Skiing is a thrilling and adventurous sport and is quite popular in India. The country’s majestic Himalayan mountain range offers some of the best skiing destinations in Asia.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you can find a suitable spot for skiing in India. Each of these spots has its own charm and attractions.
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In this article, you will get to know about some of the most popular skiing destinations in India,
Let’s take a closer look at each of these locations and what they have to offer for skiing enthusiasts.
1. Gulmarg
| State | Jammu and Kashmir |
| Best time for skiing | December – February |
| Price range | Starts from ₹800 |
The ski resort in Gulmarg is at an altitude of 2950 meters. It is the third highest in the world and is famed all around the globe for its powdery snow runs. You can enjoy the stunning scenery of the alpine mountains as you glide down the slopes.
The skiing journey starts at the foothills of Apharwat. The mountain has two phases: Phase I connects Gulmarg to Kungdori, and Phase II connects Kungdori to the Apharwat peaks. You can reach both phases by taking a gondola ride from Gulmarg to Kungdori and then to Apharwat.
Gulmarg slopes are for both newbies and professionals. The easy slopes go for about 7.5 kilometers and are on the Apharwat. You will find the intermediate stretching for 16.5 kilometers and the difficult one for 6 kilometers.
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Getting an instructor is necessary while going skiing, especially if you are a newbie. There are rental shops where you can rent equipment and gear up for the adventure. The cost for the equipment is around ₹800 per day and if you are going for an instructor, they charge about ₹2500 per day. You can also ski at night and admire the beauty of the night sky.
Apart from skiing try your hands on sledding and snowboarding. These are all exciting and enjoyable ways to spend your time in the snow. The best time to visit the resort is from mid-January to the end of February.
2. Auli
| State | Uttrakhand |
| Best time for skiing | November – March |
| Price range | Starts from ₹500 |
Auli is one of the most famed ski resorts in India. It covers a massive area and is situated at a lofty altitude of 2000 to 3000 meters above sea level. From this place, you can get a spectacular view of Mana Parvat, Mount Nanda Devikamat, Nar Parvat, and countless other majestic mountain ranges.
The snow-wrapped slopes act as training grounds for Paramilitary forces. It was also rated as one of the best skiing grounds in the globe by Austrian and French experts. The long slopes are suitable for both beginners and experts.
In addition to the thrilling skiing adventure, you will be mesmerized by the natural beauty of Auli. Snow-dusted conifers and oak forests sprawl over a large area and look like a painting on canvas.
The ideal time for skiing is from November to late March when the snow is fresh and crisp.
3. Pahalgam
| State | Jammu and Kashmir |
| Best time for skiing | December to March |
| Price range | Starts from ₹2000 |
Pahalgam, the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is another sought-after and splendid destination for skiing in India. The prime spot is the Aru Valley, which is a short distance from Pahalgam.
The captivating landscape and the peaceful atmosphere create a perfect setting for skiing. The place is at a soaring height of 3400 meters and it is not advisable for those who have altitude sickness.
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It feels exhilarating to glide through the snow with speed. Behind you, there will be a backdrop of lofty mountains adorned with pine trees. The cost per person starts at ₹2000 and the best time for the adventure is from December to March.
Make sure to wear good footwear and all the other necessities for the activity will be provided at the site. You can also enroll in the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports, where you can acquire the skills to ski like a professional. Trekking is another exciting activity that you can indulge in after skiing.
4. Kufri
| State | Himachal Pradesh |
| Best time for skiing | December to March |
| Price range | Starts from ₹300 |
Kufri is a winter wonderland where you can experience the thrill of skiing and other snow activities. It is located 16 kilometers away from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. The place is also known as ‘the skiers’ paradise’ because of its smooth and wide slopes that cater to all levels of skiers.
You can easily find numerous setups that offer skiing facilities and training in Kufri. You can learn the basics and the tricks of skiing from professional instructors who will guide you throughout the process. The price is very reasonable at ₹300 per hour for each person.
The whole area is covered with cedar and pine forests that create a serene and refreshing atmosphere. The snow-capped peaks and the clear blue sky make the scenery even more enchanting. You will feel like you are in a magical place.
One of the best things about Kufri is that you can enjoy the panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan ranges from here. You can see the Shivalik range, Pirpanjal Ranges, Badrinath, and Kedarnath peaks from different angles. These are some of the most sacred and highest mountains in India.
Kufri is a perfect destination for anyone who wants to have a memorable and fun-filled winter vacation.
5. Yumthang
| State | Sikkim |
| Best time for skiing | January to March |
| Price range | Starts from ₹1000 |
Situated at an altitude of 3575 meters, the Yumthang Valley is enveloped by mountain ranges and serene nature. The landscape changes with the seasons, offering a variety of stunning views.
In winter, the valley turns into a snowy wonderland, with the slopes glistening in the sun. This makes it an ideal destination for skiing enthusiasts who can choose from different trails and challenges. Sliding on the snow amid the crisp air and the soothing sounds of nature is a blissful experience.
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The best time to ski in Yumthang Valley is from January to March when the valley is covered in thick snow and the entire place looks magical.
You don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear, as you can rent everything you need from the professionals. They will provide you with boots, skis, helmets, and poles. The bindings are fitted by them as well. Cover yourself with warm clothes and make sure to wear goggles with the correct fitting. The cost per person starts from anywhere around ₹1000.
Visit the valley in winter and treat yourself to a memorable experience of skiing, along with other activities like hiking, trekking, and mountain biking.
6. Rohtang Pass
| State | Himachal Pradesh |
| Best time for skiing | April – October |
| Price range | Starts from ₹1000 |
Perched at an elevation of 3979 meters, it is one of the famous mountain passes that features natural beauty in its absolute raw form. The snow-covered slopes and the rugged landscape offer a breathtaking view.
It is also a perfect place for skiing enthusiasts, as the weather conditions are favorable for this thrilling sport. Ski through the sprawling landscapes and breath in the refreshing air surrounding you. At this site, National level Ski competitions are also arranged.
You will receive all the necessary equipment and guidance for a reasonable price of ₹1800-₹2000 per person. As you ski through the vast terrain, you will feel a surge of enthusiasm and excitement. The glides and movements will become more captivating as you proceed.
You can also try mountain biking and sledding here. The best time to visit is during the months of April, May, till October.
7. Munsiyari
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Best time for skiing | November – March |
| Price range | Starts from ₹500 |
Munsiyari is a hidden gem in the state of Uttarakhand becoming more and more popular among ski enthusiasts, not only due to its startling beauty but also due to the adventures it offers. Nestled at 3860 meters, this place offers a spectacular view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
You can ski on two of the most incredible slopes in the region, Khaliya Top and Betulidhar. These slopes are smooth and wide, and provide a thrilling experience of skiing under the clear blue sky. You can also witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset from these slopes and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
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You can choose from different skiing packages that start from ₹500 per person. The ideal time to visit Munsiyari is from March to June and September to October when the weather is pleasant and the slopes are ready.
You can also explore the other activities of this place, such as trekking.
These are some famous locations for skiing in India. So, if you were searching for a ski destination that will sweep you off your feet, you can visit any one of them.
There are also several other adventure sports that you can try in India like Bunjee Jumping and Paragliding.
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