Skiing in India
Explore the Snowy Slopes of the Himalayas
Skiing in India is the most sought-after winter activity. In this blog, we will be explaining some details about skiing in India.
What makes India the best destination for skiing is its Himalayas. The Himalayas receive snowfall every year because of their high altitude. The long mountain ranges provide a better opportunity for skiers to have long descents.
The Himalayan region particularly Kashmir has remained famous for all the snow activities.
In India, skiing over the years has improved both in infrastructure and the skiing trails. From baby slopes where beginners can learn and practice skiing to the backcountry and heliskiing, India has developed quite a good skiing infrastructure.
The best time to go for ice skiing in India is in the winter months – from December to March. Enjoy your Christmas and New Year with your loved ones. From gliding down the slopes to the sightseeing of snow-covered Himalayan landscape is a heavenly treat to the senses. Skiing in India comes under the auspicious Indian Mountaineering Foundation.
We will touch upon some of the best skiing destinations in India. And also add some specific information about skiing in general. This should serve as your complete guide for skiing here in India. For further details, you can directly contact us and book your ski tours.
Cliffhangers has comprehensive skiing packages for all levels of skiers. From beginners to seasoned skiers, from day skiing to month-long skiing expeditions, we cover every part of this winter sport here in India.
Our instructors and guides are qualified and certified by the Government Authorities. They all are medical first responders and avalanche coursed which ensures the safety of our clients across the ski slopes of India. Let’s start this blog with the best skiing places in India.
Top Best Destination for Skiing in India.
1. Gulmarg
Gulmarg is so famous all over India that it needs to be introduced. It is the most beautiful and the best-visited winter destination in India. It is the mountainous region of Kashmir. And is heaven for skiers and winter adventurers. Gulmarg sees a huge influx of tourists both from India and outside India. The snow here is of supreme quality which suits the skiing for long runs and high altitudes. This place gets abuzz right from December until the end of March. Gulmarg skiing is one of the best winter sport to enjoy in Kashmir .
This place is hands down among the best places for skiing in India. All other places fall completely short in comparison to this destination.As winter starts from December to february ,it is the best time to visit Gulmarg.
It has long ski slopes and the infrastructure is quite developed to host scores of skiers here. Skiing comes under the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department.
It is the best place to spend your honeymoon, birthday, Christmas, and New Year. There is a New Year carnival in Gulmarg every year. Gulmarg is also famous for snowboarding in India. It has the best snowboarding snow quality and Cliffhangers India’s qualified snowboard trainers will help you to finish learning snowboarding.
Best time to visit Gulmarg: Gulmarg is best visited in all seasons. But if you wish to enjoy the skiing and snow in Gulmarg then the season starts from mid-December to mid-March. The prime months of cold and snow are January and February.
How to reach Gulmarg
1. Via Air: Srinagar Airport is the only airport in Kashmir. Once you reach the airport, take a cab direct to Gulmarg. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Gulmarg. The road from Tangmarg is hilly is often used by expert drivers only owing to the icy snow on the road.
2. Via Railway: Jammu railway station is the nearest railway station to Kashmir. From Jammu railway station, take a shared cab or a government-run bus to Srinagar. And from Srinagar again take a shared cab to Gulmarg.
3. Via Road: You can take a direct cab or a government-run bus from Delhi to Srinagar. And from Srinagar take a shared cab to Gulmarg. Kashmir is connected to all the places across India by road.
2. Sonamarg
Sonamarg again falls in Kashmir. This is a breathtaking offbeat skiing destination. If you want to avoid the crowd of Gulmarg, visit Sonamarg. This place has equally beautiful slopes and mountain ranges. Situated towards the Baltal side of Kashmir, Sonamarg was very famous in the 70s and 80s as a skiing destination.
However owing to the bad road and closure of roads during the winters, it waned its popularity. Thanks to the newly constructed tunnels and roads, this place is now accessible even during winters and you can enjoy the best skiing here in Sonamarg.
The ski slope against the background of Thajwas Mountain Range is one of the best views you can have of the snow landscape in India.
