Gulmarg Gondola Ticket Booking 2026 | Price, Timings & Guide
The Gulmarg Gondola is not just a cable car ride — it is the single most iconic experience in Gulmarg, and one of the most thrilling in all of India. Floating above dense pine forests, vast snow-covered meadows, and Himalayan peaks touching 4,000 metres, it is the world’s second-highest operating cable car and a must-do on any Kashmir tour.
But every year, thousands of travellers arrive without booking in advance — and either miss the ride entirely or get overcharged by unauthorised agents. This 2026 guide covers everything: exact ticket prices, updated timings, how to book online step by step, Tatkal booking, and how to avoid common scams.
📋 In This Guide
- What Is the Gulmarg Gondola?
- Ticket Prices 2026 (Phase 1 & Phase 2)
- Gondola Timings & Time Slots
- How to Book Online — Step by Step
- Tatkal (Last-Minute) Booking Guide
- On-Cabin Tickets at the Gate
- Important Rules Before You Go
- Common Scams to Avoid
- Expert Tips for the Best Gondola Experience
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Gulmarg Gondola?
The Gulmarg Gondola is a two-phase ropeway system operated by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) — a joint venture between the J&K government and French firm Pomagalski. It is the world’s second-highest and second-longest cable car, covering approximately 5 km of aerial distance across two phases.
| Phase | Route | Altitude | Ride Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Gulmarg → Kongdori | 2,650 m (8,530 ft) | ~15 minutes |
| Phase 2 | Kongdori → Apharwat Peak | 3,979 m (13,050 ft) | ~20 minutes |
Each gondola cabin carries up to 6 passengers, with a capacity of 600 passengers per hour. Phase 2 ascends to Apharwat Peak, where snow is present for most of the year — making it the top destination for skiing, snowboarding, and high-altitude photography.
Gulmarg Gondola Ticket Price 2026
Prices are set by JKCCC and updated periodically. As of 2026, the standard ticket rates are:
| Ticket Type | Route | Price (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 — Standard | Gulmarg ↔ Kongdori | ₹800 |
| Phase 2 — Standard | Kongdori ↔ Apharwat Peak | ₹1,000 |
| Phase 1 — Tatkal | Gulmarg ↔ Kongdori | ₹1,110 |
| Phase 2 — Tatkal | Kongdori ↔ Apharwat Peak | ₹1,310 |
💡 Children below 3 years ride free. Children 3 years and above require a full-fare ticket. Prices are subject to revision by JKCCC — always confirm on the official JKCCC website before booking.
Gulmarg Gondola Timings 2026
The Gondola operates on a fixed time-slot system — it is not open boarding. You must arrive at the base station for your specific slot. Missing your slot typically means losing your ride with no refund, unless operations are cancelled due to weather.
Phase 1 (Gulmarg → Kongdori) — Two-Way Ticket Slots
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- 11:15 AM – 1:15 PM
- 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Phase 2 (Kongdori → Apharwat) — Two-Way Ticket Slots
- 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
📋 On-Cabin tickets (walk-up same-day tickets) are also available at the Waiting Hall of the Gulmarg Gondola base station daily between 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM, subject to availability.
How to Book Gulmarg Gondola Tickets Online — Step by Step
Online booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons (December–February and May–June), when slots sell out days in advance. Here’s the exact process:
Step 1 — Visit the Official Booking Portal
Go to the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) official website. This is the only authorised online booking platform. You can also book through verified travel partners like KashmirTickets.com or call us at +91 9419001246.
Step 2 — Choose Phase 1 First
Always book Phase 1 before Phase 2. Select your travel date, preferred time slot, and number of passengers. Check availability for your chosen slot before proceeding — popular slots fill up fast.
Step 3 — Enter Passenger Details
Provide full names, nationality, mobile number, and email for each passenger. Names must exactly match the photo ID you will carry on the day — Aadhaar, PAN card, passport, or driving licence are all accepted.
Step 4 — Complete Payment
Pay securely via UPI, credit/debit card, or net banking. Once payment is successful, your booking is confirmed immediately.
Step 5 — Save Your E-Ticket
Download your e-ticket containing a QR code and unique Transaction ID. Save it offline — network connectivity in Gulmarg can be unreliable. Carry both a digital and printed copy. If you book Phase 2, keep your Phase 1 Transaction ID handy during the Phase 2 booking process.
How to Book Gulmarg Gondola Tatkal Tickets
Introduced by JKCCC in December 2024, the Tatkal system gives last-minute travellers a chance to secure tickets for the following day — at a slightly higher price.
- Tatkal tickets are for the next day’s ride only
- The Tatkal portal opens daily at 5:00 PM sharp — and typically sells out within minutes
- Availability: approximately 300 Phase 1 and 200 Phase 2 Tatkal tickets per day
- Tatkal prices: ₹1,110 (Phase 1) and ₹1,310 (Phase 2)
- Book via the official JKCCC website or through KashmirTickets.com
On-Cabin (Walk-Up) Tickets at the Gate
For those who prefer not to book online, On-Cabin tickets are available directly at the Waiting Hall of the Gulmarg Gondola base station on the day of your visit.
- Available: Daily, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Subject to availability — once slots are full, no more tickets are issued
- During peak season (December–February, May–June), On-Cabin slots often sell out before 11 AM
- Carry valid photo ID — Aadhaar, PAN, passport, or driving licence
Important Rules Before You Board
- Valid ID is mandatory: Carry a government-issued photo ID. The name on your ticket must exactly match your ID — no exceptions.
- Board on time: Arrive at the base station at least 15 minutes before your slot. Missing your slot results in a fine of ₹500 per person and forfeiture of your ticket.
