Rising Gondola Rates Limit Local Access to Gulmarg Slopes | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Gulmarg, one of India’s key winter sports destinations, is facing criticism over rising gondola and chairlift ski pass rates, which have made access difficult for local youth and athletes.

The Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car Corporation (GGCCC) continues to generate substantial revenue from tourism, having recovered its infrastructure costs. Officials said the corporation remains one of the most profitable in Jammu and Kashmir.

Local sports enthusiasts and students say the high costs limit training opportunities on home slopes during the short winter season. Experts warn that restricted access could affect the development of professional skiers from Kashmir, hindering representation at national and international events.

International skiing nations often provide subsidised or concessional access to local athletes to promote grassroots participation. Observers say Gulmarg should adopt similar measures to support local talent.

Advocates are calling on the GGCCC and authorities to reconsider pricing and introduce subsidised passes for residents, concessional rates for students and registered sports trainees, affordable seasonal passes for youth, and reduced rates for Phase 1 and Phase 2 lifts used for training.

Such measures, they say, would not substantially affect tourism revenue but would help develop winter sports culture and professional skills in the region.