Due to an earlier delay caused by insufficient snowfall, the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 are now set to take place in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, from March 9 to 12.
The recent snowfall across the Kashmir Valley has rejuvenated hopes for the event, as fresh layers of snow have created conditions for winter sports.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently inaugurated the event’s official website at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu. The website provides real-time updates and detailed event-related information.
According to the schedule, teams will arrive on March 7, with activities such as a night skiing demonstration, fireworks, a laser show, cultural programmes, competitive sports events and an awards ceremony planned.
The 2025 edition of the Khelo India Winter Games will feature: Alpine Skiing, Ski Mountaineering, Snowboarding, and Nordic Skiing. These competitions will be held at Kongdoori and the Gulmarg Club.
Beyond promoting winter sports in India, the event aims to highlight Jammu and Kashmir’s potential as a premier winter sports destination.
It is also expected to give a significant boost to local tourism and the economy, benefiting sectors such as hospitality, transport, and pony operators.
While Gulmarg is best known as a winter resort, it remains a popular attraction during the summer months due to its scenic green meadows.
The event is likely to boost the economy of Gulmarg and benefit hoteliers, pony walls and transporters.
The Jammu and Kashmir government is planning to introduce heli-skiing in Gulmarg to exploit its full potential.
According to Abdullah, the government is talking with private investors to upgrade infrastructure in Gulmarg,
He said a helicopter will be available for heli-skiing and Safari in Gulmarg for tourists.
“We are in talks with some private investors who are ready to create more skiing infrastructure in Gulmarg,’’ Adullah said on February 23 in Gulmarg, “Talks are on and if there is a good proposal which would create new infrastructure, we will work on it.”
