Best Places To Go Skiing And Snowboarding

There are so many fun ways of enjoying the snowfall – from building a snowman to having snowball fights. But nothing compares to the adrenaline rush you feel as you glide over icy hill slopes that are covered in several inches of snow. The exhilarating feeling, accompanied by a gush of cold breeze, is an experience like none other and is a must-experience for anyone who loves thrilling outdoor sports. With many places in the north still witnessing snowfall, January and February are ideal months to plan a ski and snowboarding getaway.

The coming Republic Day, January 26 is an ideal opportunity to head out on a snowy escapade and experience a boundless sense of freedom. Take an off on the 25th, and you can enjoy a fun four-day weekend! Here are a few places that offer thrilling activities in the snow.

Munisyari – Uttarakhand

Tucked away in Uttarakhand, Munsiyari is a great skiing spot that offers breathtaking views of the snow-laden Himalayan peaks. It serves as the base camp for Nanda Devi trek while its Betulidhar and Khaliya top slopes are popular among mountain climbers seeking a high-altitude trek to the glaciers. A refreshing stroll through Munsiyari town, past birch and walnut trees will bring you to the Balanti Potato Farm which is perched at an impressive altitude of 9,000 feet. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Panchachuli peaks at this offbeat farm that is famous for its potatoes and apples and houses a bounty of sky-high trees.

To swish your way through snow-covered slopes, hop into your trusted Ford Endeavour and steer through on those meandering curves in confidence. With the turn of a dial, the Terrain Management System can be set to snow mode, so that the car’s speed, throttle position, steering angle, traction and control optimally fits the terrain.

Phuni Valley – Sikkim

Surrounded by lofty mountains which seem to rise to the heavens, Phuni valley is home to magnificent slopes that create ideal skiing and snowboarding conditions for beginners and experts alike. During November to March, the valley is draped in powdery snow attracting thrill-seekers to embark on thrilling experiences.

Phuni valley is only 20 km from Lachung, one of Sikkim’s most popular tourist spots where you can also enjoy Yak safaris. During your drive across the state, use the Climate Control feature in your Ford car to ensure you stay warm and comfortable throughout your journey. And don’t forget to press the MAX Defrost button for a frost-free windshield to maintain clear vision.

Narkanda – Himachal Pradesh

Narkanda is a hidden treasure in Himachal Pradesh that promises an adventure-packed vacation at the foothills of Himalayas. The entire landscape is covered in a thick blanket of snow, making it an ideal retreat to learn the art of skiing under skilled instructors’ guidance. Trekkers frequent the lush alpines of the Hatu peak to savour the valley’s mesmerising views and calm aura.

Driving from Delhi to Narkanda takes nine hours, but with Ford Freestyle’s touchscreen navigation, you can be sure to get the best route to your destination. Besides, this CUV is loaded with safety features like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) that ensure enough grip to climb steep, winding mountainous roads with ease. After all, it does aim to satiate your hunger for thrilling adventures!

Pahalgam – Kashmir

Skiing on the spellbinding slopes of Pahalgam is truly a mind-blowing experience. Home to the famous Betaab valley, the enthralling landscape in Pahalgam offers the real essence of Kashmir and infuses your skiing and snowboarding adventures with a feeling of ecstasy. The Snow Point here is a major tourist attraction and has a lot to offer including a snow and sledge rides.

The drive to Pahalgam is quite tricky as the roads are steep and windy, and when covered in snow, it becomes all the more challenging. But if you are in your Ford EcoSport, you’re in good hands. Its Hill Launch Assist feature will enable you to confidently and safely traverse inclines without rolling back. Like most Ford cars, it also features six airbags which protect all its passengers.

Being out and about amidst fresh mountain air is a sure shot way to recharge your batteries and start 2021 on a high note. So, this Republic Day experience a thrilling sense of freedom as you go blazing atop a mountain.