The highest cable car in Asia, Gulmarg Gondola has scaled new heights in both revenue generation and tourist influx, marking a significant milestone in Kashmir’s tourism landscape. The J&K Cable Car Corporation reports a staggering rise in both earnings and visitor count, underscoring the enduring allure of this iconic attraction.
Throughout the past year, the Gulmarg Gondola enthralled over a million tourists, tallying up to 10,13,458 exhilarating rides. This surge translated into a substantial revenue spike, with the Corporation pocketing over Rs. 108 crore—a substantial leap from the previous year’s figures of Rs. 91 crore in revenue and 8.50 lakh tourist rides in 2022.
Renowned as the crown jewel of Kashmir tourism, the Gulmarg Gondola stands tall as possibly India’s most sought-after ropeway, boasting the distinction of being Asia’s highest operating cable car, perched at an altitude of 14,000 ft.
Notably, the Corporation has focused on enhancing service quality, streamlining ticket issuance, conducting rigorous safety assessments, and revamping the second phase of the Gondola with cutting-edge technology, contributing to an enriched visitor experience.
The first phase of Gulmarg Gondola spanning from Gulmarg to Kongdoori, offers a mesmerizing ascent amidst verdant meadows and the captivating Himalayan landscape. Ascend further to Phase 2, reaching Mount Apharwat’s majestic heights, boasting panoramic vistas of the snow-cloaked peaks and the sprawling Afarwat Wildlife Sanctuary. Ticket prices vary between phases, with Phase 1 tickets priced at Rs. 740 and Phase 2 at Rs. 950, ensuring access to these breathtaking vistas and facilitating thrilling adventures such as skiing, trekking, and embracing the local culture at destinations like Apharwat Peak and Ningli Nallah. With each phase promising unparalleled vistas and a plethora of activities, the Gulmarg Gondola beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in this unparalleled experience.
Visitors aboard the Gondola echoed sentiments of awe and fascination. Akshay from London commended the seamless booking process, extending a warm invitation to global travelers to partake in the Gulmarg Gondola experience. First-time visitors Shubham and Ajat expressed fascination with the arrangements and sanitation measures across both phases of the ride. Similarly, a family from Delhi echoed these sentiments, endorsing the friendly demeanor of the Gondola staff.
Kentran, a tourist from Vietnam, lauded the hospitality, highlighting the assistance rendered to his daughter, emphasizing the warmth and helpfulness exhibited by the Gondola personnel.
Raja Yaqoob, the Managing Director of J&K Cable Car Corporation, advocated for the online ticketing system, emphasizing its convenience, time-saving benefits, and as a deterrent against potential black-market activities. He reassured tourists of the Corporation’s unwavering commitment to delivering seamless, safe, and hassle-free rides while promising further enhancements in services.
Yaqoob underscored the significance of adhering to ticket timings to avert inconveniences, emphasizing that visitor feedback is pivotal in driving continuous improvements in customer service.
The Gulmarg Gondola’s meteoric rise in revenue and tourist footfall augurs well for Kashmir’s tourism prospects, promising even more remarkable facilities and experiences in the foreseeable future.
Moreover, the region’s natural beauty, coupled with the Gondola’s modernized infrastructure, continues to position Kashmir as a premier global tourist destination.
Tourists planning to visit the Gulmarg Gondola are encouraged to explore not only the cable car rides but also the array of activities available, including skiing, trekking, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine, promising a holistic and memorable vacation experience in the picturesque landscape of Kashmir.
