Srinagar to Gulmarg

For those opting for a road journey from Srinagar to Gulmarg by car, various routes offer different experiences. Here's an in-depth look at the routes, road conditions, and attractions:

Route 1: NH44 Route via Tangmarg

Distance: Approximately 50 km.
Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Road Conditions: Generally good, with some hilly terrain.
Attractions on the Way: Tangmarg Market, scenic landscapes.

Route 2: Bypass Route for a Direct Journey

Distance: Similar to NH44, around 50 km.
Time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Road Conditions: Well-maintained, quicker commute.
Attractions on the Way: Direct route with fewer specific attractions.

Route 3: Awantipora Route via NH44

Distance: Comparable to other routes.
Time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours.
Road Conditions: Good, with some winding sections.
Attractions on the Way: Awantipora Ruins, scenic views.

These routes offer diverse experiences, from local markets to historical sites and picturesque landscapes. Travelers can choose based on preferences for attractions and road conditions. Always check real-time road conditions, especially during winters, for a safe and enjoyable journey.

Cabs are readily available at the Srinagar airport, but it's advisable to book in advance for a more reasonable fare. Taxi charges from Srinagar to Gulmarg range from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 2500, inclusive of fuel and driver. Cab options include Sedan (Etios), starting from ?2,500, MUV (Tavera), starting from ?2,600, and SUV (Innova), starting from ?3,500 per day.

Srinagar to Gulmarg Shared Taxi
Opting for a shared taxi is a more convenient alternative to the bus, readily available in Kashmir. The route mirrors that of the bus journey, progressing from Lal Chowk to Parimpora, Tangmarg, and concluding in Gulmarg. The cost of the shared cab journey is approximately Rs. 500 in total.

Chain Taxi from Tangmarg
It is mandatory to get a union taxi also called chain taxis in Gulmarg during winters. The chain taxis for Gulmarg are available at Tangmarg, 13 km away from Gulmarg. Drung Waterfall in Gulmarg can only be accessed by an ATV or the chain taxis. Price: INR 2000-2500. Note, it's not mandatory to hire union taxis during summer. 

Traveling from Srinagar to Gulmarg by bus involves a multi-step journey. First, take a minibus from your location or hotel to the Main Bus Stand, known as Parimpora, in Srinagar. Next, find a bus heading to Tangmarg, a village 12 km before Gulmarg. Lastly, board the last bus from Tangmarg to Gulmarg, covering the final 12 km on a hilly road. This entire bus journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.

Bus Timings and Fare
Buses are privately operated with no set schedule, departing when they have enough passengers. Due to infrequent departures, shared cabs are recommended over buses for more flexibility. The total cost for the bus journey is approximately Rs. 200 to Rs. 300.

As of now, there is no direct train connectivity from Srinagar to Gulmarg. 

Gulmarg does not have its own airport, and the nearest major airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar.