Tourism in Gulmarg
Rocked in the snow-covered mountains of the Himalayas, right near
the line of control, Gulmarg is a popular resource for tourism in
India. However, the continuous militant activities have led to a
vigorous fall in the number of tourists since last decade. Located
56 km from Srinagar, the city is not only recognised for its scenic
environment but also an imagination which you would like to be lost
in.
The nearest airport to reach Gulmarg is at Badgam District which is
connected to the important cities of the country. All the kinds of
transport to Gulmarg are available at the fixed prices. Tourism in
Gulmarg is developed in such a way that every visitor wants to visit
the place for more than just once. The lush green grass and the
tinkling sound of the cowbells, has made Gulmarg a favourite
shooting location for several films. Gulmarg is a well-known centre
for the world’s highest golf course and the winter sports resort in
the country. The various other recreational activities include
skiing and trekking.
Gulgmarg is populated with certain number of hotels and resorts
which offer good housing and meal. JKTDC (Jammu and Kashmir tourist
development Corporation) aids tourism in Gulmarg by offering
excellent lodging facilities in and around the city. The hotels of
international standards are also available. One should not miss the
occasion to taste the traditional Rogan Josh and other preparations
for non-vegetarians and sweetmeats while visiting Gulmarg.
From Gulmarg a pony can be hired who carries you to the top
locations like the Khilanmarg, Kongdori and Seven Springs. It takes
around 2 to 3 hours to reach there by the pony and slightly longer
with foot. Tourism in Gulmarg becomes more enjoyable when one
experiences the breathtaking view of the parallel peaks of the
Himalayas from Khilanmarg. From here, through the peak of Apharwat,
the lake Alpather offers a picturesque view of ice covered river
until the end of June. For horse riders, the lake Alpather makes an
enthralling tour if started early in the morning and ended in the
evening. Slightly lower than Gulmarg is the tomb of Baba Reshi,
which is visited by thousands of people irrespective of their
religions. The Ningli Nalah is a pretty melting snow and ice
mountain stream. The stream joins the valley near Jhelum River
making it a well-liked picnic spot and a walking path.
You may find the most unusual sight of the newly built Gondola Lift.
This cable car gives you an opportunity to have an exciting view of
the pine clad slopes from a height. The valley of Gulmarg is famous
for large flower meadows, as the name suggests, during the spring.
One can enjoy the beautiful sight of the blossoming Bluebells,
Forget-Me-Not’s, Buttercups and Daisies. The spherical road, 11 kms
in length, runs right around Gulmarg through pleasant pine forests,
with exceptional views over the Kashmir Valley. The city is also
blessed with Nanga Parbat, the lord of the mountains which is the
fourth highest peak on earth.
All this and much more have attracted numerous visitors for tourism
in Gulmarg.
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