Kashmir is a beautiful place. The snow-covered mountains and valleys are breathtaking. Gulmarg is one of the best places in Kashmir to see this beauty. In winter, Gulmarg turns into a white wonderland. The snow makes everything look magical. Many tourists visit Gulmarg to enjoy the snow and have fun.
The Journey to Gulmarg
Our adventure started early in the morning. We took a car from Srinagar to Gulmarg. The drive was exciting. As we moved, we saw snow on the roadsides. We stopped at a small hotel to have breakfast. We enjoyed some warm Kashmiri Kahwa, a traditional tea that warms you up. After breakfast, we continued our journey.
When we reached Tangmarg, we had to change vehicles. The road to Gulmarg was covered in thick snow. The car we used was tied with chains, making it safer to drive. The view was stunning. The snow-covered trees looked like something from a fairytale. After about 25 minutes, we finally reached Gulmarg!
Arriving in Gulmarg
As soon as we stepped out of the vehicle, we were amazed. The beauty of Gulmarg was overwhelming. Everything was white and beautiful. We quickly rented some sledges to explore the area. Our guide helped us buy tickets for the famous Gondola ride, which is a cable car that takes you up the mountain.
The Gondola ride is exciting. It takes you to the Kongdoori point. From there, you can see the entire valley covered in snow. The ride is smooth, but it feels thrilling to be so high up. We took lots of pictures and enjoyed the view. The snow was sparkling under the sun, and it felt like a dream.
Fun Activities in the Snow
Once we reached the top, we had many fun activities to do. We tried skiing. It was not easy, but it was a lot of fun! Even though we fell a few times, we laughed and enjoyed every moment. There were also snowmobiles available for rent. Riding a snowmobile was thrilling. It felt like we were flying over the snow!
We also made a snowman. It was a funny little guy that made us smile. The kids loved playing in the snow. We had a snowball fight, which was hilarious. The snow was perfect for making snowballs. Everyone was having a great time.
Delicious Food to Warm Us Up
After all the fun, we were hungry. We went to a restaurant called Moon Star. The rooftop was covered in snow, and it was cozy inside. We ordered hot cheese Maggi noodles and Kashmiri pulav. The food was delicious and warmed us up. We also tried more Kashmiri Kahwa, which was perfect after playing in the cold.
Exploring More of Gulmarg
After lunch, we continued exploring Gulmarg. We visited famous spots like the Matarani Mandir and the beautiful golf course hidden under the snow. The guides were friendly and shared stories about the area. We learned that many locals depend on tourism for their income, especially in winter.
As it started getting late, we realized it was time to head back. We took the Gondola back down and enjoyed the ride once again. The views were even more beautiful as the sun began to set.
Returning from Gulmarg
When we reached Tangmarg, we returned our rental gear. Our private vehicle was waiting for us. We stopped at the same hotel on our way back. The staff was wonderful. They offered us warm drinks and even brought a blanket for my child who had fallen asleep. Their hospitality was heartwarming.
After a few more stops for shopping, we headed back to Srinagar. The day was long, but it was filled with joy and laughter. We had so many memories from our snowy adventure in Gulmarg.
Final Thoughts
Kashmir is truly a magical place. Gulmarg, with its snowy landscapes and thrilling activities, is a must-visit in winter. The warmth of the people and the beauty of nature make it special. I can’t wait to return to witness more of its charm. If you love snow and adventure, Gulmarg should be on your travel list!
So, pack your bags, grab your warm clothes, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the snowy wonderland of Gulmarg!