As you would expect, the food of this region has a heavy Mughal influence, and is rich in flavour, because of the use of various spices such as saffron, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, fennel and cardamom. Let’s find out the top food in Gulmarg.

Top Non-Vegetarian Food in Gulmarg

1. Roghan Josh

A fiery lamb gravy, it is one of the more well-known Kashmiri delicacies and a must-eat dish for meat lovers visiting Gulmarg. A signature Kashmiri recipe, it was introduced to India by the Mughals.

It is prepared with aromatic Kashmiri spices, lots of red chillies, onions and yoghurt, and is typically eaten with rice or naan. Go ahead and fill your mouth with a riot of flavours.

• Where to have Rogan Josh in Gulmarg: Ahdoos and local outlets

2. Gushtaba

Meatballs floating in a spicy yoghurt gravy. Made out of mutton mince, it is usually eaten only on grand occasions, such as your holiday, of course. It is also known as a “dish fit for the kings”. Best eaten on cold winter nights.

• Best place to have Gustaba in Gulmarg: Nedous Dining Room

3. Yakhni

Flavoured with malwa flowers, this Kashmiri delicacy is made up of lamb cooked in a yoghurt-based gravy. The gravy comprises yoghurt, onion paste, black and green cardamom, dried mint leaves and aromatic fennel seeds to add an extra punch to the gravy. It is best enjoyed with rice.

• Where to have Yakhni in Gulmarg: Enjoy this dish in the local eating outlets in Gulmarg and at Nedous Dining Room.

4. Kashmiri Tujj

Tujj or the traditional Kashmiri mutton kebab is an experience that will mesmerise your tastebuds. These kebabs are prepared on skewers and cooked on slow-burning coal to cook the meat just right. The succulent minced mutton just melts in your mouth. It is eaten with a Kashmiri roti and radish chutney.

5. Gadde Monje

This is a rich and tasty treat for fish lovers. The fish is deboned and dipped in a spicy flour batter and then deep-fried.

A treat for the non-vegetarian palate, the gadde monje is usually served with a spicy radish chutney. This is a variation of the popular vegetarian item nadir monje, where the lotus stem is used in place of the fish.

6. Kashmiri Muj Gaad

Gaad is a dish that is made with fish along with nadur or radish. This dish is served on special celebrations and occasions. Herbs, spices and the amazing lotus stem add a robust flavour to this dish. It is usually served in the month of December during festivals like Gaada Bata.

• Where to have Muj Gaad in Gulmarg: At Bakshi and Nedous Dining Room you can enjoy the best Muj Gaad dish in Gulmarg.

Top Vegetarian Foods in Gulmarg

1. Dum Olav

Most of the Kashmiri dishes are non-vegetarian, but there is something legendary about the dum olav or aloo.

Potatoes cooked in yoghurt and spiced up with powdered ginger, fennel and other popular Kashmiri spices lend a very unique taste and flavour to this popular dish. Dum Olav or aloo is usually eaten with roti or naan.

• Where to have Dum Olav in Gulmarg: Relish this delicacy at The Chinar and other local outlets in Gulmarg.

2. Modur Pulav

Modur Pulav is the name given to sweetened Kashmiri rice made with cinnamon, a little ghee, saffron, green cardamoms, and milk as the main ingredients along with dry fruits.

The saffron gives this heavenly dish an orange hue and enhances its taste. The unique taste of this amazing blend of ingredients will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Where to have Modur Pulav in Gulmarg: Ahdoos and local outlets

3. Nader Monjje

The Kashmiri take on French fries they are sometimes called. But made instead with lotus stems, which, by the way, are a delight in any form.

Nader Monjje is a favourite snack and popular street food in Gulmarg. These are lotus stems that are cut into small pieces, dipped in a besan batter and deep-fried until they are golden brown.

4. Masala Tcotte

Perhaps the healthiest of the treats we’ve mentioned here, the Masala Tcotte is made up of boiled and flavoured chickpea masala that is spread over a Kashmiri naan (or lavaas as they call it there) and eaten with mujj chetin (or a spicy radish chutney).

