Srinagar, Mar 3: The much-awaited second phase of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 is set to take place in Gulmarg from March 9 to 12. This follows the successful completion of the first phase, which was held in Ladakh from January 23 to 27. As per the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the games will feature four thrilling winter sports: alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, ski mountaineering, and snowboarding.
Originally scheduled for February 22 to 25, the Gulmarg leg of the event had to be postponed due to insufficient snow on the famous Kangdoori slopes and the golf course. However, fresh snowfall in recent days has rekindled hope for the successful technical conduct of the event. “The recent snowfall has improved the snow conditions significantly, making it ideal for snow sports. We are now confident that the event will proceed smoothly,” stated a SAI official.
The Khelo India Winter Games, part of the Indian government’s flagship Khelo India initiative, serve as a critical platform for winter sports athletes to showcase their talent. This year, 19 teams representing various states, union territories, and institutions are competing across six disciplines. The first phase of the games saw Ladakh take the lead, clinching four gold medals, two silvers, and one bronze.
With Gulmarg gearing up to host some of the best winter athletes, local hoteliers and tourism operators are optimistic about the potential boost to the valley’s tourism industry. “We are delighted with the announcement. The Khelo India Winter Games will attract both national and international tourists to Gulmarg, benefiting the local hospitality sector and the economy,” said Aftab Ahmad, a prominent hotelier in Gulmarg.
In the past, Jammu and Kashmir has successfully hosted and dominated the Khelo India Winter Games, with the 2024 edition co-hosted by Ladakh and J&K. The games not only provide a competitive platform for winter sports but also help highlight the region’s natural beauty, drawing attention to its potential as a premier sports and tourism destination. As KIWG 2025 draws closer, the people of Gulmarg, Jammu, and Kashmir are hopeful that this prestigious event will elevate the valley’s profile on the global sports map and further invigorate the local economy.
