Gulmarg or Pahalgam Which Is Better?

[Talking Monkey]

I have travelled a lot in North India but never got a chance to go to Gulmarg or Pahalgam so I am planning to go to one of these some time later this year.

I would like to know what are the major differences between Gulmarg and Pahalgam and is it advisable to go there in winters or summers and why.

I will be driving from Delhi to Gulmarg or Pahalgam so road condition from Delhi to Gulmarg and Delhi to Pahalgam is also a consideration and any information on that would be of great help.

 

[Chahal]

I would personally prefer Gulmarg in summers for the flowers that are everywhere but Pahalgam is not that scenic in summers as compared to Gulmarg. Gulmarg, in my opinion is a lot better in winters too with their gondola rides and the Kong posh restaurant where gondola ride starts. Proximity to Srinagar also makes it a better choice.

You are going to drive all the way to Gulmarg from Delhi, why not go to Pahalgam and Sonmarg too on the same trip? So you can decide yourself and you won't have regrets later that you went all the way to Gulmarg but didn't see Sonmarg, in fact I would also suggest driving to Ladakh on the same trip if you haven't been already. Delhi to Gulmarg and Pahalgam is a long long drive and if you decided to go to Leh one day you will be doing the same thing once again so why not go the extra miles and go to Leh as well?

If you decide not to go to Leh Ladakh and only want one of the two then my suggestion would be Gulmarg.

Gulmarg, if you do go there wasn't always called Gulmarg, original name of Gulmarg was Gaurimarg and it was changed to Gulmarg by some Muslim ruler in 15th or 16th century AD. Gulmarg was also one of the towns that was captured by Pakistani militia after independence when the British left but was taken back by the 1st Sikh battalion of Indian Army in a fierce battle.

I am sure other members will provide their input about differences between Gulmarg and Pahalgam making it easier for you to decide which would be better for you.

 

[Admin]

️ Gulmarg – Best for Snow, Skiing & Adventure
Ideal For: Snow lovers, adventure seekers, honeymooners
Best Time to Visit: December – March (for snowfall & skiing), April – June (for lush green meadows)
Major Attractions:

• Gulmarg Gondola – One of the highest cable cars in the world!
• Skiing & Snowboarding – Best in India during winter
• Apharwat Peak – Stunning views, even in summer
• Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve – Perfect for nature & wildlife lovers

Why Visit Gulmarg? If you love snow, adventure sports, or breathtaking mountain views, Gulmarg is the place for you.

Pahalgam – Best for Valleys, Scenic Beauty & Relaxation
Ideal For: Nature lovers, families, couples, trekkers
Best Time to Visit: April – October (for pleasant weather & greenery), November – February (for snowfall & quiet retreats)
Major Attractions:

• Betaab Valley – One of the most beautiful valleys in Kashmir
• Aru Valley – A peaceful retreat, great for treks & nature lovers
• Lidder River – Enjoy white-water rafting & scenic walks
• Baisaran Valley – Known as "Mini Switzerland of India"

Why Visit Pahalgam? If you prefer lush green landscapes, valleys, and peaceful surroundings, Pahalgam is a better choice.

Road Conditions: Delhi to Gulmarg & Delhi to Pahalgam
️ Delhi to Gulmarg: (~900 km, 19-20 hours drive)
✔ Route: Delhi → Jammu → Udhampur → Srinagar → Gulmarg
✔ Road Condition:

• Excellent Delhi to Jammu (NH44, ~580 km, 8-10 hours)
• Jammu to Srinagar (290 km) has some bad stretches near Ramban & Banihal due to landslides.
• Srinagar to Gulmarg (50 km) is smooth but may be snow-covered in winter, requiring chains.

Winter Driving Tip: Roads to Gulmarg can be blocked due to heavy snowfall in peak winter. Always check road conditions before travel!

️ Delhi to Pahalgam: (~880 km, 18-19 hours drive)
✔ Route: Delhi → Jammu → Udhampur → Anantnag → Pahalgam
✔ Road Condition:

• Delhi to Jammu (NH44) – Great condition
• Jammu to Anantnag – Similar to the Gulmarg route, minor bad patches
• Anantnag to Pahalgam (40 km) – Well-maintained roads, no snow blockage issues in winter

Winter Driving Tip: Unlike Gulmarg, Pahalgam is accessible year-round, so it's a safer option if driving in winter.

Gulmarg vs Pahalgam – Which One is Better?

Feature	Gulmarg ️	Pahalgam
Best For	Snow, skiing, adventure	Valleys, nature, relaxation
Best Time to Visit	Winter (Dec-Mar) for snow, Summer (Apr-Jun) for meadows	Summer (Apr-Oct) for greenery, Winter (Nov-Feb) for peace
Major Attractions	Gulmarg Gondola, Skiing, Apharwat Peak	Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Lidder River
Road Conditions	Tough in winter due to snowfall	Better, accessible all year
Crowds	Busier in winter due to tourism	Less crowded, peaceful
Adventure Options	Skiing, Snowboarding, Trekking	Horse riding, Rafting, Hiking

Final Recommendation: Which One Should You Pick?
✔ If you love snow, skiing, and adventure → Go to Gulmarg
✔ If you prefer scenic beauty, valleys, and relaxation → Go to Pahalgam
✔ If driving in winter, Pahalgam is safer since Gulmarg roads may be blocked

Which one are you planning to visit – Gulmarg or Pahalgam? Let’s discuss below! ️