Skiing in H.P was
introduced by British army officer in 1930, while exploring the Kufri slopes which are
about 12km north of Shimla on Indo- Tibet road.
The powder skiing at Manali is an excellent thrill. It provides a variety of exposure and allows skiing either with or against the sun.
The altitudes at which skiing is done depends upon group fitness and ability, the interest of the group and snow & weather conditions. Most skiing takes place between high valley floors at 4300m, with vertical average between 700m – 1200m, but some of the most enchanting beautiful terrain is as high as 5000m.
Manali region is blessed with an excellent weather. Thus most of the time skiing is very adventurous and good but conditions can change and people have to be prepared for any eventuality.
The skiing slope named 'Narkanda'
is a famous place and provides execellent facilities for skiing. It is 52km north of Kulri
and is situated at a height of 2708m.
There are very good slopes in Kullu, Lahaul Spiti, Kinnaur & Shimla areas. These areas
are also useful for cross-country skiing, when long duration expeditions can be organized.
The following organizations conduct & organize basic and advance courses during
winter:
- High Altitude Trekking & Skiing Center, Narkanda District, Shimla
- Himachal Tourism Development Corporation, Ritz Annex, Shimla.
Some ski slopes for trekking and tourism was explored by the Mountaineering Institute in 1962. The Solong Nallah, Patalsu, Kohi and Rohtang slopes have been rated very good for summer and winter skiing.
The national level skiing competition is held every year at Solong Nallah, which is followed by a winter carnival at Manali.
he sports authority of India has
set up its winter training school at Solong Nallah.
One can have a detailed information from
Adventure in Himalayas is a unique experience and too ethereal to describe.