ABVIMAS Sets Slopes Alive with Winter Sports Courses; Snowboarding to Be Introduced for the First Time
SHIMLA/MANALI:
The sparkling ski slopes of Solang Ski Resort in the uphill reaches of snow-clad Manali and the chilly white stretches of Narkanda have come alive with skiers from across the country, as fresh snowfall has revived winter sports in Himachal Pradesh.
Riding on favourable snow conditions, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS) has successfully launched its skiing courses, reaffirming its position as a national centre of excellence for snow sports and adventure training.
As many as 109 participants from different parts of the country are currently undergoing training in the Basic and Advanced Skiing Courses, bearing serial numbers 203 and 48 respectively. The 14-day courses commenced on January 27 and are being conducted under experienced instructors in high-altitude winter conditions.
Director ABVIMAS Avinash Negi said the institute adheres strictly to safety and training protocols before starting any course. “The skiing course scheduled for January had to be cancelled due to insufficient snowfall. With improved snow cover and safer slope conditions, we launched the current courses to ensure quality training without compromising safety,” he said.
Negi added that the next batch of Basic and Intermediate Skiing Courses will commence from February 14, 2026, offering fresh opportunities to aspiring skiers.
Participants are already soaking in the experience. “The snow is ideal this season, and the training is both challenging and exciting,” said Tarushi, a trainee skier.
Another participant, Ankit, said the course has boosted his confidence and sharpened his technical skills.
In a major boost to winter sports enthusiasts, ABVIMAS is set to introduce a Snowboarding Course for the first time.
The much-awaited course will be offered with limited seats to ensure focused training and is expected to attract a new generation of adventure sports aspirants.
Over the years, ABVIMAS has produced several national and international-level skiers, playing a crucial role in promoting adventure tourism in Himachal Pradesh and generating self-employment opportunities for trained youth as instructors, guides and adventure professionals.
With safety, innovation and skill development at its core, ABVIMAS continues to strengthen India’s winter sports ecosystem while supporting sustainable tourism and livelihoods in the Himalayan region.
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