Uttarakhand Minister Inaugurates Auli Winter Carnival and National Skiing Championship
The picturesque ski resort of Auli in Uttarakhand witnessed a grand inauguration ceremony on Friday as the Shitalkin Winter Carnival and the National Skiing Championship were officially launched. Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj inaugurated the events by lighting the ceremonial lamp, marking the beginning of a significant winter sports festival.
Major Participation and Government Commitment
A total of 17 teams are actively participating in the combined Winter Carnival and National Skiing Championship at the world-renowned Auli slopes. More than 300 skilled athletes are competing across various disciplines, showcasing their talents in this high-altitude setting.
While addressing reporters, Minister Satpal Maharaj emphasized the government's vision for Auli. He stated, "Today, we are inaugurating the Winter Carnival in Auli, and I have officially announced that this carnival will become an annual tradition. Our objective is to transform Auli into a central hub for Winter Games in India. We are fully dedicated to this mission. This event will generate substantial employment opportunities for local youth and significantly boost entrepreneurship in the region."
Event Details and Auli's Premier Status
The Auli Skiing Winter Carnival and National Winter Games Championship 2026 is scheduled to take place from February 13 to 16 in Auli, located within the Chamoli district. During this four-day extravaganza, national-level competitions will be held in Alpine skiing, snowboarding, and ski mountaineering (commonly known as Skimo).
Perched at an impressive elevation ranging from 2,500 to 3,050 meters above sea level, Auli stands as one of India's foremost skiing destinations. It is celebrated for its extensive natural slopes and ideal winter weather conditions that provide perfect terrain for skiing enthusiasts.
Scenic Beauty and Tourism Significance
Auli offers breathtaking panoramic views of some of India's highest mountain peaks, including the majestic Nanda Devi, which towers at 7,816 meters and ranks as the country's second-highest summit. Beyond skiing, Auli serves as the primary gateway to the Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The region also provides access to the revered Hemkund Sahib gurdwara and popular trekking routes such as Gorson Bugyal, Pangerchulla Summit, and Tapovan, making it a multifaceted tourist attraction.
Expanding Winter Sports Infrastructure in Uttarakhand
In addition to Auli, Uttarakhand boasts several other notable ski destinations that contribute to the state's growing winter sports landscape. These include Dayara Bugyal, Munsiyari, and Mundali, each offering unique skiing experiences and helping to position Uttarakhand as a comprehensive winter sports destination in India.
The inauguration of these events represents a strategic move to enhance winter tourism, promote athletic excellence, and stimulate economic development through sports tourism in the Himalayan region.
