Basic | Intermediate Ski Course
Basic | Intermediate Ski Course
Basic 7-Day Course:
Dive into the thrill of skiing with our foundational ski course in Gulmarg. Perfect for beginners, you'll learn essential skills, ensuring safe slope enjoyment. These skills serve as stepping-stones for future skiing adventures. More details below.
Intermediate 7-Day Course:
Already acquired the basics. Join our Gulmarg Intermediate Skiing Course, a thrilling progression. Explore complex terrain, elevate your skiing prowess, and have a blast. It's the next step in your skiing journey, blending challenge with excitement. More details below
What is not included
What is not included
- Any portage services on the slopes
- Any expenses of a personal nature
- Travel or Adventure Insurance
- Anything not specifically mentioned in Inclusions
- Personal Apparel
See our equipment/packing list.
What it includes
What it includes
- 5 Days of Ski Instruction: 10AM-4PM
- Ski gear
- 6 nights with Breakfast and Dinner.
- Accommodation with hot water and heating on twin/triple sharing basis
- Airport transfers
- Ski Lift Tickets
Pre-requisites
Pre-requisites
For all
- 1. Ability to jog 3-4 km in 1 hour
- 2. No major knee or cardiac issues
- 3. Good general health
+ only for Intermediates
Prior basic skiing or snowboard experience of at least 5 days.
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Course & Terrain Info
BASIC COURSE
Beginners embark on their snowy journey on the Training Slopes!
As our budding skiers improve and level up their skills, they get the opportunity to conquer more challenging slopes. Picture it as a video game, but with snow! 🎮❄️
These slopes come in three flavors: The Bunny Slope, The Highland Slope, and the Eighty-Five.
Once their skills are honed, they unlock the coveted Phase-1 of the Gondola. It's like reaching a new level in the skiing adventure! Beginners usually hit this milestone by their 5th day. They can enjoy swooshing down the almost 4km track of Phase-1, snaking its way through the enchanting Gulmarg forests. It's like skiing through a winter wonderland! 🌲❄️
Our Basic Ski Course equips you with essential skills like the Snow Plow (wedge), Wedge Turn, Basic Swing, Kick Turn, Basics of a Parallel Turn and Side Stepping. You'll also learn about balance, edge control, and safe mountain navigation.
So, gear up, practice your pizza and french fries, and get ready for an epic skiing adventure that progresses just like leveling up in a game! 🎿🏔️
INTERMEDIATE COURSE
In this course, the magic happens on the breathtaking Phase-1 slopes of Gulmarg! 🎿🏔️
For the first exhilarating three days, participants brush up on their basic skills like side-stepping, wedge turns, and those fun kick turns.
But wait, there's more! They dive into the world of pole planting, perfecting those stylish pole plants, mastering parallel turns, and becoming slope-traversing pros. It's like a skiing smorgasbord!
Then, on days 4 and 5, it's time to level up as we introduce you to the magical chairlift. Picture this: a chairlift soaring over scenic landscapes, covering a whopping length that'll make your heart race. This is where the adventure gets BIG!
The chairlift unlocks access to the big mountain complex terrain, where participants can test their skills on both beaten and unbeaten paths. It's skiing paradise with twists, turns, and challenges that'll leave you craving more.
So, gear up, strap in, and let the slopes of Gulmarg be your playground as you embark on this unforgettable Intermediate Ski Course! 🏂🌟❄️
Courses Itinerary : 6Nights - 7Days with 5 days of training
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Day 1
We arrange a common pickup for participants of the batch from Srinagar Airport. Coordination for this is done in the week prior to arrival.
- Drive to Gulmarg.
- Check into your lodgings.
- Orientation and
- Equipment fitting.
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Day 1-5
- 5 field days of instruction.
- Our student Instructor ratio is always less than 3 students per instructor.
- Basic Course: Students start on Bunny slopes and move to progressively higher-grade slopes, as skill improves.
- Intermediate Course: Students start from Phase-1 on first day and progress to Chairlift by the 4th Day.
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Day 7
Morning Checkout followed by transfer to airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this for me?
The Basic and Intermediate Skiing Course is perfect for beginners who want to dive into the exciting world of skiing on Gulmarg's beautiful slopes. It's great for anyone looking to learn and get better at skiing.
For deeper reading. See our:
Guide to learn skiing in India.
Whats kind of fitness is required?
