The large slopes of Garhwal and Kumaon covered with seasonal snow become an ideal place for skiing in the winter months. One can feel the adrenaline levels rising as one negotiates the challenges of the steep gradients and traverses unimaginable distances. Quite truly, the thrill of skiing remains unparalleled. As the elements are defeated exhilaration swells up. In skiing, the use of only the simplest forms of implements adds to the adventure.
With their wide open spaces above the snowline, Garhwal and Kumaon offer yet another exciting possibility - ski touring amongst the glaciers. For the avid skier, cross-country runs of 10 - 20 kms are now available, with the added advantage of fresh powder snow, away from crises-crossing streams of skiers that overtake the slopes of the European Alps. Because of their height and spread, Garhwal and Kumaon, like other sectors of the Himalayas, are in a position to offer the thrills of exploratory long distance skiing round the year.
Skies consist of long, narrow and flexible runners with curved front ends turned up and pointed. To aid the process of acceleration and balancing, a pair of poles with leather strips on the top and sharp metal tips at the bottom is used to prevent the skier from sinking. With these elementary implements, the skier triumphs over steep gradients and often charts new paths.
OTHER AREAS
Besides Auli, numerous places in Garhwal and Kumaon are full of
potential for skiing, where an individual or a
group can enjoy this winter sport on their own. In Garhwal Kush Kalyan and Kedar Kantha in
District Uttarkashi; Panwali and Matya in District Tehri Garhwal and Bedni Bugyal in
Chamoli and Chiplakot valley in District Pithoragarh in Kumaon are well Known potential
skiing resorts where professionals can do skiing.