5-star hotels in Gulmarg: Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa 2024

When planning a luxurious vacation, one of the most critical factors to consider is where to stay. In Gulmarg, a popular ski resort town in India, there are lots of accommodation options.

If, however, you wish to relax and truly enjoy yourself, 5-star hotels are the way to go. With stunning views of snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys, 5-star hotels in Gulmarg offer an exceptional combination of luxury and natural beauty. These hotels boast top-notch amenities such as spas, fitness centres, fine dining restaurants, and impeccable service.

Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa Overview

• • Address: The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, 193402, India
  • Contact:+91-1954-350666
  • Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR)
  • Distance to the Airport: Approximately 58 kilometres (36 miles)
  • Hotel Types: Luxury 5-Star/Ski-out Resort
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer (March – June)
  • Total Budget (3 days, 2 people): ₹137,800

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Location and Surroundings Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa 

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is a luxurious 5-star hotel in Gulmarg, Kashmir, India. It is nestled at an elevation of 8,825 feet in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, offering stunning views of the Affarwat peaks. The resort is spread over seven acres of unspoiled land and features 85 rooms, all with luxurious amenities and private balconies offering panoramic views of the mountains. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities at the resort, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and horseback riding. There is also a spa, a fitness centre, and an indoor swimming pool.

Rooms at Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa 

• • Premier Room: This is a standard room option, perfect for couples or solo travellers. It features a comfortable bed, a work desk, a bathtub, and all the amenities you would expect in a luxury hotel. ₹30,000 – ₹40,000 (approx) per night.
  • Premier Plus Room: This room is slightly larger than the Premier Room and offers stunning views of the hotel’s expansive gardens. It features a king-size bed, a seating area, and a luxurious bathroom. ₹40,000 – ₹50,000 (approx) per night.
  • Luxury Balcony Gulmarg View Room: As the name suggests, this room boasts a private balcony with breathtaking views of the Gulmarg meadows. It features a king-size bed, a spacious bathroom, and all the luxurious amenities you would expect. ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 (approx) per night
  • Luxury Balcony Himalayan View Room: Similar to the Luxury Balcony Gulmarg View Room, this room offers a private balcony with stunning views of the majestic Himalayas. It features a king-size bed, a spacious bathroom, and all the luxurious amenities you would expect.  ₹55,000 – ₹65,000 per night
  • One Bedroom Cottage: This is a great option for couples or small families. It features a separate bedroom with a king-size bed, a living area with a fireplace, and a private front lawn. ₹70,000 – ₹80,000  (approx) per night
  • Two-Bedroom Cottage: This is a perfect option for families or groups of friends. It features two separate bedrooms, a living area with a fireplace, and a private front lawn. ₹80,000 – ₹90,000 (approx) per night
  • Presidential Cottage: This is the ultimate in luxury accommodations. It features two levels with ultra-luxurious bedrooms, an elegant living area, a dining room, and a palatial staircase. It is ideal for a genuinely remarkable visit. ₹1,00,000 and above per night

5-Star Hotels in Gulmarg Facilities

• • Heated swimming pool
  • Sauna and Jacuzzi
  • Spa offers a variety of treatments
  • Fitness centre
  • In-house bonfire
  • A variety of dining options are available

5-Star Hotels in Gulmarg: Total Budget (3 days, 2 people)

Best Time to Visit 5-star hotels in Gulmarg: Khyber Himalayan Resort

The best time to visit the Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa depends on what activities you’re interested in:

Summer (March to June):

• • Gulmarg experiences pleasant weather during this time, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 24°C (54°F to 75°F).
  • This is a great time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, golfing, gondola rides, and exploring the meadows surrounding the resort.
  • For pleasant weather and outdoor activities: Summer (March to June)

Monsoon (July to September):

• • The monsoon season brings moderate rainfall to Gulmarg. While the rains can dampen some outdoor activities, the valley turns lush green and offers a different kind of beauty.
  • You might get lucky and score good deals on stays during this time.

Winter (December to February):

• • Gulmarg transforms into a winter wonderland during this time, with temperatures dropping below freezing and snowfall blanketing the landscape.
  • This is the perfect time to visit if you want to enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. The resort offers ski-in/ski-out access, making it a great choice for winter sports enthusiasts.

3 days Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Resort Activities

• • Check in to the Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa and take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the resort’s spa, indulging in a signature treatment or simply soaking in the Jacuzzi.
  • In the evening, enjoy a delicious buffet dinner at the resort’s restaurant, featuring local Kashmiri cuisine and international fare.

Day 2: Gulmarg Gondola Ride and Apharwat Peak

• • After breakfast, embark on a scenic ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, the highest cable car in Asia, which offers panoramic views of the valley below.
  • At the top station, Apharwat Peak, enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, including Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world.
  • If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of Apharwat. During summer, you can go for a pony ride or explore the meadows.
  • In the afternoon, return to the resort for a leisurely lunch and some time to unwind.
  • In the evening, explore Gulmarg town, where you can shop for souvenirs, try local street food, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Day 3: Alpather Lake and Departure

• • Make sure to check out the charming Alpather Lake on your final day. It’s a lovely little lake nestled amidst beautiful meadows. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic lunch.
  • In the afternoon, head back to the resort to check out and begin your journey home.

How to Reach The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa

There are two main ways to reach The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa from Srinagar International Airport (SXR):

1. 1. Taxi: This is the most convenient option, especially if you have luggage or are travelling with a group. You can find prepaid taxis at the airport arrival terminal. The ride to Gulmarg takes about 1 hour and 1 minute and covers a distance of approximately 57 kilometres. Expect to pay around ₹1,400 to ₹1,700 for a taxi ride.
   2. Car Rental: Renting a car from Srinagar Airport gives you more flexibility and can be a good option if you plan on exploring other parts of Kashmir. However, road conditions in the mountains can be challenging, especially during winter.  Car rentals can range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per day, depending on the type of vehicle you choose.

FAQ’s of 5-star hotels in Gulmarg

Are there any true 5-star hotels in Gulmarg?

While there aren’t many properties with an official 5-star rating, there are some luxurious hotels in Gulmarg that offer exceptional amenities and service, comparable to a 5-star experience. 

What is the best 5-star hotel in Gulmarg?

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is consistently rated very highly by guests and is considered the top choice for a luxurious stay in Gulmarg. It boasts ski-in/ski-out access, a spa, an indoor pool, and stunning Himalayan views.

What is the price range for 5-star hotels in Gulmarg?

Prices can vary depending on the season, room type, and inclusions. Expect to pay a premium for a luxurious stay, typically starting around ₹10,000 per night and upwards.

What is the best time to visit a 5-star hotel in Gulmarg?

Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and enjoying the snowy wonderland, but expect higher prices. Summer (June to August) offers pleasant weather and beautiful scenery at potentially lower rates.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is at 2:00 PM and check-out is at 12:00 PM.

Is there Wi-Fi available?

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in public areas.

Is there parking available?

Yes, valet parking is offered to all guests.