Outer Circle Walk, Gulmarg

The Outer Circle is a path of about 11 km that loops around the Gulmarg bowl through dense pine forest. It dates from the colonial era, when walking it was part of the summer routine.

The reward is a series of viewpoints: across the valley to Srinagar and Wular Lake, and north to Haramukh and Nanga Parbat on a clear day. It is mostly level, with gentle ups and downs.

Planning

Allow three to four hours walking, or do it by pony. Go in the morning for the best visibility. In winter the path is under snow and is a cross-country ski route.