Due to its wondrous natural diversity, India is one of the best places to indulge in some great adventure sports. There are mountains to go trekking or mountaineering on, serene valleys and river banks to go camping to, or beautiful sky above and amazing nature below to go paragliding or bungee jumping and of course, there is enough snow for those who love skiing. Winters are the best time for skiing because it is that time when snow is available in abundance. You can go to one of the most renowned places for skiing in India from the list below:
1. Solang Valley
This is a very popular valley in Himachal Pradesh for tourists and adventure junkies alike. There are a number of adventure sports you can participate in. No wonder, then, Solang Valley is one of the most popular adventure tourism destinations not just in India but all over the world. There are some very great ski slopes here where you can indulge in some great skiing. The period from December to February, the winter months are best to go skiing as it is during this time that the snow thickens making it favourable for skiing. During this time, a skiing festival is also organized which takes the fun to another level. It is also close to Manali and hence those who visit the place can also head to the valley for skiing. Those who wish to learn, there are enough workshops held here to teach skiing.
2. Kufri
This is another place in Himachal Pradesh which has facilities for skiing. The slopes are gentle but covered with layers of thick snow, which facilitates some great skiing. In winter months, you will find skiers all over the world indulging in skiing here at Kurfi. Along with experts and professional skiers, you will also find novices and amateurs enjoying skiing here. A winter festival is held at Kurfi annually that makes skiing all the more wonderful.
3. Narkanda
This is yet another skiing destination in Himachal Pradesh. What makes Narkanda the best among all is the different levels of skiing slopes found only here. Those who are just learning the first lessons of skiing can ski at the easy slopes while for the experienced skiers, there are the steeper slopes. Also, those who wish to start their skiing experience can do so at Narkanda as there are many skiing courses available for beginners. It is located just 65 kms from Shimla, the state capital and hence those who visit the capital can also spend time skiing at Narkanda.
4. Auli
When it comes to winter sports, Uttarakhand can’t be far behind. Auli in Uttarakhand is definitely one of the most popular and undoubtedly one of the best skiing destinations in India. The place is well-maintained and offers all facilities for a fun and amazing skiing experience. The slopes lie at a height of 2000 to 3000 m with abundant snow. Also ski-lifts are available for those who wish to reach the mountain peaks. Auli is also one of the major stops for winter sports and it was here that the first ever SAF winter games were held.
5. Gulmarg
Of course, can Jammu and Kashmir be far behind in winter sports? With its beautiful scenic surroundings, Gulmarg is rated as the top skiing destination in India. Skiers either start from Kongdori or from Aparwahat Peak. The height of slopes at Kongdori is around 400 m but at Aparwahat, it is exactly double. That is why, the beginners can try the Kongdori peak for skiing and the experienced can go for a challenging skiing experience at Aparwahat Peak.
6. Pahalgam
When you say skiing at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, the precise place referred to is Aru. With amazing natural beauty and the serenity it offers, it is one of the best places to experience spectacular skiing. There are also skiing courses for beginners and thus, even tourists who are not that adventure savvy, can let go of their guard and indulge in some fun skiing. But beware, skiing is addictive and you may come here for more!
7. Munsiyari
Popular as a skiing hub of India, Munsiyari in Uttarakhand is also a well-known tourist destination and known for many adventure sports. What is unique about skiing at Munsiyari is that it offers a challenging skiing experience with its steep slopes.
8. Dayara Bugyal
This is another great skiing destination in Uttarakhand and offers excellent proffering skiing experience. That is why skiers from all over the world come to Dayara Bugyal for an amazing skiing experience. The region receives great snow fall during winter, thus raising the level of skiing. Also, there are different slope levels so that both beginners and professionals can enjoy skiing that matches their level.
9. Mundali
This exotic place is also undoubtedly a skiers’ paradise for its steep slopes filled with thick layers of snow. Located in Uttarakhand, Mundali also has a school for skiing from wherein you can get all the necessary skiing equipment. The powdery snow, the science beauty and the stunning climate all makes skiing at Mundali a fun experience.
10. Phuni Valley
Those who look at Sikkim as a place for trekkers and mountaineers, think again, for now Sikkim has become the popular destination for skiers. Phuni Valley, located at 11000 ft, has everything that an ardent skier looks for, steep slopes, powdered snow and a favourable climate.
