Year-Round Heli Adventure
Gulmarg, the breath-taking ski resort spread along the mighty Himalayas, has recently taken a significant leap forward in its quest to become a premier destination for adventure tourism. The introduction of year-round helicopter services for skiing and adventure rides marks a monumental development for this already popular tourist hotspot. Inaugurated by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, this service aims to elevate Gulmarg’s profile on the global adventure tourism map.
The Launch of Helicopter Services
On February 24, 2025, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah officially launched the helicopter service, emphasizing its potential to transform Gulmarg into a top-tier destination for heli-adventures. “Soon, Gulmarg will be recognized as a top-tier destination for Heli adventures. This helicopter service will not only promote Heli-skiing but also provide tourists with a unique aerial sightseeing experience,” Abdullah stated at the launch event.
The service is operated by Billa Majeed Bakhshi, who initially introduced heli-skiing in 2024, catering primarily to advanced foreign skiers and snowboarders. However, with the recent expansion of services, all visitors can now partake in this exhilarating experience, allowing them to explore the breathtaking snow-covered alpine peaks of Gulmarg throughout the year.
Exploring New Destinations
One of the most exciting aspects of the newly launched helicopter service is its ability to introduce tourists to new and less crowded destinations within the region. For instance, Sunshine Mountain, which was previously accessible only during the summer months, is now open for exploration year-round. This innovative heli-adventure allows visitors to reach mountain peaks soaring at 4,300 meters within minutes, offering them ample time to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Apharwat and other scenic locations.
Bakhshi elaborated on the significance of this development: “The service will introduce new and less crowded destinations that were once limited to summer access. Heli adventure allows visitors to reach mountain peaks quickly and spend hours enjoying the breathtaking beauty that surrounds them.”
Operational Capacity and Support
The helicopter service boasts an impressive operational capacity. Each trip can accommodate up to five passengers, with the ability to ferry up to 60 passengers per hour. This means that over 200 tourists can experience the thrill of heli-adventure daily. To ensure smooth operations and safety, a dedicated team of 25 employees supports the service. This team includes two skilled pilots, engineers, ground staff, and experienced guides who are well-versed in the local terrain.
Enhancing Tourism in Gulmarg
The introduction of heli-skiing is expected to significantly enhance Gulmarg’s tourism sector. MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmed Shah praised this initiative, stating that it would attract more domestic and international visitors alike. “This Heli service adds another feather to Gulmarg’s cap,” Shah noted. The demand for heli-skiing has been long-standing, particularly among adventure enthusiasts from abroad who seek thrilling experiences in pristine environments.
Shah further emphasized his vision for Gulmarg as a winter capital of India, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s sentiments. He remarked that there is still much work to be done in terms of infrastructure development for skiing, gondola rides, and other adventure sports over the next five years. “The upgraded infrastructure will make people forget about tourist destinations in Europe after visiting Gulmarg,” he asserted confidently.
Future Prospects and Infrastructure Development
Looking ahead, there are ambitious plans for enhancing Gulmarg’s infrastructure to cater to an increasing number of tourists seeking winter sports and adventure activities. The government aims to upgrade facilities related to skiing and other adventure sports significantly within five years. This includes improving access routes, enhancing accommodation options, and expanding recreational facilities.
A Destination Like No Other
Gulmarg is already celebrated for its lush meadows, snow-covered peaks, and exceptional winter sports opportunities. The addition of year-round helicopter services will undoubtedly open new horizons for adventure tourism in this stunning region. Tourists can now indulge in various activities ranging from skiing and trekking to aerial sightseeing tours that showcase the mesmerizing beauty of the Himalayas.
As more visitors flock to experience the thrill of heli-skiing and explore hidden gems within Gulmarg’s majestic landscape, it is clear that this destination is on its way to becoming one of India’s premier adventure tourism hotspots. With its rich natural beauty and commitment to developing world-class infrastructure, Gulmarg is set to captivate adventurers and nature lovers alike for years to come.
