Kashmir resort offers heliskiing experience for thrill seekers

Skiing in Jammu and Kashmir is a thrilling and exciting experience for any adventure enthusiast. The Ski Club of India was established in Gulmarg in 1927, which is now considered to be the ski paradise of India. Just 50km from Srinagar, situated at an altitude of 2,730m, the Gulmarg scenery changes from a flowery meadow in summer to that of a small ski resort in winter. Ski-lovers from all over the country flock to the area because it's the only ski-resort in the mighty Himalayas where you can ski with a magnificent view of the Karakorams.

Around the middle of December and before Christmas, the skiing season in Gulmarg usually commences, which continues until the middle of April. In January and February of 1998 the first National Winter Games of India were held at Gulmarg, for which the facilities of the skiing resorts were highly improved and upgraded. The resort had two Kasse Bohrer snow beating machines used for preparing skiing slopes, and five snowmobiles used for going up the mountain. Good quality equipment, including skis, boots, sticks, gloves and goggles can be hired on the spot from the government-run ski shop. There are also experienced instructors available for supervising visitors. Gulmarg is ideal for ski novices, being one of the cheapest ski resorts in the world.

Gulmarg also offers heliskiing for winter sports lovers. It's Asia's only heliskiing resort and after Canada, the best option for those inclined towards heliskiing. Heliskiing comprises of being dropped by a helicopter on the summit of a high, snow-covered peak and then skiing down the slopes. Heliskiing in Kashmir can be a breathtaking experience and is the ultimate winter sport for adrenaline junkies. This extreme winter sport has some element of risk but the thrill experienced while indulging in heliskiing is said to be unequalled by any other winter sport.

Skiing can also be enjoyed at Patnitop. 112 kms from Jammu, the famous Patnitop hill resort, perched at an altitude of 2024 metres, is a favourite destination for ski lovers in India. Skiing courses are conducted at Patnitop in the months of January and February. During winter months there are introductory courses for tourists/beginners on the gentle gradient slopes.

For more information, visit kashmirhotravel.com.