The Gulmarg leg will feature four major snow sports disciplines: Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country), Ski Mountaineering, and Snowboarding. Around 400 athletes from across India are expected to compete in these events, with Alpine Skiing attracting the highest number of participants.
These competitions will take place on the renowned Kongdoori slopes, which are widely regarded as one of the finest skiing destinations in India. The region’s natural snow conditions and challenging terrain provide an ideal setting for high-performance winter sports competitions.
the Gulmarg phase follows the successful conclusion of the Ladakh leg held between January 20 and 26, where ice sports such as figure skating and ice hockey were conducted.
Perfect Timing Following Winter Olympics Momentum
Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized that the timing of the Gulmarg competitions is particularly significant, as it comes soon after the Winter Olympics Milano Cortina 2026. He noted that this global momentum provides an ideal opportunity to sustain enthusiasm and motivation among athletes and sports enthusiasts in India.
The minister highlighted that the first phase in Ladakh saw strong participation and competitive performances. He expressed confidence that the Gulmarg leg would generate similar excitement and showcase India’s emerging winter sports talent.
The continuation of the Winter Games ensures that Indian athletes remain actively engaged in competitive environments, helping them prepare for future international competitions.
Indian Army to Defend Championship Title
The Indian Army, which emerged as the overall champion in the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 with 18 medals, will aim to defend its title in the 2026 edition. The Army has traditionally been one of the strongest participants in winter sports, benefiting from its high-altitude training facilities and experienced athletes.
State teams including Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Haryana are also expected to put up strong performances. Haryana led the medal tally at the conclusion of the Ladakh leg of KIWG 2026, winning four gold medals, all secured by its figure skating and ice skating athletes.
Khelo India Winter Games Transforming India’s Winter Sports Landscape
The Khelo India Winter Games have played a crucial role in transforming India’s winter sports ecosystem. Before the introduction of this national platform, winter sports such as skiing, ice hockey, and figure skating had limited visibility and participation in the country.
By providing structured national competitions, the initiative has significantly improved athlete participation, performance standards, and public awareness. The Games have also created a clear pathway for identifying and nurturing talent capable of competing at international levels.
This transformation is evident in recent international achievements by Indian winter sports athletes. Indian figure skater Tara Prasad has secured podium finishes in global competitions, while the Indian women’s ice hockey team achieved a historic bronze medal at the IIHF Women’s Asia Cup 2025.
Building India’s Future Winter Sports Talent Pipeline
The Khelo India Winter Games are helping build a sustainable talent pipeline for India’s participation in global winter sports events. Regular national competitions allow athletes to gain valuable experience, improve performance, and prepare for international challenges.
India’s representation at the Winter Olympics Milano Cortina 2026, including alpine skier Arif Khan and cross-country skier Stanzin Lundup, reflects the growing strength of the country’s winter sports ecosystem.
These developments demonstrate that India is gradually moving beyond limited participation to becoming increasingly competitive in winter sports disciplines.
Strategic Importance of Gulmarg as a Winter Sports Hub
Gulmarg has emerged as a key winter sports destination in India due to its favorable climate, world-class slopes, and growing infrastructure. Hosting national events like the Khelo India Winter Games further strengthens its position as a center for winter sports development.
The successful organization of such events also contributes to regional economic growth by promoting tourism, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing infrastructure.
Officials believe that continued investment in winter sports infrastructure and athlete development will enable India to achieve greater success in global competitions.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening India’s Winter Sports Future
The upcoming Gulmarg leg of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 represents another important milestone in India’s winter sports journey. It reflects the government’s commitment to developing a strong sports ecosystem and supporting athletes across diverse disciplines.
With increasing participation, improved infrastructure, and growing international recognition, India’s winter sports sector is poised for significant growth in the coming years.
The Khelo India initiative continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of sports in India, ensuring that winter sports receive the attention and support needed to thrive.