From modern architectural marvels to historical venues, these hockey stadiums are pivotal to the sport’s legacy in India.
Hockey has long been a sport where India has made a significant mark on the global stage. From the late 1920s to the 1980s, India dominated the hockey field, producing legendary players like Major Dhyan Chand, Balbir Singh, and Udham Singh. Today, with the resurgence of the Indian men’s hockey team on the international scene, India continues to be a formidable force in the sport. Adding to this legacy are the impressive hockey stadiums across the country that host important tournaments and symbolize India’s passion for the game.
Here’s a look at the top 15 hockey stadiums in India:Â
Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
Founded in 1978 by former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik, Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar stands as one of the premier venues for hockey in India. Though a multi-purpose stadium, its hockey arena is its crown jewel, with a seating capacity of 16,000. Over the years, Kalinga Stadium has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the Men’s FIH Pro League 2020, the 2018 Men’s Hockey World Cup, and the 2014 Hockey Champions Trophy. It was also home to the Kalinga Lancers, a team in the Hockey India League, further cementing its status as a hockey hub in India.
Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi
Originally known as the National Stadium, this historic venue in New Delhi was renamed in 2002 to honor India’s greatest hockey legend, Major Dhyan Chand. Built-in 1933 by the Maharaja of Bhavnagar as a gift to the city, it was first known as the Irwin Amphitheatre. The stadium has undergone significant upgrades over the years, including renovations for the 1951 Asian Games and the 2010 Commonwealth Games. With a seating capacity of 16,200, the stadium boasts three synthetic pitches, two of which meet international standards. The Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium was the proud host of the 2010 Hockey World Cup.
Mohali International Hockey Stadium, Punjab
The Mohali International Hockey Stadium, inaugurated in September 2013 by former Punjab Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal, serves as one of the key venues for hockey in the country. With a seating capacity of 13,500, it features a distinctive pink-blue astroturf. Formerly the home ground for the Punjab Warriors in the Hockey India League, this stadium also made headlines during the COVID-19 lockdown, when it was temporarily repurposed as a makeshift jail for curfew violators.
Chandigarh Hockey Stadium, Chandigarh
Chandigarh Hockey Stadium is among the largest hockey venues in India, with a seating capacity of nearly 30,000. Initially built in 1988, it was renovated in 2007 to enhance its facilities. This stadium has been the home ground for teams like Chandigarh Dynamos and Chandigarh Comets in the Premier Hockey League and World Series Hockey, respectively. Over the years, it has hosted several significant tournaments, including the Indira Gandhi International Gold Cup and the Asian School Hockey Championship.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium, Raipur
Located in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium—also known as Raipur International Hockey Stadium—was constructed in a record time of just four months. Inaugurated in November 2015, this stadium holds 4,000 spectators and has quickly become a prominent venue for international hockey. Its first major event was an international match between India and Australia, which ended in a draw. The stadium also stands as Chhattisgarh’s second astroturf facility after the Rajnandgaon International Hockey Stadium.
Shilaroo Hockey Stadium, Himachal Pradesh
Located in Shilaroo, a quaint village about 55 kilometers from Shimla, the Shilaroo Hockey Stadium holds the distinction of being the highest hockey stadium in the world, perched at an altitude of over 8,000 feet. Constructed in 2010 by the Sports Authority of India, this stadium is equipped with modern facilities, including synthetic turf. Besides hockey, the stadium offers indoor facilities for sports such as handball, volleyball, and badminton, as well as a gymnasium and hostel facilities, making it a multi-sport training hub in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh.
Maulana Md. Tayabullah Hockey Stadium, Guwahati
Situated in Guwahati, Assam, the Maulana Md. Tayabullah Hockey Stadium has become a key venue for major hockey events in Northeast India. With a seating capacity of over 2,000, it has hosted prestigious tournaments like the National Games of India in 2007, the 12th South Asian Games in 2016, and the Khelo India Youth Games in 2020. This stadium has played a vital role in promoting hockey in the region, providing a platform for young talent to showcase their skills on a national stage.
Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium, Punjab
Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium, located in Firozpur, Punjab, is steeped in history and has been a witness to some of Indian hockey’s most memorable moments. This multi-purpose stadium was once known as Nehru Park but was renamed to honor the legendary freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh. Many of India’s greatest hockey players, including Major Dhyan Chand, Jograj Singh, and Surjit Singh, have played on its turf. The stadium continues to be a landmark in Punjab’s sporting landscape, attracting visitors who come to experience its historic legacy.
Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium, Rourkela
The Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, located in Rourkela, stands as one of India’s most impressive sports venues. Officially recognized by Guinness World Records in January 2023, it is the world’s largest fully seated hockey arena, with a seating capacity of 20,846. This newly built stadium served as a key venue for the 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup, making headlines for its state-of-the-art facilities and massive scale. The stadium is a symbol of India’s growing prowess in international hockey, providing a world-class platform for players and fans alike.
Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Located in the bustling city of Chennai, the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium is a key venue for hockey in southern India. Originally constructed in 1995, the stadium underwent a major renovation in 2005 to meet international standards. It now features FIH-approved synthetic turf and has a seating capacity of 8,670. Known for hosting significant events such as the 1996 Men’s Hockey Champions Trophy and the 2007 Men’s Hockey Asia Cup, the stadium is easily accessible via Pantheon Road. The contemporary architectural style includes facilities such as rooms for players, physiotherapy, medical staff, a conference room, and a VIP lounge. The stadium is also equipped with FIH-standard floodlights, ensuring it can host events at any time of day.
Shivaji Hockey Stadium, New Delhi
Situated in the heart of New Delhi, the Shivaji Hockey Stadium has been a prominent venue since its construction in 1964. Rebuilt in 2008, it now serves as a hub for women’s hockey, even being used as a practice venue for the 2010 Commonwealth Games. With a capacity of 5,500, the stadium features a modern-contemporary design and synthetic turf. Its location near Purana Quila Road and India Gate Circle makes it easily accessible for both players and spectators. The stadium is equipped with changing rooms, physio rooms, washrooms, and four high-quality floodlights to facilitate day-and-night play.
Rajnandgaon International Hockey Stadium, Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh
The Rajnandgaon International Hockey Stadium in Chhattisgarh is a contemporary venue built in 2014. With a capacity of 15,000, it features high-quality Astroturf and modern facilities, including well-equipped locker rooms and an exclusive box for officials. Located on Gaurav Path Road, the stadium has hosted numerous All India Hockey Tournaments and exhibition matches. The stadium’s strategic design and efficient infrastructure make it a preferred destination for national and regional hockey events.
Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadium, Rourkela, Odisha
The Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Odisha, stands as a modern-contemporary hockey venue constructed in 1998. It can accommodate 15,000 spectators and boasts an Astroturf surface that meets international standards. The stadium has been a key venue for events such as the Hockey India League, National Championships, and FIH Pro League matches. Located on Hockey Stadium Road, it offers essential facilities like changing rooms, first aid rooms, a canteen, and VIP galleries. The stadium’s floodlight system uses PLC series polarized lights, ensuring visibility even during nighttime matches.
Karnataka State Hockey Stadium, Bengaluru, Karnataka
The Karnataka State Hockey Stadium, located in Bengaluru, is a historic venue that traces its origins back to 1900. It was rebuilt in 2011 to modernize its facilities and now features synthetic turf. The stadium has a seating capacity of 7,000 and is located on Langford Road, making it easily accessible for both players and spectators. With a vernacular architectural style, the stadium has hosted major events like the World Series Hockey in 2012 and Hockey India League matches. Additional facilities include hostel rooms and a clubhouse, making it a well-rounded sports venue for athletes and fans alike.
Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel International Hockey Stadium, Raipur
Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, is a significant venue for field hockey in India. Opened in 2014, this modern stadium has a seating capacity of 4,000 and features advanced synthetic turf that meets international standards. Although not the largest, the stadium has hosted several high-profile tournaments, including the 2015 Hockey World League Finals. Located conveniently in Raipur, it offers modern amenities such as changing rooms, physiotherapy facilities, and VIP lounges. The stadium’s architectural design blends modern aesthetics with functionality, making it an important hub for both national and international hockey events.
These hockey stadiums in India not only serve as venues for thrilling matches but also play an important role in the development and promotion of hockey across the country. Each stadium holds a special place in the hearts of hockey enthusiasts, contributing to the sport’s rich legacy.
