Gulmarg: Dust off your ski boots and book your tickets—winter has finally arrived in full force at the world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg. After a heartbreaking dry spell in December and early January, fresh Western Disturbances have dumped massive snowfall, transforming the resort with a solid snow base.
Slopes Officially Open
The silence on the slopes has been replaced by the rush of adrenaline.
- Current Status: OPEN for all skiing activities.
- Snow Depth: Over 4-5 feet at Apharwat Peak; 1.5 feet of fresh powder recorded just yesterday.
- Official Word: Tahir Wani, Assistant Director of Tourism, Gulmarg, confirmed to the press that “All ski slopes have been opened and skiing activities are in full swing.”
The “Late Bloom” Winter
The season had a rocky start. Skiing activities failed to gain momentum in the first three weeks of January due to a lack of snow. However, the last two weeks have changed everything.
- Revival: Professional skiers and trainees have returned.
- Courses: Adventure academies report that multiple batches of ski courses are now underway.
- Operator Sentiment: “We are looking forward to a good number of skiers turning up here,” says Azhar Fayaz Lone, Director of Gulmarg Adventure Academy, noting that while initial numbers were low, the current conditions are world-class.
Khelo India Winter Games: Confirmed
In a major confidence booster for the tourism sector, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has confirmed that the Gulmarg leg of the Khelo India Winter Games will be held on time this season.
- Timeline: Scheduled for Late February 2026.
- Confidence: Last year, the event faced postponement due to inadequate snow, but the current whiteout ensures the games will proceed as planned. CM Abdullah visited the slopes personally on Sunday to oversee preparations.
Why This Matters To You
If you held back your Kashmir trip because of “no snow” news, that information is now outdated.
- For Tourists: The gondola ride (Phase 1 & 2) offers peak scenic beauty.
- For Skiers: The slopes are offering fresh powder—rare for late January.
- Weather Forecast: IMD Srinagar predicts the weather system is clearing, ensuring bright, sunny slopes for the upcoming weekend.
Key Highlights Box
| Metric | Status |
| 🚨 Snow Depth | 4+ Feet (Fresh Powder) |
| ⛷️ Status | All Slopes Operational |
| 🏆 Event | Khelo India (Feb 2026) |
| 💡 Action | Book equipment in advance |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: Gulmarg received heavy snowfall earlier this week. As of today, Jan 28, the weather is clearing up, offering perfect visibility for skiing.
A: Absolutely. With the slopes now covered in adequate snow, private operators and the tourism department have started beginner to advanced ski courses.
A: Yes, but it is strictly advised to use vehicles with anti-skid chains (4×4 preferred). Contact Traffic Control before starting your journey from Tangmarg as the fresh snow has made roads slippery.
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