Region: Kullu Valley – Manali – Lahaul – One Part of Zanskar Border, Western Himalayas
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Activity: Backcountry skiing and splitboarding trips
Grade: Moderate to Challenging
Minimum Altitude Starting Point: 2,700 m
Maximum Altitude: Approx. 5,850 m
Key High-Altitude Areas: Shinkun La – Seven Sisters. This Himalayan ski tour promises an exhilarating Lahaul ski adventure perfect for ski touring in Manali.
The Manali and Lahaul backcountry offers an exceptional combination of high-altitude skiing, remote Himalayan terrain, and authentic mountain culture, making it a prime destination for backcountry skiing enthusiasts.
This 12-day Lahaul ski adventure begins in New Delhi before traveling north into the stunning mountains of Himachal Pradesh. From Manali and the Kullu Valley, we gradually venture into the high-altitude landscapes of Lahaul, crossing the famous Atal Tunnel and leaving the busy tourist areas behind.
The initial days focus on ski touring Manali, specifically around Sethan and Gulaba, where open snow slopes, alpine terrain, and spectacular views of the Pir Panjal range provide an ideal introduction to Himalayan ski tours and splitboarding trips.
As we progress into Lahaul, the scenery changes dramatically. The high barren mountains, deep valleys, remote villages, Buddhist culture, and vast snowfields create a genuine wilderness experience perfect for backcountry skiing.
The program includes ski touring objectives around Beas Valley, Seven Sisters, Yotse Valley, the Shinkun La region, Triloknath, and Sissu. The surrounding mountains rise towards and beyond 6,000 metres, setting a breathtaking stage for both backcountry skiing and splitboarding.
Designed with flexibility in mind, each day's objective is chosen according to conditions such as snow quality, weather, avalanche risk, visibility, and the group's skill level. The goal is to seek the best and safest available terrain rather than simply adhering to a scheduled summit or route.
For splitboarders, the journey offers long human-powered approaches and natural mountain lines, while skiers can revel in extensive alpine terrain and rewarding powder descents.
When mountain conditions do not permit safe skiing, the program can also be adapted to explore remote Buddhist monasteries, traditional Himalayan villages, and the unique cultural heritage of Lahaul.
Welcome to India – Gateway to the Himalayas
Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), New Delhi, where our Himalayan Yeti Adventure team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
After a chance to rest and recover from your journey, depending on your arrival time, we can explore a small part of India's vibrant capital.
New Delhi offers an extraordinary introduction to India, featuring famous landmarks such as India Gate, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and the historic streets of Old Delhi. This colorful city sets the stage for our upcoming Himalayan ski tours, where you'll experience thrilling backcountry skiing and exciting splitboarding trips in the majestic Himalayas.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and briefing about the expedition, including our Lahaul ski adventure and the ski touring Manali experiences that await you, before we embark on our journey towards the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Hotel Ashok Country Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
From the Plains to the Himalayas
Approx. 532 km | 12 hours
After breakfast, we kick off our long scenic drive from New Delhi towards Manali, the perfect starting point for adventurous Himalayan ski tours.
As we travel north, the landscape slowly transforms from the flat plains of northern India to the stunning Himalayan foothills, where we pass rivers, forests, traditional villages, and majestic mountain valleys.
Nestled in the beautiful Kullu Valley, Manali is surrounded by the impressive Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. It serves as a principal gateway to the high mountains of Himachal Pradesh, making it an ideal location for backcountry skiing and splitboarding trips.
Manali is famous for its access to Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Old Manali, Hadimba Temple, and the Beas River, along with being a major base for skiing and mountaineering expeditions.
Upon arrival in Manali, get ready for your first days of backcountry skiing and splitboarding, launching into an exciting Lahaul ski adventure.
Accommodation: Veer Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
First Turns in the Himalayas
4x4 Transfer: Approx. 1.5 hours
Starting Elevation: 2,800 m
Highest Skiing Point: Approx. 4,000 m
Elevation Gain: +1,200 m
Today the skiing adventure begins with our Himalayan ski tours.
After breakfast, we drive by 4x4 towards Sethan, a charming mountain village situated high above the Beas Valley. Known for its snow-covered landscapes, traditional mountain environment, and breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal range, Sethan is a perfect base for our backcountry skiing experience.
At the trailhead, we don our ski touring equipment and commence our ascent through the open alpine terrain. This route offers a fantastic introduction to ski touring Manali, featuring gentle slopes, expansive snowfields, and stunning mountain vistas.
As we ascend higher, we revel in panoramic views across the Beas Valley and the majestic Himalayan peaks before embarking on our first long ski descent. These moments underscore the thrill of our Lahaul ski adventure.
