Snowfall rejuvenates tourism industry, sets slopes for skiing

First spell of snowfall in Manali has proved boon for
the tourism industry as thousands of ski lovers are heading to the hill town in
December. Meanwhile, Manali based Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS) has announced skiing courses from
January 11, 2013.

Though the ski  slopes above Solang valley are covered with very thin layer of snow which is
inadequate for professional skiing, but the skiers are heading towards Fatru
and Gulaba to find the new slopes. Nowadays, hundreds of tourists carrying
rented skis are reaching the various slopes to enjoy the skiing. After five
months of rest, over one hundred local ski instructors are also back to their
job.

“More snow on slopes means more fun and more money,” an instructor Sandeep Kumar said, adding
that the snowfall has ensured pleasant time for skiing till June next year. “Over
50% of the tourists visiting Manali definitely try their hands on skiing. Our
livelihood is totally dependent on snowfall.”

According to ABVIMAS director Randir Singh Salhuria, people from many states are already
booking for the skiing courses that are beginning from January 11. “We are
hoping for good snowfall in January when short and long term ski courses in
various categories would be started at Solang. Special ski courses
would be conducted between January 11 and 27, February 11 and 27, March 14 and
29. Six 14-days basic courses and two intermediate skiing courses
would also be organized,” he said.

Apart from the fixed courses, institute organizes special ski course on request if a group of20 or more skiers demands for it. Jawans of Indian Air Force, Indian Navy, NSSand other national institutions also learn the skiing techniques from the institute between January and April. Apart from the courses for newbie, theinstitute organizes a 21-days method of instruction skiing course which isspecially designed for the instructors. Salhuria said that interested peoplefrom any part of the world can apply for any of the courses.

Harish Thakur, another ski instructor in Manali said, “The temperature is quite favourable for
skiing. Inquiries are pouring in for ski courses. Our mountains have enough
snow for skiing till the next spell of snowfall. Apart from generating sources
of income for us, snow is thrilling the tourists.”