Apharwat Peak : Where Snow Meets the Sky
Beautiful and challenging terrain of Apharwat Peak has captured the imagination of many adventurers, trekkers, and nature lovers regarding this destination as a gem in Jammu and Kashmir. The views here are exceptional for they find this place an absolute must-visit if one wishes to experience an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
In the Kashmir valley, there is a peak known as Apharwat in the Gulmarg region that stands at about a height of 4,390 meters or 14,400 feet. Together with the mountain ranges, it opens up fantastic views into the lush valleys and pristine landscapes. Whether you’re an expert mountaineer looking to create a challenge for yourself, or an avid traveler who would want to take a glimpse of the incredible view, Apharwat Peak presents the right opportunity to explore the beauty of Kashmir Valley.
It will highlight the importance of Apharwat Peak, the best time to visit, trekking routes, winter sports, attractions near, and accommodation options. So if you are planning your next adventure in Kashmir, here’s everything you need to know about Apharwat Peak.
What is Apharwat Peak?
This one of the famous mountain peaks in the Pir Panjal Range and forms part of a very large Himalayan mountain system that encompasses combinations of rugged lands, alpine meadows, and beautiful snow-covered peaks. This peak can be described by using skiing, trekking, and mountaineering activities owing to its magnificent heights and terrains surrounding it.
The skiing resorts near Apharwat Peak are also very famous during the winter seasons. At the heart of this most highly sought-out winter destination in India stands Apharwat Peak, the wonderland of winters. Gulmarg literally means “Meadow of Flowers.
Apart from all these things, the awe inspiring peaks is also known due to its steeper slopes and heavy snowfall during winters it also offers spectacular views from it of the valleys surrounding Srinagar Valley and Kupwara Valley. In addition, vast deodar, pine, and fir woodlands that are present on both sides of the peak add up to the majesty.
Best Time to Visit Apharwat Peak
The time you visit Apharwat Peak hinges on what experience you are looking for because the peak is popular for both its summer trekking routes and winter skiing conditions. In this way, the time you visit is going to play a great role in determining your activities and the kind of views that you are exposed to.
i. Summer (April to June)
Summer season between April to June months may be the best time to visit the peak for trekking or hiking. At such times, temperature would be cool during the day in the range of 10°C to 20°C and some cooler in the evenings. This is a very ideal time if you wish to hike up to the peak or explore trails in that vicinity and avoid harsh winter conditions.
The landscape of Apharwat is pretty much covered with lush greenery and wildflowers bloom all over the meadows. Beautiful views from the top along with varieties of flora and fauna are what best attract nature enthusiasts to visit this place during summers.
ii. Monsoon (July to September)
The months of July to September can well be termed the least favorable season to visit Apharwat Peak, since during these months, the overall region will be facing the rain in moderate terms, and treks and explorations will be somewhat difficult, as heavy rains will turn trails slippery and tough to walk on, without adequate visibility. However, if you like the feeling of lush misty valleys that the monsoons bring into life, it will still be quite interesting to visit.
iii. Autumn (October and November)
The best time to visit the summit of Apharwat would be during autumn, between October and November. Weather here would be cool and crispy ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The foliage in the valleys around would also turn into the shades of gold and orange. Thus, it is a beautiful photography season.
It’s smooth and attractive, and the crowd of other hikers is less than during the summer months.
iv. Winter (December to February)
The most common visit in Winter, especially from December to February, is of those interested in the snow activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking. Apharwat gained worldwide popularity for its powder snow.
Gulfmarg receives a thick blanket of white and remains covered with peaks in the time of winter season. The temperature in the winter season reaches till -5 to -10°C, hence the tourists need hard core weather conditions. The Apharwat Gondola-which takes tourists to the top also runs during this time, which makes it easy for tourists to enjoy skiing with having a minimum amount of trekking time required
Trek to Apharwat Peak: An Adventure Tour
The most attractions going towards Apharwat peak, that itself gives adventure into the great outdoors. This surely is not for the light-hearted as it calls for ascents, rugged terrain and varied weather. But from atop, those who take this trek along are rewarded with breathtaking views, sky-scraping vistas of the Himalayas’ peak, panoramic view of Kashmir valley, and the view of Srinagar city.
Trekking Routes to Apharwat Peak
Well there are many trek routes from which one could take to the Apharwat Peak. Each has its own choice of experiences and challenges. The most popular one is, in fact, the trek from Gulmarg to Apharwat Peak, an approximately 5-7 hour journey depending upon how fast you go and your fitness level.
i. Gulmarg to Apharwat Peak (Moderate to Difficult)
The trail starts from Gulmarg, which is moderately high, it then gradually ascends, developing through lush meadows and pine forests up to the pastures. As the path is well-built, the first half of the trek becomes a pleasant walk; however, once trekkers climb higher up to altitudes, it becomes steeper and challenging at locations.