In the afternoon, we return to Manali, where we can unwind and reflect on a day filled with exhilarating ski touring and splitboarding trips.
Accommodation: Veer Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
High Alpine Terrain above the Beas Valley
4x4 Transfer: Approx. 1.5 hours
Starting Elevation: 3,000 m
Highest Skiing Point: Approx. 4,700 m
Elevation Gain: +1,700 m
Today, we embark on an unforgettable backcountry skiing experience in the high alpine terrain around Gulaba, one of the most picturesque mountain regions above Manali.
Gulaba, located on the historic route to Rohtang Pass, offers extensive snow-covered slopes perfect for Himalayan ski tours during winter and spring. The surrounding mountains deliver breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal range and the stunning upper Beas Valley.
After our 4x4 transfer, we commence our ascent, gradually gaining altitude through open snow terrain, ideal for ski touring Manali. As we climb higher, the landscape transforms into a more alpine and remote setting, setting the stage for an exhilarating adventure.
Our goal is approximately 4,700 m, with the final destination influenced by snow, weather, and mountain conditions. Once we reach this high point, we'll enjoy a rewarding ski descent through the Himalayan landscape, a highlight of our Lahaul ski adventure.
This challenging yet fulfilling ski touring day serves as excellent preparation for more ambitious splitboarding trips in the higher terrain ahead.
Accommodation: Veer Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
From Kullu to the Buddhist Himalayas
Skiing Elevation Gain: +800 m
Starting Elevation: 2,900 m
Highest Skiing Point: Approx. 3,700 m
Drive: Approx. 1 hour skiing approach + 2 hours towards Lahaul
After breakfast, we leave Manali and embark on another exciting ski touring adventure in the upper Beas Valley, perfect for backcountry skiing enthusiasts.
This area is surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan peaks, pristine snowfields, and glacial terrain, making it an ideal spot for Himalayan ski tours. Depending on conditions, we’ll explore suitable slopes that this spectacular high mountain environment offers.
After a day of ski touring in Manali, we proceed through the renowned Atal Tunnel, one of the longest highway tunnels in India, located beneath the Rohtang massif.
Emerging on the other side, the landscape transforms dramatically.
We have now entered Lahaul, a high-altitude Himalayan region characterized by barren mountains, deep valleys, a rich Buddhist culture, and traditional villages—this marks our entry into the Land of Lamas.
We continue our journey towards Keylong, the administrative centre of Lahaul, where we will settle into our accommodation for the night.
Accommodation: Hotel Deykid / Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Join us for an unforgettable Lahaul ski adventure that includes splendid splitboarding trips, offering a unique experience in the heart of these majestic mountains.
High-Altitude Ski Touring & Ghondla–Seven Sisters Pass
Starting Elevation: Approx. 3,300 m
Highest Point: Approx. 4,800 m
Elevation Gain: +1,500 m
Today takes us deeper into the spectacular mountains of Lahaul, ideal for backcountry skiing.
Our objective is the Seven Sisters area, a dramatic group of Himalayan peaks surrounded by high alpine terrain. The route climbs through increasingly open landscapes, offering magnificent views across the Lahaul mountains, making it a prime location for Himalayan ski tours.
Depending on snow stability, weather, and mountain conditions, we may reach and cross the Ghondla–Seven Sisters Pass, at approximately 4,700–4,800 m.
From the pass, the landscape opens dramatically towards the northern side of the range, providing an exceptional ski descent perfect for our Lahaul ski adventure.
This is one of the expedition's major days of ski touring Manali, combining significant elevation gain with a long and adventurous descent, catering well to splitboarding trips.
Accommodation: Hotel Deykid / Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Into the Remote High Himalayas
Starting Elevation: Approx. 3,450 m
Highest Point: Approx. 4,800 m
Elevation Gain: +1,350 m
Today we embark on a thrilling backcountry skiing adventure in the magnificent Yotse Valley, one of the more remote and spectacular areas of our Himalayan ski tours.
After the approach transfer, our journey through this vast high-altitude landscape begins, surrounded by rugged Himalayan peaks. The valley offers a true sense of wilderness, with very few settlements and enormous open mountain terrain—perfect for ski touring Manali enthusiasts.
The towering peaks rise towards and beyond 6,000 m, creating a dramatic backdrop for the day's skiing. As we ascend higher, the views become increasingly expansive, showcasing the characteristic landscapes of Lahaul—high barren mountains, deep valleys, glaciers, and wide snowfields that make this region a prime destination for splitboarding trips.
Depending on conditions, we aim to reach approximately 4,800 m before relishing our descent through this extraordinary Himalayan terrain.
