An earnest skier is known to wait longingly for the winter snowfall in order to indulge in his favourite activity. Himachal tourism now offers solace to all such souls with the introduction of grass skiing at Solang valley in the Western Himalayas.

A popular endeavor in Europe, Himachal Pradesh Is the first state in India to introduce this unique sport! The summer experience of grass skiing is offered by the state-run Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports in Manali. By planting a variety of grass, the institute developed a 120 metre long slope ideal for this sport. The basic course lasts for seven days after which participants can roll down the steep slopes of the valley on skis which have wheels on the underside.

 

The best time to indulge in grass skiing is July to November. The cost of this training will be Rs, 3150 from Indian travelers and Rs. 12,600 from foreign travelers. The amount includes equipment and lodging.

13 km uphill from Manali,  Solang has always been one of the country’s popular winter skiing destinations. Other adventure activities offered here are paragliding, parachuting and zorbing.