After our first successful week of classes in which we saw all of our kids learn to link turns and ride a lift it was our turn to check out what Gulmarg had to offer. Friday was our last day of classes topped off with a going away dinner where we showed a slide show from the week and a ski movie showing the kids what is possible. They were a fantastic group, very well behaved and quick learners, if all of the groups are like this Skis4kashmir and its students will know nothing but success.
We woke up late on Saturday not because we were tired but because nothing happens in Kashmir before 11. It was a bluebird day so the top was open. The view was amazing. K2 to the north is definitely the highlight but everywhere you look are crazy mountains. It was pretty tracked out but we have some friends that know the place well so we found the goods. This mountain is like nothing I have ever experienced outside of heli skiing. The lift goes to the top and from there you can access endless spines and coulars. You can only do about 5 runs a day because the lift is constantly breaking down and there is an hour lunch break at 12. Kashmir. We are constantly reminded of how small the world is, always running into friends from all over the world. It’s really cool. Tomorrow a new group arrives and our work begins anew. I am excited and nervous. Everyone is settling into the routine and falling deeper in love with Kashmir. Hope all is well and we will post pictures as soon as we can.
Charlie