The Northern realms of Pakistan entice Chinophiles, those who love to embrace the cold weather. Snowboarding and skiing, a recreational activity in Pakistan on snow-laden slopes, attracts passionate sportspersons who want to traverse these wintry landscapes.
Having ventured to the snowy terrain twice, I was unfamiliar with this sport and felt it was risky and needed preparation. With the resolution of trying snowboarding, I decided to explore if this sport is played in Pakistan.
This article lists the places where we can experience the thrilling sport of snowboarding and skiing in Pakistan. Read to find out!
Can you snowboard in Pakistan?
Snowboarding and skiing is in its infancy in Pakistan. The sport has the eyes of many tourists, local and abroad, with the launching of a winter championship where tourists from abroad come to Pakistan. This sport has much potential to uplift the country’s global image and increase the number of tourists who enjoy the best and make recollections of their adventure.
As this exhilarating sport gained momentum, it secured its place on the grand international stages of the Winter Olympic Games and Winter Paralympic Games. Snowboarding enthusiasts worldwide participate in the activity in skiing resorts in Pakistan, facing the blows of ice in the high and low curvature of the land.
Famous Snowboarding and Skiing Resorts in Pakistan:
Naltar Ski Resort:
Situated at an impressive elevation of 2,950 m above sea level, Naltar Ski Resort invites snowboarders to test the mettle of their skills. The resort can only be reached by an arduous road accessible via a 4-wheel jeep journey.
Naltar ski resort provides a breathtaking background of Gilgit Baltistan performing snowboarding and skiing. As the oldest ski resort in Giligit Baltistan, Naltar embraces the skiing season from January to March. As the resort acts as a central location for preparation and growing up, tourists can experience the excitement of winter sports.
Malam Jabba Ski Resort:
Discover the winter bliss in Swat’s famous resort of Malam Jabba Ski Resort, standing at a height of 2804 meters amidst alluring Pakistan’s mountains. It is a destination where adventure meets elevation at this alpine haven. It is a joint venture of Austria and Pakistan. This winter wonderland has chair lifts, ice and roller skating rinks, and other contemporary amenities. A motel has also been set up for the construction workers of the ski resort, which is now open for visitors.
The skiing Charges and price at Malam Jabba Ski Resort is Rs.2000 per head of equipment. Snowboarding and skiing competitions and championships are held annually in Malam Jabba, and countless visitors from abroad visit the place, just a scenic 6-hour drive from Islamabad.
Nathia Gali Ski Resort:
The top choice ski resort attracts a bustling crowd of visitors as it is 3 hours from Islamabad. A ski lift is installed to whisk tourists to the skiing spots. They can enjoy skiing in the backdrop of the beautiful landscapes of Mushkpuri and Miranji top.
Perfect for enjoying friends and family outings, this spot also becomes a go-to destination for domestic visitors. The skiing season kicks off in December, and luring sports and winter lovers come to this place yearly. The staff of the resort briefed that the price varies yearly, in PKR 4000 – 5000 for skiing in the region.
Fairy Meadows Ski Resort:
Unlike other ski resorts, Fairy Meadows takes your passion to new heights. Devoid of chairlift accessibility to take you to the skiing spot here, adventurers embark on a trek to reach the skiing expanse.
The trek proves worthwhile as it unfolds to enjoy snowboarding and skiing in the splendid vistas of the killer mountain, Nanga Parbat. The region welcomes snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts in December to ignite their passion.
Skiing and Snowboarding Safety Guidelines:
As the snow season blankets the slopes of North Pakistan, ski enthusiasts gear up to exhibit their skills. Improper fitted and misadjusted gear can be a reason for the threat. So it is better to acquire knowledge and training to ensure your adventure is safe and secure. Begin by following a guide on necessary equipment and adopting safety measures to navigate the slopes confidently.
Helmet: Wearing a helmet protects your skull from any injury, so invest in a good-quality helmet.
Goggles: A pair of goggles that fit with your helmet can shield your eyes from the blow of snow. You can enjoy skiing with a clear vision.
Boots and Binding: Opt for properly fitted boots to slide and glide smoothly with a firm grip on the curvy slopes.
Wrist Guards: These are essential safety gear for snowboarders, protecting the wrists and lower arms during falls or collisions.
In addition to the right gear along with the correct equipment, appropriate clothing is essential for a successful venture. Consider the following practical tips:
Prepare for the weather: Cover yourself in layers of clothing to protect yourself from injury and frigid snow.
Trails Preparation: The rough track of snow is challenging to ace. Only go on trails that match your skill level.
Training and Instructions: Adhere to trail rules and seek guidance from attendants. Professional guide tips can save you time and minimize the risk of tragedy. So you can enjoy most of your time on the snow-capped slopes.
Conclusion:
The prospect of skiing and snowboarding in Northern Pakistan amidst the grandeur of mountains and lush landscapes is witnessing a remarkable surge every year. The escalating influx of tourists is a testament to the burgeoning popularity of the winter sport within the country and beckons travelers around the globe. The captivating destinations in Pakistan are the perfect blend of winter excitement and natural splendor.
Visitors to the enchanting landscapes of Pakistan find themselves irresistibly drawn back to this place. They want to experience not just the breathtaking beauty but also the exhilarating sports it offers. This sport has great potential to attract tourists and sportspersons abroad. With time, it becomes a hosting venue to conduct championships and international sports. The blend of natural allure and healthy activities makes it a recurring choice. Pakistan is transforming into a magnet pull for those seeking scenic wonders and world-class sporting experiences.