Kongdoori Phase 1 — Attraction in Jammu and Kashmir

The Phase 2 of the cable car is not operational in Aug 2023. Despite this, there are some easy to moderate hikes you can do yourself.

First the bad,

1. There are way too many middlemen/hawkers/pony guys/guides/(you name it) here. You get harassed continuously and it's quite hard to enjoy the solitude by yourself. JKTC has to do something about this since this is a pattern everywhere in Kashmir.
2. I have no idea why the Phase 1 station is 1 km away from the main gate at Gulmarg. And even if this is the case, JKTC can run periodic shuttles to the station or have fixed price transport available. Right now, if you don't want to walk this distance, you have to deal with private autos/taxis with no standard pricing.
3. There are no signs at the Phase 1 station for what you have to do, where the ticket counter is and you get harassed by wannabe guides.
4. The shelter area for riders coming back is in terrible shape - station roof full of holes, rusting iron pieces all over the ground. I'm surprised that visitors from other countries come here to ski given the nature of what I've seen.
5. Tourists have no sense of cleanliness. It's appalling to see alpine streams filled with plastic garbage.
6. The ponies leave poop everywhere and you need to watch where you walk.

Now for the good,

1. I went in summer. I can only imagine how beautiful it must be in winter.
2. You can ignore all the guides/hawkers and do 2 good hikes. Hike A - This is an easy hike. As soon as you exit the restaurant, you can do one ~1 hour round trip hike on the left which has a beautiful alpine meadow. You'll have to cross 2 small streams and get to the meadow. From here you can see a waterfall coming down from phase 2 and views of beautiful valleys. If you want to get closer to the waterfall, budget another hour.

Hike B - If you exit the restaurant to the right, you can do another good hike. This one is moderately strenuous and I'm guessing you will reach ~11000 feet at the end. I can see why someone might want to do this via a pony because walking uphill on this hike can make you breathless. This hike will take you across rocky terrain where you'll see sheep grazing. You will then see 2 hidden ridges with snow - one of them has a fairly strong stream/waterfall. This hike should take you 2 to 3 hours. This is also the long ride that the pony hawkers will sell you on and it might be worth it to some.

3. The restaurant at the top is good and has the cleanest restrooms I saw in all of my...

Kongdoori Phase 1 is a mountain cable car located in the Forest Block of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding Pir Panjal mountain range. Spectacular views: The gondola ride offers stunning 360-degree views of the snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and winding rivers. It's particularly breathtaking during the winter when the landscape is covered in a blanket of white. Adventure activities: In the winter, Kongdoori Phase 1 transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-based activities. Relaxation and rejuvenation: The fresh mountain air and serene atmosphere provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Family-friendly: The gondola ride and the surrounding area are suitable for all ages, making it a great day trip for families. Affordability: Compared to other similar attractions in the region, Kongdoori Phase 1 is relatively affordable

Cons: Limited facilities: While the gondola ride is the main attraction, there are few other facilities available on-site. This may be disappointing to visitors looking for a more comprehensive experience. Crowds and queues: During peak season or weekends, the gondola ride can get crowded and wait times can be long. Accessibility: Kongdoori Phase 1 is located in a remote area, which may be difficult to reach for some visitors, especially those without private transportation. Limited food options: There are only a few food stalls available on-site, and the options may be limited. Overall, Kongdoori Phase 1 is a must-visit for anyone visiting Jammu and Kashmir who wants to experience the beauty of the Himalayas. The breathtaking views, winter wonderland activities, and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination. However, it's important to be aware of the limited facilities, potential crowds, and accessibility limitations before planning your visit.

Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season. Dress warmly, especially during the winter months. Carry snacks and drinks, as food options are limited on-site. Be prepared for long queues, especially during peak season. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the...

Kongdoori Phase 1 of the Gulmarg Gondola is the initial segment of one of the world's highest and longest cable car systems, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pir Panjal range in Jammu and Kashmir.

🚡 Ride Details

Route: Gulmarg Base Station (approx. 2,650 meters / 8,694 feet) to Kongdoori Station (approx. 3,080 meters / 10,104 feet)

Distance: Approximately 2.5 kilometers

Duration: Around 9 minutes

Operating Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, subject to weather conditions

💳 Ticket Information

Price: ₹944 per person for a round trip, including convenience charges

Booking: Tickets can be booked online through the official Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC) website. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Tatkal Tickets: A limited number of Tatkal tickets are released daily at 5:00 PM for the next day's ride. These are subject to availability and additional charges.

🌄 Highlights at Kongdoori

Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas of the Gulmarg Golf Course, dense pine forests, and the surrounding mountains

Activities:

Winter: Skiing, snowboarding, and sledging

Summer: Hiking, horse riding, and photography

Accessibility: Suitable for visitors of all age groups, making it an ideal spot for family outings

🧳 Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit:

Winter (December to February): For snow activities and skiing

Summer (May to September): For lush green landscapes and pleasant weather

What to Wear: Dress in layers with waterproof jackets, gloves, and sturdy boots. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also recommended due to high-altitude sun exposure.

Health Precautions: Visitors with respiratory issues should consult a doctor before ascending to higher altitudes.

Facilities: Basic refreshments may be available at local stalls in Kongdoori. However, it's advised to carry your own snacks.

Embarking on the Phase 1 Gondola ride to Kongdoori offers an unforgettable experience, blending adventure with the serene beauty of the Himalayas. Whether you're seeking thrilling snow sports or a tranquil escape amidst nature, Kongdoori serves as a perfect...