Gulmarg & Khyber Resort: Luxury Stay & Winter Wonderland

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa: Kashmir’s Winter Wonderland for the Elite Soul

If you ever dreamt of waking up to snow-covered pine forests, sipping saffron-laced tea with panoramic views of the Himalayas, and brushing shoulders with Bollywood royalty — The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg is where fantasy meets reality.

Your journey begins in Srinagar, where the airport itself is fringed with opportunities — dried fruit vendors selling Kashmiri walnuts, almonds, saffron, and shops brimming with pherans and intricate hand-embroidered shawls. Even a quick stop can turn into a treasure hunt for textiles and local delicacies.

From there, a scenic 90-minute uphill drive through Tanmarg brings you to Gulmarg. The landscape slowly transforms from valley green to alpine white, and as you climb higher, the silence gets deeper — until you reach The Khyber, nestled at 8,825 feet above sea level.

This isn’t just a luxury resort. It’s Bollywood’s go-to Himalayan retreat. Many stars, from film producers to A-list actors, escape here during the holiday season. Booking months in advance is essential, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, when the resort is fully packed and buzzing with high-profile guests and familiar faces.

The interiors echo old-world charm — think warm wood, Kashmiri carpets, roaring fireplaces, and views that stretch to the legendary Apharwat Peak. But the real magic lies in its experiences.

Insider Tips to Elevate Your Stay:

• The Gondola Hack: Gulmarg is home to Asia’s highest cable car. But during peak season, lines for Phase 1 and 2 can stretch for 3+ hours. If you want to skip the chaos, hire a certified local guide who can secure a fast-track entry. It’s an unspoken VIP trick — totally worth it.

• Guided Hikes Are a Must: The snow trails around Gulmarg can be both breathtaking and brutal. Certain areas like “Death Valley” (yes, that’s a real nickname) are treacherous in the snow. A private hiking guide will take you through safe, scenic routes, avoiding slippery ridges and risky shortcuts tourists often fall into.

• Don’t Miss the Kahwa: A steaming cup of Kashmiri kahwa, brewed with green tea, saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and a handful of crushed almonds resting at the bottom — it’s a warming ritual after a long day in the snow. Most cafés and resort terraces serve it fresh with a view.

Whether you’re snowboarding on virgin slopes, taking an Instagram-perfect photo in front of Khyber’s floral archway, or just reading by the fireplace with a cup of kahwa — this is luxury redefined in the lap of raw Himalayan wilderness.