Gulmarg has strengthened its global tourism profile with the inauguration of two landmark attractions — the world’s highest revolving restaurant and Asia’s longest ski drag lift — at Apharwat Peak in Jammu and Kashmir. The new infrastructure marks a significant milestone in the development of winter tourism and adventure travel in India while positioning Gulmarg alongside leading alpine destinations in Asia and beyond.
Situated at an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet, the revolving restaurant offers a unique high-altitude dining experience, combining refined hospitality with panoramic views of the Himalayas. Designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, the restaurant provides 360-degree vistas of snow-clad peaks and valleys as it slowly rotates, serving traditional Kashmiri offerings such as Kahwa alongside curated local cuisine.
Complementing the restaurant is Asia’s longest ski drag lift, stretching 726 metres and built at a cost of Rs 3.65 crore. The state-of-the-art facility significantly enhances Gulmarg’s skiing infrastructure by improving slope accessibility, easing congestion, and ensuring safer movement for skiers. Together, these additions are expected to boost visitor capacity and elevate the overall experience for winter sports enthusiasts.
Further strengthening the tourism ecosystem, a revolving conference hall and a multi-purpose hall have also been inaugurated at Apharwat. These facilities will enable Gulmarg to host conferences, corporate events, cultural programmes, and international gatherings in a distinctive high-altitude setting.
As part of a broader strategy to promote adventure tourism, the Integrated Skiing Training and Adventure Tourism Centre has been launched to support skill development and professional training in winter sports. Structured ski training programmes aim to create employment opportunities for local youth while positioning Gulmarg as a centre of excellence for skiing and adventure education in India and Asia.
The expansion of tourism infrastructure is expected to generate sustained economic benefits for local communities through increased employment across hospitality, transport, guiding, and allied services. By promoting year-round tourism — with winter sports complemented by summer trekking, sightseeing, and cultural experiences — Gulmarg is working towards a more resilient and inclusive local economy.
Gulmarg already holds several global distinctions, including the world’s highest gondola, Asia’s longest ropeway, and the world’s largest igloo café. The addition of the revolving restaurant and ski drag lift further strengthens its reputation as a record-setting destination and a leader in mountain tourism.
The developments come at a time when Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector is seeking renewed momentum following a recent decline in visitor numbers. Authorities and stakeholders have expressed confidence that Gulmarg’s upgraded offerings, combined with a focus on safety and sustainability, will help restore traveller confidence and attract domestic and international visitors.
Located around 50 kilometres from Srinagar, Gulmarg remains easily accessible and offers accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to homestays. With continued investment guided by environmental conservation and community participation, Gulmarg is set to play an increasingly important role in shaping India’s high-altitude tourism future on the global stage.
