1st Leg of Khelo India Winter Games 2026 Kicks Off in Leh, Ladakh
The first leg of the Sixth Edition of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 officially begins today in, marking another milestone for winter sports in the country. The event is being hosted in the Union Territory and will continue until the 26th of this month.
Wide Participation from Across India
A total of 21 States and Union Territories are taking part in this national-level winter sporting event. Around 1,000 participants are involved, including 472 athletes who will compete in various ice-based disciplines.
Organising Authorities
The games are being organised by the Youth Services and Sports Department of Ladakh under the guidance of the, as part of the broader.
Opening and Closing Ceremonies
The opening ceremony is scheduled to take place later today at the NDS Ice Hockey Rink in Leh city. The closing ceremony will be held on January 26, bringing the first leg of the winter games to a formal conclusion.
Ice Sports Venues and Events
Ice Hockey Competitions
Ice Hockey matches will be conducted at the NDS Ice Hockey Stadium in Leh and the Ice Hockey Rink located at the Ladakh Scout Regimental Centre in Phyang.
Ice Skating Events
The Guphuk Frozen Pond has been chosen as the venue for ice skating events. This edition of the games introduces Figure Skating, an Olympic sport, for the first time. Speed skating and short-track skating, which featured in previous editions, will also continue.
Ladakh’s Role in Khelo India Winter Games
The Khelo India Winter Games have been conducted at the national level since 2020, and Ladakh has hosted the event consistently since its inception. The region’s natural winter conditions make it ideal for promoting ice sports in India.
Review of Preparations
Ahead of the inauguration, Lieutenant Governor visited all three competition venues and reviewed the preparations. He instructed officials to ensure smooth conduct of the games and complete convenience for athletes and officials.
The start of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 is expected to further strengthen India’s winter sports ecosystem and provide young athletes with valuable national-level exposure.
