.png)
Gulmarg Gondola Guide: Phases, Tickets and Tips
Introduction
A ride on the Gulmarg Gondola is the highlight of most Kashmir holidays. In two stages, the cable car lifts you from the flower meadows of Gulmarg through pine forests to the high slopes of Apharwat, with sweeping views across the Himalayas. It is often described as one of the highest cable cars in the world.
But the Gondola can be confusing to plan: there are two phases, tickets are sold only online, and weather can close the upper section at short notice. This guide explains each phase, how to book, current reported prices and timings, and our tips for a smooth ride.
The Gulmarg Gondola at a Glance
Phase 1 | Phase 2 | |
Route | Gulmarg base station to Kongdori | Kongdori to Apharwat upper station |
Top station altitude | About 3,000 m | About 3,980 m |
Ride time (one way) | About 9–15 minutes | About 12–20 minutes |
Reported fare (2026) | About ₹810 per person | About ₹1,010 per person |
Best for | Everyone: families, seniors, snow play, meadows | Panoramic views, snow, experienced skiers |
Weather closures | Occasional | Common in high winds |
Gulmarg itself sits at about 2,650 m, roughly 1.5 hours by road from Srinagar. Allow 3–4 hours to ride both phases, including queues and the transfer at Kongdori.
Phase 1 vs Phase 2: Which Should You Ride?
Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdori
The first stage glides over pine forests to Kongdori, a wide bowl surrounded by peaks. In winter, it is a snowy playground for sledding, snowball fights, and beginner skiing; in summer, it is a green meadow dotted with wildflowers, with pony rides and short walks. Phase 1 suits everyone, including young children and older travelers, and it is the only phase you need for a great Gulmarg experience.
Phase 2: Kongdori to Apharwat
The second stage climbs steeply to an upper station at about 3,980 m on the slopes of Apharwat. Here you are in high-mountain terrain: snow lingers well into summer, the air is thin, and the views stretch across the Pir Panjal range. In winter, Phase 2 serves the long off-piste runs that have made Gulmarg famous among experienced skiers.
Our recommendation
Traveller | Our advice |
Families with young children | Phase 1 only |
Seniors or travelers with heart or breathing conditions | Phase 1 only |
First-time visitors in good health | Both phases, on a clear morning |
Photographers | Both phases, early morning for the clearest views |
Beginner skiers | Phase 1 (Kongdori slopes) |
Experienced skiers | Phase 2 for off-piste terrain, ideally with a local guide |
By season
Winter (Dec–Mar): Deep snow at both stations. Expect more weather closures; book flexible days.
Spring (Apr–May): Snow at the top, meadows waking up below. A great time for both phases.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Green meadows at Kongdori, snow patches at Apharwat. Busiest season; book early.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies and golden meadows. Often the best visibility of the year.
Gulmarg Gondola Tickets and Booking
Where to book
Tickets are sold online only through the official Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) e-ticketing portal at etickets.jammukashmircablecar.com. There is no reliable walk-up counter, and the corporation warns against touts and unauthorized sellers offering marked-up or invalid tickets.
Reported fares (2026)
Ticket | Reported fare per person |
Phase 1 (Gulmarg – Kongdori) | About ₹810 |
Phase 2 (Kongdori – Apharwat) | About ₹1,010 |
Both phases | About ₹1,820 |
Children under 3 generally travel free; anyone aged 3 and above needs a ticket. Fares change, so always confirm on the official portal.
Timings
Boarding usually starts at 8 am, entry closes around 3:30 pm, and the last return is around 5 pm, but follow the time slot printed on your ticket.
The Gondola is closed for maintenance on the second and fourth Monday of each month.
Booking tips
Book early: Phase 2 has far fewer tickets than Phase 1. In peak season, book both phases two to three days ahead, or more.
Book Phase 1 first: Save its transaction ID, as you may need it to book Phase 2. Phase 2 must be on the same date and in a compatible time slot.
Match your ID: Book with the exact name on the government photo ID you will carry; foreign visitors should use their passport.
Save tickets offline: Mobile signal can be weak at the upper stations, so keep screenshots of your QR tickets.
Phase 2 depends on Phase 1: If Phase 1 is not running, Phase 2 cannot be used.
Let us handle it: Ask the D Asia Travels team to include Gondola tickets in your Kashmir tour, so you don't need to navigate the portal yourself.
Practical Tips for Your Gondola Ride
Go early: Take the first available slot. Mornings are usually clearer, and Phase 2 often closes later in the day due to wind.
Respect the altitude: The Phase 2 upper station is close to 4,000 m. Move slowly, drink water, and come down if you feel dizzy, breathless, or develop a headache.
Dress in layers: It can be cold and windy at the top even in summer. Bring a warm jacket, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Wear sturdy shoes: Snow and wet ground are common at both stations.
Keep a backup day: Weather closures are common, especially in winter. Keeping Gulmarg flexible in your itinerary avoids disappointment.
Charge your phone: Carry a power bank; cold drains batteries quickly.
Chairlift and ski lifts are separate: The chairlift towards Mary's Shoulder and the ski drag lifts at Kongdori need separate tickets and are mainly for skiers.
A sample day in Gulmarg
Time | Plan |
7:00 am | Leave Srinagar (about 1.5 hours by road) |
8:30 am | Arrive at the Gondola base station with tickets and ID ready |
9:00 am | Phase 1 to Kongdori; snow play or meadow walk |
10:30 am | Phase 2 to Apharwat (weather permitting) |
12:00 pm | Return to Kongdori, then down to Gulmarg |
1:00 pm | Lunch in Gulmarg, pony ride or a walk to St Mary's Church |
4:00 pm | Drive back to Srinagar |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Gulmarg Gondola cost?
In 2026, reported fares were about ₹810 per person for Phase 1 and about ₹1,010 for Phase 2, or about ₹1,820 for both. Check the official JKCCC portal for current prices.
How do I book Gulmarg Gondola tickets?
Book online through the official JKCCC portal, etickets.jammukashmircablecar.com. Avoid touts and unofficial sellers.
Is Phase 2 worth it?
Yes, for healthy adults on a clear day. The views from about 3,980 m are spectacular. Families with young children, seniors, and anyone with heart or breathing conditions should stick to Phase 1.
What are the Gulmarg Gondola timings?
Boarding usually runs from about 8 am, with entry closing around 3:30 pm. The Gondola closes for maintenance on the second and fourth Monday of each month.
Does the Gondola run in winter?
Yes, but weather closures are more frequent in winter, particularly for Phase 2. Keep a flexible day in your itinerary.
Ride the Gulmarg Gondola with D Asia Travels
The Gulmarg Gondola is one of Kashmir's unmissable experiences. D Asia Travels plans your Gulmarg day around the best time slots and weather, with a private car from Srinagar and built-in flexibility
.
Ready to ride? Explore our Kashmir Splendors Tour Package, our Delhi + Kashmir Tour Packages, or our Kashmir Honeymoon Packages.
