Gulmarg Gondola Ride 2026 – Ticket Prices, Booking & Guide | Kashmir Tickets

The Two Phases — Know Before You Go

The Gulmarg Gondola operates in two distinct phases. Phase 2 is where the real drama is.

Phase 1

Gulmarg → Kongdoori

Base Station (2,650 m) → Kongdoori (3,080 m)
Altitude gain430 metres
Ride duration~15 minutes
Ticket (Adult)~₹800
Ticket (Child)~₹400
OperatesYear-round (weather permitting)

Phase 1 is accessible to all age groups and fitness levels. The view from Kongdoori station over Gulmarg bowl and across to the distant peaks is excellent — and in winter the bowl below becomes a world of powder snow. From Kongdoori you can access beginner and intermediate ski runs.

Phase 2

Kongdoori → Apharwat Peak

Kongdoori (3,080 m) → Apharwat (3,979 m)
Altitude gain899 metres
Ride duration~12 minutes
Ticket (Adult)~₹1,100
Ticket (Child)~₹550
OperatesMarch–October, weather permitting

Phase 2 is the highlight — a near-vertical climb through the snowline to the summit at 3,979 m. At the top, snow is permanent year-round, Himalayan peaks including Nanga Parbat (8,126 m) are visible on clear days, and the view of Kashmir valley far below is extraordinary. Altitude sensitivity can occur above 3,500 m — take it slowly. Full Gulmarg guide →

Best Time for the Gondola Ride

The Gondola is spectacular in every season — but each offers a completely different experience.

🌸

April – May

Green bowl below, deep snow at Phase 2. The unique contrast of spring green and Himalayan white. Phase 2 opens when snow is stable — call ahead.

⭐ Unique contrast season
☀️

June – August

Peak tourist season. Wildflowers at Kongdoori. Phase 2 fully operational. Arrive before 9 AM to beat queues. Most comfortable weather for non-skiers.

Most popular
🍂

September – October

Fewer crowds than summer. Clear skies and excellent visibility. Fresh light dusting of snow on Apharwat from late October. Our team's favourite season.

⭐ Best views & least crowds
❄️

December – March

Full ski season. Fresh powder. Extraordinary snow scenes. Phase 2 may close during heavy snowfall or high winds. Book the skiing package to combine.

⭐ Best for skiing

Insider Tips from Our Gulmarg Team

1

Arrive by 8:45 AM

Phase 1 gates open at 9 AM. In peak season (May–August), queues build quickly — first-in visitors get same-day boarding without extended waits.

2

Check Phase 2 status before going

Phase 2 closes on high-wind days and after heavy snowfall. Call us at +91-9419001246 for same-day status — we have ground team in Gulmarg.

3

Warm layers for Phase 2 even in summer

At 3,979 m, temperatures are 10–15°C colder than at Gulmarg base. Carry a warm jacket, gloves, and a windproof layer even in June and July.

4

Altitude sensitivity above 3,500 m

Some visitors experience mild headaches or breathlessness above 3,500 m. Walk slowly at Apharwat, drink water, and don't rush. Symptoms usually resolve within 30 minutes of descent.

5

Online booking available

JKTDC offers online ticket booking for the Gondola — worth using in peak season to secure same-day slots. Kashmir Tickets can arrange this for you as part of a Gulmarg day package.

6

Combine with skiing or Khilanmarg

From Kongdoori, a short trek reaches Khilanmarg — a stunning wildflower meadow (May–August). Combine the Gondola with a Khilanmarg walk or a skiing session for a full day.

Gulmarg Gondola — FAQs

Every question our guests ask before visiting the Gondola.

What is the Gulmarg Gondola ticket price in 2026?
Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdoori, 3,080 m): Adults ~₹800, Children ~₹400. Phase 2 (Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak, 3,979 m): Adults ~₹1,100, Children ~₹550. Prices are set by JKTDC and may be revised. Call +91-9419001246 for current pricing during your visit.
What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2?
Phase 1 (Gulmarg 2,650 m → Kongdoori 3,080 m, ~15 min): Green meadows, accessible to all, ski area access. Phase 2 (Kongdoori 3,080 m → Apharwat 3,979 m, ~12 min): Dramatic snowfields, permanent snow, 360° Himalayan panorama including Nanga Parbat. Phase 2 is the highlight but may close in bad weather.
What is the best time for the Gondola ride?
September–October offers the best combination: clear skies, fewer crowds, and excellent visibility. May–June is the unique "green bowl, snow peak" contrast season. Winter (December–March) is excellent for skiing. Arrive before 9 AM in peak season (May–August) to avoid queues.
How do I book the Gulmarg Gondola?
Tickets available at the base station in Gulmarg, and online via the JKTDC portal. Kashmir Tickets can arrange advance Gondola tickets as part of a Gulmarg day trip or full Kashmir package — call +91-9419001246.
Is the Gondola safe? What should I know about altitude?
The Gondola is a certified, JKTDC-operated cable car with a strong safety record. Phase 2 reaches 3,979 m where some visitors experience mild altitude sensitivity (headache, breathlessness). Walk slowly at Apharwat, stay hydrated, and don't rush. Descent quickly resolves symptoms. People with serious heart or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before Phase 2.

Include the Gondola in Your Kashmir Trip

Kashmir Tickets arranges Gulmarg day trips and full Kashmir packages with Gondola tickets included. We're based in Srinagar and monitor Phase 2 conditions daily.

View Gulmarg Packages Call +91-9419001246

Have questions? Feel free to write us​

If you have any queries or doubts, feel free to reach out to us. We'd be more delighted to Guide you

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