Kashmir, March 06, 2025 | 03:00 PM
Gulmarg, March 06, 2025 – The countdown is on for the second leg of the fifth Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025, and all eyes are on the snowy slopes of Gulmarg, Kashmir, where Alpine Skiing promises to deliver an adrenaline-packed spectacle. Scheduled from March 9 to 12, this high-octane event isn’t just a sport—it’s a breathtaking race against gravity, with skiers poised to hit speeds exceeding 100 km/h, making it the fastest thrill on the slopes.
After a postponement from its original February 22-25 dates due to insufficient snowfall, Gulmarg has transformed into a winter sports paradise following heavy snow over the past week. With five to eight inches of fresh powder blanketing the resort as recently as Monday, conditions are now ideal for the more than 300 athletes from across India who will compete in events like Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing, Ski Mountaineering, and Snowboarding.
Alpine Skiing, a highlight of KIWG 2025, pits competitors against steep descents and sharp turns, demanding precision, courage, and raw speed. Known globally for its heart-pounding intensity, the sport sees elite skiers reach velocities that rival a speeding car—often surpassing 100 km/h on world-class courses. Gulmarg’s slopes, often compared to those in France, Switzerland, and Italy, are ready to showcase India’s emerging talent in this gravity-defying discipline.
“Alpine Skiing at KIWG 2025 is more than just competition; it’s a celebration of speed and skill on snow,” said an official from the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council. “With the fresh snowfall, we’re set for an unforgettable show that will inspire a new generation of winter sports enthusiasts.”
The event marks a significant moment for India’s winter sports scene, building on the success of the first leg held in Leh, Ladakh, in January, where athletes competed in ice hockey and skating. Now, as Gulmarg takes center stage, the focus shifts to the snow-covered peaks, where the fastest skiers will battle it out for glory.
As the nation gears up for this snowy showdown, KIWG 2025 continues to spotlight India’s growing prowess in winter sports, proving that the thrill of the slopes is alive and well in the Himalayas.