Accommodation: Hotel Deykid / Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The Roof of the Expedition
Drive: Approx. 2.5 hours
Starting Elevation: Approx. 5,050 m
Highest Point: Approx. 5,850 m
Elevation Gain: +800 m
Today marks one of the most spectacular and highest days of our Himalayan ski tours.
We drive towards Shinkun La, the high mountain pass that connects Lahaul with the remote Zanskar region. As we make our way into the backcountry skiing terrain, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, revealing the breathtaking high-altitude world of the Greater Himalaya.
From an elevation of about 5,050 m, we commence our ascent toward a high point of around 5,850 m, which may vary based on weather, snow conditions, acclimatization, and the ability of our group. This trek is the heart of our Lahaul ski adventure, showcasing immense scenery adorned with vast snowfields and some of the tallest peaks of the area.
After reaching our highest safe point, we engage in a thrilling descent on skis through the challenging high Himalayan terrain, a highlight of this pursuit that appeals to those with ski touring Manali experience. This part of the journey is the highest and most adventurous, requiring good acclimatization, strong fitness, and proficient ski-touring skills, ideal for our splitboarding trips.
Accommodation: Hotel Deykid / Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Shiva Valley – Where Hindu and Buddhist Traditions Meet
Starting Elevation: Approx. 2,900 m
Highest Point: Approx. 4,400 m
Elevation Gain: +1,500 m / approximately +800 m depending on the selected objective
Today we embark on an unforgettable Himalayan ski tour into the spectacular Shiva Valley, located opposite the famous Triloknath Temple.
Triloknath is one of the most culturally significant places in Lahaul, famous for being revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, which beautifully reflects the remarkable cultural and spiritual diversity of this region.
From the valley, we’ll commence our backcountry skiing adventure towards the surrounding high slopes. The terrain offers a wonderful combination of open alpine skiing, breathtaking mountain views, and rich cultural scenery.
The surrounding landscape is dominated by rugged Himalayan peaks and remote villages, providing us with a completely different perspective of the Lahaul ski adventure.
After the exhilarating ski descent, we will return to our guesthouse for a relaxing evening, perfect after a day filled with ski touring near Manali.
Accommodation: Hotel Deykid / Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
For the strongest and most experienced riders, conditions permitting, today may be dedicated to one of Gulmarg's most iconic backcountry skiing objectives: Shark Fin. The route requires a significant approach and approximately one hour of hiking, reaching terrain around 4,250 m. The descent is technical, steep, and committing, and will only be attempted when snow stability, weather, visibility, and rider ability are suitable. For those not undertaking Shark Fin, alternative expert-level objectives, including options for thrilling Himalayan ski tours, will be selected. Accommodation will be at Hotel Deykid or a cozy homestay, and meals include breakfast, pack lunch & dinner, perfect for energizing riders gearing up for their Lahaul ski adventure or ski touring Manali. Splitboarding trips can also be organized for those interested in exploring more terrain.
From the Himalayas Back to the Capital
After breakfast, we begin our return journey from Manali, where our exhilarating Himalayan ski tours have left us in awe. This is another scenic road journey through the valleys and foothills of Himachal Pradesh, perfect for those with a passion for backcountry skiing. As we descend from the mountains, the landscape gradually changes from the stunning Himalayan forests and valleys to the plains of northern India, making this route a memorable ski touring Manali experience.
We arrive in New Delhi and check into the hotel. The evening is free to relax, enjoy a final Indian dinner, or explore the city depending on arrival time. If you’re up for more adventure, consider planning your next splitboarding trips or a Lahaul ski adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel Ashok Country Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
End of the Himalayan Adventure
After breakfast, transfer to New Delhi International Airport (DEL) according to your flight schedule.
Our backcountry skiing experience in the Western Himalayas – Land of Lamas expedition officially comes to an end.
As you conclude your Lahaul ski adventure, you will carry with you memories of high-altitude ski descents, remote valleys, and charming Buddhist villages. The spectacular mountains and the extraordinary hospitality encountered during our ski touring Manali will leave a lasting impression.
Whether you participated in ski touring or enjoyed our splitboarding trips, this journey through the Himalayan landscape is sure to remain etched in your mind.
Meals: Breakfast
Please reach us at himalayaskitouring@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
The ideal season for ski touring and backcountry skiing in Lahaul is from Mid January to mid-March, when the region receives abundant snowfall and offers excellent winter snow conditions.
For ski mountaineering and high-altitude ski expeditions, the best period extends from March to early June, when more stable weather and access to higher mountain terrain make longer and more technical objectives possible.
Yes. This trip is designed for strong intermediate to advanced skiers and splitboarders with solid off-piste experience.
