Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir | March 3, 2025- The picturesque ski resort of Gulmarg is gearing up to host the second leg of the 5th Khelo India Winter Games from March 9 to 12, following a much-needed boost from recent heavy snowfall. Originally slated for February 22 to 25, the event was postponed due to insufficient snow cover earlier this year. However, nature has cooperated just in time, blanketing the region’s famed slopes and reviving plans for the prestigious winter sports competition.
Organizers confirmed the new dates on Monday, expressing confidence that the fresh snow—described as a “game-changer” by local officials—has transformed Gulmarg into an ideal venue for the games. The event will feature over 300 athletes from across India competing in disciplines such as alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, ski mountaineering, and snowboarding. This follows the successful conclusion of the first leg of the games in Leh, Ladakh, held from January 23 to 27, which focused on ice-based sports like ice hockey and skating.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, a passionate skier and vocal advocate for winter sports in Kashmir, had earlier hinted at rescheduling the event if weather conditions improved. “Gulmarg’s slopes are world-class when the snow is right, and I’m thrilled we can showcase that to the nation,” Abdullah said last month. With the recent snowfall exceeding expectations, his optimism has paid off, setting the stage for a high-energy competition.
The Khelo India Winter Games, an initiative by the Government of India to promote sports at the grassroots level, are expected to draw significant attention to Gulmarg, often dubbed India’s winter sports capital. Beyond the competition, the event promises an economic boost for the region, particularly for the tourism sector. Hoteliers, transporters, and local vendors—who faced uncertainty after the February postponement—are now preparing for an influx of athletes, officials, and spectators.
“Snow is our lifeline here, and this event will bring life back to Gulmarg,” said Tariq Ahmad, a local ski instructor and equipment rental owner. “The games aren’t just about sports; they’re about showing the world what Kashmir has to offer.”
Efforts to elevate Gulmarg’s status as a global winter sports hub have been underway for years, with investments in ski infrastructure and training programs gaining momentum. The Khelo India initiative aligns with these goals, aiming to nurture talent while promoting the region’s natural assets. Organizers have assured that safety and logistical arrangements are in place, with the Jammu and Kashmir administration working closely with the Sports Authority of India to ensure a seamless experience.
As the countdown to March 9 begins, all eyes are on Gulmarg’s snow-laden slopes, where India’s top winter athletes will compete for glory—and perhaps cement the town’s reputation as a must-visit destination on the international winter sports map.