Gulmarg

Gulmarg In Kashmir is one of the most mesmerising hill resorts in the country, falling in the Baramulla Distt of Kashmir. Initially, Gulmarg used to be known by the name of "Gaurimarg", by the shepherds
pasturing their herds there. However, the present name dates back to the 16th century. Sultan Yusuf Shah, impressed with the stunning spectacle of the grassy hills adorned with colorful flowers, gave the name of "Gulmarg" to this beautiful hill station. Gulmarg also served as the preferred rendezvous of the Mughal Emperor Jehangir. It is said that the emperor once collected 21 different varieties of flowers from here.
Gulmarg boasts of not only picturesque locales, but also of the highest golf course in the world. Situated at a height of 2,650 m, Gulmarg golf course is one of the major attractions of the awesome hill station. Along with that, Gulmarg is also quite famous as a skiing destination in winters. The drive to Gulmarg is as beautiful as the hill station itself. Alongside the road, the scenery changes from boulevard of poplar to smooth vastness of rice fields, sprinkled with some pleasing villages. The fir-covered hills characterize the ascent to Gulmarg, Kashmir. There is also a spot on the way to Gulmarg, known as "View Point", where tourist often stop to admire the breathtaking beauty of snow capped mountains.

The drive to Gulmarg is filled with a number of colors, changing with every season. From the translucent green of spring to summer's rich emerald to autumn's golden hues, the scenery has something differant to offer in every season. The "Meadow of Flowers" counts amongst some of the best tourist spots of the world. Gulmarg is famous not only for its awe-inspiring beauty, but for a number of other attractions also. You can take a Gandola ride (cable car ride), taking the tourists up to Kongdori, to enjoy the magnificent sights of the meadow from the top. Also popular is a trek to Alpather Lake, approximately 13 km from Gulmarg. With the encircling forests of tall conifers, Gulmarg assumes an unparallel beauty. The hill resort of Gulmarg is rated as one of the unrivaled tourist spots in the world. You can also visit the famous shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim saint.
Best time to Visit
The best time to visit this hill station is from May to September, and from November to February for skiers when the place is covered with snow.
How to reach
The nearest airport is that of Badgam District, while the nearest railhead is that of Jammu. There is a bus stand at Batmallo from where you can get all sorts of transport to Srinagar. From Srinagar the drive takes 2-3 hrs and the distance is 57 Kms.
Where to stay
There are a number of hotels to suit every pocket in Gulmarg offering comfortable accommodation.