This hot and yummy chickpea-filled roll is a healthy snack that can be enjoyed while taking a stroll on the streets of Kashmir. There are a lot of hawkers all along the streets that make and sell this dish. The spicy and non-messy chickpea wrap can be enjoyed while sipping a hot cup of tea, an ideal snack for a chilly winter day.

5. Kenn’k Masala (Kruhun Masalle)

These are a hit with people of all ages. Hot boiled and flavoured split wheat are mixed with a black masala (or the kruhun masalle as it is locally called) and eaten off a paper cone. This is a fat-free as no oil is used in the preparation.

6. Noon Tea

Highly unusual, Kashmiri noon chai is pink in colour and has a salty taste. Why? Because of what it’s made with: green tea, milk, salt and soda bicarbonate. Try it you must.

7. Sheermalas

There are many traditional bakeries that make different types of bread like sheermals, kulchas, bakarkhani, and various other sweet and savoury treats that can be enjoyed and eaten for breakfast along with a hot cup of Kahwah, a traditional Kashmiri tea.

Top Desserts in Gulmarg

1. Sewai

Considered one of the finest desserts of Kashmir, this simple yet mouth-watering dessert is made up of vermicelli or sewai. It is cooked in milk with coconut and has a generous helping of dry fruits. These simple yet amazing flavours will leave you wanting more.

2. Paratha Halwa

These large Parathas are a dream.  These are basically large deep-fried rotis eaten with sooji halwa, a real winner and must-have on your list.

The halwa is made up of sooji or semolina and the paratha is made with flour. Not the healthiest combination surely, but there’s no way you’ll be able to refuse it once you see it.

The food in Gulmarg, as you can see in the pictures, can be pretty heavy, a necessary evil in the cold of Kashmir. It definitely makes for great holiday food.

We’re aware that our picks barely scratch the surface of all that’s on offer in Gulmarg. Let us know which others you would add to this list. Matschgand? Muji Gaad? What would it be?

The post The 15 Most Delicious Food in Gulmarg appeared first on Treebo Blog.

Gulmarg is also famous for its slopes and skiing adventure centres. So, it’s obvious that you’ll find plenty of stores that rent skiing and trekking equipment. No one comes in to Gulmarg to shop, but we can assure you that you’ll find at least a couple of things you wouldn’t have seen elsewhere. Here are our top picks for the places to shop in Gulmarg.

Quick Fact:

• Is shopping expensive? Being a tourist hub, prices in Gulmarg can be a little more than in a city like Srinagar.
• Are markets conveniently located? Gulmarg is small and most shops are close to the meadow, so getting around should not be a problem.
• Here is our list of 8 places to do your shopping in Gulmarg

Shopping Places in Gulmarg

1. Mr. Khan’s Tailor Shop

Mr. Khan’s Tailor Shop. Gulmarg

In the village and near the main mosque lies an old tailor’s shop. Owned by a Mr. Khan, the tailors here stitch fine-quality phirans (the traditional outfit for both men and women). The owner, who sources only the best cloth, will himself help you select it, and can give you the perfect fit. They’re up-to-date with the latest designs and colours. Most tourists who come to the hills will get themselves a phiran stitched.

• Address: Baramulla
• Timings: 8:30 am to 7 pm

2. The Attic Snowboard Shop

The Attic Snowboard Shop, Gulmarg

One of the first snowboard shops in Kashmir, this store is very popular for its skiing and trekking equipment. This is because it has the widest selection in all of Gulmarg. Of course, you may have no use for such items once your holiday is over, so it even offers these goods on rent. Get your pow boards, split boards, and beginner boards here.

• Address: Gulmarg Road
• Timings: 8 am to 10 pm

3. Haji Akbar Cloth House

Haji Akbar Cloth House. Gulmarg

Located about 30 minutes away from Gulmarg, the Haji Akbar Cloth House sells a variety of clothing. If you don’t have the time to get a phiran stitched, here is where you could go. Here, you can shop for local as well as branded clothing. Some of these will make great gifts from friends and family back home. The store also sells a few home furnishing items like cushion covers and curtains.

