Tee off at Gulmarg Golf Course (summer)
Tee off at Gulmarg Golf Course offers a unique summer golf experience on one of the highest and most scenic 18‑hole natural meadow courses in the world. Set amid the Pir Panjal range in Gulmarg, Kashmir, the course combines gentle fairways, dramatic mountain vistas and a historic colonial atmosphere — ideal for golfers looking to play in cool summer air with panoramic Himalayan views.
Location
Gulmarg Golf Course (Gulmarg Golf Club), Gulmarg, India (Jammu & Kashmir)
Duration
Half-day (3–4 hours) for 9 holes or 4–6 hours for 18 holes; full-day options include lunch and photography stops.
Best Time to Visit
May to September (summer). Peak greenery and best visibility: June–August. Avoid monsoon days and late‑season rain.
Pricing
Approximate green fees: INR 500–2,000 (per round) for Indian residents; INR 1,000–3,500 (per round) for foreign visitors. Club rentals, caddies and motor transport are extra (caddy fee approx INR 300–700; clubs rental INR 300–800). Prices vary by season and operator; confirm rates with the Golmarg Golf Club or tour operator before booking.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
One of the highest natural 18‑hole golf courses in the world with sweeping Himalayan views
Play across lush meadows surrounded by pine and alpine scenery
Historic colonial-era clubhouse and local caddies with deep course knowledge
Cool summer temperatures (pleasant relief from plains heat)
Excellent photography opportunities — especially at sunrise and late afternoon
Itinerary
Arrival at Gulmarg and check-in at the club; equipment rental and brief warm-up
Arrive early to acclimatize, sign any required waivers and meet your caddy/pro.
Tee off — play 9 or 18 holes
Pace depends on group size and course traffic; expect 3–6 hours. Keep water and sun protection handy.
Lunch at the clubhouse or nearby cafe (optional)
Try local Kashmiri tea and snacks; confirm lunch availability in advance during off-peak days.
Optional additional play, practice at the green, or a short photo walk
You can take a short walk to capture panoramic shots of the Pir Panjal range.
Safety Requirements
Acclimatize to altitude — Gulmarg sits at ~2,730 m (approx. 8,960 ft); take it easy if coming from low altitudes
Sun protection (high-altitude UV can be strong): sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
Layered clothing — mornings can be chilly and afternoons mild; storms can appear quickly
Stay hydrated and carry snacks to maintain energy
Inform staff of any medical conditions; carry essential medications
Wear appropriate footwear with grip suitable for meadow/uneven terrain
Tips
Book tee-times in advance — summer weekends and holidays fill up fast
Hire a local caddy — they know local lines, hidden breaks and pace-of-play etiquette
Carry cash — smaller shops and some services may not accept cards
Check weather the evening before — pack a light rainproof layer
Bring a basic first-aid kit and medications for altitude sickness if susceptible
If you don’t have clubs, confirm availability and quality of rental sets before arrival
Combine the round with a short trip on the Gulmarg Gondola or a meadow walk for better value
Respect local customs and the natural environment — avoid leaving litter on the course
