In Kashmir, the Drung Waterfall is not like any other place to have a walk. People from all over Gulmarg want to go there in the winter. People like to know how the roads are covered in snow, how much it costs to get in, and how much the trip really costs. As a result, this blog gives you accurate information about the area. When we have beautiful guests at Hum Chale Kashmir (HCK), we go to this place a lot. We also take notes on winter trips from when the roads freeze. That means this blog is useful. From Srinagar or Gulmarg, you’ll learn when to go, how much to spend, what not to do, and how to make plans. Also, you’ll understand why Drung freezes over in the winter. All of these are things I learned for myself.
Overview of Drung Waterfall – What Makes It Special?
The Drung Waterfall is a waterfall in the Indian Union state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is close to Tangmarg. It’s about 3 km away from Tangmarg town. In the winter, though, the place is very different. It freezes over from late December to early February. That’s why people call it Drung Frozen Waterfall. The water freezes into thick walls of ice. The valley all around it is also covered in snow. The waterfall is full of clear water in the summer, especially in the beginning of the season. It’s also a picnic area for children.
A lot of people visit this place because it’s easy to get to. You don’t have to hike here like you do in other high hilly places. Grannies and grandchildren can go too. Motor vehicles can use the road for most of the year. Besides that, Drung is not as busy as Gulmarg. Because of this, a lot of tourists choose to make it an extra part of their day trip to Gulmarg.
Where is Drung Waterfall Located in Kashmir?
The Drung Waterfall is in Tangmarg, which is in the Baramulla area. 42 km away is the city of Srinagar. Besides that, Gulmarg is only 14 km away. So, Gulmarg and Drung are often included in the same trip. From Tangmarg to Drung, the road is just wide enough for one car, and it’s paved the whole way. But in the winter, heavy snow makes it impossible for normal cars to move.
Here is the basic distance table:
| Location | Distance to Drung | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Srinagar | 42 km | 1.5 hours |
| Gulmarg | 14 km | 30–40 mins |
| Tangmarg | 3 km | 10 mins |
You need a 4×4 and snow chains for your cars in the winter. So, the cab drivers in Tangmarg offer special rides. On black ice, regular cars might lose their grip. Always check to see how the roads are before you go on a trip.
Why is Drung Waterfall Famous?
Drung is famous for its view of a frozen waterfall. And when winter comes, the moving water freezes into a solid sheet. So it looks like a natural wall of ice. And the amount of snow changes this fixed shape from year to year. People who take pictures come to shoot in the winter.
It’s a green valley spot to visit in the summer. Also, the waterfall makes a lot of noise as it falls. Families sit down next to rocks and enjoy the cool air. Drung is open, while Srinagar’s Mughal parks are crowded. So, it is better for those who love natural views rather than hustle of city.
Also, it’s easy to get to. You can drive almost all the way to the entrance. Nearby, there are also small shops that sell tea and snacks. So there are basic services. In other words, it’s easy to make quick trips.
How to Reach Drung Waterfall?
From Srinagar, take the road that leads to Gulmarg. The road goes through Tangmarg and Magam. That means the drive is pretty smooth most of the year. Take the right way to Drung after the Tangmarg market. It is marked very well.
It snows a lot in the winter, and thick layers of ice form. Because of this, cops sometimes stop private cars at Tangmarg. You will need to rent a 4×4 car in your area that comes with snow chains. The price will change based on the snow level, going from ₹1500 to ₹2500 up or down. Also, chains are needed when the ice is thick.
The road to Gulmarg is shorter. But it snows more heavily there. Before you leave, you should always check with your hotel or driver. HCK always sends reliable drivers who know the areas with black ice.
What is the Entry Fee and Total Cost?
Drung Waterfall has a small entry fee that is handled by the local government. It costs about ₹30 to ₹50 per person this season. Parking fees, on the other hand, are different.
As a rough guide, here is how much it costs per day from Srinagar:
| Expense | Approx Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Private taxi (sedan) | 2500–4500 |
| 4×4 winter taxi (if needed) | 1500–2500 |
| Entry ticket | 50 |
| Snacks/Tea | 200–400 |
So, depending on the season, the total cost for a couple can be anywhere from ₹5000 to ₹7000. The prices may go up a little when you add Gulmarg to the mix.
Keep cash on hand at all times. Because of network issues, the stores near you won’t take UPI on snow days.
Best Time to Visit Drung Waterfall
From late December to mid-February is the best time to see an ice waterfall. But the time of year when it snows changes every year. Before I booked a flight, I would definitely call the lodge to find out how the snow is.
During the winter, it gets below zero degrees. And there could be as much as 2–4 feet of snow. That’s when the stream really freezes over. Photographers like January best.
