Kargil, Feb 16: Nestled in the breath-taking Suru Valley of Kargil district in Ladakh, Umba village is emerging as a promising new destination for skiing.
Currently, skiers from across the country are practicing at the Yakza Ski Slopes, where the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) is conducting professional skiing courses.
Officials said that participants were selected through a competitive online application process, with 26 seats reserved for skiers from Ladakh in collaboration with the local administration.
The introduction of structured skiing programs has brought great enthusiasm to the residents of Umba. Villagers have expressed their gratitude to Councillor Aga Syed Shams -ud -din, acknowledging his instrumental role in bringing skiing infrastructure to the region.
A local representative said that the village was previously unaware of its skiing potential.
“If we had known about snow skiing earlier, our children could have learned so much,” he said.
Skiers have praised both the ideal skiing conditions and the warm hospitality of the Stakpa-Umba community.
Malkit Singh, a skier from Haryana, who had previously trained in Gulmarg, expressed his excitement.
“The slopes here are even better, and the villagers are incredibly hospitable to visitors,” he said.
A local villager said that this is the first time a structured skiing program has been introduced in Umba. “Previously, our children only played ice hockey. The slopes here are vast and perfect for skiing,” he said.
However, the villagers are now urging the government to enhance the skiing infrastructure and develop Umba into a full-fledged skiing destination, similar to Gulmarg.
With its pristine slopes and consistent snow cover, Umba offers exceptional potential for both professional skiing and training programs.
Interestingly, Suru Valley, where Umba is located, was included in National Geographic’s prestigious list of the Top 25 Destinations, further highlighting its growing appeal for adventure tourism.
