The Auli National Skiing Championship and Winter Carnival 2026 concluded in Chamoli district. Notably, the event began on 13 February 2026 on Auli’s snow slopes. Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj inaugurated it. Also, 17 teams with more than 300 players took part. Finally, Himachal Pradesh emerged as the overall champion.
Teams and Events
Teams came from states such as Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir and Maharashtra. In addition, the Army, ITBP and CRPF sent contingents. Uttarakhand fielded two teams. Meanwhile, events covered alpine skiing, slalom, snowboarding and ski mountaineering.
India’s First Night Snow Skiing
On 15 February, floodlights lit the Nanda Devi International Skiing Slope. There, organisers held what they called India’s first night snow skiing event. The Winter Games Association of Uttarakhand organised it. Its president, Harshmani Vyas, said the aim is to make Auli a year-round destination. Also, skiers said night skiing could boost night tourism and local incomes.
Medal Results
Himachal Pradesh won six gold and five silver medals. Next, the Army finished second with three gold, five silver and four bronze. Then came Jammu and Kashmir with two gold medals. Meanwhile, host Uttarakhand won one gold and two bronze. Notably, Shardul Thapliyal of Uttarakhand won gold in the men’s vertical ski mountaineering race. Also, Himachal’s Aanchal Thakur won two alpine golds and the Best Skier title.
Plans for Auli
At the opening, Satpal Maharaj said the carnival would become an annual event. Moreover, the state plans to make the Auli Winter Carnival a permanent fixture. He also said engineers had reached Jyotirmath to repair the Auli ropeway.
About Auli
Auli lies near Jyotirmath in Chamoli district. Its slopes rise to about 3,050 metres. Also, it offers views of Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak. Hence, it is Uttarakhand’s best-known skiing destination.
Auli National Skiing Championship: Key Facts for Revision
- Venue: Auli, Chamoli district
- Start: 13 February 2026
- Inaugurated by: Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj
- Participants: 17 teams, 300+ players
- Overall champion: Himachal Pradesh; runner-up Army
- Best Skier: Aanchal Thakur (Himachal Pradesh)
- First: India’s first night snow skiing event, 15 February 2026
Why the Auli National Skiing Championship Matters for UKPSC
Notably, winter tourism and adventure sports are growing themes in Uttarakhand’s economy. So, remember the venue, the champion team and the night skiing first. Also, link Auli with Nanda Devi and the Jyotirmath region. For official updates, also visit Uttarakhand Tourism. Next, for a related story, read about Yudh Abhyas 2026 at Auli. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.