Adventure Athlete India | Experience the Raw Himalayas

A ski resort from the 1980s near Shimla, where thousands of people from the upper Shimla region first learned to ski.

This is one of the most peaceful places to learn basic skiing. It's an old resort from the 80s, and even today it feels like you've stepped into the 90s. There's no chairlift or modern facility here, you hike your skis to the top and then ski down. But the environment is happy, the locals are helpful and fun, and it makes a great picnic spot.

The Route

The snow quality is really good because this slope faces north, so it holds well through the day. It only turns a little slushy for 2-3 hours around midday, and only on a hot late-winter day. Late December and January is when the snow is at its best.

The one catch is that you hike your skis to the top before every run, so it suits skimo or anyone learning the basics and just wanting to have fun in the snow. You'll also find several ski courses running here, with people from all over India chilling out in the snow. Overall it's a great weekend spot.

Elevation Profile

2748m

Min Elevation

2846m

Max Elevation

155m

Total Gain

1 km

Distance

My Notes

Hike-up resort. There's no chairlift. You hike your skis to the top for each run, which is what makes it perfect for skimo or learning the basics.

Snow window. The north-facing slope holds good snow all day, except a slushy 2-3 hour window around midday on hot late-winter days. Late December and January are best.

Getting there in snow. On snow days the highway can jam. If you have no snow-driving experience, take a taxi rather than risk it. If you drive, carry chains and a 4x4.

Rentals sorted. You get all the equipment on rent here, so you only need your own goggles. I can also help you procure gear or set up a one-week basic ski program with a professional skier at a genuine price.

Getting There

By road: Narkanda is about 65 km from Shimla, roughly a 2 hour drive on a scenic road. You can take a bus, drive, or hire a taxi.

In winter: The road can get icy in places, but it's a national highway so it's usually cleared and kept running. If you aren't experienced driving on icy hill roads, skip bringing your own vehicle and take a taxi. On heavy snow days the road can jam up, and if you do drive, carry snow chains and ideally a 4x4.

What to Bring

Snow jacket, pants and boots, gloves and helmet
Your own goggles (skis, boots and poles are on rent at the ground)
Warm layers, it can drop to around -8°C in peak winter
Water and snacks (rajma chawal and food are available around Dhomdi Ground)

Video

Skiing in Narkanda

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