Skiing is one of the most favored winter
sport in Jammu and Kashmir along with Heli-skiing, Ice-skating and
Ice-hockey. Skiing has gained popularity in Jammu and Kashmir due to the
vast range of snow-clad mountain tops. A very popular destination, Jammu and
Kashmir, offers very good skiing experiences along with the views of natural
beauty. The skiing starts in the month of December. Gulmarg and Khilanmarg
are the hot spots for skiing. Gulmarg is a perfect place for the beginners,
while it also provides ample opportunities to the experts as well. Patnitop
is also an ideal location for the skiing-lovers. Madha Top, situated 5 Km
from Patnitop is perfect for all levels of skiing.
Skiing Cautions
Skiing technique is very difficult to master and accordingly there are ski
schools that teach everything from the basics of turning and stopping safely
to more advanced carving and mogul techniques. All skiers must take care to
know the limits of their abilities, as the speed and technical difficulty
associated with the sport can often lead to crashes or collisions and
serious injury. Courses are conducted at several skiing sites on skiing
during the months of January and February.
Best Time for Skiing
The best time for skiing in Jammu and Kashmir is during winters, i.e.
December to March, when the ice is hard and intact.
Major Sites for Skiing
Gulmarg
Gulmarg is perfect for the beginners. The slopes are not deep and can be
enjoyed by the first-timers. A premier skiing resort, the Gulmarg skiing
club was established in 1927. Currently the Gulmarg resort is considered to
be the best in Himalayas. Skiing races are also organised during the
festivals like Christmas and Easter. There is a ski-lift which helps one to
go up. The longest ski run in Gulmarg is provided by the Gondola cable car,
which allows a ski run of 2,213 m.
Patnitop
At Patnitop, ski courses are conducted in the months of January and
February. For the tourists, introductory courses are also conducted during
winters. Patnitop skiing site is also very ideal for the beginners and
learners.
Madha Top
Situated 5 kms. from Patnitop is the Madha top. This place has excellent
offerings for all levels of skiing. Plans are under way to offer all kinds
of skiing options to the professionals.
Equipment Required for Skiing
Cold-weather clothing, skis, ski boots, helmets, ski poles, etc are some of
the many equipment needed for skiing. The equipment are provided by the
Skiing clubs and the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation
(Jammu and Kashmir TDC). One can visit the office of Jammu and Kashmir TDC
and hire the equipment. The trainers in skiing club also provide with the
equipment.