If you can jog or run 5 km in 30-35 minutes, you're ready for this activity. Adding some resistance workouts will help you complete the course comfortably and enjoyably.
If you can't do this yet, don't worry. It's all about practice. Start a training schedule, and you'll meet these standards in a few months.
Any skills I need to be able to do this?
No skills are needed for this basic skiing course. Our certified expert instructors will teach you everything you need to know about skiing from scratch.
How cold is it?
The skiing course runs from January to March when temperatures can drop to -15°C with plenty of fresh snow. Daytime temperatures range from -4°C to 2°C, while at night, it can get as cold as -15°C. However, we stay in heated rooms to keep warm.
What type of accommodation is provided?
During the course, you'll stay in hotels, sharing a room with one or two other people.
Internet connectivity in Gulmarg or Kashmir
Only postpaid SIMs from other states work in Kashmir. Prepaid SIMs for Jammu and Kashmir can be purchased in Tangmarg or Gulmarg.
It's advisable to have your SIM card sorted before arrival. Airtel and Jio offer 4G and 5G coverage across most areas.
However, WiFi is limited, so it's not reliable for connectivity.
Skiing vs Snowboarding in India
Is it easier to master skiing or snowboarding?
To boil it right down, we might say that skiing is easier to learn, but harder to master.
While skiing is easier to learn initially, snowboarding tends to be easier to master once you've grasped the basics. Snowboarding's learning curve can be steep initially, but once you master linking turns, progress to steeper slopes and off-piste becomes smoother. Skiing, on the other hand, is highly technical, requiring ongoing refinement for perfecting turns and technique.
What can you do on skis or a snowboard?
These days, you can do everything on a set of skis or a snowboard. There are no long-term limitations with either choice: whether it's on-piste, off-piste, performing big tricks and jumps in the snow park, or speeding down slopes, everything is possible.
Which is more comfortable, skiing or snowboarding?
Snowboarding is more comfortable. Ski boots are notoriously uncomfortable and walking in them is difficult. In contrast, snowboard boots are soft, comfortable, and easier to walk in.
Although high end free touring ski boots are very comfortable.
These differences go away once you are at high level in these sports.
Is it easier to use ski lifts on skis or a snowboard?
Using ski lifts is generally easier on skis. Skiers can keep their skis parallel and glide smoothly onto and off the lift. Snowboarders, however, often need to unstrap one foot and balance sideways, which can be trickier, especially for beginners.
Off-piste skiing or snowboarding?
Snowboarding is generally easier off-piste.
Going from piste to off-piste, it can feel like a completely different sport for skiers, making the transition challenging and often frustrating.
Snowboarding techniques remain similar on and off-piste, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable from the start. Snowboarding wins in this regard.
What is On-Piste?
On-piste skiing or snowboarding refers to staying on the main ski pistes, which are compressed, flat, and firm, much like a snow-covered road that's been packed down by vehicles. The terrain is groomed and controlled, making it ideal for learning and practicing basic techniques.
What is Off-Piste?
Off-piste means skiing or snowboarding through untouched, natural snow. The terrain is ungroomed and can be more challenging.
For those interested, consider joining one of our "Introduction to Off-Piste Course" weeks to learn and enjoy this unique experience.
Which is more popular in India - Skiing or Snowboarding?
Globally, skiing is more popular than snowboarding, with more participants and a longer history in winter sports. However, the popularity of snowboarding has grown significantly since its inception.
Manali, is a hotspot of snowboarding culture in India, where it enjoys greater popularity compared to skiing.
What about the "cool" factor?
For the fashion-conscious, there's no significant bias these days between skiing and snowboarding. While snowboarding might have been considered the "cooler" option in the late 1990s, that trend has come and gone. Now, both sports have their own appeal.
Is it cheaper to ski or snowboard?
There is no significant difference in the cost of skiing versus snowboarding. Both require the same lift pass, and lessons cost the same. The only potential difference is equipment hire, but the price difference is minimal.
However, used snowboard gear is relatively easier to source, especially in India.
Can skiers and snowboarders ride together?
Yes, they can. It seems like a funny question, but one you do hear. The answer is yes, absolutely.
Which is more fun: skiing or snowboarding?
Pass :-P
Common Questions for Basic & Intermediate Levels
Where in Gulmarg are the courses conducted?
