Despite the challenges, it was a relief to start ascending the mountain road late that night into Gulmarg. The mountains were hidden by thick clouds, and the forecasted storm had arrived. The Gondola that runs up to 13,800 feet, just below the summit of Apharwat Peak at 14,403 feet, was to be closed during the storm. This pushed us down below the town of Gulmarg into the mature and perfectly spaced pine trees of Babarishi.