Kashmir's crown jewel in tourism, the Gulmarg Gondola, is soaring to new heights of popularity. This year, the Gondola, renowned for its breathtaking views at 14,000 feet, has attracted over nine lakh tourists. And guess what? That number is expected to cross a million soon!

Operated by the J&K Cable Car Corporation, the Gulmarg Gondola isn't just a ride; it's an experience. It's not only Asia's highest operating cable car but also a symbol of Kashmir's burgeoning tourism scene. Tourists describe their journey as “surreal and captivating,” making it a must-visit destination in Kashmir.

The folks at the Cable Car Corporation have been busy bees this year. They've revamped ticketing, run safety checks, and introduced new tech, all to make the Gondola's second phase even more impressive. Raja Yaqoob, the managing director, is all about giving tourists a smooth, safe, and fun ride. He's also hinting at some cool upgrades for the winter season. And hey, if you're planning a ride, book your tickets online and stick to your time slot to keep things smooth.

Kashmir's overall tourist numbers are nothing short of incredible. In February 2023 alone, about 1.2 lakh visitors chose to explore this paradise, with 90% heading straight to the Gulmarg ski resort. Last year, J&K welcomed a record 1.88 crore visitors. That's a big leap from the average numbers over the past four decades!

The Gulmarg Gondola itself is a marvel of engineering. It has two phases: one taking you from Gulmarg resort to the scenic Kongdori valley and then up to Apharwath Peak. With 108 cabins and 18 towers, it offers a view you can't find anywhere else.

In short, Kashmir, with its stunning Gulmarg Gondola, is firmly on the map as a premier tourist destination. Whether it's the allure of the highest cable car ride or the charm of the ski resort, Kashmir is calling, and it seems like the world is listening!