Gulmarg Snowkings

Gulmarg Gondola Tickets 2025–26: Price, Phases, Timings & Smart Booking Guide

By /

If Gulmarg is on your travel list, the Gulmarg Gondola is not optional; it is the experience. Locals here often say, “Gondola nahi ki, toh Gulmarg nahi dekha” if you didn’t ride the gondola, you didn’t really see Gulmarg. Rising through pine forests to vast alpine bowls and snow‑covered peaks, it is one of the highest cable cars in the world and the single most searched attraction in Gulmarg.

Every season, thousands of travellers make the same mistake: they arrive without understanding ticket phases, slot timings, weather rules, or booking traps and end up missing the ride or paying extra. This guide is written to help you avoid that.

Below is a clear, updated, human‑written guide covering Gondola ticket prices, Phase 1 vs Phase 2, online booking steps, best timings, winter tips, and common scams all in one place.

What Is the Gulmarg Gondola?

The Gulmarg Gondola is a two‑stage cable car system operated by the Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC). It connects Gulmarg town to Kongdori Meadow and further up to Mount Apharwat.

It is famous for:

    • Being among the highest operating gondolas globally

    • Offering year‑round access to snow, views, and ski terrain

    • Serving as the gateway to Asia’s best ski slopes in winter

Gulmarg Gondola Phases Explained (Very Important)

Understanding the phases is critical before booking.

Phase 1: Gulmarg → Kongdori

    • Altitude: ~2,650 m to 3,050 m

    • Open all year (weather permitting)

    • Suitable for families, seniors, kids, sightseeing travelers

    • Snow play area in winter, meadows in summer

Phase 2: Kongdori → Apharwat Peak

    • Altitude: ~3,050 m to 3,980 m

    • Mostly operational in winter & early spring

    • Best for skiers, snowboarders, adventure seekers

    • Weather‑dependent and often suspended during storms

👉 Important: Phase 2 tickets are only valid if Phase 1 is operational.

Gulmarg Gondola Ticket Price (Expected 2025–26)

Prices are controlled by JKCCC and may change slightly each season.

    • Phase 1: ₹740 per person (round trip)

    • Phase 2: ₹950 per person (round trip)

Children above a certain height are charged full fare. There are no student or local discounts for tourists.

Gulmarg Gondola Timings & Slots

Gondola operations run in time slots, not open boarding.

    • First slot: Around 10:00 AM

    • Last slot: Around 3:00–4:00 PM (season‑dependent)

Each ticket is valid only for the selected slot. Missing your slot usually means losing your ride — refunds are rare unless operations stop due to weather.

How to Book Gulmarg Gondola Tickets Online (Step‑by‑Step)

Step 1: Visit the Official Booking Portal

You can either book directly through the official JKCCC Gondola website or plan your visit with Gulmarg Snowkings, where gondola guidance is included as part of curated ski and snow packages. Avoid random agents promising “confirmed tickets” without official proof.

Step 2: Select Phase & Date

    • Choose Phase 1 or Phase 1 + Phase 2

    • Select your travel date carefully (weather matters)

Step 3: Choose Time Slot

Earlier slots are safer in winter due to weather closures.

Step 4: Enter Passenger Details

Names must match government ID (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.).

Step 5: Make Payment & Save Confirmation

Carry a printed or offline copy, network can fail in Gulmarg.

Best Time to Ride the Gulmarg Gondola

Winter (December to March)

    • Snow everywhere, skiing at its best

    • Phase 2 depends heavily on weather

    • Book early morning slots only

Spring (April to May)

    • Snow at higher altitudes

    • Clear views, fewer crowds

Summer (June to September)

    • Lush green meadows

    • Phase 1 mostly operational

    • Ideal for families & sightseeing

Autumn (October–November)

    • Limited operations

    • Maintenance season possible

Common Mistakes & Scams to Avoid

❌ Buying tickets from hotel drivers or random agents ❌ Assuming Phase 2 is always open in winter ❌ Booking late‑afternoon slots during snowfall months ❌ Not carrying ID proof

Pro tip: If someone says “official counter booking guaranteed, walk away.

What to Carry for the Gondola Ride

    • Government ID (mandatory)

    • Waterproof jacket & gloves (even in summer)

    • Snow boots in winter

    • Sunglasses & sunscreen (high UV exposure)

Is the Gulmarg Gondola Safe?

Yes. The Gondola follows international safety standards and is operated by trained staff. Operations stop automatically during high winds or poor visibility.

Should You Book Gondola Tickets or a Package?

If you are:

    • Visiting in peak winter

    • New to Gulmarg

    • Planning skiing or snowboarding

A guided ski or snow package is often better. It includes:

    • Gondola guidance

    • Equipment rental

    • Instructor support

    • Weather‑based planning

This avoids confusion and saves time on ground.

👉 Recommended: If you’re new to snow activities, check out the Beginner Ski Packages in Gulmarg offered by Gulmarg Snowkings. These packages typically include gondola guidance, ski equipment, and instructor support, making them ideal for first-timers.

Pro Tip: Our team assists guests with gondola planning and slot selection, taking into account real-time weather and crowd conditions.

Links for Better Planning (Gulmarg Snowkings)

To plan your trip smoothly, you can explore these helpful guides and packages on Gulmarg Snowkings:

    • Best Time to Visit Gulmarg for Snow & Skiing: Month‑by‑month travel planning guide.

    • Snow Activities in Gulmarg – Snow biking, sledging, and family activities.

Final Thoughts

The Gulmarg Gondola is not just a ride, it is the heart of the Gulmarg experience. With the right booking, timing, and preparation, it becomes smooth and unforgettable. With the wrong planning, it becomes stressful.

Use this guide, plan early, respect weather conditions, and you’ll experience Gulmarg at its absolute best.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top