How To Reach Gulmarg From Major Indian Cities

Gulmarg, often touted as India’s winter wonderland, offers a magical blend of snow‑clad landscapes in winter and lush green meadows in summer.

This hill station sits at an altitude of about 8,694 feet (2,650 metres) and is home to Asia’s highest and longest cable ride; the Gulmarg Gondola. It reaches up to 13,780 feet. It has also been consistently ranked among the top ski destinations in Asia.

For every traveller planning a Kashmir trip in 2025, a proper Gulmarg route plan from India is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, I outline step‑by‑step options for reaching Gulmarg from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai and beyond. Whether you prioritise speed, economy, or scenic value, this blog equips you with all travel options—flight, train, road—and even budget hacks.

From booking flights to Srinagar airport, planning train journeys to Jammu Tawi railway station, engaging in shared taxi arrangements or self‑drive routes from Srinagar to Gulmarg, the itinerary is exhaustively covered. 

I have also sprinkled a few personal observations from past trips to help you gauge comfort levels, weather timing, and seasonal preparations. At the end, you will have clear clarity on the best way to reach Gulmarg based on your time frame, budget and travel preferences.

Let us embark on this route plan and make your Gulmarg journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Overview Of Route Options For Reaching Gulmarg 

There are three primary routes to reach Gulmarg from India: air + road, train + road, and road only (self‑drive or bus).

• Air And Road: Fly to Srinagar International Airport and then take a shared taxi or private cab to Gulmarg (50 km approx).
  
• Train And Road: Take a train to Jammu Tawi railway station (approx 300 km from Gulmarg via Srinagar), followed by road journey.
  
• Road: Direct drive or bus/budget taxi from neighbouring towns or from Srinagar.

Each option has its merits. Flights are faster but costlier, trains offer budget comfort but take longer while roads get scenic but may be challenging in winter. Based on your priorities, time versus money versus comfort, you can choose the optimum route. In sections below I break down each route from major Indian hubs.

Flight And Road Route 

2.1 Reaching Srinagar by Air

Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is well‑connected domestically. Major carriers like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara and Go First operate regular flights from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad.

• Delhi to Srinagar: nearly 1.5 hrs direct flight.
  
• Mumbai/Bangalore/Hyderabad: mostly connecting via Delhi or occasionally Mumbai, total travel can take 4‑6 hours including lay‑overs.

Booking your flight at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance helps secure good fares. If you travel during winter (December–March), be aware of weather‑related delays.

2.2 From Srinagar Airport To Gulmarg (Approx 50 km, 1.5–2 hrs)

Once you land at Srinagar, there are several options to reach Gulmarg:

• Shared Taxis: Rs. 600–800 per person; group size up to 5 to 6. Economical during peak season.
  
• Private Taxis: Rs. 3,000–4,000 per vehicle up to 4 passengers. Comfortable for families or small groups.
  
• Car Rental/Self‑Drive: Available in Srinagar but ensure your rental has snow‑tyre or chains in winter.

The road follows Srinagar as Tangmarg and then Gulmarg. The last 20 km from Tangmarg to Gulmarg is uphill. In winter especially, snow clearance may delay transit, so plan accordingly. Shared taxi drivers typically wait near the airport until you group up, so it is wise to walk out into the taxi stand and ask around rather than relying only on pre‑booked cars.

2.3 Example Route Plan From Delhi

• Morning flight Delhi to Srinagar (arrive within 11 AM).
• Quick lunch at the airport (try local food and Kashmiri street snacks).
• Shared taxi to Gulmarg by 12:30 PM that will arrive by 2:30 PM.
• Afternoon Gondola ride (if open in season) or sunset at Gulmarg meadows.

Train And Road Route 

3.1 Major Trains To Jammu Tawi Railway Station

For budget‑conscious travellers, especially from eastern and southern India, train travel remains a viable option. Jammu Tawi (JAT) is the nearest broad‑gauge railhead. Notable trains include:

• Shatabdi Express (Delhi to Jammu, about 9–10 hours)
• Vaishno Devi Express (Mumbai to Jammu, about 27–30 hours)
• Himgiri/Andaman Express (Kolkata/Chennai to Jammu, about 32–36 hours)

Advanced reservation (60 days beforehand) is recommended, particularly for AC classes during winter travel.

