Introduction

Experience the thrill of ice-skating under the open sky on an almost 90-year old ice-skating rink. This is the oldest skating rink in Asia, and has been a Mecca for skating enthusiasts. Ice-skating in Shimla was first patronized by the British, who recognized the area’s potential as a skating rink and founded the skating rink in 1920.

The clear sky and low temperatures of Shimla were perfect for an outdoor ice-skating rink, almost like a made-to-order skating rink! What with the thickly forested hillside to keep it shaded in the afternoon when the sun is strong. The ice is formed with the help of a special technique; the British trained the Garhwali highlanders in these techniques, and even today they work to ensure that the skating rink is swathed by sheets of ice as thick as 4.5 cm, and provide you a great ice-skating experience.

Look out for the balloon adjacent to the Municipal Building; as soon as its up, you know it is time for the next session.

To celebrate the spirit of snow sports, an ice-skating carnival is organized every year in December. Fancy dress competition for kids adds color to the event, while hard core ice adventure activities such as figure skating, couple skating, and short track speed skating take place in full swing. The streets of Shimla bustle with a new energy at this time of the year as the carnival spirit suffuses the air. Little wonder, adventure sports enthusiasts from all over the world make a beeline for this quaint Himalayan hill station.

The ice-skating club conducts two sessions per day one in the morning and the other in the evening from December to February. Skates can be rented for a nominal fee and temporary membership for single sessions is also available. Though in the warm months members happily settle for billiards, cards, and table tennis at the club.

Special Attributes

Oldest ice-skating rink in Asia, and the only open-air rink in India.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Wear anything you are comfortable in. But if you are new to skating, then take care that you may take more than a few tumbles. Wear clothes that can withstand a few falls on the ice.

Connectivity

Taxis, Bus

Enjoyed by

Kids, Families, Couples, Singles

Exposure

There will be exposure to a faint sun, but you shall be clad in your ice-skating gear. Dab a lot of sunscreen lotion, and wear you sunshades.

Avoidable Season

March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November

Facilities

Skates are available for rent.

Things Not Allowed

No such restrictions.

Tip

Since it is a natural ice rink, skating is allowed only from December to February. The management committee even hosts a carnical in January, which includes skating and fancy dress competitions.

Type of site

Adventure sports, snow activity