• Address:  Srinagar-Gulmarg Road
• Timings:  8:00 am to 7:00 pm

4. Shabab Textiles

Shabab Textiles. Gulmarg

Situated about 40 minutes away from Gulmarg, Shabab Textiles is a wonderful store for clothing and textile. The store sells a variety of Kashmiri fabrics in different colours and textures. It also sells dress materials, safari suits, and other types of Indian clothing.

• Address: Srinagar-Gulmarg Road
• Timings:  09.30 am to 05.30 pm

5. The Main Market

The Main Market is where you’ll find a majority of store.

The hub of all shopping activity in Gulmarg is the main market. Located in the centre of the city, you will find local sellers coming to the market with their wares every day of the week. And there’s something for everyone. From everyday staples to leather goods, you will find them all here.

You will find fruit vendors selling apples in their carts, tea vendors from neighbouring areas making the trip to sell fresh tea leaves that have been plucked from gardens around Gulmarg.

Kashmir is also one of the few places that still sells walnut handicrafts. You can find stools, chairs, and even small boxes carved with walnut wood-work.

Other items of importance here are silk carpets, Tibetan handicrafts, winter clothing and leather goods.

• Address: Gulmarg
• Timings: 7 am to 7 pm

6. Khan Cloth House in Gulmarg

Khan Cloth House in Gulmarg

If you’re looking for westernised versions of phirans and shawls, you can find it at Khan Cloth House in Gulmarg. Located in the main market, it also sells readymade Kashmiri clothing. You also get shawls at this store. Mr. Khan, the owner, is very friendly and often treats his customers to a traditional cup of Kashmiri chai as they make their purchase.

• Address: Main Market Gulmarg
• Timing: 9 am to 9 pm

7. Ladakh Art Palace

Ladakh Art Palace in Gulmarg, Gulmarg

Housed inside the Highland Park complex, the Ladakh Art Palace is a good place to shop for small souvenirs, handicraft items, jewelry, and antiques. The prices are the store are fixed, so the shopkeeper doesn’t entertain bargaining. You can also find a small selection of clothing items inside the store.

• Address: Church Road, Gulmarg
• Timing: 10 am to 09 pm

8. Faiz Shawls

Faiz Shawls, Gulmarg

Faiz Shawls in Gulmarg sells a fine collection of shawls. Durable and soft, the shawls are made from a variety of materials (from wool to silk). At the store you can pick shawls by colors or design. The store also sells a few carpets and linen products. As with Ladakh Art Palace, Faiz Shawls is also in the Highland Park Complex.

• Address: Church Road, Gulmarg
• Timing: 10 am to 09 pm

As we’ve mentioned above, Gulmarg is a tourist destination and most items you buy will not have a fixed price. Vendors expect you to find the right price for an item. Therefore, you’ll need to bargain hard. Some people do recommend taking a guide along just for shopping, as they know the local language as well as the market price. Alternately, find out prices at your hotel. These are some of the top spots to shop in Gulmarg. Hope you enjoyed our list!

The post The 8 Best Shopping Places in Gulmarg appeared first on Treebo Blog.

Gulmarg greets a lot of visitors year around but if snowy adventure sports, offered here during the winter months, is not your cup of tea then head here in the summer and enjoy a host of cultural, religious and outdoors experiences. With scores of hotels, restaurants and tour operators, offering packages to meet any budget, Gulmarg is waiting to give you the experience of a lifetime. Here are the top things to do in Gulmarg.

Quick Facts about Gulmarg

• Best time to visit: Bustling year-round with visitors, Gulmarg is always exciting. However, winters can be harsh and unpredictable so unless skiing is your reason to visit, the summer is a more practical choice for families and those that want to enjoy the outdoors.
• Travel recommendation: From a few days to a couple of weeks, there is plenty to do in and around Gulmarg.
• Nearest railway station: Jammu Station, the closest to Gulmarg, is about 300 kilometres away and not practical unless planning to make visits to sights en route to Gulmarg.
• Nearest airport: Srinagar Domestic Airport is well connected to airports around India and is about 50 kilometres from Gulmarg.
• Transportation: Public and private transport is easily available; bus, car, horse, helicopter and cable car are all easily accessible.

