Ladakh opens 4800m Umba Peak for summer skiing thrill

Ladakh, Apr 16: In a groundbreaking development for Indian adventure tourism, Ladakh has discovered a new summer skiing destination at Umba Peak, situated at a staggering altitude of 4800 metres. Identified by the Ladakh Ski and Snowboard Association, the newly mapped terrain promises to transform the high-altitude desert into a rare, all-season skiing haven—now offering downhill and heli-skiing opportunities as late as June.

This remarkable discovery, as per a statement, comes after the identification of Manman Top, further solidifying Ladakh’s position as a premier destination for year-round skiing.

According to Er Syed Murtaza, Ladakh has now become the only region in India offering skiing opportunities from January through June, marking a significant milestone for Indian adventure tourism.

The exploration team was led by professional skier and coach Syed Shamshudin, who highlighted the site's potential for heli-skiing—a high-adrenaline sport attracting global skiing enthusiasts. Syed Shamshudin said, “This natural terrain is ideal for heli-skiing during May and June, offering a unique experience that few places in the world can match.”

The area below the Umba peak has already been identified by the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM), which has conducted professional skiing courses in the region. This further reinforces the location’s suitability and safety for professional training and adventure activities.

With efforts like these, Ladakh is steadily positioning itself as a global hub for adventure sports, offering untapped terrain, long seasons, and breathtaking alpine landscapes.