History
Gulmarg has been a resort for the kings like Yousuf Shah Chak and
Jahangir who used to visit frequently. The old name of Gulmarg was
"Gaurimarg", the name of Lord Shiva's wife. Yousuf Shah Chak changed its
name to Gulmarg, meaning the place of roses. During the early part of
the 20th century the famous Central Asian explorer Sir Marc Aurel Stein
(1862 – 1943), made his home here in a tent between his expeditions. It
was a favourite summer holiday destination for the British stationed in
India.
The surrounding areas were politically restive during the 1990s uprising
in Kashmir, but since a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in 2003,
the town has enjoyed a period of relative peace and quiet. The town is
nestled within the imposing Himalayan peaks, and lies within miles of
the Line of Control. It receives heavy snowfall during the winter season
and is a popular ski resort.[3].
With the abatement of militancy in the area, Gulmarg has quickly become
one of the state's most visited destinations. The slopes of the Afarwat
Hills of the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalaya Chain boast one of the
longest and highest ski slopes in Asia. The total distance covered by
ski lifts is five kilometres and the resort peaks at an altitude of
3,747 m (12,293 ft), accessed by an aerial gondola (telecabine). The
skiing project was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on 25 December,
2004. The entire hill is guarded by the army at all times. The army,
which is seen everywhere in the cities of Kashmir, is not in the town or
the actual hilltop. Frisking is only done midway on the access road at 3
places: Tangmarg, near an army camp on the road from Tangmarg, and 5 km
before entering Gulmarg. Gulmarg does not have any permanent residents.
All living in Gulmarg are hotel employees and guests. Everyone else is
required to leave the village by sunset, due to a curfew imposed by the
army in 1990.
