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Gulmarg Gondola

One of the highest cable car rides on the planet, in two phases. Phase 1 floats you over pine forest to Kongdoori at 3,050 metres. Phase 2 lifts you to Apharwat at nearly 4,000 metres, into snow, wind, and a view that reaches the edge of the Pir Panjal range. Phase 1 runs reliably. Phase 2 closes when the mountain says so. Book online, go early, and treat Phase 2 as a bonus.

  • Two phase cable car, one of the highest in the world
  • Phase 1: Gulmarg (2,650 m) to Kongdoori (3,050 m)
  • Phase 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat (3,980 m)
  • Phase 1 ticket roughly Rs 740 to 800
  • Phase 2 ticket roughly Rs 900 to 1,000
  • Slot based booking, not open boarding
  • Phase 2 closes frequently for weather
  • Book online via the JKCCC portal in advance

What makes it special

The Gulmarg Gondola is a two phase cable car system that takes you from the Gulmarg meadow at about 2,650 metres up to the shoulder of Apharwat Peak at nearly 4,000 metres. It is one of the highest operating cable cars in the world, built as a joint venture between the J&K government and French firm Pomagalski. For most visitors, this is the single most important thing they do in Gulmarg. Locals say it plainly: if you did not ride the gondola, you did not really see Gulmarg.

The system works in two stages. Phase 1 takes you from the base station in Gulmarg town to Kongdoori at about 3,050 metres. The ride takes 8 to 10 minutes and passes over pine forest and the bowl shaped meadow. Kongdoori has food stalls, restrooms, pony rides, and snow activities (in winter). This is the gentler, more reliable phase. It runs most days year round.

Phase 2 takes you from Kongdoori up to the Apharwat top station at roughly 3,950 to 3,980 metres. The ride takes about 12 minutes. At the top, you are above the tree line, surrounded by snow (most of the year), with the Pir Panjal range in every direction. This is the dramatic phase, and it is also the unreliable one. Phase 2 closes regularly for high wind, poor visibility, avalanche control, and heavy snowfall. On any given day, there is a real chance it will not operate.

Here is what every visitor needs to know, and what most travel pages bury under marketing language.

Tickets are slot based, not open boarding. You book a specific time window. Missing your slot usually means losing the ride. As of 2026, there are two main slots: morning (roughly 9 AM to noon) and afternoon (roughly noon to 3:30 PM). Exact timings can shift by season.

Book online in advance. The official booking portal is run by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC). Phase 2 requires a valid Phase 1 booking first. During peak season (December to February, May to June), slots sell out days or weeks ahead. A tatkal (last minute) system releases a limited number of tickets at 5 PM daily for the next day, but they go in minutes.

Ticket prices as of recent reports: Phase 1 is roughly Rs 740 to 800 per person. Phase 2 is roughly Rs 900 to 1,000. Tatkal prices are higher. Children under 3 ride free. Prices change periodically, so confirm on the official JKCCC portal before booking.

If Phase 2 closes after you have bought a ticket, JKCCC generally refunds the Phase 2 amount within 7 to 10 working days.

The honest advice: book Phase 1. Hope for Phase 2. If Phase 2 runs, it is genuinely one of the most memorable 12 minutes you will spend in Kashmir. If it does not, Kongdoori is still worth the trip. Do not let a closed Phase 2 ruin your day.

If you are planning a Kashmir trip, our Kashmir package covering Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam includes the Gulmarg experience and can assist with gondola planning.

Quick answers

What is the Gulmarg Gondola?
A two phase cable car in Gulmarg, one of the highest in the world. Phase 1 goes from Gulmarg (2,650 m) to Kongdoori (3,050 m) in about 10 minutes. Phase 2 goes from Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak (3,980 m) in about 12 minutes. Phase 1 runs reliably. Phase 2 closes frequently for weather. Tickets are slot based and should be booked online via the JKCCC portal.
How much do Gulmarg Gondola tickets cost?
Phase 1 roughly Rs 740 to 800. Phase 2 roughly Rs 900 to 1,000. Tatkal (last minute) tickets are higher. Children under 3 ride free. Prices change by season. Confirm on the JKCCC portal.
Should I do Phase 1 or Phase 2?
Phase 1 reaches Kongdoori at 3,050 m. Reliable, gentler altitude, snow and views. Phase 2 reaches Apharwat at 3,980 m. Dramatic, weather dependent, altitude affects many visitors. Phase 1 is guaranteed. Phase 2 is the bonus.
Have a question about Gulmarg Gondola?Our team has been. Ask us anything and we will answer honestly.Ask now

Quick facts

Everything you need to know at a glance.

