Any activity in snow-covered mountains is laden with inherent dangers.

To this end, Gulmarg is no different from anywhere else in the world. Over the past number of years, through the hard work of numerous Western Snow Safety Officers and the continuing support the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department,  the Gulmarg Ski Patrol has developed into the professional organisation it is today.  The Gondola bowl is patrolled by a team of ski patrol professional that mark hazards, perform rescues and manage avalanche dangers.  Avalanche forecasting has developed remarkably since the resort opened. A daily avalanche forecast is available online and at various locations in the gondola building. This forecast utilises an international standard which informs riders of the weather situation, snowpack observations and dangers applicable to the current conditions.

Our guides understand these dangers and use best practice methods for travelling in avalanche terrain. Their local knowledge combined with education provided by western professionals allows them to choose the most suitable terrain for the conditions on any given day. Di5 only employs guides that are certified as Ski Guides by the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department. 

Every day riding you will carry a minimum of an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel. We will provide a refresher course to every group and give all the necessary training to those who are new to this equipment This happens at a pace that works for the group until every member is happy. Fatal avalanches can and do happen in the Gulmarg backcountry but with the right guides, knowledge and attitude these hazards can be minimised.