Hidden deep within the Pir Panjal Range of the Indian Himalaya lies one of the world's greatest lift-accessed backcountry skiing destinations. The legendary resort of Gulmarg, located at 2,650 metres (8,700 ft), offers an extraordinary combination of deep Himalayan powder, vast alpine terrain, endless tree skiing and nearly 2,000 metres of skiable vertical.
The iconic Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars on the planet, rises to 3,980 metres (13,058 ft), while the summit of Mt. Apharwat reaches over 4,250 metres (14,000 ft). From here, a spectacular playground of alpine bowls, steep couloirs, technical descents and endless powder fields unfolds in every direction.
Designed exclusively for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders, the Kashmir Powder Expedition is a true big-mountain experience that combines world-class skiing with the unique culture and hospitality of Kashmir.
Arrival at Srinagar International Airport and welcome by our representative. Transfer to your hotel in Srinagar and check in.
The remainder of the day is kept relaxed to allow you to recover from your international journey and begin acclimatizing to the altitude.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a traditional Shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by the beautiful Himalayan landscape and floating gardens.
Accommodation: Deluxe Houseboat, Dal Lake, Srinagar
Meals: Lunch , Dinner.
Drive: Approximately 2 hours
After breakfast, depart Srinagar by private vehicle and drive through the beautiful Kashmir Valley towards Gulmarg.
On arrival, check into Highland Park Hotel, located on the Gulmarg plateau at approximately 2,650 m.
The afternoon is dedicated to Gulmarg resort and backcountry orientation. Meet your professional mountain guides, complete equipment checks and review the skiing program, avalanche procedures and mountain safety protocols.
Depending on snow and weather conditions, there may be a short introductory session around the resort.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
A dedicated day focusing on:
Combined with deep powder tree skiing.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
Begin your first full day on the mountain.
After breakfast, the guides assess the latest weather, snowpack and avalanche conditions before selecting the day's terrain.
Depending on conditions, explore the famous Mary's Shoulder, Paper Trees and Mid-Station forests, becoming familiar with Gulmarg's snow, terrain and unique mountain environment.
The focus is on finding quality snow while establishing the group's rhythm for the expedition.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel, Gulmarg
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
Ride the Gondola to 3,980 m and explore the alpine terrain surrounding Mt. Apharwat.
Introduction to:
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
Explore the famous North Bowls and enjoy long powder descents through spectacular Himalayan terrain.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
One of Gulmarg's classic big mountain days.
Enjoy nearly 2,000 vertical metres of skiing all the way to Drung Village before returning by vehicle.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
A short skin from the resort leads to Monkey Hill, offering excellent powder and spectacular views across the Kashmir Valley.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
Explore the wider terrain around Khilanmarg and Chooti Nali.
Depending on conditions, the guides may select longer alpine lines, remote powder fields or alternative tree runs.
The flexibility of the expedition allows the group to take advantage of the best snow available rather than following a fixed route.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
For the strongest and most experienced riders, conditions permitting, today may be dedicated to one of Gulmarg's most iconic objectives: Shark Fin.
The route requires a significant approach and approximately one hour of hiking, reaching terrain around 4,250 m.
The descent is technical, steep and committing and will only be attempted when snow stability, weather, visibility and rider ability are suitable.
Alternative expert-level objectives will be selected for riders who do not undertake Shark Fin.
Accommodation: Highland Park Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, leave Gulmarg and drive to Srinagar.
Check into your Hotel in Srinagar.
The afternoon is dedicated to experiencing the culture of Srinagar.
Activities may include:
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dinner and celebrate the completion of the expedition.
Accommodation: Apple orchards Resort & Spa, Srinagar
Meals: Breakfast, & Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Srinagar International Airport for your flight to New Delhi.
Depending on flight schedules, our team will assist with airport transfers and departure arrangements.
Meals: Breakfast
End of the Kashmir Powder Expedition.
Please reach us at himalayaskitouring@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
The best skiing season runs from mid-January to mid-March, when Gulmarg receives abundant Himalayan snowfall and offers exceptional powder conditions.
No. This expedition is specifically designed for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders who are confident skiing off-piste terrain in variable snow conditions.
Yes. Every participant must carry an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe while skiing in the backcountry. Rental equipment can be arranged if needed.
Gulmarg typically receives between 12 and 15 metres of snowfall each winter, establishing it as one of Asia's premier powder skiing destinations.
The highest point of the trip is approximately 4,250 metres on Mt. Apharwat, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
If you're in search of the ultimate Gulmarg Ski Tour, Kashmir Backcountry Skiing Holiday, or Himalayan Powder Expedition, this professionally guided adventure encompasses everything that an experienced skier or snowboarder could wish for. From deep powder snow and spectacular alpine descents to authentic Kashmiri culture and world-class guiding, this expedition guarantees an unforgettable skiing experience in one of the world's most exhilarating mountain destinations. highest point of the trip is approximately 4,250 metres on Mt. Apharwat, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
Why Choose Our Gulmarg Ski Tour?
Gulmarg is recognized as one of Asia's finest ski destinations for good reason. The resort receives approximately 12–15 metres of annual snowfall, facilitating consistently excellent powder conditions throughout the winter season. Skiers enjoy nearly 2,000 metres of lift-accessed vertical descent, one of the longest continuous descents found anywhere in the world.
The terrain is exceptionally diverse, ranging from gentle powder bowls and well-spaced tree runs to steep couloirs, technical alpine faces, glacier terrain, and remote village descents. During storms, Gulmarg transforms into a paradise for tree skiing, while clear weather unveils expansive alpine bowls surrounding Mt. Apharwat.
Highlights of this expedition include:
- Guided backcountry skiing with experienced local professionals
- Lift-accessed freeride terrain with minimal hiking
- Optional ski touring routes for stronger skiers
- Deep Himalayan powder snow
- Up to 2,000 metres of continuous vertical descent
- One of the world's highest gondola systems
- Spectacular views across the Kashmir Valley
- Authentic Kashmiri hospitality and cuisine
- Small group experience for maximum flexibility and safety
What's Included
- Airport transfers throughout the expedition
- Private transportation
- Ten nights in centrally heated 3–4-star hotels
- One night in a deluxe traditional houseboat
- Daily breakfast, packed lunch, dinner, snacks, and energy bars
- Gondola lift passes
- Professional local ski guides
- Walkie-talkies for group communication
- Basic first aid and safety equipment
- All permits and local taxes
What's Not Included
- International airfare
- Domestic flights between Delhi and Srinagar
- Indian visa fees
- Ski or splitboard equipment
- Avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe rental
- Personal expenses and alcoholic beverages
- Travel, medical, and rescue insurance
- Laundry and gratuities
- Single room supplement
- Costs arising from weather delays or itinerary changes
- Any services not specifically listed under 'Included'
Get your adrenaline pumping with our adventure tours. From bungee jumping to white-water rafting, we'll take you on a wild ride through Himalaya Ski Touring's stunning landscapes.
Join Himalaya Ski Touring and explore why Gulmarg is celebrated as India's premier destination for backcountry skiing, exhilarating freeride skiing, and unforgettable Himalayan powder adventures. Experience the thrill of Kashmir skiing like never before.
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