Hunza:
The ‘seven-day frozen fairytale winter festival, 2025’, spreads across Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) with a dazzling display of sports, culture and community spirit, as residents come out in droves, braving the chill with the warmth of their enthusiastic support for their favorite teams.
The GB Tourism Department, in collaboration with local sponsors, is organizing the event, creating an atmosphere with excitement. The opening ceremony brought buoyancy to the town of Skardu, which has been marred by prolonged power cuts.
On the second day, the festival delighted locals and visitors alike with an electrifying ice hockey competition in Hunza, the star attraction of the event. In the 10 teams from across the region compete on the track in Murtazabad.
The tournament defied a harsh winter in the region. Its opening was delayed due to fluctuating temperatures on opening day. However, the games began late in the evening amid temperatures that plummeted to -15° Celsius.
On the opening day, Al-Murtazabad Sports Club, Hunza defeated Skardu; Nagar triumphed over Astore, Ghizer overcame Diamer and Ghulkin Winter Club won against Karimabad Hunza. More matches will take place on Saturday with the grand finale scheduled for Sunday.
Local officials and politicians have hailed the event as a big step for tourism. “Gilgit-Baltistan has untapped potential for winter and summer tourism, and these events allow us to showcase our rich culture and stunning landscapes,” tourism secretary Zameer Abbas told The Express PAkGazette.
Special Assistant to GB Prime Minister Eiman Shah praised the event’s role in providing positive opportunities for the youth. “Such activities not only promote sports but also serve as a constructive platform for our young generation,” Shah added.
