|
What to Do
Golfing
Holidays - It is for
golfing that Gulmarg has long been famous. The Gulmarg Golf Club has
been in existence for over a hundred years and there are records, dating
from that time, which make fascinating reading. The Clubhouse itself,
reminiscent of a Swiss chalet with its quaintly sloping roof, has a rare
old character. Temporary members are also welcome: the payment of a
daily fee entitles one to play 18 holes on course maintained by the
State Tourism Department. A limited supply of golfing equipment
is available for hire.
Horse Riding - This is the best
activity by which all the sites of Gulmarg can be seen. Horses can be
hired directly or through the Tourist Office.
Sledging - A flat wooden board
is taken up the hilltop and, without a navigator, allowed to slide
downhill on the snow-covered slopes. Sledges as well as sledge-pullers
are always available on hire.
Skiing & Winter Spots -
Some of the best slopes in the country for beginners and
intermediate skiers are available at Gulmarg. Skiing equipment is
available on hire from the Ski-Shop. In winter Gulmarg's natural slopes
and inclines turn into the country’s premier skiing resort. Not all
tourists who visit in winter come for skiing - some simply are there to
watch the skiing or to enjoy a holiday in the snow. Many of these are
infected with the excitement of the skiers, and have donned their first
pair of skis within a short while of their arrival.
Among the multitudes of slopes, there
are a few which are serviced by ski lifts. Most of the skiing becomes
centred on these slopes, which are specially suited to beginners and
intermediate level skiers, with ski runs ranging from 200 m to 3kms,
instructors are available for both levels.
As in the summer, when each individual
sets his own pace for a holiday, so also in winter, skiing can be as
adventurous as the holidaymaker can want. There are a number of slopes,
not serviced by ski lifts, of varying lengths and gradients.
Each of these is quieter
than the immensely popular ones with skilifts. Advanced skiers often
trek in the snow for several hours to the very top of Apharwat peak, to
make a descent lasting no more than 30 minutes. And now, with the
operation of the Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car, it has become all the more
convenient for skiing enthusiasts, as they can gain a ski run of nearly
3 kms with the help of this cable car which goes up to Kongdori.
There are a host of snow sports at
Gulmarg at this time of the year. Tobogganing, the most popular
among them requires no skill. No skill is required - a flat wooden board
is taken up the hill and is allowed to descend downhill. There are also
snow scooters and snow bobbing, neither requiring Special
Skills.
 |
|