Ice Skating in Gulmarg: Glide Under the Himalayan Pines
Enjoy open-air ice skating in the heart of the Pir Panjal. The ice skating rink is one of the lesser-known attractions in Gulmarg, located very close to the Gondola base station overlooking the golf course.
Experience One of Its Kind Open-Air Himalayan Ice Skating
Unlike indoor artificial rinks, Gulmarg's open-air rink banks on crisp sub-zero Himalayan winter nights to produce smooth, natural ice. Skating outdoors surrounded by snowdrifts, heritage chalets, and towering pine forests offers a classic alpine winter experience.
Ice skating is an ideal low-impact afternoon or evening activity for skiers and snowboarders resting their legs between Phase 2 powder runs. Wide boundaries, balance aids for kids, and patient local instructors make the rink accessible even if you've never stepped on ice before.
Session Formats & Instruction
| Session Type | Duration | What's Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Open Glide | 60 Minutes | Rink entry + standard figure or hockey skate rental | Confident skaters, couples, and casual gliding |
| First-Timer Coaching Session | 45 Minutes | Dedicated 1:1 coach + skate hire + helmet + balance support aids | Children and beginners learning balance and forward strides |
| Private Group / Evening Session | 60–90 Minutes | Exclusive or reserved rink access under floodlights + hot kehwa | Families, corporate retreats, and private parties |
What to Wear & On-Site Rentals
Included in Rental:
- Figure & Hockey Skates: Sharpened and sized from children’s sizes up to adult EU 46.
- Safety Helmets & Wrist Guards: Mandatory for children and strongly encouraged for beginners.
- Push-Along Skating Aids: Sturdy balance frames for young children and nervous first-timers.
What You Should Bring:
- Thick, high-cut woolen or synthetic socks to prevent ankle friction inside the skates.
- Warm winter gloves (falling on ice with bare hands is cold and wet).
- Layered jacket and pants that allow free movement (avoid overly stiff ski outerwear or restrictive denim).
- Warm beanie or ear warmer that fits under a helmet.
Plan Your Visit to the Gulmarg Ice Rink
Reserve your rink time slots, arrange family skate sizing in advance, or add skating to your custom winter package.
Email: officialgulmargskiresort@gmail.com
Looking for snowmobiles, ATVs, or sledging? Visit Snow Rides & Sledging.
Frequently Asked Questions (Ice Skating)
Season reliability, beginners, and children’s helmet requirements.
Because the rink relies on natural sub-zero temperatures, the season peaks from late December through mid-February. During unseasonably warm afternoons or heavy midday blizzards, sessions may be temporarily rescheduled to morning or evening slots when the ice is firmest and conditions are safest.
Yes. Most guests have never skated before. Our coaches guide you onto the ice, show you how to find your center of gravity, and provide stabilizer aids so you can skate with confidence.
Yes. Safety is mandatory on the ice. Helmets are provided free with each session.