Gulmarg recently hosted the second leg of the 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) transforming the serene landscape into a vibrant arena of athletic excellence.

Held from 23rd to 26th of February, 2026, the four-day extravaganza brought together around 1000 athletes and officials from across various States and Union Territories. Organised by the Winter Games Association of J&K with robust support of the J&K Sports Council and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the event featured the Alpine Skiing (which saw the highest participation), Nordic Skiing, Snowboarding and Ski Mountaineering. Interestingly J&K, and Ladakh continue to hold the distinction of being the exclusive hosts for every edition of the KIWG to date.

The games were officially inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha at Gulmarg’s premier sporting venue. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony the Lieutenant Governor said that the event has evolved from mere competition into a true national festival. The LG stated that the Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg do more than  showcase talent; they revive the sporting spirit and uphold the ideals of peace, equality and friendship”. He further emphasized that in a nation as diverse as India these games serve as a ‘universal language and shared heritage’.

In his address Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who himself is an avid skiing enthusiast reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment and emphasized that the administration’s consistent and sustained effort is focused on transforming Gulmarg into a world class international ski destination. The Chief Minister........

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