Skiing Destinations in India

Popular Skiing Destinations in India

Winter is a season of adventure sports in India. It is the time when the snow-bound mountain peaks, the chilly winds, and the icy cold weather create the perfect backdrop for an enthralling skiing experience. The popularity of the sport is apparent from the fact that ski enthusiasts wait throughout the year for that perfect stretch of snow to have an amazing gliding experience. Here are some of the most popular skiing destinations in India to brush up and flaunt your skiing skills:

Auli

Nestled amidst the Gharwali Hills in Uttarakhand, Auli is one of the most popular skiing destinations in India. The town is adorned with astonishing Apple orchards and stunning Oak forests. It provides an awe-inspiring view of the various snowcapped peaks including the Himalayas, Mt Nanda Devi, Mana Parbat, Nar Parbat, Nilkanth, Hathi Parbat, Ghori Parbat, Beethartoli, and Dunagiri.

Despite its natural charm, the town remains pristine and untouched by visitors all year round except for the winters when it opens for the general public. It is best to visit Auli between November and March. Make sure to carry some travel essentials such as medicines, winter garments, a first-aid kit, and appropriate footwear. Enjoy a memorable skiing experience on the pleasing snow-covered slopes of Auli this winter.

Munsiyari

As you enter the Johar Valley in Uttarakhand, you reach yet another fascinating skiing destination in India popularly known as Munsiyari. The name translates to ‘a place covered with snow’ in English. As the name suggests, Munsiyari is adorned with a pleasing climate and an astonishing terrain well suited for skiing enthusiasts.

The place is also well-liked by mountaineers and trekkers for its proximity to the Goriganga river. They set up a base camp in Munsiyari while trekking to Khalia. The best time to visit this beautiful hill station for skiing is between October and February.

Daraya Bugyal

Dayara Bugyal is a picturesque skiing destination located in Uttarakhand. The steep snowy slopes of Dayara Bugyal perfectly complement the lush grasslands to create an awe-inspiring vista that is hard to resist even for ski lovers. The lush green meadows of Daraya Bugyal located between the White Peak and Bandar Poonch Peak get covered in thick snow during winters to create an amazing landscape for an enthralling skiing experience.

You can also get a pleasing view of snow-laden Himalayan peaks, including Srikanth and Draupadi ka Danda that overlook Daraya Bugyal. How about a memorable camping experience at the Barnala Tal lake? Visit Dayara Bugyal between Mid October and January to enjoy winter sports and have a memorable vacation.

Solang Valley

Solang Valley in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, is zen for adventure seekers. The valley hosts several winter games every year, including skiing, zorbing, paragliding, and parachuting. Both professionals and amateurs are invited to participate in the tournaments organized in the valley.

If you are new to the sport, you can visit the nearby Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports to learn some ski basics from professional trainers. The institute also conducts workshops for visitors. Visit Solang Valley between October and March to capture your dose of winter adventure.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is one of the most popular skiing destinations in India equally admired by amateurs and professionals. Because of its orientation at a high altitude, Rohtang Pass promises a not-to-miss exhilarating skiing experience. The route to the site is equally rejuvenating. You can also experience heliskiing in Rohtang Pass between December and February. Make sure to carry appropriate medicines to combat altitude sickness. You can rent or purchase skiing equipment and snow clothing from authorized outlets.

Kufri

Kufri in Himachal Pradesh is a well-known skiing destination that attracts adrenaline junkies to capture a smooth ride over the snow. The snow-covered slopes of Kufri are surrounded by tall deodars and green pines, creating a perfect setup of amusement for ski lovers. Capture the best winter sports experience in Kufri between December and February.

Gulmarg

Gulmarg is known worldwide for its exquisite natural beauty and its irresistible charm of the winters. It is amongst the top-rated skiing destinations in India. The place has two primary ski points, namely Kongdori Peak and Aparwahat Peak, which provide a breath-taking skiing experience. Capture the highlights of skiing through the cable car ride popularly known as the Gulmarg Gondola. It is best to visit the place between December and March.

Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a picturesque, quaint town located in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir. Its stunning scenery and fascinating views of the Himalayas make this tiny town a trekker’s paradise. The place receives heavy snowfall during winters making it a go-to spot for skiing. Feel the ecstasy and adrenaline rush as you glide down the snowy slopes. It is best to visit Pahalgam between October and February.