GULMARG, Kashmir — After two days of continuous snowfall across the higher reaches of the Pir Panjal range, authorities have issued fresh avalanche warnings for popular winter sports areas in Gulmarg and Sonamarg.
The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) said conditions currently pose a medium to high avalanche risk, particularly in areas outside managed ski slopes. While the snowfall has created ideal surface conditions for skiing, officials warn that unstable snow layers beneath the fresh powder significantly increase the danger.
Areas of Concern
In Gulmarg, the advisory highlights several well-known off-piste zones used by experienced skiers. The areas known locally as Shark Fin and Mary’s Shoulder, both accessed from the upper reaches of the Gondola Phase 2, have been classified as high-risk for the next 72 hours.
“These slopes are not controlled or stabilized,” an official involved in slope monitoring said. “Fresh snow on top of weak layers makes them unpredictable.”
In Sonamarg, attention has been drawn to the slopes surrounding the Thajiwas Glacier. While sledding and short walks at the glacier’s base remain permitted, authorities have temporarily banned trekking and climbing higher up the glacier due to unstable snow conditions.
Stricter Safety Rules This Season
For the 2025–26 winter season, local ski authorities have introduced tighter safety measures aimed at reducing accidents in uncontrolled terrain.
The Gulmarg Ski Patrol has made avalanche safety equipment mandatory for anyone entering backcountry areas beyond the groomed slopes. Skiers are now required to carry an avalanche transceiver (beacon), shovel, and probe. Those without proper equipment are not permitted to proceed beyond designated access points.
In addition, solo off-piste skiing is no longer allowed. Skiers venturing into backcountry zones must be accompanied by a registered local ski guide. Violations can result in fines and removal from the slopes.
Officials say the changes follow a series of near-misses in previous seasons involving visitors unfamiliar with local terrain and snow behavior.
Advice for Recreational Skiers
Authorities emphasize that the advisory does not affect beginners or casual visitors who remain on maintained runs.
Green and Blue runs accessed via Gondola Phase 1 are groomed daily and monitored by patrol teams. These slopes are considered safe under current conditions.
Skiers are urged not to follow tracks leading off the main runs, particularly those beneath gondola lines, which can give a false sense of safety.
“The snow may look inviting,” one ski patrol member said, “but outside the marked runs, conditions can change in seconds.”
As winter tourism continues to peak, officials are asking visitors to prioritize caution over adventure, noting that even experienced skiers are vulnerable when conditions turn unstable.
