Things To Do
in Gulgam
Gulgam is a small hillside village in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, surrounded by lush valleys and apple orchards. It offers a window into rural Kashmiri life with warm hospitality and traditional crafts. The landscape features terraced fields, winding lanes, and views toward distant mountains.
Visitors are drawn by seasonal markets, local cuisine, and opportunities for quiet treks in a relatively untouched setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a serene morning trek through the lush landscapes of Gulgam. As the sun rises, the valley comes alive with vibrant hues and melodious bird songs. Take time to capture the stunning views with your camera, making memories that will last a lifetime.
After your morning exploration, head to a local eatery for a delightful lunch featuring traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Post-lunch, visit the nearby pristine streams where you can relax or indulge in light fishing activities. Engage with friendly locals and learn about the cultural significance of the land around you.
As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the valley, enjoying the crisp air and scenic beauty as the sun sets. Find a quiet spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures while witnessing the sky transform into a canvas of colors. End your night with a bonfire under the stars, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Explore the historical landmarks of Gulgam with a guided tour in the morning, visiting ancient temples and heritage sites. Each site tells a unique story, giving you a glimpse into the region's rich past and architectural beauty. Engage actively with your guide to learn about the local customs and traditions.
After the cultural immersion, enjoy a classic Kashmiri lunch at a traditional houseboat, floating on serene waters. Spend the afternoon navigating the tranquil Dal Lake, taking in the picturesque views and watching local craftsmen at work. This is a perfect time for some shopping at the floating markets.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance that showcases local music and dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant traditions of Gulgam. The mood is lively, and you'll get a chance to join in and learn some of the local dances. Wind down with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, relishing the flavors of authentic Kashmiri dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5 L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Cafe/restaurant combo meal | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget lodging per night | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic village life with authentic culture
- Delicious Kashmiri cuisine and hospitality
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Potential road and weather disruptions in winter and monsoon
- "Salaam" - Hello/Peace be upon you
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Me chu theek chu" - I am fine
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Kya aap English bolte hain?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bathroom kahan hai?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Gulgam
Visit one of these nice places.
Terraced fields and orchards along the hillside offer golden hour shots with farmers at work.
Rolling valleys framed by orchards and streams provide dramatic landscape photography.
A tranquil river bend with willows and reflections ideal for dawn photography.
Narrow lanes with Kashmiri wooden window frames, shutters, and fluttering prayer flags.
Food in Gulgam
Gulgam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich lamb curry scented with Kashmiri chilies and spices.
Must-Try!
Mutton or chicken simmered in a yogurt-based gravy with whole spices.
Meatballs in a creamy yogurt sauce, often served during festive meals.
Potatoes braised in a spiced yogurt gravy.
Saffron-colored rice with dried fruits and nuts.
Salted tea colored with a pink hue, often flavored with cardamom.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets near Gulgam where you can taste kebabs, haak, and other Kashmiri street foods.
A bustling market with fruit stalls, nuts, and street snacks like kebabs and dum aloo.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Salam or Namaste; avoid touching the head of others; seek permission before photographs.
Respect local customs; dress modestly in villages and religious sites; remove shoes where required.
Ask permission before photographing individuals or private spaces; give space in crowded areas.
Safety
Tipping in Gulgam
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants if service isn't included, 5-10% is customary; guide and driver tips of a few hundred rupees per day are appreciated.
Cash (INR) is widely used; some places accept cards or mobile wallets, but plan for cash in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; ideal for treks and outdoor photography, occasional showers.
Rainy spells and green landscapes; road conditions may be challenging after storms.
Cold with potential snowfall; some routes may close; pack warm layers and waterproofs.
Gulgam at Night
Hiking in Gulgam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and meadow trails with streams and orchards in the Lolab area near Kupwara.
Riverside paths with scenic valley views near Handwara town.
Airports
How to reach Gulgam by plane.
Nearest major airport with domestic connectivity; road transfer to the region.
Another regional airport; longer drive to reach Gulgam.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community; languages include Kashmiri and Urdu; strong sense of hospitality.
Families involved in orchards, handicrafts, and small-scale trade; traditional crafts may be seen in surrounding villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common among communities and schools; informal matches in open spaces.
Popular sport in village grounds and nearby towns.
Includes wrestling (Gushti) and archery in some areas and cultural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gulgam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Kashmiri veggie dishes use saag, haakh greens, nadru (lotus root) and dum aloo; communicate spice levels and avoid ghee if lactose-free is needed.