SRINAGAR: Gulmarg is set to host the snow disciplines of the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games from February 21 to 26, with authorities confirming that infrastructure and logistical preparations are complete for the national-level competition.
Officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports said events will be conducted at the renowned Kongdoori slopes, where approximately 400 athletes from across the country are expected to participate in alpine skiing, snowboarding and related winter sport disciplines. Athletes and officials are scheduled to arrive between February 21 and 22.
The snow events follow the successful conclusion of ice sport competitions in Ladakh in January, where Haryana emerged as the early leader in the medal tally.
This year’s games assume added significance amid efforts to revive tourism following the recent attack in Pahalgam, which led to widespread travel cancellations and heightened safety concerns among prospective visitors. In the immediate aftermath, hotel bookings across key tourist destinations declined temporarily, while tour operators reported increased inquiries regarding security conditions. Authorities responded by intensifying security deployment, strengthening visitor management mechanisms and launching outreach campaigns aimed at reassuring domestic travellers. Officials said hosting a high-visibility national sporting event in Gulmarg is intended to restore confidence, demonstrate strengthened security arrangements and reaffirm Kashmir’s position as a premier winter sports destination. Administration and security agencies have instructed departments to ensure uninterrupted essential services, including traffic regulation, water supply, accommodation readiness and emergency response systems. Special logistical arrangements are being implemented for athlete mobility, venue upkeep and spectator management.
Tourism stakeholders believe the event will provide an economic stimulus to local businesses, including hotels, transport operators, ski instructors and handicraft traders, at a time when the sector is seeking to regain momentum. With favourable snow conditions and upgraded sporting facilities, Gulmarg is expected to attract national attention once again — not only as a winter sports hub but also as a symbol of gradual tourism recovery in the region.
