Manali: In a move that could significantly boost winter and adventure tourism, Himachal Pradesh’s popular hill station Manali is set to host the state’s second ice skating rink.
The Department of Tourism has completed the detailed project report (DPR) and a budget of Rs 20 crore has been earmarked for the project. Officials have confirmed that the tendering process will begin soon.
The new facility is expected to attract tourists throughout the year by offering ice skating opportunities even during the warmer months, something currently not possible in natural snow-dependent areas like Solang Valley, Kothi and Palchan.
Skating to become a year-round attraction in Manali
Currently, visitors can enjoy natural ice skating in surrounding areas only during heavy snowfall in the winter months. However, with snow melting in the summer and inconsistent snowfall in December, tourists often leave disappointed.
The new synthetic rink aims to eliminate this seasonal limitation, offering a consistent skating experience regardless of the weather.
The proposed site for the rink is near the Hidimba Devi Temple, a location that offers easy accessibility for both locals and tourists.
Once completed, the facility will place Manali on the map for year-round ice sports, along with Shimla, which currently houses the only other such rink in the state.
Modern infrastructure with climate control features
According to technical specifications, the rink will be built with advanced systems that use chilled water in underlying channels to keep the ice frozen.
Temperature and humidity will be tightly regulated to maintain the skating surface in optimal condition throughout the year. The rink’s design is likely to align with international standards used for ice hockey and figure skating.
Experts point out that while the construction and maintenance of such rinks are capital-intensive — requiring specialised infrastructure, high energy input and water usage — the long-term benefits for tourism and local businesses can be significant.
A senior district tourism official confirmed the DPR had been finalised and added that tenders would be invited shortly.
TNR News Network
