New Winter Sports Wonderland: Ice skating kicks off in Sonamarg

Sonamarg , Jan 15: Tourist destination Sonamarg has come alive with the thrill of winter sports as a seven-day ice skating event marks the start of the region’s winter games season.

The event is organized by the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) in collaboration with J&K’s tourism department and the ice skating association.

As per the officials, the Ice Rink was developed by the SDA last year with the support of the tourism department and the ice skating association with the aim of providing a platform for local athletes and students to showcase their talent and prepare for national and international competitions.

With twenty skaters currently participating up to January 18 under the guidance of the ice skating association’s general secretary, Mohammad Ashraf Dijoo, officials said the event will pave the way for the upcoming Khelo India Winter Games 2025, set to take place in Gulmarg next month.

Wafa Tariq, who has represented Jammu and Kashmir at national level in ice skating too showcased her skills at the newly opened skating rink. Expressing that she observed immense talent and potential among the new entrants.

“It’s great to be here in Sonamarg participating in skating. Earlier, we had it only in Gulmarg, but the Sonamarg Development Authority has taken a welcome step and will not only hugely benefit local players but will also attract tourists,” said Wafa.

As per the locals, this highlights Sonamarg's growing reputation as a winter sports hub, stating that it has further boosted by the recent inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel, ensuring the year-round connectivity to the tourist destination Sonamarg.

“Sonamarg has so much to offer in the winter season. The ice skating will not only enhance the experience for tourists but also provide our youth with new opportunities in the sports and hospitality sectors,” said another local resident.

Notably, the ice rink has become a symbol of winter sports in the region. According to the sources, the initiative to promote ice skating as a winter sport has gained significant momentum, with this year marking the second edition of the event.

Officials from SDA said that following last year’s inaugural success, the administration was now focused on expanding the event’s reach and impact.

The thrilling winter sport initiative has been met with enthusiasm from the local community, who see it as a platform to boost tourism and showcase Sonamarg’s winter charm.

Pertinent to mention, the highly anticipated Z-Morh tunnel, a critical infrastructure project inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13, is set to revolutionise connectivity and stimulate economic growth in Sonamarg.

Local residents and sportsmen said that the opening of the tunnel has ignited a hope for winter games and that they were hopeful of hosting different winter games in Sonamarg during the winter months.