Ski India programme is set to take you higher

Specialist UK tour operator to India, Indus Tours have launched a new winter programme, ‘Ski India’ to the small alpine village of Gulmarg on the world’s highest peaks in Kashmir for the forthcoming 2007/2008 season.

Nestled at 8858ft (2,743m) on one of the six ranges of the mighty Himalayas, Gulmarg is the Northern hemisphere’s highest ski area and boasts some of the best views and off piste riding in Asia. Regarded as India’s premier ski resort, this former British Hill Station also sports the northern hemisphere’s highest gondola ski lift in the world. Ascending to heights of 12,992ft (3,747m), it enjoys uncrowded slopes of untouched powder across kilometres of open terrain.

Teaming up with local expert Peter Robinson and founder of Gulmarg based ‘Ski Himalaya’, ‘Ski India’ utilises Ski Himalaya’s expertise on the ground to give UK clients a selection of 10, 12 or 16 night packages tailormade to offer the very best facilities for snowriders, including ski in/ski out accommodation in some of the resort’s newest hotels and ‘Kashmir Powdercats’ guiding, Ski Himalaya’s locally trained mountain hosts.

Yasin Zargar, Managing Director Indus Tours commented: “Kashmir and the Himalayas are a very special part of the world so what better way for the ski and snowboard enthusiast to appreciate this magnificent setting than from high on the slopes in exceptional powder. Acting as the UK agent for Ski Himalaya with their wealth of experience - they will be celebrating 10 years of operation in the area this season – we believe that ‘Ski India’ will offer holidaymakers an outstanding winter wilderness experience with a uniquely Indian flavour.”

“Gulmarg’s skiing is second to none.” added Peter Robinson. “Whether taking the short 30 minute walk from top station to the peak of Mt Apharwat at 4124m to descend the many and varied multiple ridges, faces and bowls, riding the easier descent from mid station through scattered alpine pines with pockets of soft powder or putting in some more basic practice on the pomas, one is never short of an amazing view and great snow”.

Bookable for the period of 20 December 2007 to 15 March 2008, a ‘Ski India’ 10 day programme starts from £1235/person based on 2 sharing, including return international flights from the UK, domestic flights to Srinagar, 6 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast accommodation at Hotel Grand Mumtaz, 1 night in a houseboat on Dal Lake, 1 night in Delhi and all transfers. Ski passes to be purchased locally at 1500 rupees/day.

Whilst having facilities to cater to all levels, Gulmarg’s off piste terrain is best suited to advanced and expert skiers.

For further information or to book a holiday, visit Industours.co.uk.

Indus Tours will also be offering ‘add-on’ packages to clients who would like to discover more of India on their trip.