Editorial | Gulmarg Shines in Freeride

For decades, Gulmarg has been a hidden gem for adventure enthusiasts. The region’s natural topography, with its deep snow cover, steep descents, and scenic alpine landscapes, makes it one of the most attractive locations for winter sports. The Himalayan Freeride Event provided an opportunity to showcase these features to an international audience, allowing athletes to experience the raw beauty and thrilling challenges of Gulmarg’s slopes.

The competition itself was a spectacular affair, with elite skiers and snowboarders navigating the terrain with precision and skill. Athletes like Sam from Australia, Roro from France, and François Mortier from the United States dominated the male category, while Virginia Michele Winstone from New Zealand, Laura from the U.S., and Melanie Anderson from Hong Kong secured top positions in the female category. Their participation not only elevated the competition’s standard but also highlighted Gulmarg’s potential to host high-profile international skiing events in the future.

While the event was an athletic spectacle, what truly left a lasting impression on foreign participants was the warm hospitality of the Kashmiri people. Athletes were touched by the kindness and generosity of the local community, praising the warm welcome they received. French skier Vermeil Sebstain summed it up best, saying, “The people of Gulmarg have been incredibly kind and hospitable. Their warmth made this experience even more special.”

This aspect of the event is crucial because tourism is not just about landscapes and adventure—it is about human connections. The genuine warmth of the people in Kashmir enhances the visitor experience, making them more likely to return and encourage others to explore the region.

One of the most promising aspects of this event was the discussions on infrastructure development, safety protocols, and sustainability measures to further boost winter sports in Gulmarg. Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, Sarmad Hafeez, emphasized that this event was just the beginning, with bigger international competitions on the horizon. Meanwhile, Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of J&K Sports Council, extended her gratitude to the global participants and reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing Gulmarg’s reputation as a world-class winter sports destination.

With this successful inaugural event, Gulmarg is on track to become a leading hub for professional skiing, freeriding, and winter adventure sports. The endorsements from international athletes will serve as a powerful promotional tool, attracting more visitors and increasing global participation in future events.

The overwhelming success of the Himalayan Freeride Event is a testament to Gulmarg’s potential as a top-tier winter sports destination. With continued investment in infrastructure, safety measures, and international collaborations, the region can host prestigious global competitions, boosting both tourism and the local economy.

Jammu and Kashmir’s breathtaking winter landscapes, combined with world-class sporting events and unparalleled hospitality, make for a winning combination. If this momentum is sustained, Gulmarg will soon rival some of the best-known skiing destinations in Europe and North America.

The future of winter sports in Kashmir has never looked brighter.