Dharamshala, April 18
The upcoming ice skating and roller skating rink is being developed in the Sakoh area of Dharamshala, with the project designed to include modern recreational and public amenities.
The facility, which will feature indoor and outdoor skating rinks, a restaurant, a parking area, and a park, is part of the broader tourism development push under the Dharamshala Smart City project. Officials and local representatives say the project aims to expand tourism in the region once it becomes operational.
Spread over nearly 60 kanals of land, the rink is being described as larger than the existing facility in Shimla and is planned as the second international-level skating rink in North India. It is also expected to give Sakoh a distinct identity on the international tourism map.
Work on the project is currently underway at a fast pace, with completion expected by May next year. Initial hurdles related to land selection were addressed after discussions between local representatives and residents, who were assured of the project’s long-term development benefits.
Former Municipal Corporation Dharamshala councilor Sushma Randhawa said is likely to substantially enhance tourism in the region and will prove to be a milestone for the Sakoh ward. She said the development of the rink along the Dharamshala Gaggal road will bring international recognition to the area.
Randhawa added that, despite early challenges, residents supported the project in view of its wider development prospects, allowing construction work to proceed. She also noted that the facility would stand as a significant addition to North India’s limited international-level skating infrastructure.
Officials have stated that, with Kangra district already declared the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh, the operationalization of the rink is expected to further increase tourist inflows and contribute to the state’s economy.