Participants should:
Because the itinerary includes remote and high-altitude Himalayan terrain, a good level of fitness and previous backcountry experience is essential.
We have touring ski equipment available for use, although it is not the latest-generation equipment. Availability and equipment sizes should be confirmed with us in advance.
Alternatively, participants are welcome to bring their own touring skis with skins or splitboard with skins, especially if they prefer specific or newer equipment.
You should also carry your own avalanche safety equipment, including:
For the best fit and performance, experienced skiers may prefer to bring their own personal touring setup.
Manali and Lahaul typically receive several metres of snowfall each winter in the higher mountain areas, with the heaviest snowfall generally occurring from January to March, creating excellent conditions for backcountry skiing and ski touring.
Our guides are highly experienced local ski and mountain professionals with extensive knowledge of skiing, mountaineering, and the Himalayan terrain.
They have received professional training through national-level skiing and mountaineering institutes and bring strong practical experience in the mountains.
Their deep understanding of local snow conditions, terrain, weather, routes, and mountain environments helps ensure a safe, efficient, and rewarding backcountry experience.
Manali and Lahaul are primarily accessible by road from Delhi or Chandigarh. Delhi to Manali is approximately 540 km, with a scenic journey through the Himalayan foothills and mountain valleys.
For our guests, we can arrange airport pickup in Delhi and private transfers from Delhi to Manali, providing a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Alternatively, there are limited flights to Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, approximately 50 km from Manali. We can also arrange airport pickup and transfer from Bhuntar to Manali.
Manali: Backcountry skiing from approximately 2,800–4,500 metres. January–March is ideal for powder skiing and winter backcountry tours, while March–May offers excellent spring ski touring.
Lahaul: High-altitude skiing from approximately 4,500–6,200 metres. February–April is ideal for powder and ski touring, while March–June is best suited for ski mountaineering and high-altitude objectives.
Together, Manali and Lahaul offer a complete progression from deep winter powder and backcountry skiing to high-altitude ski touring and ski mountaineering.
Mountain weather can change rapidly in the Himalayas. All skiing and splitboarding objectives depend on weather, snowpack, avalanche conditions, visibility and mountain safety.
If conditions do not permit safe backcountry skiing, we can adapt the programme and explore the cultural side of Lahaul.
Possible alternatives include:
A weather day therefore becomes an opportunity to discover another side of the Himalayas.
Manali & Lahaul Ski Touring | Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding Trips
Manali and Lahaul offer some of the most spectacular backcountry skiing and ski touring terrain in the Western Himalayas. Manali provides accessible powder skiing and excellent acclimatization terrain, while Lahaul opens the door to remote high-altitude mountains, glaciers, wide snowfields, and challenging objectives reaching approximately 4,500–6,200 metres.
The region boasts a long and varied ski season, from deep winter powder in January–March to excellent spring touring and high-altitude ski mountaineering from March to June. This unique combination of diverse terrain, remote valleys, high mountain passes, and traditional Himalayan landscapes makes it an exceptional destination for experienced skiers and splitboarding trips.
Highlights of this Himalayan ski tour include:
- Guided backcountry skiing with experienced local professionals
- Powder skiing in Manali and Lahaul
- High-altitude ski touring up to 4,500–6,200 metres
- Excellent terrain for splitboarding
- Deep Himalayan powder during the winter season
- Spring corn and high-altitude ski touring
- Ski mountaineering objectives from March to June
- Remote glaciers, snowfields, bowls, and mountain passes
- Spectacular views of the Pir Panjal and Lahaul ranges
- Authentic Himalayan villages, monasteries, and local culture
- Small-group experience for maximum flexibility and safety
PRICE INCLUDES
• Complete organization and logistics by Himalayan Yeti Adventure.
• All airport transfers and local transportation from Day 1 to Day 12.
• Accommodation on twin-sharing basis in hotels and guesthouses.
• All meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
• Professional mountain local ski guide.
• Experienced drivers and support staff.
• Private minibus and 4x4 vehicles.
• All permits and restricted area fees.
• Daily snacks and energy bars during ski touring days.
• Safety equipment including first-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
• International flights to and from New Delhi.
• Indian visa fees.
• Personal travel and rescue insurance.
• Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses.
• Laundry, telephone calls and gratuities.
• Single room supplement.
• Lunch on Day 10 in Manali.
• Expenses caused by weather delays, natural disasters, or circumstances beyond our control.
• Any item not specifically mentioned under "Price Includes".
BOOKING & PAYMENT TERMS
• 50% deposit required to confirm the booking.
• Balance payment due 30 days before departure.
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