Kashmir Honeymoon: Why Gulmarg is a Must-Include Destination?

Pristine natural beauty, snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes and a slew of winter sports–what is there to not like about Gulmarg. Boasting various natural and man-made attractions, winter sports, mountain peaks, beautiful gardens and the famous cable car rides makes it a must-visit destination on a Kashmir honeymoon trip. 

Kashmir Honeymoon in Gulmarg: Meadows of Fowers

After the hectic wedding preparations and slew of events, newlyweds eagerly wait for their honeymoon to celebrate each other’s company in a tranquil and calm place. And if you have been searching for one such destination, consider Gulmarg in Kashmir as your destination. Kashmir, which is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty, snow-covered peaks, picturesque valleys, and sprawling gardens is a sight to behold. 

Kashmir, called as Paradise of Earth has many gorgeous destinations accentuating its beauty. However, amongst all the places to visit in Kashmir, Gulmarg is one of the most visited tourist spots. The charming and quaint atmosphere of Gulmarg with a backdrop of Himalayan mountains, lofty pine trees, beautiful lakes and sheets of ice covering its landscape. If you are a couple that likes adventure, Gulmarg will leave you completely enthralled. This snow-abode is a hub of winter sports such as ice-skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and sledging and golf. No wonder, Gulmarg is an absolute favourite destination to add to Kashmir's honeymoon tour. Read below some more reasons to include the heavenly Gulmarg as part of your Kashmir honeymoon itinerary. 

Climate and Weather of Gulmarg 

The climate of Gulmarg can be characterised as humid continental, with heavy snowfall in the winter months due to its position at a higher altitude (2,650 m or 8,694 ft). The months from October to March are when Gulmarg experiences chilling temperatures ranging between -1 to 10 degree celsius. During this time, a thick blanket of ice sprawls and covers the mountains and valleys of Gulmarg. From April to June (summer season), Gulmarg experiences pleasant weather when temperatures range between 10 to 25 degree Celsius. This weather is conducive for playing golf, cable-car ride, trekking and hiking and outdoor excursions. July to September is the monsoon season in Gulmarg when temperatures range between 18 to 28 degree Celsius. This is when you can get discounts on Kashmir honeymoon packages and lavish stays. 

Best Time to Visit Gulmarg for Honeymoon

Most couples leave for their honeymoon trip as soon as they are done with wedding celebrations. However, if you are planning to visit Kashmir on your honeymoon trip and want to explore Gulamarg, it is suggested to choose either summer or winter season. In summers (April to June), the balmy weather, picturesque landscapes and snow-clad peaks will provide a postcard perfect backdrop to spend quality time with your partner and capture some great honeymoon photos. And if you want to wallow in the winter glory and participate in daring winter sports on your honeymoon, plan your Gulmarg trip in the winter season between October and March. 

Places to Visit and Things to do in Gulmarg, Kashmir 

It is not just the natural grandeur and glacial beauty of Gulmarg which keep visitors coming back for more, but also its beautiful attractions and adventure sports.  Here are the top places to explore and things to do in Gulmarg on your honeymoon.

1. Khilanmarg Valley 

Khilanmarg Valley is a tiny but ethereal attraction in Gulmarg, perched at an altitude of 2000 ft above sea level, surrounded by lofty Himalayan peaks. The snow-covered mountains dotted with pine trees are the highlights of this place. Since, there are no vehicles available to reach Khilanmarg Valley, you and your partner can either do a trek or take a pony ride to reach here. From this beautiful valley, witness the mountain peaks Nanga Parbat and the twin mountain peaks Nun and Kun. During winters, most adventure enthusiasts visit here to partake in skiing and snowboarding whereas in the spring the season the beautiful blooming flowers, elates the beauty of this valley. 

2. Igloo Cafe and Igloo Restaurant

The newest attraction and a selfie point in Gulmarg, the Igloo Cafe is pulling in tourists in great numbers. Enjoy a romantic meal with your partner in a temperature-controlled glass igloo offering a unique experience. Similarly, a glass igloo restaurant was established in 2023 by Kolahoi Green Heights hotel. With a staggering height of 37.5 feet and a diameter of 44.5 feet, this restaurant can house 40 people who can sit together and enjoy a meal. 

