Himalayan Queen's Gambit 2026
Chess Marathon for Women & Girls
A celebration of visibility, confidence, and community. Following our historic 2025 edition with 142 participants — Nepal's largest women-only chess gathering — we return bigger and bolder.
![Himalayan Queen's Gambit 2026](https://himalayanchess.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Queens-Gambit.png")
Empowering women in Nepal
Part of a Global Movement
Officially recognized by the FIDE Commission for Women's Chess as part of the global Chess Women's Celebration.
Global Theme: Visible. Connected. Worldwide.
Why Himalayan Queen's Gambit?
This is not an elite tournament. It is a platform for participation.
Welcoming Environment
Designed for girls and women who have never played a tournament before
Perfect for Beginners
School students beginning their chess journey are strongly encouraged
Build Confidence
Unrated event focused on experience, not intimidating rankings
Our Impact in 2025
Women & Girls Participated
Nepal's Largest Women's Chess EventFirst-Time Tournament Players
Breaking Barriers to EntryAge Range
Chess Transcends AgeWhat Chess Builds
More than a game — a tool for personal development
Critical Thinking
Develop analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills
Strategic Decision-Making
Learn to evaluate options and plan ahead
Confidence Building
Gain self-assurance through achievement and recognition
Leadership Development
Build stronger leadership identity and presence
Emotional Resilience
Develop mental toughness and perseverance
Who Can Participate?
Open to All Women & Girls
- No age restrictions — from young students to grandmothers
- Students without a FIDE rating
- First-time tournament players strongly encouraged
- Anyone curious about organized chess
This Event is For You If:
- ✓ You've never played in a tournament before
- ✓ You're a school student exploring chess
- ✓ You want to build confidence in a supportive environment
- ✓ You're ready to be part of something historic
Note: This is an unrated event designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and confidence-building. A FIDE rating is not required or given.
Our Commitment to Women in Chess
Empowering women through chess is a core pillar of Himalayan Chess Academy. In 2025 alone, we conducted five women-specific chess programs aimed at lowering entry barriers and increasing female representation in Nepal's chess ecosystem.
Within two years, the academy has:
- Organized 35+ chess events
- Partnered with 14 institutions
- Built structured grassroots programs across Kathmandu
Himalayan Queen's Gambit is part of a long-term mission — not a one-day celebration.
Led by Nepal's Champion
Under the leadership of Monalisha Khamboo, Nepal's first Women's Chess Champion, two-time national titleholder, gold medalist at the National Games, and member of the FIDE Commission for Women's Chess.
Event Details
Date
Sunday March 15, 2026
Reporting Time
9:00 AM Sharp
Venue
Thapathali Chess Park, Thapathali
Format
Swiss League System
Time Control
Blitz: 3 min + 2 sec
Rounds
7 Rounds
Awards & Recognition
Celebrating excellence and participation at every level
Top 8 Women & Girls (Open)
Medals & Certificates
Age Category Champions
Top 3 in each category:
- Under-16
- Under-13
- Under-10
- Under-7
- 50+ (Veteran)
Best Participating Schools
Trophies & Recognition
5 Special Awards
To be announced at the event
Every Participant is a Winner
All participants receive a Certificate of Participation
Become a Mentor
Rated women chess players — inspire the next generation
We are looking for rated female chess players to volunteer as mentors at Himalayan Queen's Gambit 2026. Your presence on the board as a guide and role model means everything to a first-time player stepping into her first tournament.
Mentor Eligibility
- ✓ Female (women and girls)
- ✓ Active FIDE rating required
- ✓ Passion for growing women's chess in Nepal
- ✓ Available on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at Thapathali Chess Park
What Mentors Do
- Support and encourage first-time tournament participants
- Serve as visible role models for girls and young women
Rated Women Players Only
Ready to Inspire?
Join our mentor team and help shape the future of women's chess in Nepal.
Sign Up as Mentor📞 +977 9802364344
Mentors receive a Certificate of Recognition and will be featured on our website and social media.
Make Your Move
Celebrate International Women's Month by stepping onto the chessboard. Join a global movement connecting local communities across continents.
Registration is Open!
Be among the first to secure your spot in this historic event
Register Now📞 +977 9802364344
Limited spots available. Early registration recommended for schools and groups.
Visible. Connected. Worldwide.
By participating in Himalayan Queen's Gambit 2026, you become part of a worldwide celebration of women in chess. Together, we are redefining narratives, inspiring critical thinking, and building a strong community of female chess enthusiasts.