Addressing South Asia’s premier tourism platform, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, outlined an ambitious roadmap to position Ladakh as a year-round global tourism destination backed by strategic infrastructure, border connectivity, sustainability, and strong branding initiatives.
Speaking in the presence of Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and senior tourism leadership, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized that Ladakh’s transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflects the Government of India’s commitment to take development to the nation’s last frontier.
He highlighted unprecedented improvements in electricity, drinking water supply, healthcare, digital connectivity, and air access across Ladakh — including remote border areas near Pakistan and China — supported by the construction of world-class roads.
A major turning point, he noted, will be the completion of the Zojila Tunnel, which will end seasonal isolation and enable seamless 12-month connectivity. This, he said, will give tourism in Ladakh an entirely new momentum.
The LG described Ladakh as one of the fastest-emerging global destinations, citing iconic attractions such as Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Leh, Khardung La, Tso Moriri and Hanle. He also underscored the significance of the NeST Telescope at Hanle, positioned at 4,300 metres, which has strengthened Ladakh’s astro-tourism appeal.
On the policy front, Shri Kavinder Gupta announced:
- Promotion of major festivals over the next three years
- Participation of 40 Ladakh stakeholders at national and international trade shows including SATTE 2026
- Launch of a new Ladakh Tourism logo
- Winter and spring FAM tours for tour operators
- Implementation of Sewage Treatment Plants with financial support to small hotels
- Simplified registration processes and digital tourism apps
Calling Ladakh a “must-go destination,” he urged tour operators to give the region prime placement in domestic and international packages, assuring full administrative support for seamless operations.
In a memorable closing remark, he adapted the famous line associated with Amitabh Bachchan, inviting travellers to “Spend a few days in Ladakh — and carry memories for a lifetime.”
Jai Hind. Jai Ladakh.