At a glance

Location
Gulmarg town, Baramulla district. Base station in the town centre.
Altitude
Phase 1: 2,650 m to 3,050 m. Phase 2: 3,050 m to 3,980 m.
Best season
Dec to Mar for skiing. Apr to Jun for views. Phase 2 weather dependent year round.
Timings
9 AM to 3:30 PM (slot based). Phase 2 may close earlier. Check the JKCCC portal.
Ticket price
Phase 1: ~Rs 740 to 800. Phase 2: ~Rs 900 to 1,000. Tatkal higher. Under 3 free.
Time needed
3 to 4 hours for both phases including queue and time at stations.
Known for
One of the highest cable cars in the world. Panoramic Himalayan views. Year round snow at Phase 2. World class skiing.
Difficulty
Easy by gondola. Altitude at Phase 2 (~4,000 m) affects many visitors.

On the ground

Mobile network
Unreliable. Print your e-ticket. Do not rely on phone for ticket display.
ATMs
Limited in Gulmarg. Carry cash for rentals and food stalls.
Food
Stalls at Kongdoori and Phase 2. Maggi, tea, snacks. Not a meal destination.
Washrooms
Available at base and Kongdoori. Limited at Phase 2.
Parking
Near the base station. Most walk from their Gulmarg hotel.
Photography
Allowed. The ride, the meadow from above, and the Pir Panjal panorama are top subjects.
Drones
Prohibited near the Line of Control.
Safety
International safety standards. Auto stops in high wind. Altitude is the main risk at Phase 2.

Seasonal weather

  • December to February
    5°-15°
    Winter
  • March to May
    10°-5°
    Spring
  • June to August
    15°2°
    Summer
  • September to November
    8°-8°
    Autumn

Suitable for

  • Couples — suitable
  • Families — suitable
  • Seniors — with some care
  • Solo — suitable
  • First-timers — suitable
  • Pet-friendly — not suitable

How to reach Gulmarg Gondola

2 approach routes, with seasonal access.

  • From Gulmarg Gondola Base Station

    Year round. Phase 2 weather dependent.
    Distance
    About 5 km aerial distance (both phases)
    Time
    Phase 1: 8 to 10 min. Phase 2: 12 min. Total with waiting: 3 to 4 hours.
    Road
    Cable car. No road access.

    Walk from your hotel to the gondola base station in Gulmarg town. Arrive 30 minutes before your slot. Show e-ticket and photo ID. Phase 1 cabin seats up to 6 passengers. At Kongdoori, transfer to Phase 2 boarding if you have the ticket.

  • From Srinagar

    Year round to Gulmarg.
    Distance
    About 50 km to Gulmarg
    Time
    1.5 to 2.5 hours by road, then 3 to 4 hours for the gondola
    Road
    Highway to Tangmarg, mountain road to Gulmarg. Chain taxis in winter.

    Drive from Srinagar to Gulmarg (about 50 km, 1.5 to 2.5 hours via Tangmarg). Chain taxis mandatory from Tangmarg in winter. The gondola base is a short walk from most Gulmarg hotels.

Best time to visit

Season by season, so you can plan around the weather rather than hope.

  • Recommended

    Winter

    December to March

    Skiing season. Deep snow. Phase 2 closures for avalanche control.

    Temperature
    ~-15 to 5°C. Wind chill makes it colder.
    Crowds
    High. Skiers and tourists.
    Honest advice
    Book early. Morning slots for Phase 2. Accept it may close.