Cliffhangers has a ski base present in Sonamarg where we make skiers run down the slopes of Thajwas Range.
Best time to visit Sonamarg: Sonamarg is best visited in winter. Owing to its fantastic snow-peaked mountain ranges, this place is heaven in winter. The best months to visit Sonamarg for skiing are from December to March. However, January and February months are extremely cold months. You will have to ensure you take the best of winter and skiing clothes before you visit this place.
How to reach Sonamarg
Via Air: Srinagar Airport is the nearest and only airport to Sonamarg. Once you reach the airport, hire a direct cab direct to Sonamarg. You can take a shared cab also, however, you will have to change the cabs at a couple of places. The shared cabs are the cheapest way to reach Sonamarg.
Via Railway: Jammu railway station is the nearest railway station to Kashmir. From Jammu railway station take a shared cab or a government-run bus to Srinagar. And from Srinagar again take a shared cab to Sonamarg.
Via Road: You can take a direct cab or a government-run bus from Delhi to Srinagar, or you can aslo hire a private cab from Kashmir taxi service. And from Srinagar take a shared cab to Sonamarg. Make sure you check the weather advisory because coming to Kashmir by road in winter. The rough weather caused the closure of the Jammu Jammu-Srinagar highway.
3. Auli
Uttarakhand is already established as a favorite place for adventure seekers. From trekking to mountaineering to rafting to other activities, this place has all the adventure in the country. In winter apart from its famous winter treks, this place has one of the best skiing destinations in India which is in Auli. It was the Auli skiing destination that hosted the 2011 SAF Winter Games.
Auli has quite a variation in altitude in its slopes. They normally range between 200m and 3000m. This gives quite a room for different skiers i.e. both beginners and seasoned skiers. However, Uttarakhand is more a heaven for trekkers than for skiers.
Best time to visit Auli: Auli is an all-season and all-month destination. But, to enjoy skiing and winter activities the best months to visit this place are between November and March
How to reach Auli
Via Air: The nearest airport to Auli in Dehradun is Jolly Grant, From the airport one can directly take a cab to Auli.
Via Rail: Dehradun Railway Junction is the closest railway station to the Auli skiing destination. From the railway station board a shared cab or a bus to reach Auli.
Via Road: Daily buses are going from Delhi to Dehradun. Take any government bus or shared cab to reach Dehradun and from there take a bus or cab to reach Auli.
What is the distance between Dehradun and Auli? The total road distance from Dehradun to Auli is around 300km.
4. Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass that is motorable. The pass falls largely in Himachal Pradesh and connects Kullu valley to Spiti valley.
The altitude of the pass is 3978m. The best feature of Rohtang Pass is the high altitude. And the fantastic mountain ranges of Pir Panjal Range of which Rohtang Pass is a part. This makes it the ideal place for skiing. This place receives snowfall and is a very much loved skiing destination.
Almost all the travelers who visit Manali, do visit Rohtang Pass. It is surely a treat for ski lovers and it gives breathtaking mountains and panoramic views. This place is also becoming famous for heliskiing like Gulmarg. Like Gulmarg snowboarding in India is also done at Rohtang Pass.
How far is Rohtang Pass from Manali: This is a short distance of 51km. But, the road is uphill and takes more time than what it takes to cover 51km of flat road.
Best time to visit Rohtang Pass: The ideal time to visit Rohtang Pass to see snow is between December to February.
How to Reach Rohtang Pass
Via Air: The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar. From Bhuntar, you can take a direct cab or bus to Rohtang Pass.
Via Road: You can book a deluxe bus or shared cab from Delhi to Manali and from Manali to Rohtang pass.
5. Kufri
Kufri is also one of the fantastic winter destinations in India. This is a winter gem situated in Himachal Pradesh. This is heaven for skiers who live in the surrounding states of Kufri. The snow-capped mountains and range are best suited for skiing slopes and running.
