Skiing in Narkanda: The complete guide

Narkanda is a pure treat for the discerning traveller, with breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks spanning from the Shrikhand Range in the east to the Kinner Kailash Range in the northwest. Narkanda is unique because of its free-spirited appeal and lack of a touristy atmosphere. Discover the lovely hill town by using this comprehensive Narkanda travel guide.

Narkanda's mountain with snow-covered peaks

One of the best weekend escapes from Delhi is Narkanda, a hidd en gem 63 kilometres from Shimla. This hill station receives a lot of snow in the winter and links Shimla to the Kinnaur and Spiti valleys. As a result, it is among the best locations in Himachal to witness snowfall close to Delhi. Most people are unaware that there is also a picturesque, remote hill station 63 kilometres from Shimla where they may get away from the crowds and have a great time. 

Skiing In Narkanda

Since 1980, skiers have been coming to the lovely hill station of Narkanda because of its skiing history. Here, in a designated skiing area, HPTDC holds beginner alpine skiing lessons during the busiest winters. 

Every year, from January to March, the Tourism Development Corporation of Himachal Pradesh offers a variety of skiing lessons at the Skiing Ground in Narkanda under the safety and direction of its certified instructors. In Narkanda, the ski season begins in December and lasts through March. Additionally, instructors can direct skiers and supply all necessary safety clothing and equipment. Skiers travel to Narkanda's slopes from all around the nation and from Australia, South Africa, and Eastern Europe. Additionally, the area offers a variety of trekking routes and rock-climbing options that adventure seekers should take advantage of.

To book a skiing lesson you can search online for some options and compare the time and amenities provided by them. A typical 1-hour session should cost you somewhere between INR 1200 to INR 2500 - depending on what’s included in the package. These packages also come with professional trainers who help you figure out the basics of skiing.

Skiing on the snowy slopes of Narkanda's mountains

Best Time To Visit

The greatest time to see Narkanda at its most lovely is in the winter. In the months of December and January, the hamlet's hills receive a lot of snowfall. Sometimes snow falls into February as well. Snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts frequently travel to Narkanda. The best time to feel the excitement is from January to March. 

Weatherwise Starting in November, Narkanda gets very cold. Peak wintertime temperatures hover at about 5 degrees Celsius. Days in the wintertime average between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, while evenings can be chilly because the temperature frequently falls below zero. However, summers are warm and lovely. In the summer, the temperature ranges from 19 to 28 degrees Celsius on average.

The picturesque vista of snow-covered mountains

How to Get to Narkanda

403 kilometres separate from Narkanda from Delhi, and it takes a bus or a car about 10 hours to get there. For most of the year, roads are kept in good condition. However, a significant extension project is currently underway between Chandigarh and Shimla (as of 2019), which could result in delays and traffic bottlenecks, particularly during the tourist season.

By Air: Jubarhatti, which is around 80 kilometres from Narkanda near Shimla, has the closest airport. Either reserve a taxi right at the airport or take a bus to Narkanda from Shimla.

By Train: There are no direct trains to Narkanda from Delhi. From Delhi, you must board a train for Kalka. The most practical choice is the Shatabdi train.

By Road: The distance is about 63 kilometres, and the trip will take you two to three hours. The pace of life in the hills is typically slow and steady.

You can go to Shimla from Kalka by bus, a shared or private cab (available at the train station), or even the Shimla-Kalka Toy Train. Please be advised that the cutest mode of transportation is the toy train. Even if the trip is slow and you can possibly stand close to the train, it is still incredibly amazing.

An aerial view of Narkanda's mountains

What To Pack For The Perfect Skiing Trip

When you are heading into the mountains during peak winter, for a memorable skiing trip, its imperative to pack well for the trip. Here are some must-haves:

• Valid ID Proof issued by the Government
• Winter wear
• Warm gloves
• Warm socks
• Good hiking shoes
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Personal Medicines (If any)
• Comfortable pants/trousers and shirts for Skiing
• Camera (optional)

Staying at The Hosteller Narkanda

Narkanda, often known as the "entrance to the apple country," is a winter lover's heaven. As you watch new snowfall, soak in the calm atmosphere, and unwind back at our ski resort-style hostel, you'll have the ideal winter vacation. It has an old-world beauty that you simply can't miss with its inventive arches, wooden furnishings, wide windows, and passageways. And you'll be reminded of the joy of the sport on a daily basis thanks to the ski ascents around every bend. The individual rooms at The Hosteller Narkanda include balconies, which make for the ideal spot to unwind and spill tea over a cup of chai as the snowy mountains provide some much-needed companionship.

Here, you'll discover all the modern amenities you need for a relaxing and unforgettable visit. There are designated locations that will fulfil all of your relaxing needs, from the abundant parking in the basement to the specialised workspaces for when you need to travel. 

The breathtaking mountain panorama seen from The Hosteller in Narkanda