Gondola Ride

Gondola rides in Kashmir are a popular and scenic way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the region, offering a bird’s-eye view of its stunning valleys, mountains, and meadows. Gondola rides available in Kashmir:

• Gulmarg Gondola:
  • Location: Gulmarg, approximately 50 km from Srinagar.
  • Highlights: The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world and provides panoramic views of the Gulmarg meadows and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
  • Stages:
    • Phase 1: Takes you from Gulmarg to the upper ridge of Mount Apharwat, at an altitude of around 3,100 meters. This phase offers spectacular views of the lush meadows below and the distant Himalayas.
    • Phase 2: Continues from the upper ridge to a higher point on Mount Apharwat, reaching an altitude of approximately 3,950 meters. It provides breathtaking views of the snow-covered terrain, and on clear days, you can even see the peaks of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region.
  • Duration: Each phase takes about 10-25 minutes.
  • Best Time to Visit: May to September for lush green landscapes and October to February for snow-covered scenery. Winter months are ideal for snow sports enthusiasts.
• Pahalgam Gondola:
  • Location: Pahalgam, located around 95 km from Srinagar.
  • Highlights: The Pahalgam Gondola provides a scenic ride offering views of the lush meadows and pine forests surrounding the Pahalgam area. It’s less famous than the Gulmarg Gondola but offers a more tranquil experience.
  • Stages: The gondola ride generally consists of two stages, taking you from the town to the higher points where you can enjoy panoramic views and serene landscapes.
  • Duration: The entire ride takes about 10-15 minutes.
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October, with the best views during summer and early autumn. Winter rides are less common due to snow conditions.
•  Makhdoom Sahib Gondola:                           
  • Location: Makhdoom Sahib: This area is situated on the outskirts of Srinagar, known for the Makhdoom Sahib Shrine, which is a significant religious site in Kashmir.
  • Experience: The gondola in the Makhdoom Sahib area is designed to offer a serene and scenic experience, providing views of the surrounding landscapes and the Dal Lake area from a higher vantage point.
  • Route: The gondola typically takes you from the base near the Makhdoom Sahib Shrine to a higher point, offering panoramic views of Srinagar and the surrounding valley.
  • Duration: The ride is relatively short, usually taking around 5-10 minutes each way.
  • Operation: It operates throughout the year, but the exact schedule and availability can vary based on weather conditions and maintenance. It’s advisable to check current operating status before planning your visit.
  • Best Time to Visit: The ride can be enjoyed year-round. Summer (April to September) offers lush green views, while winter (December to February) provides a snow-capped landscape. Spring and autumn also offer beautiful scenery with blooming flowers and changing leaves.