3.2 Jammu To Srinagar (Almost 300 km by road)

Once at Jammu Tawi, you will need a road journey to Srinagar (6 to 8 hours, 300 km). Options include:

• Shared Taxi: Rs. 1,200 to 1,500 per person for the Jammu to Srinagar stretch.
• Private Cab: Rs. 4,000 to 5,500 for a car up to 4 passengers.
• Bus: JKSRTC and private deluxe buses operate the route that will cost around Rs. 700 to 1,000 but can be uncomfortable with luggage.

3.3 Srinagar To Gulmarg

From Srinagar town or bus stand, you can again take a shared taxi or private vehicle to reach Gulmarg. Total travelling time from Jammu Tawi to Gulmarg can be 10 to 12 hours including breaks.

3.4 Sample Itinerary Bangalore/Kolkata To Gulmarg

• Day 1: Overnight train from Bangalore to Jammu (32 hrs).
• Day 3 Morning: Arrive Jammu, break fast at dhaba, then taxi to Srinagar.
• Day 3 Evening: Stay in Srinagar, enjoy Dal Lake boat ride.
• Day 4 Early: Shared taxi to Gulmarg; arrive by late morning, begin sightseeing.

3.5 Pros And Cons Of Train And Road Journey

Pros: Cheaper overall, comfortable air‑conditioned sleeper classes.
Cons: Time‑consuming, transit times long, multiple changes. Winter roads can be closed due to landslides or snow, so always check route advisories.

Road-Based Route 

4.1 Self‑Drive Or Private Vehicle

Adventurous travellers may choose self‑drive from Srinagar or nearby towns. From Srinagar, following NH1 and then the Gulmarg route via Tangmarg. In summer, the drive is scenic and manageable.

In winter, roads get icy, and steep sections near Gulmarg require driving expertise and tyre chains. Local vehicle rental agencies provide snow‑kit equipped cars which is highly recommended if you take this route yourself.

4.2 Bus And Shared Taxi Options

There are JKSRTC and private buses from Srinagar to Tangmarg, and then shared taxis to Gulmarg. These buses may not operate every day in winter. Shared taxis are available at Tangmarg taxi stand, cost Rs. 100 to 150 per person for the final leg. From Srinagar Airport or city, shared taxis to Tangmarg cost around Rs. 500 to 700. For passengers travelling light and flexible with time, this mixed option works well.

4.3 Example: Delhi Road Trip

For those who prefer road‑trip style: Delhi to Jammu (less than 800 km, overnight drive), Srinagar via NH44 then Tangmarg and finally Gulmarg. Spread over 2 to 3 days, this lets you explore Jammu city, Vaishno Devi or scenic Kashmir along the way are eye-grabbing. 

4.4 Road‑Trip Tips

• Check weather forecasts and road‑block warnings.
  
• Carry warm clothes, blankets, snacks and water.
  
• Keep mobile network or offline map support—network may be patchy.
  
• Start early to avoid night driving on steep sections.
  

Detailed Comparison Of Routes: Time, Cost, Comfort 

Below is a city‑wise comparison showcasing a typical Gulmarg route plan from India, for beginners, backpackers and revisitors. It is viable for using all three options that are air + road, train + road, and road only. Here is a clear understanding: 

Note: (Costs are indicative and may vary by season, booking time, and transportation choices.)

In my view, the flight and road option, especially from Delhi or Mumbai, is by far the most practical for most travellers, balancing speed, comfort and manageable cost. If budget is the priority and you do not mind longer travel as the train and road route remains popular among Indian travellers, especially students and large families crisscrossing India.

The road‑based option appeals to road‑trip enthusiasts or those already in Kashmir, but it requires more preparation and flexibility.

Practical Tips And Seasonal Insights For Best Gulmarg Tour Planning

Best Time To Travel

• Winter (Dec–Mar): Ideal for skiing and snow activities, but roads and flights may be delayed due to snowfall.
• Summer (May–Sep): Pleasant weather, lush meadows, alpine flowers. Roads are usually clear, and travel is smoother.
  

