Leh: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, emphasised that tourism is a key pillar of Ladakh’s economic growth, significantly contributing to livelihood generation for local communities while strengthening allied sectors such as hospitality, transport, handicrafts, and eco-tourism.
He underscored the need to promote sustainable and responsible tourism practices to protect Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and ensure inclusive, long-term benefits for the region and its people.
The Lt Governor was speaking during his visit to the iconic Sangam Point, one of Ladakh’s most prominent tourist destinations, located about 35 kilometres from Leh on the Srinagar–Leh National Highway. The site marks the spectacular confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers and is globally renowned for the striking visual contrast of the blue waters of the Indus merging with the muddy green-brown waters of the Zanskar, forming a single majestic river.
Describing Sangam Point as a natural marvel and a flagship attraction of Ladakh tourism, Kavinder Gupta noted that such destinations significantly enhance the region’s appeal among domestic and international tourists. He said the breathtaking landscape, surrounded by rugged mountains and river valleys, offers visitors unforgettable visual experiences and makes Ladakh a preferred destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that Sangam Point has emerged as a major hub for adventure tourism, offering activities such as river rafting, trekking, and sightseeing, while also serving as an important stopover for travellers journeying along the Srinagar–Leh corridor. Its easy accessibility from Leh further strengthens its importance in the overall tourism circuit of the Union Territory, he added. He also emphasised the need to establish dedicated viewpoints and cafeterias at Sangam to provide visitors with a comfortable and memorable experience. He further underscored the importance of maintaining cleanliness and environmental sustainability at the site, ensuring that Ladakh’s pristine beauty remains intact for generations to come.
Kavinder Gupta said that since Ladakh was accorded the status of a Union Territory, focused and accelerated development has taken place across key sectors, with tourism emerging as a major priority area. He stated that the UT Administration is giving special emphasis to the holistic development of all prominent and potential tourist destinations across the Union Territory, ensuring improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and enhanced visitor facilities.
The Lieutenant Governor further said that the Zoji La Tunnel, expected to be completed in the next two years, will also be a game-changer by providing year-round, all-weather road connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country. The tunnel will play a vital role in boosting tourism by ensuring uninterrupted access, reducing travel time, and making Ladakh more accessible during the winter months.
Emphasising the importance of winter tourism, Kavinder Gupta said that focused efforts are being made to promote winter sports, cultural events, and experiential tourism so that tourists visit Ladakh throughout the year, thereby strengthening the local economy and generating sustained employment opportunities.
Emphasising the broader vision for Ladakh tourism, Kavinder Gupta stated that the UT Administration is committed to developing world-class tourism infrastructure while ensuring ecological balance. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts to promote Ladakh as a sustainable, safe, and year-round tourism destination, showcasing its unique natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and adventure potential.
The Lieutenant Governor also interacted with officials and stakeholders, urging them to focus on responsible tourism initiatives that empower local communities, encourage eco-friendly practices, and preserve Ladakh’s pristine environment for future generations.
Later, he also interacted with tourists who had come from different parts of the country and received first-hand feedback on their travel experiences. He welcomed them to Ladakh and highlighted the UT Administration’s commitment to providing safe, comfortable, and memorable experiences for visitors, while promoting Ladakh as a hospitable and world-class tourism destination.
The Lieutenant Governor also appealed to the people of the country to come and explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Ladakh, while reaffirming that the Union Territory is steadily moving towards becoming a globally recognised sustainable tourism destination that offers unique experiences rooted in nature, culture, and responsible travel.