LEH: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, today underscored the immense yet largely untapped tourism potential of Zanskar, citing its breathtaking landscapes, ancient Buddhist heritage, and wide scope for adventure activities such as trekking and rafting.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 10th Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2025 at Sani, near Padum, the Lt Governor said the region’s unspoiled charm could position it as one of Ladakh’s most sought-after tourist destinations. He added that the Zanskar Festival itself serves as a vibrant platform to showcase India’s cultural diversity and Ladakh’s timeless traditions.
Celebration of Culture and Unity
Commending the organisers, the Lt Governor said the UT Administration is committed to promoting the Ladakh Zanskar Festival as a celebration of Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage, traditional arts, and communal harmony.
He noted that the participation of over 1,200 cultural troupes from Punjab, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Manipur reflects the nation’s spirit of “unity in diversity.” Such events, he said, transcend barriers and foster harmony, love, and cultural exchange.
The festival features a vibrant blend of traditional music, dances, arts, crafts, and sports such as polo and archery, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.
Star Power and Tourism Boost
The Lt Governor lauded the people of Zanskar for their enthusiastic participation and expressed gratitude to Bollywood actor Amit Sadh, the Festival’s Brand Ambassador, for supporting the event. He said Sadh’s association would help place Zanskar firmly on India’s tourism map.
Calling for fixed dates for the Suru Summer Festival and Ladakh Zanskar Festival, he stressed that it would allow tourists to plan in advance and reaffirmed the Administration’s resolve to boost tourism across Ladakh to strengthen local livelihoods.
Leaders’ Commitment
- Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Kargil, said promoting tourism in Zanskar remains a top priority for the Hill Council and highlighted Zanskar’s progress as one of the most developed sub-divisions of Kargil district.
- Mohmad Haneefa Jan, MP from Ladakh, called for a dedicated Tourism Policy for Kargil with proper funding, stressing the importance of stronger promotion of events like the Zanskar Festival to attract global visitors.
- Amit Sadh, the Festival’s Brand Ambassador, thanked the UT Administration and Hill Council for the honour and pledged to promote Ladakh’s unique culture and traditions nationwide.
Cultural Highlights
The inaugural session featured:
- Chhams (mask dance) by monks from Sani Monastery,
- Performances by Karsha Jumma Cultural Association, Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA), and local Padum artists,
- Traditional dances by Rajasthani troupes, and a Dogri folk performance from Jammu & Kashmir.
Earlier, Lt Governor Gupta also visited the historic Sani Monastery, where he interacted with monks and local community members.
Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, presented the welcome address.
