The countdown has begun! The 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) is all set to thrill sports enthusiasts. Here is the complete schedule for the Leh and Gulmarg chapters.
Srinagar/Leh: The wait is finally over for winter sports lovers. The schedule for the 6th Khelo India Winter Games 2026 has been officially announced. Continuing the tradition, the mega-event will be held in two phases, split between the Union Territory of Ladakh and the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
According to the announcement, the Leh Leg (Ice Sports) will kick off later this month, while the highly anticipated Gulmarg Leg (Snow Sports) is scheduled for late February.
KIWG 2026: Official Dates & Venues
The Games will witness the participation of over 1200 athletes and officials from across India.
Phase 1: Ladakh (Ice Sports)
- Dates: January 23 to January 27, 2026
- Events: Ice Hockey, Speed Skating
- Venues:
- NDS Stadium, Leh
- Guphuk Pond
- LSRC Army Rink
Phase 2: Kashmir (Snow Sports)
- Dates: February 22 to February 25, 2026
- Events: Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing, Snowboarding, Ski Mountaineering
- Venues:
- Kangdoori (Phase 1)
- Gulmarg Golf Course
Mascot & Theme
The mascot for this year’s edition continues to be ‘Sheen-e-She’ (Shan), the majestic Snow Leopard. It symbolizes the spirit of the Himalayas—resilient, agile, and adaptable.
Note for Athletes: The Games serve as a critical platform for identifying talent for the Winter Olympics 2026 and other international championships.
How to Watch & Register?
The events will be broadcast live on DD Sports and streamed on official YouTube channels.
- Registration: Athletes must be registered on the National Sports Repository System (NSRS) portal.
- Entry: Participation is largely state-quota based, where state associations nominate their best athletes.
Important Links (Official)
- Official Website: winter.kheloindia.gov.in
- Athlete Registration Portal: nsrs.kheloindia.gov.in
- Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports: yas.gov.in
FAQs: Khelo India Winter Games 2026
A: Ice Hockey matches will be played at the NDS Stadium and LSRC Rink in Leh, Ladakh.
A: Yes, generally, spectators can watch the skiing events at the Golf Course and Kangdoori base for free, but you will need a valid Gondola ticket if the event is at the upper phases.
A: You cannot register individually as a “walk-in.” You must be selected by your State/UT Winter Games Association or National Sports Federation. Ensure your profile is updated on the NSRS Portal.
Disclaimer: The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change depending on weather conditions (snow availability) and final administrative clearance. Please verify the latest updates from the official J&K Sports Council or Khelo India website before making travel arrangements.
