In the past Skiing, Heli-Skiing, Ice Skating and Snow Climbing have been the main attraction of winter sports in India. But now Ice Hockey is also growing with a pace because of the interests shown by the localites. Leh-Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir, located in the Northernmost part of India, has now become one of the famous winter sports destination with the popularity of Ice Hockey. Taking the help from Army men posted in Leh, localites have shown great interest in learning the game with very less support from the government.
The famous Karzoo Ice Hockey Rink has become the most sought after destination in Leh during winters for the localites as well as tourists having a passion for Ice Hockey. It is the highest Ice Hockey rink in the country, which is situated at an altitude of 3483 meters above sea level. 2009 has been an year of achievement for the local players from Ladakh, where they got an opportunity to represent their county in International Ice Hockey Federation Challenge Cup of Asia held at Abu Dhabi.
Ice Hockey was introduced by army men in the region in 1970's as a pleasure activity on frozen lakes. The sport gained popularity in Leh-Ladakh region in 1980's when localites started forming Ice Hockey Clubs and started conducting tournaments. At present Ice Hockey can only be practiced during winter season, when there is snowfall, but efforts are in progress to build modern all weather Ice Hockey stadium in Leh, meeting international standards.
Though Leh-Ladakh is famous for its safaris and Buddhist monasteries, it is the highest plateau in India bounded by two mightiest mountain ranges, Himalayas and Karakoram. It lies at an altitude ranging from 9000 feet to 25,170 feet above sea level and is also known by the name of cold desert of India. Tourism is the mainstay of economy of the people habitating in Leh-Ladakh. Hence, winter sports are being promoted by the government to help in boosting the tourism activities in the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir.