Most Fun Places to Visit in Gulmarg

1. Gulmarg Gondola

Gulmarg Gondola

The most famous destination in Kashmir, Gulmarg Gondola is also the highest and longest cable car in Asia. Host to many national and international skiing events, you can hone your skills at the slopes whether you are a beginner or an expert.

The first stage of the exhilarating cable car ride will take you to Kongdori, at an altitude of above 10,000 feet. No matter your budget, there, you can find great accommodation and get cozy indoors or hop on a snowmobile and enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley.

• Location: Baramulla, Kashmir
• Timings: 10 am to 4.30 pm. Closed on Sundays.
• When to visit: Year-round activities, but best during the winter (equipment is available on hire).

2. Gulmarg Golf Course

Gulmarg Golf Course (source)

One of the largest golf courses in the country, Gulmarg Golf Course has quickly emerged as a leading Indian golfing destination. Escape the summer heat and head over to enjoy the magnificent 18-hole, 72-par course like no other in the world.

Learn how to play golf at the courses club or get some specialized instruction to improve your game. Facilities are top-notch and the club plays host to many tournaments and events.

• Location: Outer Gulmarg Link, Gulmarg
• Timings: 8 am to 10 pm
• When to visit: Best during the summer if you want to especially enjoy the course. Avoid it completely during the winter.

3. Gulmarg Winter Music and Adventure Festival

Gulmarg Winter Music and Adventure Festival

For over 15 years the Gulmarg Winter Festival has drawn artistes and travellers from around the world. The festival, usually held during the last weeks of January, is an extravaganza of music, movies, dance, photography and of course, adventure activities.

Pick up handicrafts or souvenirs from the pop-up flea market or indulge in the some delicious local cuisine. The weather gets chilly but the sentiment is warm.

• Location: Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
• When to visit: End of January. Be sure to carry warm clothing and footwear.

Best Places to Enjoy Nature When You Visit Gulmarg

1. Alpather Lake

Alpather Lake

A mere 13 kilometres from Gulmarg lies this magnificent natural attraction, at the foot of the Apharwat twin peaks. The lake is amidst flowing meadows and is frozen and surrounded by snow and evergreens during winter.

At an altitude of over 4500 feet, the lake is the perfect setting for the perfect picnic. You can also enjoy horse riding, ridge climbing, trekking and many other outdoor activities in the summer months.

• Location: Alpather Lake, Gulmarg
• When to visit: Gorgeous all year round but more to do in the summer

2. Gulmarg Children’s Park

Gulmarg Children’s Park (source)

As the name suggests, this place is dedicated to children but everyone that visits Gulmarg Children’s Park leaves with a childlike satisfaction. From horse riding to zorbing, even hot air ballooning and a game centre, there is a whole day’s worth of things to see and do at the highest children’s park in the world.

Have a picnic and take some memorable photographs with your family with one of the most beautiful backdrops imaginable.

• Location: Children’s Park, Gulmarg
• When to visit: All day, but there are fewer outdoors activities during winter months.

3. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Deer at Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Encompassing nearly 200 square kilometres and bursting with life through the year, the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is famous for its biodiversity.

Home to many species of plants, birds and animals; some of which are endangered, this sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers during the summer months and visitors flock to catch a glimpse of the rare musk deer and red foxes and bears during the winter months.

• Location: Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
• When to visit: Through the year between 10 am and 4 pm. Tours and guides will take you around and organize relevant equipment.

4. Strawberry Valley

Strawberry Valley

During the summer, the valley comes to life! Pick fresh sweet strawberries right off the trees in this famous backdrop of movies from yesteryear.

Pack a picnic and enjoy the visual bounty of Mother Nature at the Strawberry Valley from April to September. Winter also sees some action with guided treks and horseback rides through the snowy paths.

• Location: Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg
• When to visit: In the summertime.

5. Ferozepur Nallah

Ferozepur Nallah

Nestled between the picturesque Chinamarg and Nurpur pass, this mesmerizing mountain stream flows through the valley. Famous for its trout fishing, Ferozepur Nallah is merely 5 kilometres from Gulmarg center so trekking there is a great option.

