Sixth Khelo India Winter Games to Begin at Gulmarg Today

The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2026 begins today at the famed ski resort of Gulmarg in Jammu & Kashmir, with over 400 athletes from 30 states and Union Territories set to compete in India’s premier snow sports event. The four-day competition will be inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha , marking another milestone in the country’s efforts to promote winter sports and strengthen sporting infrastructure in Himalayan regions.

The Gulmarg leg features the snow disciplines of the Games, following the successful completion of the ice events in Leh, Ladakh last month. Since its launch in 2020, the Winter Games have been hosted in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, capitalising on their alpine terrain, reliable snow conditions, and growing winter sports facilities.

Athletes will compete in four medal events Alpine Skiing , Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country) , Snowboarding , and Ski Mountaineering with Alpine Skiing drawing the highest participation. The competitions, held on Gulmarg’s world-class slopes, test endurance, speed, and technical precision while nurturing talent for international winter sports competitions.

After the Ladakh phase, Haryana leads the medal tally with four gold medals in ice events. Teams representing the Indian Army , Himachal Pradesh , and Ladakh , traditionally strong in winter sports, are expected to be strong contenders in the snow events.

Authorities have made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the Games. Security coordination involving police, the Army, and central forces has been put in place, while district officials have inspected venues, accommodation sites, and logistics facilities. Adequate snow cover and favourable weather conditions have further boosted readiness for the event.

Beyond the sporting action, the Games are expected to boost winter tourism, support local livelihoods, and reinforce Gulmarg’s reputation as one of Asia’s premier ski destinations. By providing competitive exposure and strengthening grassroots participation, the Khelo India Winter Games continue to build a pipeline of athletes and position India for greater participation in global winter sports.

As the Games begin today, Gulmarg once again takes centre stage in India’s growing winter sports movement, blending athletic excellence with regional development and tourism promotion.