About Skiing
To make the most of skiing in Himachal Pradesh, you should know about the sport and its other aspects. It is a thrilling venture wherein you slide down snow-covered slopes on skis, and control your movement with poles. Skis are flat, rectangular boards of metal that are provided with slots and buckles to secure your feet. Poles are made of a variety of materials like aluminium and carbon fibre, both of which are light and strong.
Size of Skis: Be careful while buying skis, for their size determines your safety at large. The larger the ski, the faster you will go, so consider your expertise when choosing them.
Buckles: The buckles that fasten your feet on the metal strips have the capability of letting your feet go free. It becomes important when you come down too fast or hit solid ice. The release of your feet will reduce the impact of the crash, but those buckles that open too easily may lead to falls even if your velocity is low. Have the buckles checked by an expert before you step on them.
Helmet: Wearing a helmet is a must to avoid getting hurt if you tumble and hit the ice.
Control: Always gain that speed at which you are easily in control and can stop when you want.
Ethics: The safety of the skiers ahead of you is your responsibility, so slide at a comfortable speed and always be in control. Do not stop at such a point from where you are invisible to others. The ski paths often have signboards that you should always look out for and adhere to.
Locations for Skiing in Himachal Pradesh
Solang: Skiing in Himachal Pradesh is most popularly held in the picturesque Solang Valley. It is at an altitude of approximately 8400 feet, and the large and expansive slopes here attract hordes of tourists. There is a ropeway, which will transport you to a height of over 9000 feet to the top of the ski point. From here, you can slide down and cut across jungles of firs, spruces and cedars or venture on plain slopes. There is a plunge of about 500 feet, which will truly make your hair rise, jaws drop and you screaming with excitement.
Best Time to Go for Skiing in Himachal Pradesh
The best time for skiing in Himachal Pradesh is in the months of December, January, February and March. Take up the sport when the day is at its warmest as the sun will keep the snow moist and fluffy. Early in the day and late at noon, the snow will solidify into ice, and the chances of getting hurt will be more.