India's Highest Ice Skating Rink Launched in Himachal Pradesh

In a landmark initiative for winter sports, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and MP Kangana Ranaut have laid the foundation for India's highest ice skating and ice hockey rink in Kaza, Himachal Pradesh. This state-of-the-art facility aims to empower local youth and promote tourism in the region. With an investment of Rs 72 crore, the project is set to include a high-altitude sports training center and is expected to be operational before the 2026 winter season. The event also featured cultural performances, highlighting the rich heritage of the Spiti Valley.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2025, 16:10 IST

Foundation Stone Laid for Ice Sports Facility

Shimla: In a significant advancement for winter sports and youth development in India's mountainous regions, Union Minister for Parliamentary and Tribal Affairs Kiren Rijiju, alongside Member of Parliament from Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, inaugurated the foundation for the nation's highest ice skating and ice hockey rink in Kaza, situated in the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.

The cutting-edge facility will feature an ice hockey rink, a high-altitude sports training center, and a modern sports complex, all funded under the Prime Minister’s Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK). The total investment for this project is projected at Rs 72 crore, aimed at establishing world-class infrastructure to cultivate sports talent in tribal and border regions.

During the ceremony, Minister Rijiju highlighted that this initiative is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India, particularly focusing on empowering youth in remote and border areas. He stated, “This project will not only enhance winter sports like ice hockey but also create job and tourism opportunities for the local youth.”

MP Kangana Ranaut, on her inaugural official visit to the Spiti Valley following her election win, expressed her pride in being part of such a transformative project. “It’s a moment of great honor to bring such a historic project to the people of Himachal,” she remarked.

The foundation stone-laying event also featured lively cultural participation, with both Rijiju and Ranaut engaging in a traditional Spiti folk dance, a moment shared by the minister on his official Facebook page.

This sports complex is anticipated to position Kaza as a key destination for sports tourism and high-altitude athletic training, providing significant opportunities for local youth in both professional sports and the hospitality industry. Local MLA Anuradha Rana, former MLA Ravi Thakur, and various dignitaries from the region were also in attendance. Construction is set to commence later this year, with the facility expected to be operational before the 2026 winter season.