Top 5 Skiing Destinations in India!

Skiing is a much-loved adventure activity all around the world. During the last few years, a large number of takers for this snow sport have come up in India as well. Even though the sport is in a nascent stage in the country, it is on its way to become the favourite winter sport of the people in the Sub-continent. Tourists from not just India but also from other countries are flocking to India to try a hand or two at this amazing sport.

All thanks to its varied geography and topography, India has become home to a good number of skiing destinations that are nestled in picturesque valleys and landscapes. When you ski in India, bright white snow, majestic peaks, tall pine trees, cascading rivers, pristine lakes, and enchanting gorges give you company. The cool wind blows on your face as you slide down over freshly fallen slow and undertake an adventure of a lifetime.

The best-known skiing destinations in India lie in the mighty Himalayas. The region is home to gigantic mountainous expanses which are adorned with thick layers of snow.

Below we walk you through the top five skiing destinations in the country:

Gulmarg

Set in the gorgeous Kashmir Valley, Gulmarg is the most popular skiing destination in India. It provides thrill and excitement to adventure enthusiasts at par with international skiing destinations. Located at an altitude of 2730 m, Gulmarg provides opportunities for not just skiing but for other winter sports as well.  Srinagar is the nearest airport which is served by regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Ahmedabad.

Manali

The twin town of of Kullu-Manali in Himachal Pradesh is tourist destination par excellence. It is widely hailed as the honeymoon destination of the country. A large number of winter sports activities are organized out of which skiing is accorded the highest prominence. Ample snow formation takes place in Manali during winters. A number of amazing ski slopes are also available in the nearby Solang Valley. The entire experience is magical. January and February are the best months for skiing.

Auli

Auli is a small but critically-acclaimed winter sports destination in the Uttaranchal state of India. It is a ski village which attracts enthusiasts from far and wide. Reaching Auli is not very easy and requires an overnight camp when is coming from Delhi (500 km from Delhi). The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (abour 250 km away). The entire effort is worth it because once you reach Auli the ski there, the experience is completely spellbinding. There is abundance of snow. Buses and jeeps and taxis can be hired from Dehradun, Rishikesh and Haridwar to reach Auli.

Narkanda

Narkanda is another popular skiing destination in Himachal Pradesh. The pleasant ambience and gigantic slopes of the place leave the visitor mesmerized. The town of Narkanda, situated at an altitude of 2700 m, gets enveloped in snow during the winters. The skiing season commences from December and lasts till March. There are a range of slopes which means that from a beginner to an expert – everyone can try skiing here.

Rohtang

At an altitude of 3978 m, Rohtang is another very popular skiing track in India. At the same time, it is a difficult and challenging track. Rohtang Pass is the most difficult pass to cross in not just India but in the world. It has a bonus for skiing lovers as the skiing season here is extended and starts from autumn.