And if you like green scenery and easy entry, you should hit the trail from May to September. This is the main reason why summer is usually chosen by families with young children. As the snow melts, the water is running fast. The road is also still clear.
Stay away from days when it rains a lot. Slippery rocks can make things go wrong.
One-Day Itinerary from Srinagar and Gulmarg
Get on the road by 8:30 a.m, if you start in Srinagar. So, you get away from the traffic on the Magam road. Make it to Tangmarg by 10 AM. Also, hire a 4×4 now in case the road gets stopped by snow! Stay at Drung for about 1.5 hours.
After Drung, go to Gulmarg. That way, you don’t feel like you lost time at the end of the day. Go for a gondola ride in Gulmarg or do nothing in the snow. Come back to Srinagar in the evening.
If staying in Gulmarg, visit Drung in the morning. Therefore, light is better for photos. Return by noon and relax at the hotel. HCK recommends combining both spots for better value.
What to Pack for Drung Waterfall Visit?
What to pack depends on the season. But you need to get really ready for winter.
Winter Must-Haves:
- Snow boots that fit well
- Heavy outerwear and a warm lining
- Wool cap and gloves
- Sunglasses for the glare of snow
- Extra socks
As the snow melts in the shoes, carry a small towel. Also, don’t wear shoes with smooth soles.
Summer must-haves:
- Light coat
- Shoes for sports
- Bottle of water
- Simple snacks
So, packing properly cuts down on problems.
Food Options Near Drung Water
In the area where you park, there are small tea shops. There won’t be any big places, though. You can get tea, Maggi noodles, cooked eggs, and bread from the area. Also, if it’s cold outside in the morning, have Harissa at Tangmarg and then go to Drung. The famous winter dish Harissa comes from Kashmir and is made from meat paste.
The food in Tangmarg is a little better than in Drung. A lot of tourists eat there after their stay. There are little dhabas that serve chicken soup, rice, and rajma.
When you go on a trip with kids, bring some dry snacks. And don’t leave trash around. Local governments will fine people who throw away plastic.
Common Mistakes Tourists Make
A lot of people don’t pay attention to weather reports. They are in Tangmarg without snow chains. The cops then catch them. Some people also wear sport shoes in the winter. In the end, that path leads to slipping on icy rocks.
Another mistake is leaving late. Leaving Srinagar after 11 AM gets really crowded. It takes half a day to get there.
Also, people don’t think about how cold it is. When it’s windy, even sunny winter days are cold. So always put on clothes.
Last but not least, stop taking selfies by going up a frozen waterfall. The ice can break. Photos are not as important as your safety.
Tip from HCK
In the winter, you should always add extra time. Snowfall could quickly block the road. So, planning that is open is a good idea. Also, ask a local driver at least one day before you arrive about the snow level.
Every morning, Hum Chale Kashmir checks the roads for their guests. So, our visitors don’t have to worry about things at the last minute. We also have safe 4×4 cars with snow chains. That makes sure travel is safe.
Proof Element – Why Trust HCK?
More than 500 winter trips have been planned by Hum Chale Kashmir in the Gulmarg–Tangmarg area. In fact, our drivers are locals who live in this area. They know what dark ice and steep hills are. Many other guests who called random taxis were late. But HCK trips are safer because we check for snow reports every day.
We also guide guests about winter Harissa timing in Tangmarg. Therefore, they experience local culture properly.
Ready to Visit Drung Water?
Plan a trip for January if you want to take pictures of frozen waterfalls. Going in the summer is better if you want to get there by car. Pick the one you like best and stick with it.
Give Hum Chale Kashmir a call for the full Gulmarg and Drung deal. We also change the plans based on how much snow there is.
Call or text HCK right now to make sure your trip goes smoothly.
FAQs related to “Drung Waterfall – Kashmir”
Yes. It is one of the best winter spots near Gulmarg.
Yes, mostly in January and early February.
Yes. Snow chains are required during heavy snowfall.
Around ₹30–₹50 per person.
Yes, but ensure proper winter clothing.
Around 14 km.
No. Snowfall happens in winter only.
Only small tea stalls are available.
Less crowded than Gulmarg.
Yes. Many travelers do that.
Yes, if roads are clear and footwear is proper.
Snow boots with strong grip.
Yes. There is no restriction.
Basic facilities may be available but not guaranteed.
Often no. 4×4 vehicles are needed.
January is usually best.
Yes, but access depends on snow.
1 to 2 hours is enough.
Network is weak in heavy snow.
Yes, small sledging options may be available in winter.
Also read: Tulip Garden, Badamwari Garden
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