Gulmarg Gondola breaks records with over 1 million visitors &110 cr revenue

Srinagar, Apr 02: Gulmarg Gondola, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, has achieved a historic milestone in the financial year 2023-24. For the first time since its establishment in 1998, this iconic aerial tramway welcomed over a million tourists and locals, generating an impressive revenue of 110 Crores.
Officials attribute this surge in visitors to the Gulmarg Gondola as a catalyst for tourism, breathing new life into the Valley’s tourism sector. The cable car has become a symbol of adventure and beauty, drawing travelers from far and wide to experience its breathtaking views and thrilling rides.
“Gulmarg Gondola soars to new heights! For the first time ever, more than 1 million tourists took the Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car Ride in FY 2023-24. Revenue crosses more than 110 Crores. J&K Tourism sees unprecedented growth which continues to surpass all previous figures,” disclosed the J&K Tourism Department on X.
Tourism officials highlighted the integral role of the Gulmarg Gondola in enhancing the tourist experience. They noted that visitors often express that their trip to Gulmarg would feel incomplete without experiencing the iconic cable car ride.
Over the years, the Gulmarg Gondola has undergone several enhancements to improve visitor experience, including the introduction of online ticket registration and upgrades to public facilities such as washrooms and food counters. These initiatives have contributed to making the tourist attraction more accessible and enjoyable for visitors.
Gulmarg, also known as the “meadow of flowers,” is situated in the PirPanjal mountain range, offering stunning vistas of virgin peaks, powder snow, and vast meadows. The Gulmarg Gondola, standing at an impressive height of 13,500 feet, holds the distinction of being Asia’s highest operating cable car.
The cable car journey comprises two phases, with the first phase transporting passengers to Kongdori bowl at a height of 8,694 feet, while the second phase ascends to the towering Apharwat peak at 13,058 feet. With 108 cabins and 18 towers, the Gulmarg Gondola provides a safe and exhilarating experience for all visitors.
The number of tourists for the Gulmarg Gondola Ride in FY 2021-22 was 600,000, which increased to 850,000 in 2022-23. However, the figure for 2023-24 has created history.
The inception of the Gulmarg Gondola project dates back to 1988, and despite facing challenges, the first phase was completed in 1998, opening its doors to the public. Since then, it has remained a cornerstone of Kashmir’s tourism industry, captivating the hearts of millions of visitors with its charm and beauty.