Both advanced and beginners’ skiing is done here in Kufri. This place receives a large flow of skiers during winters. And apart from skiing, there are other winter sports activities that you can do here in Kufri. This is quite a good place to do skiing in India.
Skiing in Kufri is being done right since 1819 from the times of the British Era.
Best time to Visit Kufri: Kufri is an all-month destination. However, to experience snow and winter sports the ideal months are December, January, and February.
How to reach Kufri
Via Air: The nearest airport to Kufri is Jubarbhatti Airport in Shimla. From this airport book your shared cab or government-run bus to Kufri. The distance is about 85km from the airport.
Via Road: All types of cabs and buses are available from Delhi to Manali and from Manali to Kufri. The drive to Kufri is a delightful experience with the best Himalayan view.
Via Rail: The closest railway station to Kufri is Kalka Railway Station. You can get any road transportation from the railway station to Kufri.
Why you should do Skiing in India.
India is a country of experience. It is a world in itself. Besides skiing and enjoying the rides on the best slopes of ski, India will present you with the best travel experience from its landscape to culture to hospitality. Here are some of the significant reasons you should go skiing in India.
- Amazing Landscape: Skiing lets you go to the mountainous regions of India. The Himalayan regions in winter are all covered in snow. They look straight from the winter fairyland. You seem to have landed in a dreamland with so much magnificent beauty of nature surrounding you. In Gulmarg, while going up on a gondola ride, you get to see the unimaginable snow landscape across the world.
- Varied Ski Slopes and Terrain: India offers a diverse range of skiing terrain, from gentle slopes suitable for beginners to challenging runs for experienced skiers. This diversity caters to skiers of all levels. You can learn skiing here from the basics and go up to the backcountry skiing. Heli skiing in Gulmarg is quite popular among Europeans who want to explore the ungroomed off-beat slopes of skiing.
- Off-Piste and Heli-Skiing: In India, Gulmarg offers excellent opportunities for off-piste skiing and heli-skiing, which are quite thrilling experiences for advanced skiers.
- Explore Cultural Experience: India is known across the world for its cultural experience. Wherever you want to ski in India, you will see the local culture and immerse yourself in the local life. They offer you insight into different traditions and customs to add to your travel experience. You will enjoy different cuisines on your ski tours here in India.
- Affordable Ski Pricing: Skiing in India is much cheaper and more affordable when compared to the European and American ski destinations. You can go skiing here at a less cost.
- Snow Activities: In addition to skiing, you can experience a variety of snow experiences here in India some of them are Snowmobile, Sledging, ATV riding, etc.
- Least Crowded: Indian ski slopes are the least crowded when compared to the other ski resorts of the world. There is a huge rush of skiers on the slopes here. Enjoy your ski runs on the quiet ski slopes here.
FAQ's
Yes, in case you are unable to go to the Himalayas for skiing and want to enjoy skiing in the artificial snow. You can try skiing at Snow World in Delhi NCR, and DLF Mall of India in Noida.
The best institute to learn skiing courses in India is Nehru Institue of Mountaineering and Skiing. They teach skiing on the breathtaking slopes of Gulmarg and also they the cost-effective skiing course packages.
Another institute to enroll in for Skiing courses is Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports. This is at Pahalgam Kashmir. Also, skiing courses can be done at Auli Basic Level Skiing Course situated at Auli.
Yes, Skiing is available in India and done across the winter season. You can visit India in winter if you are looking for skiing activity. The winter months start from December to March. In these months you can ski in India across the Himalayas.
There are many places to ski in India. However, the most famous and best resort to do skiing in Gulmarg. Gulmarg is a fantastic ski location with the best snow quality in the world. People from across the globe throng Gulmarg in winter to enjoy skiing.
It is safe to ski in Gulmarg. The Gulmarg ski resort has all the safety and security measures that make skiing here safe and thriving. There is proper ski slope management with the best avalanche and snow clearance teams. What makes Gulmarg skiing safe is the dedicated and well-equipped ski patrol teams.
