Gulmarg Gondola Ride Phase 2

Quick answer: Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2 continues from Kongdoori to Apharwat ridge at close to 4,000 m, one of the highest cable car points in Asia. The official Phase 2 fare was Rs 900 per person in 2024 (set by JKCCC, revised from time to time), and you must ride Phase 1 first. Expect snow for much of the year, strong wind and thin air: it is spectacular for fit adults, but many families with small children or elders stop at Phase 1.

Continue from Kongdoori to Apharwat on Phase 2 of the Gulmarg Gondola, climbing towards roughly 4,000 metres for sweeping high alpine views. In winter this is prime territory for skiers and snowboarders, and in clear weather you can see far across the surrounding ranges. Altitude is real here, so we advise a slow pace, warm clothing and staying hydrated. Our team assists with ticketing and guidance, and we recommend Phase 2 only if you are comfortable with heights and thinner air.

Duration: half day including transfers within Gulmarg | Best time: December to March for skiing and snow, clear days year round for views | Price: Rs. 1,400 per person for Phase 2

See full pricing for both phases and how to choose

What will you see at Apharwat?

A high snow ridge on the Pir Panjal with views over Gulmarg bowl and, on clear days, distant Himalayan peaks to the north. In winter it is the start of Gulmarg’s famous off-piste ski terrain; in summer snow patches remain and you can walk towards the small Alpather lake area with a guide when conditions allow.

Who should skip Phase 2?

Anyone with heart or breathing conditions, very small children, and elders who feel breathless in Gulmarg already. The jump from about 2,650 m to close to 4,000 m in under half an hour is large. Walk slowly at the top, drink water, and come down if you get a headache or feel dizzy.

How do tickets and closures work?

Tickets are sold by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation online and at the counter. Phase 2 has fewer cabins and closes first when wind picks up, often by early afternoon, so ride as early as you can. If it closes, Phase 2 refunds are handled by JKCCC under its rules. See Gondola tickets, price and timings.

What to wear

Even in June it can be near freezing on the ridge. Take a warm jacket, gloves, a cap and sunglasses; snow glare is strong. In winter, rent snow boots and a long coat in Tangmarg or Gulmarg.

How to book with Happy Jacks

We plan an early start from Srinagar so you reach the Gondola at opening, and we keep the afternoon flexible in case wind closes Phase 2. Message us on WhatsApp (+91 94192 44962) with your dates and group size, and we confirm the plan and price in writing. Related: Gondola Phase 1, Apharwat Peak guide, Gulmarg ski course.

Written and checked by the Happy Jacks Tours and Travels planning team in Srinagar, who run these trips, drive these roads and operate our own Pahalgam hotels and cab fleet. Package prices on this page are read live from our published rates. Updated 17 October 2026.