The Ladakh leg of the 2026 Khelo India Winter Games will begin in Leh on Tuesday, with more than 1,000 athletes set to compete in a week-long celebration of winter sports.

The events will be held at the Nawang Dorjan Stobdan (NDS) Stadium, the Army rink and the frozen Gupukh’s Pond, which are expected to draw large crowds and sports enthusiasts until the Games conclude on January 26.

Athletes from across the country will participate in various ice and snow disciplines, highlighting India’s growing focus on promoting winter sports in the Himalayan region. The picturesque setting of Leh is expected to add to the charm of the national sporting spectacle.

The opening ceremony of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 will take place on Tuesday afternoon, officially marking the start of competitions. Organisers said elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of events and the safety of players and spectators amid the harsh winter conditions.

The Khelo India Winter Games aim to identify and nurture talent while strengthening India’s presence in winter sports on the national and international stage.