Himalaya Ski Touring – India’s Kullu Valley

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Nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, the Kullu Valley is the true centerpiece of Himalayan ski touring. With towering 20,000 ft summits, deep snowpacks, and some of the most diverse terrain in the world, it offers an unparalleled backcountry skiing experience. From steep alpine chutes to gentle powder fields, the valley is a dream for both seasoned adventurers and passionate explorers.

• Abundant Snowfalls: Winter storms from the Arabian Sea and Mediterranean bring some of the deepest and lightest powder snow found anywhere.
   
• World-Class Terrain: The Pir Panjal Range provides routes from 3,500m to over 6,000m, with options ranging from day tours to multi-day expeditions.
   
• Cultural Richness: Beyond skiing, the valley offers temples, hot springs, traditional villages, and an unbroken Himalayan way of life.
   
• Easy Access: Just 500 km north of Delhi, with road and air links, the Kullu Valley is one of the most accessible high-altitude ski touring regions in the world.
   

• Solang Valley – The crown jewel of Himalayan ski touring with multiple 5,000m+ peaks and breathtaking descents.
   
• Rohtang Pass – Legendary for spring ski traverses and alpine snowfields.
   
• Jagatsukh & Hampta Valleys – Known for their scenic routes and high-altitude challenges.
   
• Beas Kund & Friendship Peak – Iconic tours offering classic lines and unmatched mountain views.
   

Ski touring here isn’t just about the snow. It’s about immersing yourself in the spirit of the Himalayas—trekking past cedar forests, meeting warm-hearted locals, and experiencing a land where traditions and mountain life remain timeless.

Much of the inspiration and detailed exploration of the Kullu Valley comes from the groundbreaking guidebook:

Ski Touring India’s Kullu Valley
by C.R. Spooner
Published by Alpine Touring Publishing, Melbourne, Australia

C.R. Spooner, an avid ski tourer from Melbourne, has spent decades exploring ski destinations across the globe—from New Zealand and Canada to France and India. His passion for the Himalayas led him to create the first comprehensive guidebook for ski touring in the Kullu Valley, blending adventure, cultural insight, and practical knowledge into a timeless resource