Gulmarg, one of the most exotic ski resorts in the Himalayas, has been
a favoured winter destination for many years. Gulmarg is located 52 km
from Srinagar and is situated at about 8694 feet above sea level.
Gulmarg was discovered by Kashmiri ruler Yusuf Shah Chak during the 15
century.
Spports like ice skating, snow cycling, snow skiing,
snow-rugby, snow scooter race, snow-sledge race, cross country race
snowman making etc are famous here.
Annual festival named ‘Gulmarg Snow Festival’ has been organized to promote winter tourism in Kashmir.
Gulmarg
can be accessed from Srinagar (the capital of Kashmir) in about 1 hour
by car or bus, though army checkpoints may increase the travel time to
three hours, depending on the security situation. The peak season
starts with the snow fall in December and lasts until April.
Other important places around Gulmarg include Amarnath Cave, Mamleshwar and Pahalgam on banks of Lidder river.