Auli Hosts Shitalkin Winter Carnival & National Skiing Championship

The Shitalkin Winter Carnival and National Skiing Championship were inaugurated in Auli, Uttarakhand. Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj stated the annual event aims to establish Auli as a winter games hub and boost local employment. Over 300 athletes from 17 teams will compete in Alpine skiing, snowboarding, and ski mountaineering over four days. The event highlights Auli's status as a premier skiing destination with its high-altitude slopes and stunning Himalayan views.

Key Points: Shitalkin Winter Carnival Begins in Auli, Uttarakhand

  • Inaugurated by Uttarakhand Minister
  • 17 teams & 300+ players participating
  • Aims to boost tourism and local employment
  • Features Alpine skiing, snowboarding, Skimo
  • Event runs from Feb 13-16 in Chamoli
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Uttarakhand: Shitalkin Winter Carnival begins in Auli

Uttarakhand's Auli inaugurates the Shitalkin Winter Carnival and National Skiing Championship, featuring 300+ athletes across multiple snow sports.

"We want to make Auli a hub for the Winter Games. We are committed to that. - Satpal Maharaj"

Auli, February 13

Auli witnessed the inauguration of the Shitalkin Winter Carnival and the National Skiing Championship on Friday.

Uttarakhand Minister Satpal Maharaj inaugurated the games by lighting the ceremonial lamp. A total of 17 teams are participating in the Winter Carnival and the National Skiing Championship at the world-famous Auli.

More than 300 players are taking part in these Winter Carnival and National Skiing Championship events.

Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj, while speaking to the reporters, said, "Today, the Winter Carnival is being inaugurated in Auli. I have announced that this carnival will be held every year. We want to make Auli a hub for the Winter Games. We are committed to that. This event will provide employment to the youth. It will boost local entrepreneurs."

The Auli Skiing Winter Carnival and National Winter Games Championship 2026 will be held from Feb 13 to 16 at Auli in Chamoli district. National-level competitions in Alpine skiing, snowboarding and ski mountaineering (Skimo) will be held during the four-day event.

Perched at 2,500-3,050 m, Auli is one of India's premier skiing spots, boasting long, natural slopes and perfect winter conditions. Auli offers panoramic views of some of India's highest peaks, including the second-highest, Nanda Devi (7,816m).

It is also the gateway to the Nanda Devi and the Valley of Flowers National Park, including the Hemkund Sahib gurdwara, and to popular trekking destinations such as Gorson Bugyal, Pangerchulla Summit, and Tapovan.

In addition to Auli, Uttarakhand has several other ski destinations, including Dayara Bugyal, Munsiyari, and Mundali.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Went to Auli last year. The slopes are world-class, truly. Hope the infrastructure keeps pace with these events. More hotels and better transport from Rishikesh/Jollygrant airport would help.
A
Aman W
Great initiative for employment. But I hope the focus is also on preserving the fragile ecology of the Himalayas. Large events can generate a lot of waste. Sustainable tourism should be the priority.
S
Sarah B
The view of Nanda Devi from there is absolutely breathtaking. Combining sports with that scenery is a brilliant idea. Makes me want to plan a trip!
V
Vikram M
National Skiing Championship is a big deal! We need to promote winter sports in India beyond just cricket. Maybe we can find our next Olympic champion from the hills of Uttarakhand.
K
Kriti O
Hope the benefits truly reach the local entrepreneurs and guides, not just big hotel chains. The community there is so warm and deserves the upliftment.

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