Snowy Wonders: Top Skiing Spots In India You Need To Visit This December

As Jammu and Kashmir gets blanketed with the season's first snow, it's time for skiing enthusiasts to make their way up the hills in search of powdery slopes. In spite of being fringed by some of the tallest mountains in the world, India’s skiing industry is still in its nascent stage. Nonetheless, there are a few hill stations that boast adequate facilities for a skiing getaway, and here are our favourite picks.

Gulmarg, Jammu and KashmirOften dubbed the "Ski Capital of India," Gulmarg is a winter wonderland with world-class skiing slopes and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It boasts five international-grade Poma ski lifts and the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world's highest cable cars, covering 2.7 km with a 1,280m vertical rise to 3,980m near Mt Apharwat. The best time for skiing in Gulmarg is from mid December to mid-April when there is ample snow in the area. For beginners, the lower slopes provide a gentle learning curve, while experienced skiers can challenge themselves on the steeper terrains. You can rent equipment for skiing from the J&K Tourism owned ski shop.

Solang Valley, Manali, Himachal PradeshManali, a popular tourist destination, offers a variety of winter activities, including skiing and snowboarding. Solang Valley, located at a distance of 12 kms from Manali, is a popular skiing spot with slopes suitable for both beginners and experts. The valley's stunning natural beauty, coupled with the thrill of winter sports, makes it a memorable experience for families. Solang Valley's infrastructure is limited—its cable car covers just 1.3 km with a 500 m vertical rise to Mt Phatru (3,200 m) and has only one Poma ski-lift. Plus there are no dedicated equipment shops; skis must be rented from local travel companies.

Auli, UttarakhandAuli, a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand, is a haven for skiers of all levels. Its well-maintained ski slopes, coupled with stunning views of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas, make it a popular choice for families. The serene atmosphere and gentle slopes are ideal for beginners, while intermediate skiers can enjoy the thrill of the more challenging runs. However, the services are basic and equipment rental is restricted to local companies.

Heli Skiing In IndiaIf you’re an expert heli-skier, Gulmarg and the Kullu–Manali valley are premier spots in India, attracting top global skiers seeking fresh powder. With heights up to 5,000m, these locations offer access to untouched snow via helicopters, allowing off-piste skiing in remote areas. The Himalayas here feature smooth slopes with minimal steep drops, ideal for heli-skiing.