Gulmarg's legendary beauty, prime location and proximity to Srinagar naturally make it one of the premier hill resorts in the country. Originally called 'Gaurimarg' by shepherds, its present name was given in the 16th century by Sultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned with wild flowers. Gulmarg was a favourite haunt of Emperor Jehangir who once collected 21 different varieties of flowers from here. Today Gulmarg is not merely a mountain resort of exceptional beauty- it also has the highest green golf course in the world, at an altitude of 2,650 m, and is the country's premier ski resort in the winter.
The journey to Gulmarg is half the enchantment of reaching there-- roads bordered by rigid avenues of poplar give over to flat expanses of rice fields interspersed with picturesque villages. Depending on the season, nature's colours could be the translucent green of spring, summer's rich emerald, or autumn's golden hues, when scarlet chillies festoon windows of village homes.
Skiing : Skiing is one of the prime attractions in Kashmir and is apt for adventure seekers looking for a day of fun and exciting amidst
the valleys of Kashmir. Skiing in the Himalayas is definitely a must-do as it allows you to catch a glimpse of the mighty mountains quite up-close.Gulmarg, Kashmir is considered as the best ski resort in the Himalayas.
Gulmarg is accredited as the highest cable car enabled ski resorts in the world mainly due to a Gondola Cable Car Lift that was setup here. The second section of this cable car takes you up to a height of about 4,000 meters above the snow level from where you can enjoy a 5-km downhill ski run. To avail the Gondola Cable car facility, Skiers can purchase a Daily, Weekly, or Seasonal pass from the Ski Resort Center. Apart from the second section, there are 3 ski lifts to serve the purpose for beginners and intermediate-level skiers, respectively.
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