Meet the Team

The heart of WeSkiHimalayas. Our instructors are internationally certified, deeply experienced, and fiercely passionate about the Gulmarg terrain.

Sheikh Afzal

Sheikh Afzal

Founder & Lead Guide

To truly understand WeSkiHimalayas, you have to look at the journey of our founder. Sheikh Afzal clicked into his first pair of skis at the age of three, growing up with the Pir Panjal range as his backyard. Today, he stands as a founding pillar of the Gulmarg guiding community with over 30 years of high-altitude mountain experience. Afzal’s career bridges the gap between raw, traditional Himalayan intuition and the highest modern technical standards. Having navigated world-class peaks internationally, he brought a global standard of safety and professionalism back to India. Beyond his technical prowess—including his famously elegant and fluid skiing style—he is celebrated as a mentor to the next generation of local guides. Skiing with Afzal isn't just a lesson in technique; it's an immersion into the history and soul of Gulmarg’s mountains.
"I’ve felt these mountains change under my skis for thirty years. My mission isn't just to teach you how to slide on snow—it’s to share the soul of the Himalayas and ensure that every turn you take is backed by a lifetime of experience."
Experience30+ years of backcountry and high-altitude mountain operations.
CertificationsHolds Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 ski certifications.
Guiding StyleDeeply knowledgeable, professional, and dedicated to elevating Indian skiing to global standards.

Our Lead Guides

Shine

Shine

Senior Backcountry Guide

In the high-altitude landscape of Gulmarg, Shine’s name is synonymous with experience and reliability. With decades spent navigating the most challenging faces of Apharwat Peak, he has earned his place among the elite tier of Himalayan guides. Shine is known for his keen eye, calm confidence, and deep understanding of terrain and snow conditions. Whether he is leading a first-time powder seeker or a seasoned veteran, his priority is always precision and safety, ensuring every descent is as informed as it is exhilarating.

SpecialtyHigh-consequence mountain environments and backcountry exploration.
Guiding StyleCalm, observant, and deeply focused on safety and informed route selection.
Rafiq

Rafiq

Senior Ski Guide & Racing Specialist

In the competitive world of Gulmarg ski racing, Rafiq stands out as a true elite. As a three-time Gulmarg Derby Champion—a high-speed, high-stakes race through rugged terrain—he has cemented his reputation as one of the fastest and most technically proficient skiers in the Himalayas. Rafiq translates this competitive edge into his guiding, helping guests read the mountain with the precision of a seasoned athlete. He offers an unmatched perspective on identifying the most efficient, safe lines through complex terrain, making him the perfect guide for those looking to elevate their technique.

Achievement3x Gulmarg Derby Champion.
Guiding StylePerformance-oriented, specializing in high-velocity descents, efficient line selection, and technical mastery.
Aatif

Aatif

Ski & Snowboard Guide

Aatif is a highly versatile local guide, widely recognized for his exceptional skills on both skis and a snowboard. He brings a calm, patient approach to the mountain, making him a favorite for riders of all levels. Aatif’s focus goes beyond just the mechanics of teaching; he is dedicated to helping clients build real confidence, understand the mountain, and truly enjoy the sport. Whether you are stepping onto the snow for the very first time or looking to comfortably handle varied, challenging terrain, Aatif provides a supportive and safe environment for progression.

SpecialtyDual-discipline guiding (Skiing & Snowboarding) and confidence-building.
Guiding StylePatient, approachable, and focused on technique and terrain understanding.
Naveed

Naveed

Snowboard Guide & Avalanche Professional

Naveed is a core figure in Gulmarg’s snowboarding scene, celebrated for his dynamic, fearless, and energetic riding style. As a true freestyle rider, he confidently pushes the limits of what is possible on the mountain. However, Naveed’s adventurous spirit is firmly grounded in world-class safety: he is a highly certified avalanche professional. This unique combination of agility, board control, and strict safety standards allows him to lead riders through challenging conditions while encouraging them to progress beyond their comfort zones with complete peace of mind.

CertificationsAvalanche Canada Level 1 & Avalanche Australia Level 2.
Guiding StyleEnergetic, inspiring, and freestyle-oriented, with an uncompromising foundation in avalanche and mountain safety.

Ride with the Best

Book a course with our certified instructors and experience the legendary powder of Gulmarg with complete confidence.

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