The Basic Skiing is conducted on the Beginner slopes in Gulmarg. There are three slopes here: 'The Bunny' slope, 'The Highland Park Slope' and 'The 85' slope. These slopes T bar lift system for easy access to the top of slope.
Once the candidates become confident with basic skills, they move to the Phase 1 section of the Gondola.
Intermediate training begins with the Phase 1 and eventually moves the Gulmarg Chairlift that is above Phase -1
What is the best season for skiing in Gulmarg?
The skiing course takes place from January to March, offering ample snow and ideal conditions for practicing the sport. However, due to the unpredictability of the first snowfall, it's best to plan for the end of January onwards.
Is learning skiing / snowboarding technically challenging?
Skiing/snowboarding requires proficiency with specialized equipment, but the course focuses on familiarizing participants with these tools and providing extensive practice. Prior technical skills are not necessary to enroll in the course.
Are the slopes steep?
The beginner slopes are gently sloped and short, minimizing the risk of losing control. Trained instructors and ski patrol are always present to ensure a safe environment for beginners. As you progress, the slopes become more demanding. It's important to feel confident before moving on to more challenging slopes.
For more information on slope classifications, refer to our Quick Guide on piste and slope classification.
Gulmarg Ski Slope Grading
Slopes in Gulmarg are graded based on difficulty levels similar to international standards:
- Beginner (Green): Gentle slopes suitable for learners, usually with minimal incline and wide paths.
- Intermediate (Blue): Moderate slopes that offer a bit more challenge, with varying terrain and steeper sections.
- Advanced (Black): Steeper and more challenging slopes, often with ungroomed terrain and potential obstacles.
Skiing in Gulmarg: Emergency & Insurance
What is adventure sports travel insurance and why do I need it?
Adventure sports travel insurance is crucial for activities like skiing and snowboarding, providing coverage for accidents, equipment loss, flight delays, and more.
Regular travel insurance typically excludes these high-risk activities. It’s essential because injuries or unexpected costs, such as equipment theft or trip cancellation due to weather, can result in significant expenses.
Coverage includes medical bills, damaged gear, and additional travel costs.
Where I can get adventure travel insurance in India?
Some travel insurance companies in India have come up with adventure sports travel insurance plans or specific add-on cover that provides coverage for adventure sports activities.
You can also check out this insurance provider. Adventure360
How are the medical / emergency facilities in Gulmarg?
Medical facilities in Gulmarg are generally basic.
There are ambulances on on call.
There is a small hospital and a few clinics that can provide basic medical care and emergency first aid. They have an x-ray machine too.
For more serious medical issues or emergencies, it may be necessary to travel to Srinagar, which has better-equipped hospitals and medical facilities.
Does Gulmarg have a pharmacy?
The Gulmarg hospital has a small government pharmacy.
The town below Gulmarg, called Tangmarg (30 mins drive away) has more elaborate pharmacies and medical services.
Travelers are advised to carry any necessary medications and ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Who does first aid and rescue on the ski slopes?
The Gulmarg ski patrol plays a crucial role in ensuring safety on the slopes.
Comprised of trained professionals, they monitor and maintain the skiing area, provide assistance during emergencies, and conduct avalanche control measures when necessary.
Emergency Contact Information for Gulmarg Ski Patrol
Wire-less walkie takie:
147.675 MHZ UHF
467.6375 MHZ VHF
Simplex Frequency Channel 11
Phone: 700-642-7541
Website: GulmargAC.in
How to reach Gulmarg?
Getting from Srinagar to Gulmarg
Gulmarg is accessible primarily by road from Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. From Srinagar, you can hire a taxi or take a private car to reach Gulmarg, which is approximately 50 kilometers away.
The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
How to Reach Srinagar
The most convenient way is by air, with Srinagar Airport serving domestic flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
If traveling by road, Srinagar is well-connected by national highways and state roads. Buses, taxis, and private cars ply regularly from nearby cities and towns. The nearest railway station is in Jammu, from where you can continue your journey to Srinagar by road or air.
Getting around within Gulmarg Ski Resort
In Gulmarg, getting around primarily involves walking, as the town is compact and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances or to reach higher slopes, you can hire taxis or use local transport services.
Driving to Gulmarg in Winter: Vehicle Requirements and Tips
Yes, you can drive to Gulmarg in your own vehicle. While 4x4 vehicles are recommended for better traction, non-4x4 vehicles can also access Gulmarg with snow chains.
