Skiing has been around for thousands of years playing multiple roles such as mode of transport, recreational activity, and competitive winter sport. People living in the higher altitudes have derived…
Blessed with the mighty Himalayan range, the extreme northern parts of India receive a decent amount of snowfall throughout the winter. With the winters marking its end, India turns into a winter sports hotspot for adventure junkies from all over the world.
Indian states like Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are home to some of the best skiing grounds in the world. If you are planning a trip to India during the month of February or early March, indulging in winter sports activities like Skiing and Snowboarding comes with its own set of perks. Along with the thrilling experience of skiing on fresh snow, you get to enjoy breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, clear blue skies, and everlasting memories.
Here are some of the top destinations that you may consider for skiing in India:
Gulmarg
Gulmarg is considered the best skiing destination in India. Just 90 minutes of drive from Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, the scenic Gulmarg boasts around 6 skiing slopes for beginners as well as professionals. Known for its powdery snow, this skiing destination is best suited for winter adventure sports like skiing and snowboarding. The Cable Car system named Gulmarg Gondola will take you to the skiing spots and skiing gears can be rented too at affordable prices. A plenty of resorts and other stay options are available in the area.
Auli
Situated in the beautiful Indian state of Uttarakhand, Auli is another winter sports hotspot loved by tourists. It got widely famous among skiing enthusiasts after it had the honour of hosting the SAF Winter Games in 2011. A 500 meter long ski lift and an 800 meter long chair lift make it convenient for skiers to reach the top of the skiing slopes that range from 2000 meters to 3000 meters in height. Auli is perfect for both beginners as well as professional skiers. There are a number of luxury resorts and hotels as well for an ideal stay with family and friends.
Solang Valley
Just 14 km outside the popular Himalayan tourist destination Manali which is located in Himachal Pradesh, Solang Valley or Solang Nala is a famous winter sports destination. The amazing snowy slope attracts a hoard of travellers every year including beginners and professionals for adventure sports activities like skiing and snowboarding. A 1.3 km long cable car way and options to rent skiing and snowboarding equipment are available here. You can either stay at the only luxury resort in Solang named Solang Valley Resort or book a stay at any of the resorts and hotels in Manali.
Narkanda
Narkanda is one of the key skiing destinations in India. Located in Himachal Pradesh, it is around 65 kms from Shimla, one of the major hill stations in India. The place is known for its incredible slopes that are perfect for those interested in learning as well as for professionals. HPTDC (Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation) conducts skiing and snowboarding courses here every year. And the beautiful and virgin landscapes around Narkanda make it a desirable tourist destination.
Kufri
Kufri is another well known place for winter sports in India. Just a short trip from Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, it attracts a plenty of adventure junkies as well as those looking to just play in the snow. The snow covered gentle slopes of Kufri are best for beginners and amateurs to enjoy skiing and snowboarding. You can also indulge in sliding down the slopes on sledge here. There are plenty of luxury accommodation options available in and around Shimla.