If you are planning a trip to Kashmir, the Gulmarg Gondola is likely at the top of your itinerary. As one of the highest and longest cable cars in Asia, it offers views that rival the Swiss Alps.
However, booking it is notoriously confusing. The Gondola is split into two distinct stages—Phase 1 (Kongdoori) and Phase 2 (Apharwat). Tourists constantly ask us: Do I need to book both? Is Phase 2 worth the extra money and altitude? Which one actually has snow right now?
In this updated 2026 guide, we break down exactly what you get at each level, the latest ticket prices, and how to avoid the booking mistakes that ruin hundreds of itineraries every season.
The Quick Breakdown: Phase 1 vs. Phase 2
If you only have 30 seconds, here is the exact difference between the two phases:
| Feature | Phase 1: Kongdoori | Phase 2: Apharwat Peak |
| Altitude | ~8,600 ft (2,600 m) | ~13,000 ft (3,980 m) |
| The Vibe | Family-friendly, gentle meadows, pine trees. | High-alpine, dramatic, rugged, heavy snow. |
| Ride Duration | 9-10 minutes | 12-15 minutes (from Kongdoori) |
| 2026 Ticket Price | ₹810 per person | ₹1,010 per person |
| Best For | Families, elderly, relaxed sightseeing. | Thrill-seekers, skiers, extreme altitude views. |
Phase 1: Kongdoori Valley (The Safe Bet)
The Journey: Phase 1 takes you from the Gulmarg base station up over a beautiful canopy of pine forests, dropping you off at Kongdoori station.
What to Expect:
Kongdoori is a massive, bowl-shaped meadow. During the winter, it is a bustling hub for beginners trying their hand at skiing, sledging, and snowmobiling. In the spring and summer, it transforms into a lush green valley dotted with wildflowers and grazing sheep.
Should You Book It?
Yes, absolutely. Phase 1 is mandatory. You cannot access Phase 2 without riding Phase 1 first. It is highly recommended for families with young children or elderly travelers, as the altitude (2,600m) is gentle enough to avoid altitude sickness.
Phase 2: Apharwat Peak (The Dramatic Summit)
The Journey: From Kongdoori, you transfer to a second cable car that carries you steeply up above the tree line to the shoulder of Apharwat Peak.
What to Expect:
This is where the magic happens. At nearly 13,000 feet, the landscape is stark, dramatic, and almost always covered in snow (even when Gulmarg town is green). On a clear day, you can see the towering Nanga Parbat peak and the Line of Control (LoC). The air is thin, the wind is sharp, and the views are unmatched.
Should You Book It?
Phase 2 is the reason the Gondola is famous. If you are physically fit and want the ultimate Himalayan view, Phase 2 is highly worth it.
Important Warning: Due to the extreme altitude, Phase 2 is not recommended for infants, pregnant women, or travelers with severe respiratory or heart conditions. Weather at Apharwat is highly unpredictable; Phase 2 frequently shuts down due to high winds, even if the sun is shining down in Gulmarg.
2026 Official Timings & Booking Rules
The Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) has strict operational rules for 2026. Keep these in mind before planning your day:
- Boarding Times: Entry begins at 8:00 AM and strictly closes at 3:30 PM. The last return from the top is 5:00 PM.
- Maintenance Days: The Gondola is closed on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month. Do not plan your Gulmarg trip on these days!
- Where to Book: Only book through the official JKCCC portal (
etickets.jammukashmircablecar.com).
The Ultimate Insider Tip
Because Phase 2 shuts down frequently in the afternoon due to mountain winds, always book the earliest morning slot available (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM). Getting there early guarantees the clearest views, the shortest queues, and the highest chance of both phases being operational.
Let Us Handle the Hassle
Gondola tickets sell out weeks in advance during peak season, and navigating the JKCCC website can be frustrating.
When you book your trip with Kashmir Travel Portal, we take care of the logistics. Our Best of Kashmir Tour Packages include pre-arranged Gondola tickets, secure cab transfers, and optimized itineraries so you never have to worry about missing your slot.
