Skiing in India 2024-2025

Skiing is one of the most beloved and exciting sports in India, predominantly taking place in the northern states where the majestic Himalayas are located. Himachal Pradesh stands out as a premier destination for skiing, with popular spots like Chamba, Manali, and Shoja attracting a significant number of domestic and international tourists each year. These locations offer a stunning backdrop for skiing enthusiasts, featuring a variety of slopes set amidst breathtaking landscapes. With numerous options available, skiers can enjoy a range of terrains and experiences, making India an emerging hub for winter sports lovers.

Ski Season

Skiing in India is best from December to March, when temperatures range from minus two to ten degrees Celsius, creating ideal conditions for winter sports. This period attracts enthusiasts to regions like Himachal Pradesh, known for its beautiful, snow-covered slopes.

Gulmarg Ski Resort

Gulmarg, located in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is an excellent ski resort for enthusiasts. It offers 25 km of slopes served by six lifts, with elevations ranging from 2,650 to 3,980 meters. Gulmarg is an ideal destination for beginners to learn skiing, and visitors can enjoy the scenic Gondola ride or engage in snowmobiling around the village. Additionally, options for walking or ice skating are available, allowing everyone to experience the fresh Himalayan air and the beautiful outdoor environment.

Ski Lifts & Open Hours

The day ticket for skiing at Gulmarg during the main season is priced at Rs 3,000 for adults, which is approximately €33. The general skiing season runs from late December to late March, with opening times from 10 am to 4 pm.

Solang Ski Resort

The Solang Nullah ski resort, located in the Kullu Valley of India, features 2.1 km of slopes and is served by two lifts, with elevations ranging from 2,475 to 2,873 meters. Renowned for its lush landscapes, this destination attracts skiing enthusiasts and families alike. The resort boasts a world-class ski school, with several ski agencies offering courses and equipment during the winter season. In addition to skiing, Solang Nullah provides a variety of activities, including rock climbing, paragliding, trekking, river rafting, and both indoor and outdoor games, ensuring entertainment for all visitors.

Open Hours

The Solang Nullah ski resort in the Kullu Valley of India operates from mid-November to early April, with opening times from 9 am to 4 pm.

Auli Ski Resort

The Auli ski resort in Uttarakhand, India, offers a charming escape for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, featuring 3 km of slopes served by three lifts, with elevations ranging from 2,702 to 3,069 meters. Originally built as a paramilitary outpost, Auli is now a popular destination for both novice and experienced skiers, hosting various winter adventure events and offering skiing lessons. Surrounded by expansive oak and coniferous forests, Auli provides breathtaking views of some of India's highest peaks, including Nanda Devi (7,816 meters), the country's second-highest mountain. It also serves as a gateway to several notable attractions, including the Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara, Nanda Devi, and Valley of Flowers National Parks, and popular trekking routes like Gorson Bugyal and Tapovan.

Ski Lifts & Open Hours

The general ski season runs from early December to late March, with opening times from 9 am to 5 pm.

Heliskiing in India

Heli-skiing is an exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers, particularly in India, where Gulmarg and the Kullu-Manali Valley stand out as premier destinations. Nestled in the Himalayas, Gulmarg is renowned for its exceptional slopes and resort facilities, with a heli-skiing season lasting until April 15 on upper slopes and mid-March on lower slopes. Costs typically start at around INR 30,000 per person per day, which includes helicopter rides, guide services, transportation, and meals, granting access to pristine, untouched powder.

In the Kullu-Manali Valley, adventurers can be dropped off at elevations reaching 5,300 meters, with the best skiing opportunities occurring between the last week of January and mid-March when heavy snowfall enhances conditions. However, due to avalanche risks, safety is paramount, and the season is relatively short, making these locations exceptional for an unforgettable heli-skiing experience.