Gulmarg Unveils World's Highest Revolving Restaurant And Asia's Longest Ski Drag Lift

Gulmarg has added remarkable attractions to its winter wonderland, setting new global and regional records. On Saturday, the world's highest revolving restaurant opened its doors on Apharwat Peak at an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet. Alongside this, Asia's longest ski drag lift was inaugurated, boosting Gulmarg's reputation as a premier destination for winter sports and luxury travel. These developments are part of a broader push to elevate Gulmarg's tourism infrastructure to international standards.

A Dining Experience Above The Clouds

The newly launched revolving restaurant offers visitors a unique experience - panoramic views of snow-clad mountains while enjoying aromatic Kashmiri Kahwa and piping-hot delicacies. The warm, cosy cafe rotates slowly, offering diners uninterrupted views of the breathtaking Himalayan landscape.

Major Infrastructure Boost

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated several projects during the event, including:

• The revolving restaurant and a revolving conference hall at Apharwat.
• A multi-purpose hall for events and gatherings.
• Asia's longest ski drag lift, stretching 726 metres, built at a cost of Rs 3.65 crore.

The ski drag lift aims to significantly improve Gulmarg's skiing infrastructure. "This landmark addition will strengthen Gulmarg's standing on the international winter sports map," the Chief Minister's Office said in a post on X.

Training And Adventure Facilities

Abdullah also launched the Integrated Skiing Training and Adventure Tourism Centre and introduced integrated ski training courses to enhance winter sports education in the region. Speaking at the inauguration, he emphasised that Gulmarg remains the "crown jewel" of Jammu & Kashmir's tourism landscape and that sustained investment in modern infrastructure is key to unlocking its full potential.

"These initiatives are not just infrastructure additions but strategic investments that will create year-round tourism opportunities, generate employment for local youth, and elevate Gulmarg to international standards," Abdullah told PTI.

Gulmarg's Record-Breaking Legacy

Gulmarg already boasts several world records, including:

• The world's highest gondola and ski point
• Asia's longest ropeway.
• The world's largest igloo cafe

The addition of the revolving restaurant and ski drag lift further enhances its appeal as a global hub for winter sports and luxury tourism.

Also Read: 5 Skiing Destinations In India That Can Save You A Trip Abroad

Gulmarg Tourism: Challenges And Hopes

Despite these developments, tourist arrivals in Kashmir have dipped following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Authorities hope that Gulmarg's unparalleled natural beauty and upgraded facilities will revive interest among domestic and international travellers.

"Our vision is to make Gulmarg a global hub for winter sports while ensuring conservation of its fragile ecology and natural beauty," Abdullah said.

Also Read: 5 Experiences That Make Gulmarg India's Ultimate Winter Wonderland

Travel Tips For Gulmarg Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: December to March for skiing and snow activities; May to September for lush meadows and trekking.
• How to Reach: Gulmarg is about 50 km from Srinagar. Taxis and buses are available from Srinagar Airport.
• What to Pack: Warm clothing, snow boots, and gloves for winter; light woollens for summer.
• Activities to Try: Skiing, snowboarding, gondola rides, trekking, and enjoying local Kashmiri cuisine.
• Stay Options: From luxury resorts to cosy homestays, Gulmarg offers a range of accommodations.