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The Shimla Ice Skating Rink has opened early this season. Tourists can now enjoy the joys of skating in the open-air rink.
The Shimla Ice Skating Rink was built in 1920. (Image Source: X)
Shimla’s iconic 104-year-old ice skating rink has now been opened for the season. Tourists can enjoy the joys of ice skating at this historic landmark in the town. Built in 1920, the Shimla Ice Skating Rink is one of the oldest ice rinks in India. The ice rink has an open-air design which attracts tourists to this spot every winter.
Set in the heart of Shimla, the ice skating rink is a symbol of its rich colonial history and
culture
. The Shimla Ice Skating Rink is one of the must-visit places in the city if you happen to be there in winter. Every year tourists and skating enthusiasts wait eagerly for the rink to open for the season. The rink adds to the town’s appeal during winter.
#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh | Ice skating enthusiasts in Shimla enjoy the early start of the skating season at the 104-year-old Shimla Ice Skating Rink, one of Asia’s oldest and a historic landmark of the state. The skating season began earlier than usual this year due to favorable… pic.twitter.com/qr46dDtxBO— ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2024
The skating season began earlier this year due to favourable dry weather conditions and clear skies. As reported by Hindustan Times, Manpreet Singh, Secretary of the Shimla Ice Skating Club, said, “It’s a matter of great joy that we’ve been able to kickstart the season earlier than expected. Registrations are gradually increasing as schools are now closing. Our main attractions include the winter carnival and activities at the Gymkhana, scheduled from December 25 to 31.”
Rajat Malhotra, organizing secretary of the Shimla Ice Skating Club, said, “While newer rinks have opened in places like Ladakh, Shimla’s rink holds a nostalgic charm. Post-December 20, when tourist inflow increases, nearly 80 percent of visitors make it a point to visit the rink. It is one of Shimla’s key attractions.”
Despite its importance, the Shimla Ice Skating Rink faces numerous challenges. One of them is the outdated infrastructure and the lack of government support. The management and the local communities hope that the rink can become great again with adequate support.
If you happen to be in Shimla this winter, you know where to go for some fun times with your friends and family.
