Gulmarg Golf Course Tips: 15 Things to Know Before You Play

Wear a collared shirt, trousers or tailored golf shorts, and soft-spike or flat-soled shoes that won't mark the greens. Jeans are out of place on the course. Add a fleece for the morning, even in June, and a rain shell from July to August. At 2,650 m the UV is strong, so pack SPF 50 sunscreen, a cap and sunglasses.

Yes. At about 2,650 m (8,700 ft) the thinner air cuts drag, and golfers gain roughly 1 to 2% carry for every 1,000 ft, so expect about 10 to 15% more distance. A 150-yard 7-iron becomes an 8-iron, or a 9-iron downhill. Most visitors hit one club less into the greens and still go long on the first few holes.

Yes. Golf sets and balls can be hired at the clubhouse and from golf professionals registered with the tourism department, so you don't need to bring your own clubs. Ask your hotel to reserve a set the evening before in June and on long weekends. Left-handed sets are scarce. Bring your own glove and shoes.

Visitors are expected to take one, and on Gulmarg's sloping fairways a caddie who knows how far the ball runs saves you several shots. The caddie fee is fixed at the clubhouse. A cash tip at the end of the round is customary.

October is one of the best months, with dry ground, clear skies and few groups, but the days are short, so start 18 holes by about 11 am or play 9. November depends on the first snowfall. Play is usually possible only early in the month, so treat it as a bonus rather than a plan.

Stop play at the first thunder or lightning, put your clubs down and walk to the clubhouse or another building. Don't shelter under isolated pines. Storms build most often on July and August afternoons, which is another reason to tee off early. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before restarting.