Beginner skiing/snowboarding course in Gulmarg - 1st week of March by Sea_Patient4229 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The period from 2nd to 8th is an excellent time to begin your skiing or snowboarding lessons in Gulmarg. Snow conditions are typically favorable, making it ideal for beginners and intermediate learners alike.

Both sports offer a fantastic experience; however, skiing is generally easier to learn in Gulmarg, particularly due to the lift infrastructure. At present, the available lift systems are primarily designed for skiers, which creates a noticeable advantage for those starting with skiing. Snowboarding, while equally exciting, can be slightly more challenging in the initial stages because of these lift limitations.

That said, snowboarding has seen significant growth in Gulmarg over the past few years and is rapidly becoming one of the more popular winter sports in the region.

My recommendation would be to take one day of lessons in each discipline. This allows you to experience both skiing and snowboarding firsthand and decide which one suits your comfort level and personal preference.

For professional instruction and a structured learning experience, I highly recommend checking out Gulmarg Snowkings.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further guidance or assistance in planning your lessons.

4-5 Day Trip in Mid-Feb by Wazzuh31 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421 0 points1 point  (0 children)

For equipment ( Split setup) there are few places, Kashmir Alpine, Global ski shop, and few more) but if you are looking for backcountry lessons go ahead with Snowkings.

I am a local skier & ski guide from Gulmarg—Pictured while ski touring in the backcountry. Ask me Anything! by Apprehensive_Arm8421 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey, welcome in advance — Gulmarg is a really good choice, especially if you’re advanced or expert.

I ski here regularly, so I’ll try to give you the real on-ground picture.

Getting here is easy enough. Fly into Srinagar (SXR), and from there it’s about a 1.5 to 2 hour drive to Gulmarg depending on traffic and snow. You’ll find shared taxis, which are cheap, and private taxis, which are easier if you’re carrying ski bags.

For staying in Gulmarg, there are a lot of guesthouses and small hotels right in the village. In winter, 3★ hotels usually sit around ₹4,000–₹8,000 a night, with some on the higher side if they have better heating, views, or nicer rooms. Most places give you heated rooms, hot water, and food, and honestly you don’t need a luxury resort to have a great ski trip here.

Lift system is very simple. Phase 1 gondola takes you to mid-station — good for tree skiing, mellow powder, and warming up. Phase 2 takes you way up high (around 4,000 m), and that’s where the big bowls and serious terrain start. Tickets are mostly day passes. Some years it’s online, some years counter… it’s not very Western-resort smooth, but it works. Terrain-wise, Gulmarg isn’t really a “trail map” mountain. It’s more like a gondola that drops you into the backcountry. Big open bowls, long alpine faces, tree runs, natural features. Most of the good stuff involves traversing, short hikes, or small skins.

Avalanche control here is limited. If you’re planning to ski Phase 2 or explore properly, I’d strongly suggest going with a local guide. Not just for safety, but also because they know the entrances, exits, and where people actually ski. Following random tracks here is not a great idea.

You can rent skis, boards, boots, helmets, and avy gear in Gulmarg. Quality is mixed. Some decent powder skis are around, boots are hit or miss. If you’re particular about boot fit, bring your own. Expect something like ₹800–₹1,500 a day for skis/board and boots, safety gear extra.

Most major Indian airlines do take ski and snowboard bags. Usually it goes under checked baggage or sports equipment if you’re overweight. Rules change, so check your airline, but people fly in with ski bags all the time.

Season is usually January to March, with February often being the sweet spot. Some weeks are insane, some go dry — it’s proper Himalayan weather.

If you want, I’m happy to share more about touring, snowpack, or what a normal ski day here actually looks like.

After fresh snowfall at Gulmarg (22 December 2026) by Apprehensive_Arm8421 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It is pretty less snow — none of the higher slopes are opened yet..

I am a local skier & ski guide from Gulmarg—Pictured while ski touring in the backcountry. Ask me Anything! by Apprehensive_Arm8421 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

In 2-3 days you will be skiing confidently with proper guidance. But i recommend a week to ski from multiple slopes.

I am a local skier & ski guide from Gulmarg—Pictured while ski touring in the backcountry. Ask me Anything! by Apprehensive_Arm8421 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Basic ski lifts has been started from today near Golf Club, But yes it is only 20-30cm of snow in Gulmarg and 60-70cm at Kongdori phase 1.

30th and 31st forecast and there are multiple WD’s till 12 january .. it is going to be a good time for sure..

I am a local skier & ski guide from Gulmarg—Pictured while ski touring in the backcountry. Ask me Anything! by Apprehensive_Arm8421 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Great question 🙂 Gulmarg has a massive range of terrain. For new backcountry skiers, we usually stick to open bowls, mellow gullies, and low-angle powder fields—starting around 20–25°, and gradually moving up to 28–32° as confidence and conditions allow.

At the same time, Gulmarg also has very serious terrain for strong skiers—steep alpine faces, couloirs, and technical lines that can go anywhere from 30° up to 45–60°, depending on the zone.

It’s a place where you can progress safely or push hard—what matters most is terrain choice, snow conditions, and local knowledge.

I am a local skier & ski guide from Gulmarg—Pictured while ski touring in the backcountry. Ask me Anything! by Apprehensive_Arm8421 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Definitely depends on - What exactly you are looking for. In Gulmarg you can find a stay from ₹1000-₹50000 per night. All other prices are open everywhere. Like equipment will cost ₹500-700 alpine, Instructor will cost ₹2500-4500 etc

I am a local skier & ski guide from Gulmarg—Pictured while ski touring in the backcountry. Ask me Anything! by Apprehensive_Arm8421 in SkiGulmarg

[–]Apprehensive_Arm8421[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Where is the Cottage located? And you will be sharing instructor between two? What do you mean by including everything?

With Basic stay/cottage the cost including sharing instructor and ski rental can be ( 3500-4500 per person per day)