Written by Naveed Khan
Local Kashmir Travel Expert ·
Phase 1 vs Phase 2 — The Complete Breakdown
The Gulmarg Gondola operates in two distinct phases. Understanding the difference is crucial for planning your Gulmarg tour package, especially depending on the season and who you are traveling with.
Phase 1: Kongdori
The first phase takes you from the Gulmarg resort area to Kongdori Valley. The ride takes about 9 minutes over a stunning expanse of pine trees.
- ✓ Ideal for families and children
- ✓ Offers snow sledging, ATVs, and skiing for beginners
- ✓ Rarely closes due to bad weather
- ✓ Ticket Price: Approx ₹750/person
Phase 2: Apharwat Peak
The second phase connects Kongdori to the dizzying heights of Apharwat Peak. The 12-minute ride takes you above the tree line into stark, alpine tundra.
- ✓ For adventure seekers and advanced skiers
- ✓ Offers views of the Line of Control (LOC) and Nanga Parbat
- ⚠ Frequently closes due to high winds/low visibility
- ✓ Ticket Price: Additional ₹900/person
How to Book Tickets (The 2026 Reality)
In previous years, you could walk up to the counter and buy a ticket. This is no longer possible.
The Gulmarg Gondola is operated by J&K Cable Car Corporation. Tickets must be booked online well in advance—often 3 to 4 weeks prior during peak seasons (December to February, and May to June). Scalping is strictly prohibited, and IDs are checked at the boarding gate.
When you book our Kashmir tour packages, our operations team actively monitors the portal and secures these tickets for you the moment they are released, guaranteeing your ride without any last-minute panic.
Practical Tips for the Ride
- Beat the Rush: Boarding begins at 9:00 AM. Aim to be in line by 8:30 AM. Waiting until 11:00 AM can mean a 2-hour queue just to board the cabin.
- Dress in Layers: It might be a pleasant 20°C in Gulmarg, but Apharwat Peak will be below freezing with biting winds. Carry a heavy jacket, gloves, and a beanie regardless of the month.
- Snow Boots: Do not wear sneakers. You can rent high rubber boots at the base station before boarding. Without them, you cannot walk in the snow at Phase 1 or 2 without ruining your shoes and freezing your toes.
- Sunglasses: The glare from the snow at 13,000 feet is blinding. UV protection sunglasses are absolutely mandatory to prevent snow blindness.
- Altitude Awareness: Walk very slowly once you alight at Phase 2. The air is thin. Drink plenty of water and avoid sudden exertion. If you feel dizzy, immediately take the Gondola back down to Phase 1.
Best Time for the Gondola Experience
The experience changes dramatically with the seasons:
January to March: The entire landscape is a pristine white canvas. This is the peak skiing season. Both phases are covered in deep powder snow. However, Phase 2 frequently closes due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
April to June: The snow melts in the lower valley, revealing lush green meadows in Gulmarg. Phase 1 still has residual snow in early April, but by May, you must go to Phase 2 to find significant snow. This is the busiest time for families.
October to November: The autumn season offers the clearest skies. While there is no snow, the visibility from Phase 2 is unmatched, often allowing clear views all the way into Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a ticket for Phase 2 without buying Phase 1?
What happens if Phase 2 is closed due to bad weather?
Is there food available at the Gondola stations?
Can pregnant women ride the Gondola?
Secure Your Gondola Experience
Tickets sell out weeks in advance. Book a complete Gulmarg package with Hiatus Holidays and let our operations team secure your Gondola tickets the moment they release.