Gulmarg Elevates Adventure and Leisure Tourism with Innovative Ski Drag Lift and Stunning Revolving Hall Amid Himalayan Peaks

Published on December 15, 2025

As winter casts its first snow across the Pir Panjal range, Gulmarg is gearing up to welcome its peak season with major upgrades that promise to elevate the hill station into a world-class winter tourism and sports destination. New infrastructure projects have been unveiled, signaling a transformative approach to skiing, adventure training, and year-round tourism.

A centerpiece of these developments is Asia’s longest ski drag lift, situated in the renowned Kongdori skiing area. Extending 726 metres and constructed with an investment of Rs 3.65 crore, the lift provides skiers with smooth access to slopes and training zones. By allowing skiers to hold onto a moving bar while ascending, the lift improves flow, reduces congestion, and ensures a seamless skiing experience for beginners, intermediate learners, and seasoned professionals alike.

This ski drag lift is not just a convenience—it is a strategic enhancement to Gulmarg’s winter sports ecosystem. By streamlining access to key slopes, the lift supports training programs, competitive events, and recreational skiing. The addition positions Gulmarg as both a destination for serious athletes and a hub for leisure tourism, broadening its appeal to international visitors and sports enthusiasts seeking high-quality facilities.

Adding a new dimension to the hill station is the world’s highest revolving multi-purpose hall located in the Affarwat area. The hall combines dining, conference, and event facilities with panoramic mountain views, offering visitors a unique experience of enjoying snow-covered landscapes while attending meetings, exhibitions, or social events. Its revolving design ensures every guest gets uninterrupted scenic vistas, enhancing both leisure and professional tourism opportunities.

Beyond these marquee projects, more than Rs 17 crore has been directed toward developing supplementary tourism infrastructure across Gulmarg and neighboring areas. Among these initiatives is the Integrated Skiing Training and Adventure Centre, which provides structured courses in skiing and adventure sports. The centre aims to nurture local talent, develop professional athletes, and create employment opportunities while establishing Gulmarg as a year-round destination for both recreation and serious sports training.

Formal ski training programs have also been launched to boost skill development and ensure structured learning for aspiring athletes. These programs, combined with modern infrastructure, are designed to attract international training groups, competitive teams, and adventure enthusiasts. The strategy underscores Gulmarg’s ambition to offer more than just recreational skiing, positioning it as a comprehensive winter sports hub.

Sustainable tourism is a central focus of these developments. Investments in infrastructure are carefully designed to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Pir Panjal range while supporting economic growth for local communities. By integrating environmental considerations into the planning process, the projects ensure that the natural beauty of the region—its snow-clad peaks, pristine landscapes, and unique biodiversity—remains intact for future generations.

The upgraded infrastructure also enhances the hill station’s ability to manage larger tourist volumes. From advanced ski lifts to professional training centres and versatile event spaces, the facilities cater to skiers, non-skiers, and business or conference visitors alike. This multi-faceted approach strengthens Gulmarg’s position on the global winter tourism map, offering adventure, leisure, and professional experiences within the same destination.

As the winter season advances, the new developments signal a long-term vision for Gulmarg: a sustainable, high-quality tourism ecosystem that operates throughout the year. With modern skiing infrastructure, a revolving event hall, and integrated training programs, the hill station now caters to a diverse range of visitors, from casual tourists to elite athletes, while fostering economic activity and providing employment for local communities.

By combining state-of-the-art facilities with the natural allure of the Himalayas, Gulmarg is redefining winter tourism in India. The new ski drag lift, revolving hall, and professional training infrastructure mark a decisive step toward creating a globally recognized winter sports and tourism destination that seamlessly integrates adventure, leisure, and business tourism.