Address: Kolahoi Green Heights Lawn, opposite Ice Rink, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 

Timings: Opens every day from 10:30 AM to 09:00 PM 

Price for two - INR 400 to INR 800

3. St Mary's Church

Built in the early twentieth-century by the British, St Mary’s Church is one of the oldest churches in Gulmarg. This church is amongst the main attractions of Gulmarg due to its location set against the beautiful valleys and mountain of Gulmarg. The church was built with Victorian-style architecture with gray stone walls and green gabled rooftop. This beauty continues to attract history and architecture lovers. Take a romantic stroll with your partner around the Church area and soak in the enchanting beauty of the countryside. 

Location: Forest Block

Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM 

4. Maharani Temple

Built in 1915 by a Hindu king Maharaja Hari Singh for his wife Mohini Bai Sisodia, this beautiful temple in Gulmarg is dedicated to Hindu deities Shiva and Paravati. Also known by the name of Mohineshwar Shivalalaya, this temple is perched on a hill top and can be seen from any part of Gulmarg. Many newlywed couples and devotees reach this temple to pray and seek blessings for their marital union. The temple is also popular because the famous Bollywood song ‘Jai Jai Shiv Shankar’ was shot here for the movie Aap Ki Kasam (1974).

5. Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary

If you and your partner are nature enthusiasts and share a deep fascination for flora and fauna, visit the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary. Located on the east of Pir Panjal mountain range, this sanctuary is forested with beautiful silver fir, silver birch, and blue pine trees. Take  a pair of binoculars with you and spot elusive and beautiful birds like Kashmir flycatcher, Impeyan monal, and Koklass pheasant. This sanctuary has about 31 exquisite butterfly species and is home to wild animals like  Himalayan tahr, barking deer, cougar, leopards, Kashmir grey langur, bears and more. The best time to visit this sanctuary is September to March. 

6. Go for a picnic in Strawberry Valley

Spend a peaceful time with your spouse sitting under the shade of a tree at Strawberry Valley. Located in Forest Block, this small and secluded spot is ideal for anyone seeking calm and tranquility. You can go around tasting the sweet-smelling strawberries, learn about strawberry cultivation, or simply enjoy a picnic with your partner. For souvenirs, you can shop for fresh jams and juices to take back home. The best time to visit Strawberry Valley in Gulmarg is from May to August. 

Address: Alva Farm Road, Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir 

7. Click photos at Drung Waterfall

Cascading from a height of 30 metres, Durang waterfall is one of the top attractions that elevates your Gulmarg experience. If you visit this waterfall around summers the beautiful flow and soul-soothing sound delights your senses. However, if you visit this waterfall around winter, the waterfall freezes and makes for an incredible Instagram worthy background. Please note that you can only access this waterfall either via ATV or chain taxis. 

8. Ice Skiing in Gulmarg 

Gulmarg is the most popular skiing destination in India where every year both local and international tourists reach for ice and skiing. Feel the rush of sliding down a snow-covered peak and test your endurance as you navigate the slide. You don’t have to be an expert at skiing, even a beginner can learn the basics of skiing and start sliding down the smaller peaks. So, if you and your partner are looking for something adventurous, try ice-skiing in Gulmarg. The best time for skiing in Gulmarg is from December to late February. 

How much does it cost to ski in Gulmarg?

A daily pass for skiing in Gulmarg can be around INR 1000 to INR 1500, whereas a weekly pass can cost around INR 8000 per person. 

9.  Cable Car Ride in Gulmarg

Gulmarg is famous for its Gandola ride which is the second longest and second highest cable car in the world. Without this activity, your Kashmir trip wouldn’t be considered complete. Witness the panoramic views of this beautiful valley with your partner from a staggering elevation and enjoy the romantic bliss. The phase one of Gandola ride is 2600 m long and takes roughly 9 minutes to complete, while the phase 2  is 3747 m long and takes 12 minutes to complete. For booking Gandola ride in Gulmarg, visit the www.jammukashmircablecar.com

10. Snowboarding in Gulmarg 

Similar to skiing, snowboarding is another popular winter sport to try in Gulmarg. From steep alpine runs to pillow lines, Gulmarg offers a playground to let loose and test your endurance on a snowboard. If you and your partner have little to no experience in snowboarding, start with basic slopes. Trying this activity together  amidst the snow-covered mountains will be a memorable experience for both. The cost to rent a snowboard for a day can be anywhere between INR 700 to INR 1500 per person. 

These are the top activities and attractions that make Gulmarg an alluring honeymoon destination in Kashmir for couples and honeymooners and deserves to be a part of your Kashmir honeymoon trip.