    Deep powder skiing. Phase 2 closes often for avalanche control, but when it runs, this is the best skiing in India. Non skiers enjoy Kongdoori snow play. Peak demand season. Book 2 to 3 weeks ahead.

  • Recommended

    Spring

    April to June

    Snow at the top, milder weather, peak tourist demand.

    Temperature
    ~-5 to 10°C at Phase 2
    Crowds
    Very high. Book well ahead.
    What to carry
    Warm jacket, sunglasses, waterproof shoes, sunscreen

    Snow lingers at Phase 2 through May and sometimes June. Weather less extreme. Phase 2 runs more frequently. Best window for non skiers who want snow at the top. May and June are peak Indian tourist season, so tickets sell fast.

  • Summer

    July to September

    Warmer, less snow, best views in September.

    Temperature
    ~2 to 15°C at Phase 2
    Crowds
    Moderate.
    Honest advice
    September is better than July or August for visibility.

    Less snow. Clear views when clouds cooperate. Kongdoori is green. July and August can be cloudy. September is the clear weather window. Moderate crowds.

  • Autumn

    October to November

    First snow, quiet, increasingly unpredictable weather.

    Temperature
    ~-8 to 8°C
    Crowds
    Very low.

    First snow. Phase 2 closures increasing. Few tourists. Spectacular when clear. Transitional and unpredictable.

Things to see & do

4 things worth your time at Gulmarg Gondola.

  1. Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdoori

    1.5 to 2 hours including time at Kongdoori

    The 8 to 10 minute ride from Gulmarg base to Kongdoori at about 3,050 m. You float over pine forest and the Gulmarg meadow. At Kongdoori: snow play in winter, pony rides, ATV rides (seasonal), food stalls, beginner ski zones, and short walks toward Khilanmarg viewpoints. This phase runs reliably most days.

  2. Phase 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat

    1 to 2 hours including time at the top

    The 12 minute ride from Kongdoori to the Apharwat top station at nearly 4,000 m. Above the tree line. Snow most of the year. Panoramic Himalayan views. Maggi stalls at one of the highest food points in India. This phase is weather dependent and closes often. Altitude effects are common. Move slowly at the top.

  3. Skiing and snowboarding (winter)

    Full day

    The Phase 2 zone offers long, steep, powder runs that attract skiers from around the world. December to March is the season. Guided backcountry skiing available through certified Gulmarg operators. Beginners can ski near Kongdoori with rentals and instructors.

  4. Activities at Kongdoori (Phase 1)

    1 to 3 hours

    Kongdoori has snow for playing in winter, pony and ATV rides in summer, and walking trails toward Khilanmarg (a wildflower meadow about 3 km away). The chairlift from Kongdoori accesses additional ski terrain at Mary's Shoulder.

Know before you visit Gulmarg Gondola

The practical bits, from people who have been.

Ticket booking essentialsBook online 15 to 20 days ahead in peak season. Carry printed e-ticket and ID. Arrive early.

Book online, in advance. The official JKCCC portal is the only reliable source. During peak season (December to February, May to June), book 15 to 20 days ahead. Phase 2 requires a Phase 1 transaction ID first.

Tatkal tickets release at 5 PM daily for the next day. Roughly 300 Phase 1 and 200 Phase 2 tickets. They sell out in minutes.

Carry your e-ticket and a valid photo ID. Keep a printed copy because mobile network in Gulmarg is unreliable.

Arrive at the boarding station at least 30 minutes before your slot. Missing your slot usually means losing the ride.

Phase 2 weather realityPhase 2 closes often for weather. Book the morning slot. Refunds processed if cancelled.

Phase 2 is not guaranteed. It closes regularly for weather. Do not plan your entire Gulmarg visit around Phase 2.

If Phase 2 closes, JKCCC generally refunds the ticket within 7 to 10 working days. You still enjoy Phase 1 (Kongdoori).

Morning slots are better for Phase 2. Weather tends to deteriorate through the day.

Altitude and what to wearAltitude effects common at Phase 2. Move slowly. Skip if health concerns. Dress warmly.

