India Is A Skiing Delight
Nonetheless, the adrenalin rush of flying down the slopes of the looming Himalayas is second to none. This sport has gained immense popularity in the country as there is no dearth of ski friendly slopes - be it in the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh, or the North Eastern states. In fact, just like an abundance of cheap tickets to India, skiing destinations are also cropping up by the dozen.
The scenic destination of Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir immediately comes to mind when one thinks about skiing in India. Boasting the world’s highest golf course, Gulmarg is perhaps the mecca for skiing. One can choose from 200m to 2,213m high slopes. Ski lifts and ski chairs make sure that you do not have to trudge up those tiring slopes after that exhilarating glide down the hill. One does not need to carry skiing gear as everything from friendly free instructors to goggles, sticks, skis and other paraphernalia can be hired easily.
Auli in Garhwal is another top notch destination with skiing slopes ranking among the world’s best. February and March are the best months to get caught up in skiing frenzy as the place hosts the national championships during these months. Auli offers spell binding views of majestic peaks like Dunagiri, Kamet, and Nanda Devi. One may also take a week or fortnight long skiing course at Auli GMVN. Those who want to combine their skiing vacation with serene lakeside camping would do well to head to the spellbinding meadow of Dayara Bugyal. For an isolated skiing experience in the wilderness, Mundali proves ideal. Many also choose Kumaon’s Munsiyari due to its proximity to the heavenly trekking routes of Ralam, Namik, and Milam glaciers.
The captivatingly beautiful hill state of Himachal Pradesh also abounds with hot favourite skiing spots like Kufri, Manali, and the highly acclaimed Narkanda. As one enters Kufri, it dawns that ski holidays here are not just all about skiing. Though, skiing of course is the highlight, many choose to set out on long horse or yak safaris to admire the miles and miles of captivating scenery. Similarly, the surreal beauty of Manali makes for a fairytale kind of skiing experience, especially during the winter carnival held in February.
An experience of skiing in India is bound to be memorable. Probably, there is no other place in the world, with the exception of forsaken Nepal, where one can indulge in fantastic sports like heli skiing without burning a hole in the pocket.