- Ticket validity: Phase 1 tickets are valid for 2 hours from boarding. Phase 2 tickets are valid for 3 hours from boarding at Kongdori.
- Cancellation policy: Cancel at least 2 days in advance to get a partial refund. A 50% cancellation charge applies. Less than 2 days notice — no refund. Weather cancellations by JKCCC are fully refunded within 7–10 working days.
- Safety & maintenance: JKCCC conducts a daily test ride before opening to tourists. The Gondola automatically halts during high winds or poor visibility — this is a safety feature, not a malfunction.
- Health advisory: Apharwat Peak (Phase 2) is at 4,000 metres. Travellers with heart conditions, asthma, or severe respiratory issues should consult a doctor before booking Phase 2.
Common Gulmarg Gondola Scams to Avoid
With the Gondola being Gulmarg’s most sought-after attraction, it unfortunately attracts unauthorised agents and scammers. Here’s what to watch for:
- 🚫 Offline agents near the base station claiming to sell “guaranteed confirmed tickets” — these are not authorised. Only buy from JKCCC directly or verified partners like KashmirTickets.com.
- 🚫 Overpriced tickets sold at ₹1,500–₹2,000+ for standard slots — the official Phase 1 price is ₹800 and Phase 2 is ₹1,000.
- 🚫 Fake “offline booking” offers via WhatsApp or phone — JKCCC does not authorise offline advance bookings through individuals.
- 🚫 Hotel drivers or taxi drivers offering to “arrange” Gondola tickets for a fee — always book yourself via the official portal.
Expert Tips for the Best Gulmarg Gondola Experience
- 🕗 Book the earliest slot (9 AM): Morning light is best for photography, queues are shorter, and Phase 2 weather is most stable in the morning.
- 🧥 Dress in layers: Even in summer, Apharwat Peak can be well below 10°C. Pack a warm jacket, gloves, and sunglasses. Snow glare at altitude is intense.
- 📱 Download your ticket offline: Mobile network is unreliable at Gulmarg. Screenshot your QR code or carry a printout.
- 🍽️ Eat before you go: Food options at Kongdori are limited and pricier than in Gulmarg town. Have a good breakfast before heading up.
- 📷 Allow 3–4 hours: For both phases including time at each station for photography and snow activities, budget a full half-day.
- ❄️ Winter visitors: For skiing at Gulmarg, ski equipment and instructor rentals are available near the Kongdori station. Book ski lessons in advance during peak season (December–February).
- 🏔️ Best season overall: December–February for snow and skiing; May–June for green meadows and clear Himalayan views. For a full seasonal guide, see our best time to visit Kashmir guide.
For a full list of what to do before and after your Gondola ride, read our 10 things to do in Gulmarg guide.
Frequently Asked Questions — Gulmarg Gondola 2026
Q: What is the Gulmarg Gondola ticket price in 2026?
A: The standard ticket price for Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdori) is ₹800 per person and Phase 2 (Kongdori to Apharwat) is ₹1,000 per person. Tatkal tickets cost ₹1,110 and ₹1,310 respectively. Children below 3 years ride free.
Q: How do I book Gulmarg Gondola tickets online in 2026?
A: Visit the official JKCCC website or book through a verified partner like KashmirTickets.com. Select your date, time slot, enter passenger details, pay online, and save your e-ticket with QR code. Book at least 15–20 days in advance during peak season.
Q: What are the Gulmarg Gondola timings in 2026?
A: Phase 1 operates in three slots: 9 AM–11 AM, 11:15 AM–1:15 PM, and 1:30 PM–3:30 PM. Phase 2 operates in two slots: 9 AM–1 PM and 1 PM–3:30 PM. On-Cabin (walk-up) tickets are available at the base station from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM daily.
Q: What is the Tatkal booking system for the Gulmarg Gondola?
A: Tatkal tickets for the following day go on sale at 5:00 PM daily via the official JKCCC portal. Around 300 Phase 1 and 200 Phase 2 Tatkal tickets are released each day and typically sell out in minutes. Tatkal prices are ₹1,110 (Phase 1) and ₹1,310 (Phase 2).
Q: How long does the Gulmarg Gondola ride take?
A: Phase 1 takes approximately 15 minutes (one way). Phase 2 takes approximately 20 minutes (one way). Total experience including time at both stations is typically 3–4 hours.
Q: Is the Gulmarg Gondola safe?
A: Yes. The Gondola is operated by JKCCC and maintained to international safety standards. A test ride is conducted every morning before tourist operations begin. The system auto-halts during high winds or poor visibility. It has been safely operating for over two decades.
Q: Can I book Gulmarg Gondola tickets offline?
A: On-Cabin (same-day) tickets are available at the base station Waiting Hall between 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM, subject to availability. There is no authorised offline advance booking through individuals or agents — avoid anyone claiming to sell advance tickets offline.
Q: What should I carry for the Gondola ride?
A: Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, or driving licence), your printed or offline e-ticket with QR code, warm layers (especially for Phase 2), and sunscreen/sunglasses. Keep your Phase 1 Transaction ID handy if you’ve booked Phase 2.
Q: What is the best time to do the Gulmarg Gondola ride?
A: The 9 AM slot is best — morning weather is most stable, queues are shorter, and the light is ideal for photography. During winter, morning slots also give you more time for skiing after reaching the top.
Q: Is the Gondola included in Kashmir tour packages?
A: Yes — all KashmirTickets honeymoon and family tour packages include Gondola Phase 1 & 2 tickets, subject to weather and availability. This removes the need to book separately and guarantees your slot is secured in advance.
Book Your Gulmarg Gondola Ride — Hassle Free
We handle your Gondola booking as part of your Kashmir package — no queues, no scams, confirmed slots.
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