Yes, beginners can ski in Gulmarg. It has the best baby slopes below apharwat mountain. A lot of beginners come here every year to learn skiing. Cliffhangers India is the best ski company here that has made people learn skiing for a decade now.
In India, skiing cost is quite high. The reason is that the flow of skiers during winter makes the demand high. However, with Cliffhangers, you will get affordable ski packages for families, groups, and solo skiers.
The cost of skiing lessons in India can vary depending on the destination, the duration of the lessons, and whether they are private or group lessons.
On average, group lessons for beginners can range from INR 2,000 to INR 3,000 per day. Private lessons tend to be more expensive, with prices ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 or more per day.
There are many skiing destinations in India. However, Gulmarg is the most famous and the best option for skiing here. It is renowned across the world for its snow quality and backcountry slopes. The other places to ski are Manali in Himachal Pradesh, Auli in Uttarakhand, Narkanda in Himachal Pradesh, and Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Indian Skiing season is during the winter months. The season is from December to March. During these months there is plenty of snowfall which makes it ideal for skiing. The higher slopes get the thick layers of snow which are ideal for skiing.
Skis: Choose skis that match your skill level and the type of skiing you plan to do. Rental shops at the ski resorts can provide skis for beginners to advanced skiers. This is an essential ski equipment.
Ski Boots: Properly fitted ski boots are essential for comfort and control while skiing. Rental shops can help you find the right pair.
Poles: Ski poles assist with balance and control. They are typically included when you rent ski equipment.
Safety Gear: Helmets, goggles, and gloves are crucial for safety and protection from the elements.
Apparel: Dress in layers to stay warm. You’ll need a waterproof jacket, ski pants, thermal layers, and moisture-wicking base layers.
Ski Pass: Most ski resorts require a ski pass or lift ticket for access to the slopes. These can be purchased at the resort or online.
Yes, you can rent skiing equipment at most of the popular skiing destinations in India. Ski rental shops offer a range of equipment, from skis and boots to safety gear and clothing. Cliffhangers has its own Ski Shops where you can rent the equipment.
No, you don’t need to be an experienced skier to enjoy skiing in India. We have the complete beginners’ course where someone who has not even tried skiing once, can learn and enjoy the rides.
The clothes come under the essential part of your ski tour. Dressing appropriately for skiing is crucial to stay warm and comfortable on the slopes. Here’s what you should wear:
Waterproof Jacket: A good-quality, waterproof ski jacket is essential to keep you dry and warm.
Ski Pants: Ski pants should be insulated and waterproof to protect against the cold and wet snow.
Thermal Layers: Wear moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your skin.
Gloves: Insulated, waterproof gloves are essential to keep your hands warm and dry.
Socks: Choose moisture-wicking, warm socks to keep your feet comfortable.
Ski Boots: Ensure your boots fit well and are warm and waterproof.
Goggles: Goggles protect your eyes from the sun and snow, improving visibility on the slopes.
Helmet: A ski helmet is important for safety on the slopes.
Hat: Wear a warm hat to keep your head and ears covered.
Neck Gaiter or Balaclava: These can protect your face and neck from the cold wind.
Sunscreen: Don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s reflection off the snow.
Accommodation: Accommodation costs can range from budget guesthouses (INR 4000-6000 per night) to mid-range hotels (INR 7000-9000 per night) and luxury resorts (INR 20000 and above per night).
Skiing Equipment: Renting skiing equipment can cost between INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 per day.
Ski Pass: Ski passes or lift tickets range from INR 500 to INR 2000 per day, depending on the resort and duration.
Food: Dining costs can vary. Budget travelers can expect to spend around INR 500-1,000 per day on food, while those opting for more upscale dining can spend more.
Skiing Lessons: If you’re taking skiing lessons, add the cost of lessons (group or private) to your budget.
Transportation: Costs for transportation to and from the skiing destination will vary depending on your location and mode of travel.
Miscellaneous: Be prepared for additional expenses like local transportation, equipment rental, and entertainment.
The costs mentioned above are the approximate estimations. They can vary depending on the destination, duration, season, etc.
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