You can opt to carry your own gear or rent out supplies to go fishing. The sparkling waters of the stream and the fresh trout make for a perfect outdoor experience. Local restaurants and hotels provide budget friendly as well as more luxurious accommodation in the surrounding area.

• Location: Between Nurpur and Chinamarg Pass, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
• When to visit: March to October is when it’s easier to get around and is also fishing season

Best Religious Places to Visit in Gulmarg

1. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church (source)

Be transported back in time with this 100-plus-year-old heritage structure. A one-of-a-kind Victorian styled monument, the St. Mary’s Church gives you a sense of history and tranquility.

A visit during the summer is a must if you are in Gulmarg; however, the Christmas season is also celebrated with great fervor and a mix of local and traditional Christmas customs. Around you can find a few hotels to stay if you truly want to experience the strong British influences.

• Location: Near Golf Course, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
• Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

2. The Maharani Temple

Maharani Temple

Visible from anywhere in Gulmarg, the shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, was built about a 100 years ago for the wife of the erstwhile Dogra kings of Jammu and Kashmir. The royal Temple, situated on a hill top, is surrounded by numerous budget hotels that offer some great service, warm hospitability and local food.

The climb up can get tricky in the winters so ideally target visiting during the summer months when the temple is fully visible as is the spectacular valley.

• Location: Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
• When to visit: Any time besides winter, when access isn’t great

3. Baba Reshi Shrine

Baba Reshi Shrine

Constructed in the 15th century, and one of Gulmarg’s most visited religious sites, the shrine of Baba Reshi is a wonder of old Kashmiri architecture. The lattice work windows and wooden pillars showoff the once famous Kashmiri craftsmanship. Baba Reshi, a Muslim scholar and saint spent his days praying and meditating in the luscious valley. Visit the shrine, lose yourself in the tranquility of the valley and find your spiritual self.

• Location: Baramulla, Gulmarg
• When to visit: During the day; go early to avoid the crowds.

Places to Visit nearby Gulmarg

1. Dal Lake

Dal Lake

Less than 3 hours away from Gulmarg lies Dal lake. Situated an hour away from Srinagar International Airport, Dal Lake is the perfect stop for those going to Gulmarg via Srinagar by air.

Worth including into your itinerary, this favorite with honeymoon travellers has a lot more including its beautiful waterfront and postcard perfect meadows. Take a ride on a traditional Shikara boat or spend the night on the lake in a houseboat. Dal Lake makes for a relaxing romantic vacation.

• Location: Dal Lake, Srinagar
• When to visit: All year round

2. Awantipura Ruins

Awantipura Ruins

Approximately 80 kilometres from Gulmarg lies the ancient ruins of Awantipura. This 1000-year-old, once thriving village is home to the remnants of the Awantishwar and Avantiswamin temples. Apart from many artifacts, this ancient and historic site is flanked by lush greenery on one side and the Jhelum river on the other.

Also surrounding the temple area are many smaller shrines with carvings and statues of various Gods and mythical creatures too. The monolithic pillars and sculptures are evidence of the once envious and flourishing Utpala kingdom.

• Location: NH44, Pulwama, Srinagar
• When to visit: Anytime in the day

3. Pahalgam

Pahalgam Valley

This picturesque hill station, close to Gulmarg, has always been enticing for spiritual travellers to the valley. Close to the banks of the Lidder river, and with a view of the Kolohoi glacier, hanging precariously in the background, Phalagam is dedicated to a form of religious tourism with visitors flocking from all over India and the world.

The Amarnath cave, at an altitude of about 4000 meters, may seem out of reach but that does not deter devotees. Thousands flock to the Amarnath Yatra held each year around July and setup camp in the valley, making the long but scenic journey to the cave by foot.

• Location: Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir
• When to visit: Access is good in the summer; helicopters are available for hire and are fun and convenient.

With a picture perfect view anywhere you look, cheerful and welcoming locals, fantastic foods and overflowing with culture, heritage and fun activities for all age groups, there is no need for an international destination when all your white holiday dreams can be fulfilled right here at Gulmarg.

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