The hills of Uttaranchal are packed with
adventure, excitement and thrills. Uttaranchal
with unexplored valleys, sky kissing peaks,
cascading rivers, snow covered mountains,
abundant of flora & fauna and vast regions of
lush greenness is a delightful place for all
types of tourists. The region also provides
immense opportunities for adventure sports like
skiing and the enthralling water sports which
make Uttaranchal an ideal destination for
adventure seekers.
The long extended slopes of Garhwal and Kumaon
covered with seasonal snow becomes an ideal
place for skiing in the winter months. For the
avid skier, cross-country runs of 10-20 km are
now available, with the added advantage of fresh
powder snow. Because of their height and
expanse, Garhwal and Kumaon, like other sectors
of the Himalayas, are in position to offer the
thrills of exploratory long distance skiing
round the year.
Major Sites for Skiing
Auli
Auli at a distance of 16 kms. from Joshimath is
an ideal winter haunt run by Garhwal Mandal
Vikas Nigam (GMVN). A 3 km long slope ranging
from a height of 2519 m to 3049 m is a major
attraction. The Auli resort run by GMVN has snow
beaters which beat the snow to keep the slopes
perfect for skiing at any time. A 500 m long
ski-lift carries skiiers back to the slope top,
thus saving them the trouble and time to bridge
up wearing long skis.
Dayara
Bugyal
Bugyal in the local language means "high
altitude meadow". Situated at an elevation of
about 3048 mts., this vast meadow is second to
none in natural beauty. During winter it
provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28
sq. kms. The panoramic view of the Himalayas
from here is breathtaking.
The road to Dayara Bugyal diverts near Bhatwari
a place on Uttarkashi-Gangotri road about 28 km
away from Uttarkashi. Vehicles can go up to the
village of Barsu from where one has to trek a
distance of about 8 km to reach Dayara. Other
route is via village Raithal, 10 km from
Bhatwari, from where one has to trek about 6 km
to Dayara Bugyal.
Mundali
Mundali is situated in district Dehradun 129 km
from Dehradun via Chakrata. Mandali offers a
mind blowing view of the snow coated Himalayas.
The place has vast ski slopes on which
professional can enjoy skiing. Accommodation
facility is only available at Forest Rest House
and therefore it advisable that one ensures
accommodation through the Forest Department,
before starting the trip.
Munsyari
Nestling amidst spectacular Kumaon Himalayas at
a height of 1645 m, Pithoragarh is often called
'Miniature Kashmir'. It is a small valley barely
5 km long and 2 km wide.
Located at an altitude of 2135 m., Munsyari is
situated at a distance of 66 km from Jauljibi
and 127 km from Pithoragarh via Thal. Munsyari
is the centre as well as the gateway of the
Johar region. Munsyari is the base for treks to
Milam, Namik and Ralam Glaciers. There is a
Tourist Rest House and a small town for
accommodation. Khalia top and Betulidhar are two
high altitude places, ideal for skiing.
Skiing Tips
Participants are advised to bring heavy woollen
clothing like caps, socks, gloves, mufflers,
pullovers, trousers, wind proof jackets, dark
glasses, gum/snow boots and a troch for personal
use.
When To Visit : End December to March
