Heli Skiing
Heli Skiing in Himalayas has gained immense popularity lately. Heli
skiing is a more tough sport than skiing. Skiing is generally done at
moderately high mountains, where snow is intact and solid. While heli
skiing is done on the peaks, as high as 14000 ft, where snow acquires
the powder form and is very soft. In heli skiing, the fully geared skier
is dropped from helicopter on the hill top. The challenge begins
thereafter. At such heights, only snow and sky is visible, and the only
sound is that of the blades of chopper. The skier runs down the hill at
a very high speed. The thrill of skier can only be felt and not
understood, while he is zooming down the highest peaks, on the ski
boards. The sport is available in the areas near Hanuman Tibba, Rohtang
Pass, Deo Tibba and Chanderkhani Pass near Manali. A major feature of
Manali is the compactness of heli skiing area.
Skiing Regions
Kufri
Kufri hill resort has been developed as a centre for skiing and other
wintersports. Kufri lies 17 kms from Shimla, and is a major tourist
attraction in Himachal Pradesh. Every year a winter sports festival is
organized the month of February. The festival aims at promoting skiing
and other adventure sports activities in Himachal Pradesh. Mahasu,
situated above Kufri has some tough skiing treks for professionals.
Narkanda
Narkanda, 64 kms from Shimla, also has excellent skiing facilities for
skiers. Narkanda is known for its long ski tracks, mostly very difficult
for amateurs. Skiing races are organised in Narkanda. Set amidst
coniferous forests, Narkanda gets covered with thick, soft snow, which
converts the gentle slopes into an excellent playground. The pleasure of
skiing makes Narkanda an attractive destination for many during the
winters. The slopes at Narkanda appeal majorly to the cross country
skier.
Manali
Manali not only offers skiing oppurtunities to the professionals, but
also has facilities for novices to learn this exciting sport. The
Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports offers courses and
facilities for skiing in Manali and adjoining areas. Solang, near
Manali, is one such place where skiing courses are conducted. Solang
also holds annual skiing races. Manali is also a hot spot for Heli
Skiing. Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tibba, Chanderkhani Pass and Rohtang Pass
near Manali are known for there high peaks, thus forming perfect
destination for Heli-skiers.
Equipments and Necessary Information
The equipments can be hired from HPTDC offices in the above mentioned
towns. The equipments are available on a very small cost. For beginers,
courses are conducted under expert guidance. One should be physically
fit to take up skiing on snow stretches. Guides and there expert teams
are always there to help out a lost person. Safety is ensured by
certified guides, experienced helicopter pilots, easy availability of
medical facilities and emergency backup arrangements with the Indian Air
Force. One must remember that snow covered areas are very much prone to
accidents, so a complete enquiry should be made before taking an
expedition.
