As the chill of winter settles across the Himalayan region, a vibrant burst of activity and celebration is set to take over the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir. The Khelo India Winter Games, one of the country’s most anticipated sporting events, is gearing up for another spectacular season in 2025. Scheduled to take place in two parts, Ladakh will host the ice events from January 23 to 27, while Jammu & Kashmir will bring the snow events to life from February 22 to 25, 2025.
The first edition of Khelo India Winter Games was held in 2020 and was hugely successful. Gulmarg had then witnessed a significant rise in tourist inflow, with many people getting fascinated with the destination’s potential of hosting snow games and other sporting activities.
This dual-location extravaganza promises not only to showcase the finest winter sports talent from across India but also to highlight the unique cultural and natural beauty of these regions. It is a celebration of sportsmanship, resilience and the boundless potential of India’s youth.
Events to Unfold
Along with the plethora of other sporting activities, skiing and snowboarding competitions are set to be the main attractions. With the slopes of Gulmarg offering challenging terrain and breathtaking views, athletes will have the perfect stage to display their agility and speed. The games will also include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, which require a combination of endurance and skill, pushing competitors to their limits.
The snow events will not only test the mettle of the athletes but also highlight the region’s immense potential for winter tourism. Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Jammu & Kashmir to witness the spectacle, boosting the local economy and showcasing the region’s hospitality.
Beyond Sports
The Khelo India Winter Games are not just about competition; they are a celebration of the Himalayan region’s rich culture and heritage. Both Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir will use this opportunity to showcase their unique traditions, crafts, and cuisines.
Cultural performances, local art exhibitions, and food festivals will run parallel to the sporting events, providing visitors with a holistic experience. From Ladakh’s iconic thukpa and butter tea to Jammu & Kashmir’s world-famous kahwa and wazwan, the culinary delights are sure to leave a lasting impression.
With every edition, the Khelo India Winter Games continue to raise the bar, inspiring a new generation of athletes and bringing global attention to India’s winter sports capabilities. As Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir prepare to welcome the nation, one thing is certain: the 2025 games will be a celebration of skill, determination, and the indomitable spirit of India’s youth.
Drone And Laser Shows
According to official sources, over 1000 participants are set to participate in the fifth edition of the event, and preparations at present are in full swing. Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg will for the first time witness the drone and laser shows during the event, with Gulmarg being the first place across J&K to witness the drone show.
“We are once looking ahead to an exciting season of Khelo India Games. The Winter Games will be important because India needs to find the best athletes to represent the country at the 2026 Winter Olympics,” Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said in a recent official communique.
“It is our endeavour to promote winter sports and encourage more athletes to take up skiing and skating. We have already seen many athletes from remote Himalayan villages participating in these Games. That’s very encouraging,” Dr Mandaviya said.