Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is just 48 km from Srinagar, to its southwest. The reserve has an area of 180 sq km, and an altitudinal range of 2,400 - 4,300 meters above sea level. Fauna includes Himalayan musk deer, red fox, brown and black bear. among avifauna are upland birds, both resident and migratory. The best time for animal viewing is September to March and for bird viewing March to May. It is famous for retaining several rare and endangered species such as the musk deer, and a rich and varied avifauna.

In winter high-altitude bird species move to the lower valleys and into the tourist's purview.Cinnamon sparrows,the black and yellow grosbeak,black bulbuls and monal pheasants(the male splendidly coloured) may be seen now.At this time,too large troops of the impressive Himalayan gray langur visit for the duration.