Srinagar, Dec 26 (KNO): The Indian Institute of Skiing & Mountaineering (IISM) is set for an exciting season of skiing courses at Gulmarg with eight batches scheduled to undergo comprehensive skiing training this winter.
High altitude skiing destination Gulmarg has recently witnessed a snowfall following which the winter activities took off at the hilly destination.
IISM too has started its skiing courses with participants coming from across India to learn the sport and practice it on the slopes of Gulmarg.
Nazir Ahmad Bhat, training coordinator at IISM told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that this season training courses will be held for 640 aspiring skiers.
“Training courses for skiing have begun at Gulmarg from December 20. We will conduct the training courses for eight batches this winter. Each batch contains 80 students which means that 640 students will be trained at the institute this winter,” he said.
The courses cater to various skill levels, making it accessible for novices as well as those looking to refine their existing skills.
Bhat expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming sessions, stating, “Gulmarg is renowned for its breath-taking landscapes and ideal conditions for skiing. We are excited to welcome participants from different parts of the country to experience the thrill of skiing under the guidance of our experienced instructors. Our courses are designed to cater to everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers, ensuring a holistic and enjoyable learning experience.”
The training programs offered by IISM include both theoretical and practical components, covering aspects such as equipment handling, snow safety, and skiing techniques.
Bhat said the institute has been receiving non- locals students as well who enroll for these courses to learn skiing.
“We get students from across the country. They learn the sport and later practice it on a professional level,” he said.
Bhat said they have proposed to start short six-day skiing courses from next year.
Pertinently, the picturesque town of Gulmarg, with its pristine snow-clad slopes, provides an ideal backdrop for the skiing courses. Participants not only get to learn from seasoned professionals but also get to immerse themselves in the unique culture and natural beauty of the Kashmir valley.
Meanwhile, the students expressed their excitement to learn skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg.
“I come from a coastal area which is a temperate zone. I love snow and wanted to learn this sport to make at future in it,” said Sunaina, an aspiring skier—(KNO)