Gulmarg, located in the picturesque Kashmir Valley, is a captivating town and a renowned hill station that attracts visitors with its stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the Pir Panjal Range of the western Himalayas, this enchanting destination offers a delightful and relaxing experience for tourists. Known for its adventure activities, Gulmarg has gained popularity as a top skiing destination and has also served as a backdrop for numerous Bollywood movies.
The name “Gulmarg,” meaning “meadow of flowers,” was given to the resort by Sultan Yusuf Shah of the Chak Dynasty, who frequently visited the area with his queen Habba Khatoon during the 16th century. The region was adorned with a diverse array of 21 wildflower varieties, personally collected by the Mughal emperor Jahangir for his gardens in Gulmarg. Throughout history, famous love couples such as Habba Khatoon and King Yusuf Shah Chak, as well as Jehangir and Noor Jehan, have enjoyed the scenic wonders of Gulmarg.
During the 19th century, British civil servants sought refuge in Gulmarg to escape the scorching summers of the North Indian plains. Hunting and golfing became their preferred pastimes, leading to the establishment of three golf courses in Gulmarg, including one exclusively for women. Today, one of these golf courses still remains and holds the distinction of being the world’s highest, located at an altitude of 2,650 meters (8,690 feet).
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With its snow-capped mountains and the popular Gondola ride, Gulmarg offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether it’s skiing, gliding, golfing, trekking, enjoying the Gondola, capturing breathtaking photographs, or simply indulging in sightseeing and horse riding, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time in this captivating town.
Gulmarg’s favorable climate makes it an ideal year-round destination, inviting travelers to explore its numerous places of interest. Some notable attractions include Ziarat Baba Reshi, Khilanmarg, Drang, Alpather Lake, and Apparwat, all of which add to the charm and allure of Gulmarg.