Snow chains are mandatory at the Tangmarg checkpost during snowy conditions; they can be rented in Tangmarg if needed.
Once in Gulmarg, having a vehicle is not essential for local movement, as the town is compact and walkable. Parking facilities are available both in Tangmarg and Gulmarg, though spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Motorcycling to Gulmarg ?
Driving a motorcycle to Gulmarg is not recommended, especially during winter.
Authorities typically do not allow motorcycles to proceed up to Gulmarg due to safety concerns and road conditions.
It's advisable to park your motorcycle in Tangmarg and use alternative transportation options, such as taxis or buses, to reach Gulmarg.
Travelling in Kashmir : Safety
Safety in Gulmarg and Kashmir
Gulmarg and Kashmir, in general, are safe destinations for tourists, but it's essential to stay informed about current local conditions and travel advisories.
The region has seen occasional unrest and security incidents in the past, so it's wise to follow recommended safety precautions.
Stick to popular tourist areas, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and stay updated on local news.
Additionally, respect local customs and traditions.
What local customs should tourists observe in Gulmarg and Kashmir?
When visiting Gulmarg and Kashmir, it's important to respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive experience:
- Dress Modestly: Kashmiri culture values modest attire, especially in religious places and rural areas. Dressing conservatively shows respect.
- Greetings: Use polite greetings like "As-salamu alaykum" (Peace be upon you) or "Namaste" depending on the context.
- Etiquette in Homes: Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques, and follow any specific customs regarding seating and hospitality.
- Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Maintain decorum in public spaces and religious sites.
- Food and Dining: Respect dietary customs, especially during Ramadan. Ask before consuming alcohol or pork, as they may not be readily available or acceptable.
- Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, particularly women, and respect any requests not to be photographed.
Alcohol Policy in Kashmir
Kashmir follows specific regulations regarding alcohol consumption. While alcohol is not entirely prohibited, its availability is limited and primarily found in licensed hotels and restaurants catering to tourists. Local shops may not sell alcohol, and public consumption is generally discouraged. Visitors should respect local sensitivities and laws regarding alcohol consumption, especially during religious festivals and in rural areas.
Government Liquor Shops in Gulmarg or Srinagar
Yes, there is one liquor store in Gulmarg. But it may or may not be open all the time.
Similarly, there is a liqour store at Dal Lake in Srinagar
Safety for Solo Women Travelers in Kashmir
Solo women travelers can visit Kashmir safely with proper precautions.
It's advisable to research and stay updated on local conditions and travel advisories before planning a trip.
Dress modestly and respect local customs to avoid unwanted attention.
Choose reputable accommodations and transportation options.
It's recommended to avoid traveling alone at night and to stay in well-populated areas.
Register with your embassy or consulate and share your itinerary with friends or family.
What to pack for Gulmarg?
Do you provide apparel for skiing or snowboarding courses?
No, we do not provide apparel for skiing or snowboarding courses.
We only provide helmets and goggles.
What kind of clothes do I need for the course?
For our skiing courses, it's essential to have proper winter apparel to stay warm and comfortable on the slopes. You should bring or wear thermal base layers, a waterproof ski jacket and pants, insulated gloves or mittens, warm socks, and suitable footwear like waterproof boots.
It's important to dress in layers that can be adjusted for changing weather conditions. Please note, we do not provide apparel for skiing or snowboarding courses, so participants must come prepared with their own gear.
You can check out our essential packing list for the course.
Are these clothes available for rent in Gulmarg
No, good quality apparel is generally not available for rent in Gulmarg.
While some shops may offer rental options, we do not recommend relying on them for high-quality gear.
Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy
• If you have paid us a deposit and cancel more than 30 days prior to departure,we will refund the entire amount received by us.
• If you have paid us a deposit and cancel more than 21 days prior to departure,we will hold the entire amount as a credit towards a future trip.You can also transfer it as a deposit for any other departure you might want to join at a later date.
• If you have paid in full and cancel 21 days or less prior to departure, we will charge a 50% cancellation fee and hold the remaining 50% as credit towards a future trip taken within 1 year from the date of cancellation.
1. Participants must adhere to safety regulations set by the school and destination.
2. The school holds the right to charge for any gear damage.
3. "Skimo," "Skimonk," or "AvalancheHimalaya" are not responsible for injuries or fatalities.
By utilizing services from Skimo, Skimonk, or AvalancheHimalaya, you agree to comply with our user policy.