You gain 1,300 metres in 20 minutes. Breathlessness, headache, and nausea are common at Phase 2. Move slowly. Stay hydrated.

Skip Phase 2 if: heart conditions, serious respiratory issues, pregnant, very young children (under 5).

Dress warmly. Below freezing in winter, cold even in summer at the top. Layers, waterproof shoes, gloves, sunglasses are not optional. Snow gear rentable at the base and Kongdoori.

Nearby attractions

Other places worth the detour.

  • Gulmarg

    Gondola base is in Gulmarg town

    The base town. Hotels, restaurants, the gondola station, and the golf course. Most visitors stay 1 to 2 nights.

  • Kongdoori (Phase 1)

    Phase 1 ride (8 to 10 minutes)

    Phase 1 mid station at about 3,050 m. Snow play, pony rides, beginner ski zones, food stalls. Good for families.

  • Apharwat Peak (Phase 2)

    Phase 2 ride (12 minutes from Kongdoori)

    Phase 2 destination at nearly 4,000 m. Snow year round. Skiing in winter. The dramatic half of the ride.

  • Khilanmarg

    About 3 km from Kongdoori

    A wildflower meadow about 3 km from Kongdoori. Short trek or pony ride from Phase 1.

  • Srinagar

    About 50 km

    Srinagar's city centre and Dal Lake. About 50 km from Gulmarg.

Our packages with Gulmarg Gondola

Curated trips that include a visit to Gulmarg Gondola.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Gulmarg Gondola

What is the Gulmarg Gondola ticket price in 2026?

As of recent reports, Phase 1 costs roughly Rs 740 to 800 per person and Phase 2 costs roughly Rs 900 to 1,000. Tatkal tickets are higher (roughly Rs 1,100 for Phase 1 and Rs 1,300 for Phase 2). Children under 3 ride free. Prices can change by season. Always confirm on the official JKCCC portal.

How do I book Gulmarg Gondola tickets online?

Online via the official Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) portal. Select Phase 1 first, choose your date and time slot, enter passenger details with a valid ID, and pay online. For Phase 2, you need your Phase 1 transaction ID. Download or print your e-ticket.

What are the Gulmarg Gondola timings?

Generally 9 AM to 3:30 PM. As of 2026, two main slots: morning (roughly 9 AM to noon) and afternoon (roughly noon to 3:30 PM). Phase 2 may close earlier. Always check the JKCCC portal for the latest schedule.

How long is the gondola ride?

Phase 1 takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Phase 2 takes about 12 minutes. Total experience including queue, rides, and time at stations is typically 3 to 4 hours.

Does Phase 2 close often?

Regularly. High wind, low visibility, avalanche control, and heavy snowfall all cause closures. In winter, Phase 2 may not run on 2 or 3 out of every 5 days. Phase 1 runs more reliably.

What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2?

Phase 1 goes to Kongdoori (3,050 m). Gentler altitude, more facilities, runs reliably. Phase 2 goes to Apharwat (3,980 m). Above the tree line, snow year round, dramatic views, but weather dependent. Phase 1 suits everyone. Phase 2 is not recommended for people with heart or respiratory conditions, very young children, or elderly visitors sensitive to altitude.

Is the gondola safe for families and seniors?

Phase 1 is safe for most families. Phase 2 is more challenging due to altitude and cold. Children under about 5 and elderly visitors with health conditions should consider staying at Kongdoori.

Do I get a refund if Phase 2 is cancelled?

Yes, if Phase 2 is cancelled due to weather, JKCCC generally processes a refund within 7 to 10 working days.

What should I carry for the gondola ride?

Warm layers, waterproof shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, light snacks. Snow gear can be rented near the base and at Kongdoori. Carry e-ticket (printed) and photo ID.

Can I buy tickets at the counter without booking online?

As of 2026, offline counters have been largely replaced by online booking. Some walk up tickets may be available but sell out fast. Online booking is strongly recommended.

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Written by
Travel Coffee EditorialKashmir and Gulmarg specialists
Last reviewed
July 2026