Early Booking Advice

• Flights: Book 4 to 6 weeks ahead, especially during winter or summer holiday weekends.
• Trains: Reserve at least 60 days in advance.
• Shared Taxis: Available at hubs but during peaks (winter holidays, summer vacations) book private cab in advance.
  

Health And Safety For You And Your Loved Ones

• Altitude is not very high as Gulmarg is less than 2,650 metres above sea level. However, if you are prone to motion sickness, the hilly road can unnerve you.
• In winter, wear layered clothing, carry gloves, socks, thermal wear. Snow boots or good grip shoes help.
• Keep snacks and water, carry a portable charger because electricity may not be reliable in winter and hilly areas.

Scenic Beauty And Local Experience

• From Srinagar to Gulmarg road, the views of pine forests, gushing rivers and pastoral Kashmiri villages are unforgettable. In summer, wildflowers bloom along the way.
• I personally found that breaking a journey mid‑stop in Tangmarg for a Kashmiri tea and walnut cake adds pleasant local flavour.
  

Ready To Plan For A Gulmarg Trip? 

Crafting your Gulmarg route plan from India involves selecting the travel option that best suits your schedule, budget and travel preferences. For most Indian travellers, a flight to Srinagar followed by a shared or private taxi to Gulmarg is the fastest, most reliable option. It offers both comfort and scenic delight, whether you visit in winter or summer. 

Meanwhile, the train and road route appeals to those seeking affordability and are comfortable with longer travel times and multiple transit segments.

If you are already in the Jammu‑Srinagar region, or are inclined towards road‑trip adventure, the road‑based option offers flexibility and scenic rewards, especially in favourable seasons.

I recommend booking transport (flights, trains or shared taxis) well ahead, especially in ski season or peak summer. Always keep current route advisories, weather updates, and travel insurance, especially during snowfall.

Small personal suggestions: stop for a local Kahwa tea at Srinagar airport or spend a night in Srinagar to enjoy Dal Lake before heading up.

With clear route planning, from flight corridors to train coaches to shared taxi logistics, you are fully equipped to traverse the snow‑covered slopes or emerald meadows of Gulmarg.

Whether aiming for skiing in March or enjoying alpine blooms in June, your journey from any Indian city to Gulmarg will be smoother with this route plan in hand. Safe travels, and may your Kashmir experience be as enchanting as the destination itself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

• How can I reach Gulmarg from Delhi?

You can reach Gulmarg from Delhi by taking a direct flight to Srinagar International Airport, which takes around 1.5 hours. From Srinagar, you can hire a shared taxi or private cab to cover the 50 km journey to Gulmarg. The road trip offers scenic views and usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

• What is the best way to travel from Jammu to Gulmarg?

The best way from Jammu to Gulmarg is by train or bus to Jammu Tawi railway station, followed by a road journey to Srinagar, then onward to Gulmarg by taxi or shared cab. This route can take around 10 to 12 hours but is cost-effective and offers a chance to enjoy Kashmir’s picturesque landscapes.

• How far is Gulmarg from Srinagar, and how long does it take?

Gulmarg is approximately 50 kilometers from Srinagar. The road journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and weather, especially during winters when snow may slow travel. The route is scenic, passing through Tangmarg and beautiful pine forests, making it an enjoyable ride despite occasional delays.

• Are there shared taxis available to reach Gulmarg?

Yes, shared taxis operate regularly from Srinagar and Tangmarg to Gulmarg. They are a popular budget option among tourists and locals alike, typically costing less than private cabs. However, availability may be limited during off-peak seasons or heavy snowfall, so it is advisable to plan accordingly or book private transport during winter.

• What is the cheapest way to reach Gulmarg from India?

The cheapest way to reach Gulmarg is to take a train to Jammu Tawi followed by a road journey via Srinagar using shared taxis or buses. While it takes longer and involves multiple transfers, it is budget-friendly compared to flying directly to Srinagar and then hiring private cabs.