Ice Skating in Shimla

"Asia’s Only Open-Air Ice Skating Rink"

Ice Skating, Shimla Overview

Ice Skating is a famous sport in the beautiful city of Shimla. The Shimla Ice Skating Rink is well-known because it is a naturally formed rink found in the town and is also the largest and the only naturally formed rink found in South Asia. It draws not just the locals but tourists from across the globe.

The rink has been used for sports and recreational activities since 1920. The Ice Skating Club of Shimla maintains and enthusiastically host national level competitions and the annual carnival.

Global warming and an increase in urbanisation are said to be causing a decrease in the events as it affects the ice formation in this naturally formed ice skating rink. The number of events arranged here is dependent on the weather and the ice conditions, but the popularity of the rink is unmatched. The experience of indulging in a sport at the foothills of the Himalayas is a breathtaking one.

Must Know Before You Visit Ice Skating

Note : 1. Wear warm and appropriate clothing while skating.
2. Skates can be rented on the payment of a small amount.

Events Held at Shimla Ice Skating Rink

1. Ice Skating

Ice skating is a famous sport in Shimla, especially during the winter season. The naturally formed, open-air rink calls every tourist to try their hand at ice skating in the crisp and pleasantly fresh (Read More) air.

The arena provides basic but necessary equipment like skates, kneepads, etc. Tourists can also opt for long term or short term Ice Skating Memberships depending on their travel plans and requirements. The rink is open for skating only in the mornings, so tourists may want to plan their day accordingly.

2. Ice Hockey

Ice Hockey is a famous sport played at the rink. The Shimla Ice Hockey Club is affiliated to the Governing Body of Ice Hockey in India, also called the Ice Hockey Association of India.

The (Read More) sport gained popularity after a movie named Speedy Singhs, which was based on the game. The lead actor of the film, Akshay Kumar is said to be an ardent fan of Ice Hockey, and he persistently encourages participation and donates generously to the sport.

3. Annual Carnival

The carnival hosted every year by the Ice Skating Club is a major crowd puller. The ice skating rink gets transformed into a different world altogether during the event which every local looks forward (Read More) to.

The carnival includes several competitions and sports to keep the participants entertained like :

Ice Hockey matches
Ice Skating competitions
Fancy Dress Competition
Dance and Music competitions

One can also find delicious local food at the carnival and kiosks to buy gifts and souvenirs for friends and family. This outdoor event is usually held during the winter season on a bright day and is a fabulous event to witness in the fresh and pristine surroundings of the mesmerising city of Shimla.