Kashmir valley
Kashmir

Gulmarg Gondola Guide: Phase 1 vs Phase 2, Tickets and Tips

Which phase to take, how to avoid long queues and what to expect at the top in winter and summer.

Thrill On Hills Travel DeskUpdated 2 November 20263 min read
Photo: Suhail Skindar Sofi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world and the main reason most visitors go to Gulmarg. It runs in two stages.

01Phase 1 and Phase 2

  • Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdori — meadows in summer, snow play and sledging in winter. Good for families.
  • Phase 2: Kongdori to the Apharwat ridge at around 4,000 m — deep snow and big views; it can close in bad weather.

02Tickets and timing

  • Book tickets online in advance on the official booking site; counter tickets sell out in season.
  • Take the first slots of the day — queues and clouds build after midday.
  • Phase 2 tickets depend on weather; keep a flexible plan.

Plan the rest of your trip with our Kashmir itinerary from Delhi or see Kashmir family tours.

Frequently asked questions

Which gondola phase is better?

Phase 1 suits families and first-timers; Phase 2 is for higher snow and views when weather allows.

Can I buy tickets at the counter?

Sometimes, but in season they sell out — book online in advance.

Share this guideWhatsAppFacebookX
Planning this trip?

Tell us your dates, group size and starting city. A real trip planner replies on WhatsApp with a route and quote — no online payment.

Thrill On Hills Travel Desk

Written by the Thrill On Hills planning team, who run pilgrimages, mountain trips and holidays from offices in Delhi, Haridwar, Manali, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Ahmednagar and Bhilai.

WhatsApp