Best Time
Dec–Mar (Ski), Jun–Sep
Altitude
4,200 m
Summer
-2°C–10°C
Winter
-15°C–-5°C
About Apharwat Peak
Apharwat Peak, standing at 4,200 meters, is the highest point accessible by the Gulmarg Gondola — the world's second-highest cable car. The peak towers above Gulmarg and offers 360-degree panoramic views stretching from the Karakoram ranges to the plains of Punjab on clear days. In winter, it transforms into one of Asia's premier backcountry skiing and snowboarding destinations.
The Gondola Phase 2 takes you from Kongdoori (3,080m) to Apharwat (3,950m), from where a short hike reaches the summit at 4,200m. The peak marks the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan, adding a geopolitical dimension to its already dramatic landscape. The snow at Apharwat persists for up to 8 months, making it one of the longest ski seasons in Asia.
Things to Do
Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2
Ride the world's second-highest cable car from Kongdoori to Apharwat at 3,950m — 12 minutes of breathtaking aerial views.
Backcountry Skiing
World-class off-piste skiing through deep powder snow. The ungroomed slopes attract skiers from around the globe (Dec-Mar).
Snowboarding
Apharwat's wide-open bowls and natural halfpipes offer exceptional snowboarding terrain for intermediate to expert riders.
Summit Hike
From the gondola station, a 30-minute hike to the 4,200m summit offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
Snow Trekking
Guided snow treks across the snowfields below the peak — available even in summer when patches of snow persist.
Alpine Meadow Walk
In summer (Jun-Sep), the slopes below the peak bloom with wildflowers and offer gentle high-altitude walking.
How to Reach Apharwat Peak
By Gondola: Take the Gulmarg Gondola Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kongdoori) then Phase 2 (Kongdoori to Apharwat). Total ride: ~25 minutes.
By Air: Srinagar Airport is 56 km. Drive to Gulmarg (1.5 hours), then take the gondola to Apharwat.
On Foot: Experienced trekkers can hike from Gulmarg to Apharwat (7-8 hours) through Kongdoori meadows. Only recommended for fit hikers.
Travel Tips
- Book gondola tickets online in advance during peak season (Dec-Jan and May-Jun) to avoid 2-3 hour queues.
- Acclimatize at Kongdoori station before proceeding to Apharwat — the rapid altitude gain can cause mountain sickness.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and warm layers — UV radiation is intense and wind chill is severe at 4,200m.
- For skiing, hire a certified local guide — the terrain is ungroomed and avalanche risk exists in certain areas.
- The gondola closes during high winds and storms — check conditions before planning your ascent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Gulmarg Gondola cost?
Phase 1 costs approximately ₹800 and Phase 2 costs ₹1,200 (round trip). Combined tickets are available. Prices may vary by season.
Can beginners ski at Apharwat?
Apharwat is best suited for intermediate to advanced skiers. Beginners should ski at the Kongdoori or lower Gulmarg slopes where gentler terrain and instruction are available.
Is it safe to visit Apharwat Peak?
Yes, the gondola and summit area are safe. However, respect altitude warnings, stay within marked areas, and don't venture beyond the LoC boundary markers.
Does Apharwat have snow in summer?
Yes, patches of snow persist at the peak even in July-August. However, for full snow coverage and skiing, visit December through March.
Packages Including Apharwat Peak
Explore curated packages that include Apharwat Peak in the itinerary.