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 Gulmarg Meadow of Flowers, 56km north –west of Srinagar, is a lush green valley and one of the loveliest resorts in the uplands. A poplar-lined highway runs from Srinagar for 38 km to Tangmarg. From here, a winding road passes through majestic, pine covered terrain, ending at the valley.
Here, encircled by fir and pine covered slopes, the 3.5 km long, 1 km wide meadow nestles, offering a synthesis of exciting outdoor activities and a serenely natural ambience. Every season brings a new dimension of beauty to Gulmarg. From the soft, pastel shades of spring, the colours deepen into the vibrant hues of summer. The entire valley is carpeted with wild flowers, blooming in a riot of colours. This is a naturalist's wonderland, and it is on record that the Emperor Jahangir once collected 21 varieties of flowers in this little valley!
Through the summer and well into the autumn, Gulmarg is a magnetic attraction for golfers from all over the world. The world's highest, 18-hole green golf course is at Gulmarg, its course recently relaid according to international specifications by Peter Thompson. The challenge of the game played in this magnificent Himalayan terrain is an irresistible lure for all golf enthusiasts.
The flower carpeted slopes of summer give way to the mantle of snow in winter, turning Gulmarg into a gay winter sports resort. For the first-timers, expert guidance is available from trained instructors of the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, while seasoned skiers can go cross country, mountain skiimg, tobogganing and sledding.
The valley is the base for excursions to some lovely little resorts in the region. A large number of well appointed and independent cottages can be hired, if booked in advance. |
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 A highland meadow, just 4 km from Gulmarg, Khilanmarg is accessible by foot, by pony or in a dandi. From here, the view of the snow peaks and the limpid waters of the Wular Lake is a breathtaking one, unfurling vista upon vista of Himalayan grandeur.
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 At the foothills of the Pir Panjal range, 50 km from Srinagar towards the south-west of the city, the valley of Yusmarg lies in serene seclusion, encircled by pine and fir forested slopes. It is the base for excursions on ponyback to Sangi Safed, the source of the Dudhganga, and to Tatakoti peak (5150 m) and Sunset peak (5180 m). A trek route via Tosh Maidan connects the valley with Gulmarg. Nilnag, a lake with pellucid, sky-blue waters, at a height of 2074 m, is another picturesque spot close to Yusmarg.
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From Gulmarg, a winding trail weaves through pine copses to Lienmarg. The stretches of open grassland along this route are fragrant with blooming wildflowers through the summer, and make ideal camping sites.