinent, the sanctuary occasionally hosts wildlife migrating from these areas, like the Barking Deer.

There are high chances of spotting some rare birds and animal species in the sanctuary in Gulmarg in summer as the weather is pleasant and the fields are full of lush foliage and grass patches, attracting more and more animals. 

The sanctuary is a famous tourist spot renowned globally for its lush meadows, rugged terrains, birch thickets, and its appeal to birdwatchers.

It is located 35 kilometres away from the city of Baramulla. This golf course is perched at an altitude of 2,650 metres (8,690 feet) above sea level and ranks as the second-highest golf course in the world. 

The best time to visit this legendary site is when you’re visiting Gulmarg in summer as during the winter season, the golf course is blanketed in thick snow. It remains accessible from April to November only.

Also Read: Guide To Drung Waterfall In Kashmir | Must-Visit Frozen Waterfall

Gulmarg provides the ideal location for a great bonfire night. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains and peaceful fields, organising a campfire gathering and arranging games around it are among the few great activities to do in Gulmarg in Summer.

ATV ride: Discovering the mesmerising beauty of Gulmarg in summer on an ATV is the most adventurous thing you will ever do in Kashmir. 

ATV cars are easily available in Gulmarg, and they are a great way to climb up the mountains while exploring the lesser-touched spots of this beautiful hill station. 

ATV cars can be hired at a nominal charge, you can bargain and strike a good deal.

Sleighing: Although, you won’t find thick snow layers in Gulmarg in summer, however, there is enough for trying this little fun sport called ‘Sleighing’. It gives you the thrill of skiing without any prior training or experience. 

You sit on a wooden sledge and slide down the snowy slopes of the melting glaciers in Gulmarg in summer. It is a safe sport and is popular among even kids. 

Given the pure and natural environment, there is hardly any pollution or smog in this area, making millions of twinkling stars and galaxies shine like diamonds. 

Their sheen is exaggerated due to the pitch-dark sky forming the perfect background.

Cycling: Cycling in Gulmarg in summer is another fun summer activity. Gulmarg boasts the most stunning cycling paths in the world. Cycling has emerged as one of the fastest-expanding outdoor activities in the global tourism sector. 

For visitors seeking quiet, less crowded, scenic country lanes, cycling is an ideal choice. These bike tours allow for a leisurely excursion, tourists can explore areas like Strawberry Valley, St. Mary’s Church, Children’s Park, and more according to their convenience and will.

Cycling through the hills is an exhilarating adventure, and Gulmarg in summer offers the most breathtaking cycling routes. 

The trails and roads are clear, there is no danger of slipping and skidding and tourists can cover many more areas in Gulmarg in summer than the ones they can in winter. 

Also Read: Complete Guide To Winter In Kashmir For A Memorable Visit This Year

You can explore and visit these iconic sites and make the best of your stay in Gulmarg in summer.

• St. Mary’s Church
• Baba Reshi Shrine
• Maharani Temple
• Children’s Park
• Strawberry Valley
• Dhrung Waterfall
• Khilanmarg
• Kondogri 

• Cuisine – Indian, Mughlai, Kashmiri
• Address– The Vintage Gulmarg, Circular Road, Gulmarg
• Timing – 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Price for two- INR 700-2000

Hillpoint- This place is a must-visit if you want to grab a quick snack on a budget.

• Cuisine – Indian, Mughlai
• Address– Main Market, Gulmarg
• Timing – 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price for two– INR 100-300

Glass Igloo Cafe- One of its kind, spending an evening in the glass igloos in this cafe is an experience of a lifetime. It is popular among couples visiting Kashmir on honeymoon, especially.

• Cuisine – Continental, Chinese, Indian
• Address– Main Market, Gulmarg
• Timing – 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price for two– INR 500-1000

It is easy to find these makeshift cafes in Gulmarg in summer, other must-dry delicacies are Kesar Kehwa and Coconut Mithai. 

• Cuisine- Kashmiri
• Address- Near tourist spots in Gulmarg
• Timing-11:00 AM- 5:00 PM
• Price for two- INR 50- 150

Bakshi Restaurant- 

Perfect for mouthwatering Kashmiri Vegetarian and Jain Food.

• Cuisine –  Kashmiri, Chinese, Mughlai, Jain
• Address– Near Church Road, Gulmarg
• Timing – 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Price for two– INR 650-900

Pine Palace Restaurant – 

For a delectable Kashmiri and multi-cuisine experience.

• Cuisine – Indian, Mughlai, Kashmiri
• Address– Pine Palace Avenue, Near Gondola Base Station, Gulmarg
• Timing – 9:00 AM– 10:00 PM
• Price for two– INR 400-800

Spanning a territory of about 180 square kilometres, it is celebrated for its abundant variety of life, featuring several uncommon and threatened species.

The landscape features lush grasslands, timber-lined valleys, and peaceful lakes surrounded by high peaks, offering an enchanting setting for watching and capturing nature. 

The biosphere reserve in Gulmarg in summer opens more gateways to spotting some rare wildlife species like Musk Deer, Red Fox, and Kashmir Roller.

The area is also essential for studies and protection work related to the Himalayan environment.

1. Carry light summer clothes, as during the day, the temperature can be quite high. 
2. Carry light woollens, as the nights in Gulmarg in summer are cool and chilly.
3. Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must, to avoid sunburns and glare when you go on hikes or horseback rides. 
4. Ensure you carry proper camping gear for safety and comfort, as many camping sites in Gulmarg are in secluded areas. 
5. Keep all the necessities with you, to avoid any hassles. 
6. Ensure that all your documents are in place. If you require a permit to visit some parts of Gulmarg in summer, do the paperwork beforehand. 
7. Wear comfortable footwear, and carry a pair of trekking shoes, especially when visiting Gulmarg in summer.
8. Stay hydrated and carry a water bottle. 
9. Carry all your medicines.
10. Be mindful and don’t litter the places you visit in Gulmarg in summer or any other season. 

Also Read: Kashmir Travel Tips For An Amazing Trip To The “Heaven Of Earth”

What are the best accommodation options for a comfortable stay in Gulmarg in Summer?

1. The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa
2. Hotel Marina Drang Waterfall
3. Kolahoi Green Heights
4. The Vintage Gulmarg
5. Heevan Retreat
6. Hotel Pine Palace
7. Highlands Park
8. Grand Mumtaz Resorts
9. Hotel Pine Spring Gulmarg
10. Sheen Homestay

From luxury to affordable accommodation, you can find all kinds of stay options here.

How to reach Gulmarg in Summer?

By Air: The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar Airport, after reaching the airport you can hire a taxi or rent a car. 

By Rail: To reach Gulmarg by rail you should get off at Jammu Tawi Station. 

How to reach Gulmarg in summer depends entirely on your preference and convenience.