Gulmarg Biosphere reserve is located 48 km from Srinagar towards the southwest and is spread over a cover of 180 sq km. It is very famous for its fauna which has a good population of resident and migratory upland birds. This biosphere lies at a range of 2400 to 4300 meters above sea level and gives an exceptional experience of bird watching and the wildlife in these thick wetlands, bushes and extensive forests. Tourists can enjoy the camping sites at this locality and enjoy the serene and beautiful location of this biosphere.

Known and blessed for the beauty and the rich flora and fauna, this place was formed to protect those many species that were on the verge of extinction. The main are the Musk Deer that are a delight to watch.

Topography of Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

It is spread over 180 km and stretches between an altitude of 7900 and 14000 ft. This is a connection between the man and the nature and protects the many endangered species of avifauna, flora and fauna. It is at an altitudinal range from the sea level of 2400-4300 meters.

Flora in Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

This reserve is known for its rich vegetation and forest cover and is mostly covered with 90 percent of conifers. The other major species found at this reserve are aesculus indica, abies pindrow and more. Also shrubs like sorbaria tomentosa and indigofera heterantha can be spotted in abundance at this reserve. The dicotyledonous herbs can also be spotted at this reserve.

Fauna

The rarest and beautiful species are a treat for every tourist. Mammals like Brown Beer, Musk Deer, Hangul, Serow, Black Bear and Red Fox can be spotted and this is an apt place for those who love adventure, nature and birds. When one talks about the avifauna, this reserve is home to a huge number of pheasants like blood pheasant koklasm Monal and crimson tagopan. Also, the rare bearded vultures and golden eagles can be spotted by the tourists in this reserve.

Prime Attraction

The Musk deer is the main attraction for the people at Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. The many endangered species and the protected species are a gift for those eyes that visit this biosphere. The Brown Beer, Musk Deer, Hangul, Serow, Black Bear, Red Fox, etc are some of the mammals that grab the attention of the visitors.

How to Reach

By Road

The roads to Gulmarg are absolutely bliss and many types of transports can be made available to go to Gulmarg from Srinagar as taxis are mostly the best mode to go to this biosphere reserve. This place is also well linked with buses from Jammu and Kashmir as State and Private buses ply towards Gulmarg from various parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

By Rail

The closest railway station is in Srinagar and can be reached easily by buses and taxis. Buses and also shared jeeps start from Batmalu Bus Stand in Srinagar to go to Tanmarg and Gulmarg.

By Air

The closest airport is in Srinagar which is 56 km from Gulmarg. Modes of transport like buses, cabs are available to go to the airport.

Where to Stay

Ample private as well as tourist accommodations are easily available. But the best part is the camping site for which people should be armed with the needed items. One can contact the Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Reception Centre in Srinagar for more details about the accommodation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is from September to March and again in the months of March to May.

Visitor Information

Now that one visits a Biosphere reserve which is a habitat to many animals, one should be careful and not disturb any animal with their activities. One has to be calm and not make loud noise to avoid any untoward accidents. Try and dress up in colors that camouflage with the forest environment with colors like green and khaki. It is also the visitors’ responsibility to not litter the reserve with papers, tins, food items, etc.