Shimla, Dec 15,
Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Shimla—a serene hill town—is transformed into a lively carnival during the winter months. The subzero temperatures that grip this picturesque capital of Himachal Pradesh are not a deterrent but an invitation to joy and adventure, especially for children and youth who eagerly await their winter vacations. Among the many delights of this wintery haven, ice skating stands out as the soul of Shimla’s festive spirit, bringing together locals and tourists alike in a shared celebration of winter.
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The iconic ice skating rink in Shimla’s Lakkar Bazaar, built during the British era, becomes the epicenter of this vibrancy. Asia’s only natural ice skating rink, it offers a unique experience where the frosty rink is a playground for laughter, thrill, and camaraderie. Early mornings see groups of children braving the biting cold, gloved hands clutching their skates, rushing to the rink with jubilant cries. Their energy spills over into the bustling streets of Mall Road, Middle Bazaar, and the Tibetan Market, turning these spaces into hubs of winter cheer.
While most adults retreat to the warmth of cozy blankets and cups of steaming ginger tea, these young skaters return home with pink and red cheeks, eyes sparkling with excitement, and hearts full of festive delight. The rink, with its natural ice formed overnight, becomes a stage where life unfolds in its most celebratory form.
Skating in Shimla is more than just a sport; it is a tradition woven into the town’s cultural fabric.
Over the past century, the rink has hosted generations of skaters, from locals to tourists from across the globe. The sound of blades gliding on ice, the sight of skaters perfecting their spins, and the cheerful buzz of spectators create an atmosphere of unfiltered joy.
This year, skating began in mid-December, later than in previous decades due to changing weather patterns. While the historical norm was a November start, the rink now relies on colder nights in December for the ice to set. Despite this delay, the enthusiasm remains unmatched as over 50 skaters graced the rink on the opening day, a number growing as winter deepens.
Shimla, with its snow-clad beauty and festive charm, is an ideal destination for families seeking a winter retreat. For children, the town becomes a wonderland where they can skate, play, and soak in the magic of the season. For the young and young at heart, it offers a chance to escape the monotony of city life and embrace the unbridled joy of winter.
In the heart of Shimla, the ice skating rink reminds us that winter is not just a season; it is a celebration. It invites everyone to step out, embrace the chill, and revel in the vibrancy of life that only Shimla can offer during its frosty embrace.
