Skiing is one of the prime attractions in Kashmir and is apt for adventure seekers looking for a day of fun and exciting amidst the valleys of Kashmir. Skiing in the Himalayas is definitely a must-do as it allows you to catch a glimpse of the mighty mountains quite up-close. Gulmarg, Kashmir is considered as the best ski resort in the Himalayas. This Ski Resort was founded in 1927 by the British and its establishment is credited to two British Army Officers named Major Hadow and Major Metcarp who had once setup a Ski Club of India at Gulmarg during the British Raj in India.
Skiing in the snow-clad mountains of Gulmarg was quite popular during the pre-independence era especially during the events hosted in Christmas and Easter Day. There is a mention that over 500 Skiers participated in the Christmas and Easter ski race events which was organised in 1938-39.
Gulmarg is accredited as the highest cable car enabled ski resorts in the world mainly due to a Gondola Cable Car Lift that was setup here. The second section of this cable car takes you up to a height of about 4,000 meters above the snow level from where you can enjoy a 5-km downhill ski run. To avail the Gondola Cable car facility, Skiers can purchase a Daily, Weekly, or Seasonal pass from the Ski Resort Center. Apart from the second section, there are 3 ski lifts to serve the purpose for beginners and intermediate-level skiers, respectively.
You can enjoy Skiing in Gulmarg before Christmas which happens around mid-December and continues up till mid-April. In fact the first ever National Winter Games of India was held in this Gulmarg Ski Resort between January and February way back in 1998.
For skiers visiting Gulmarg, accommodation is available at the J&K TDC Huts situated in Patnitop, Sanasar and Kud apart from the several private hotels available for booking at Patnitop and Kud. Just ensure that you book your rooms well in advance as the accommodation facilities at these places tend to get reserved quite rapidly.