The final leg of the trek is also very risky, on treks climb through slabs of stony slopes and loose gravel, while snowing in winter months.
Top provides a grand panoramic 360-degree view of Himalayan ranges surrounding it, Srinagar town below and distant Kashmir Valley. Terminates with an invitation to come back.
ii. Apharwat Peak Winter Trek (Difficult )
The winter trek to the Apharwat Peak is more a challenge for the more energetic who want to experience the region as a snow capped land. The trek requires pre knowledge of the experience in the trek, as snow will be hard to track along. For that reason, it would be ideal to be undertaken with a guide and with proper snow gear including crampons, warm clothing, and a strong pair of boots.
It’s absolutely rewarding to take a winter trek because it lets you go through a winter paradise with uninterrupted views of snow capped mountains, pristine snowfields, and frozen lakes.
Things You Must Know Before You Go Trekking
i. Physical Fitness: The trek to Apharwat Peak requires moderate to high fitness, especially in the higher altitude sections. Please train and prepare for the strenuous ascent.
ii. Guides and Porters: Even in the welltrodden treks, there is no one who can better get you through the terrain or point out natural beauties and cultural details of the region than hiring guides or porters from the village.
iii. Weather Conditions: The weather, one would say, is really not that predictable. The trekkers should always keep their dressing kit open to sudden temperature change and the change in weather conditions. So it would be best if it has some weather-appropriate clothing, waterproof gear as well.
iv. Altitude: Apharwat Peak is located at considerable high altitude, and the trekkers must familiarize themselves with symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness. Take time to acclimatize. Be hydrated.
Skiing and Winter Sports at Apharwat Peak
Trekking is also amongst the highly popular activities here in Apharwat Peak, but in reality, skiing and winter sports mark the skiing and touristic season for the people on this fascinating destination. The information reveals that the place has always been popular for powder snow and attracts skiers and snowboarders from all sides of the world.
i. Gulmarg Ski Resort and Apharwat Gondola
Located amidst some of the most beautiful snow-covered mountains, Gulmarg is indeed one of the best ski resorts in India and the Apharwat Gondola will take the visitors to an altitude over 3,800 meters (12,500 feet), allowing the visitor to reach the top of the Apharwat Peak directly during the winter season.
ii. Skiing at Apharwat Peak
There are a variety of skiing tracks at Apharwat Peak, from beginner slopes to advanced and expert tracks. Also, for those who wish to learn, the resort provides beginner lessons with authorized skiing instructors. The resort also has modern skiing facilities: there are ski lifts, rental shops, and designated areas for alpine as well as cross-country skiing.
iii. Snowboarding
Besides skiing, snowboarding too has come up and now is a popular winter sport in Apharwat. There’s wide open stretches of virgin snow here, just perfect for practicing or even learning the skill of snowboarding.
Other Attractions from Apharwat Peak
While the main attraction is naturally Apharwat Peak, there are other attractions around this region at Gulmarg that are well worthwhile visiting
i. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: It is a protected area with flora and fauna of only one kind and therefore species of birds and other wildlife.
ii. Maharani Temple: One among the oldest historic temples of Hinduism, though located in the center of Gulmarg that borders the goddess Maharani.
iii. Outer Circle Walk: It’s a wonderful walk along with which panoramic views of the valleys and mountains are offered.
iv. Alpather Lake: It is a natural lake, located almost beside the peak of Apharwat. Alpather lake may be visited while trekking or having a time of good picnic. It’s serene surroundings and green meadows steal away the heart of any visitor.
Accommodation in Gulmarg
There are enough options in Gulmarg that provide all kinds of accommodations and lodging for Apharwat Peak visitors:
i. Luxury Resorts and Hotels: For those who enjoy living like kings and queens, there are more than sufficient five-star resorts and hotels within Gulmarg offering the best facilities and spa treatments.
ii. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, there are many guest houses and budget hotels within Gulmarg providing only very basic abodes at budget prices.
iii. Campsites: An adventurous experience is what you are looking for, then there are several campsites near the base of Apharwat Peak where you could stay in tents, however, amidst natures’ majesty
Conclusion
The Apharwat Peak can be said as an area within the heart of the Kashmir Himalayas that gives treks and skiing and mountaineering experiences. It can be anything, be it adventures for reaching the peak in summer, skiing down the slopes in winter, or any activity whatsoever. Apharwat offers breathtaking panoramic views and rugged terrains which will take you to nature where adventure meets the most spectacular kind.
If the Himalayas is to be visited, among all top places you would consider visiting, must be Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg.
How to book Kashmir tour to visit Apharwat Peak?
Contact a travel agency that specializes in Kashmir tours. You can reach out to the following for assistance:
- Phone:
- +91 7889 655596
- +91 7006 891267
- Email:
Inquire about tour packages, itineraries, and pricing, and confirm your booking for a memorable winter experience!
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