One can feel the adrenaline levels rising as one negotiates the challenges of the steep gradients and traverses unimaginable distances . Quite truly , the thrill of skiing remains unparalleled as the elements are defeated exhilaration swells up in skiing , the use of only the simplest forms of implements adds to the adventure.

With their wide open spaces above the snowline, garhwal and kumaon offer yet another exciting possibility - ski touring amongst the glaciers, for the avid skier , cross - country runs of 10-20 km are now available , with the added advantage.

Of fresh powder snow , away from criss - crossing streams of skiers that overtake the slopes of the european alps . because of their height and spread , Garwhal and Kumaon, like other sectors of the himalayas , are in a position to offer the thrills of exploratory long distance skiing the year .

Skiing at Auli

Auli , 16km from joshimath is an ideal winter resort. The natural advantages of auli 's slopes, coupled with state - of the -art facilities provided by gmvn have made it comparable to the best in the world. The snow capped slopes of auli are flanked by stately coniferous and oak forests which cut wind velocity to the minimum .

Auli offers a panoramic view of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi (7817 mts.), Kamet (7756 mts), Mana Parvat (7273 mts.) and Dunagiri (7066 mts.) Seemingly only a snowballs throw away, Auli offers perfect skiing conditions. Seasonal skiiers have clean streches of absolutely virgin slopes to sport on . These slopes provide excellent opportunities for cross country, slalom and downhill skiing events. Winter skiing in Garhwal is now being professionally run at the Auli slopes.

A 3 kms. long slope ranging from a height of 2519 mts. to 3049 mts. is a major attraction. The Auli resort has snow beaters which beat the snow to keep the slopes fit for skiing at all times. A 500 mts. long ski-lift carries skiiers back to the slope top, thus saving them the trouble and time to bridge up wearing long skis. Apart from annual skiing festivals, three official National Championships have also been held here.