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As winter begins to settle across the Pir Panjal range, Gulmarg is once again preparing for its busiest season. Skiers, trainers and tourism operators gathered on Saturday (Dec 13) as Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated new facilities aimed at strengthening the hill station’s position as a key winter sports destination in India and abroad.
Abdullah formally opened Asia’s longest ski drag lift at Kongdori in Gulmarg, located in the Baramulla district. Officials said the new lift is expected to enhance access to skiing zones and facilitate movement for both beginners and professional skiers. The chief minister also inaugurated the world’s highest revolving multi-purpose hall at the Affarwat area, which includes a restaurant and event space.
The projects are part of a broader initiative by the Jammu and Kashmir government to expand winter tourism infrastructure and enhance visitor facilities in Gulmarg, often referred to as the skiing capital of India.
According to officials, the newly inaugurated ski drag lift measures 726 metres in length and has been constructed at a cost of Rs 3.65 crore. A ski drag lift enables skiers to ascend slopes by holding onto a moving bar while remaining on their skis, making it particularly useful for training areas and intermediate slopes.
The lift has been installed at Kongdori, one of Gulmarg’s key skiing zones, and is expected to reduce congestion during peak winter months when the resort sees a high influx of domestic and international tourists.
In a post shared by the Chief Minister’s Office on the social media platform X, the project was described as a significant addition to Gulmarg’s skiing infrastructure. Officials stated that the lift would enhance the overall skiing experience and support professional training and competitions.
Abdullah also inaugurated a revolving multi-purpose hall at the Affarwat area, which officials described as the highest of its kind in the world. The structure is designed to host conferences, tourism-related events and dining facilities, offering panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks.
Tourism officials stated that the hall is designed to enhance the non-skiing experience for visitors and provide a venue that can be utilised throughout the seasons. The addition is expected to support meetings, exhibitions and tourism activities beyond winter sports.
Beyond the two major inaugurations, the chief minister dedicated a series of tourism infrastructure projects worth more than Rs 17 crore to the people of Gulmarg and adjoining areas. Officials said these projects mark a significant step in enhancing Jammu and Kashmir’s winter tourism offerings.
Among the initiatives inaugurated was the Integrated Skiing Training and Adventure Tourism Centre in Gulmarg. The centre is designed to provide structured training facilities for skiing and adventure sports, with the aim of developing local talent and supporting professional athletes.
Abdullah also launched integrated ski training courses, which are expected to improve skill development and formal instruction in winter sports. Officials said these courses would help create employment opportunities for local youth and position Gulmarg as a training destination rather than only a recreational resort.
Speaking at the event, the chief minister said Gulmarg continues to play a central role in Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism economy. He stressed that sustained investment in modern infrastructure is necessary to unlock the area’s full potential.
Abdullah said the newly launched facilities were part of a long-term strategy to create year-round tourism opportunities while supporting local livelihoods. He noted that improved skiing infrastructure and training facilities would strengthen winter sports, while the revolving hall would enhance visitor engagement beyond skiing activities.
He also stated that the government’s approach strikes a balance between tourism development and environmental considerations, given the region's fragile ecology.
Officials said the new infrastructure is expected to attract a wider range of visitors, including professional athletes, training groups and conference delegates, in addition to leisure tourists.
With the winter season underway, authorities believe the additions will help Gulmarg manage growing tourist numbers and reinforce its status on the global winter tourism map while supporting economic activity in the region.
(With inputs from PTI)
What new facilities were inaugurated in Gulmarg?
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated Asia’s longest ski drag lift at Kongdori and the world’s highest revolving multi-purpose hall at Affarwat, along with several other tourism projects.
How long is Asia’s longest ski drag lift in Gulmarg?
The new ski drag lift at Kongdori measures 726 metres in length and is designed to ease congestion and improve access to skiing zones.
Why is the new ski lift important for Gulmarg?
The lift will enhance skiing infrastructure, support professional training, and improve access for both beginners and experienced skiers during peak winter months.
What is the purpose of the revolving hall at Affarwat?
The revolving hall is a multi-purpose facility with dining and event spaces, offering panoramic views and supporting tourism activities beyond skiing.
How will these projects impact winter tourism in Jammu and Kashmir?
The new infrastructure is expected to attract more domestic and international tourists, create local employment, and position Gulmarg as a global winter sports and training destination.
