LEH, September 16, 2026 – Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena officially inaugurated the 11th Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2026, marking a vibrant celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage, distinct identity, and immense tourism potential. The two-day extravaganza holds special significance this year, as it is the first edition of the festival held since Zanskar was officially granted district status in April. During the inauguration, the Lieutenant Governor inspected various stalls and traditional Doksa exhibitions showcasing local crafts and products, and also virtually inaugurated several newly completed infrastructure assets across the Zanskar district. Adding to the occasion, LG Saxena released ‘Shesrab’, the annual magazine of Government Degree College Zanskar, along with a special postal cover featuring “Gonbo Rangjon” in collaboration with India Post.
Addressing the enthusiastic gathering, LG Saxena emphasized that granting district status to Zanskar was not merely an administrative reshuffle but a profound recognition of the long-standing aspirations of its people. Highlighting the region’s vast tourism potential, he noted that Zanskar’s breathtaking monasteries, majestic mountains, rivers, and trekking routes make it a world-class destination. The inclusion of the festival in the UT Administration’s official tourism calendar is expected to further place the region on the global tourism map. The LG shared encouraging statistics, revealing that over 4.05 lakh tourists, including more than 33,000 foreign visitors, had travelled to Ladakh by the end of August, creating substantial economic opportunities for local hotels, homestays, artisans, and youth. He strongly advocated for a sustainable, responsible, and people-centric approach to tourism that respects Zanskar’s fragile environment and traditions.
Focusing on the critical role of infrastructure, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the strategic Nimmu-Padum-Darcha (NPD) Road and the NH-301 Kargil-Zanskar Highway as transformative projects. He stated that these developments go beyond simply building roads; they are vital lifelines that will reshape the local economy, create jobs, and open new avenues for young entrepreneurs, drivers, and guides. Acknowledging the priority given to Ladakh’s development by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Saxena urged the youth of Zanskar to preserve their cultural roots while simultaneously leveraging digital platforms and modern technology to showcase their homeland to the world. The inaugural event was also attended by key dignitaries including LAHDC Kargil Chairman Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon and Ladakh Member of Parliament Mohd Haneefa Jan, alongside other public representatives and district officials.
Published by True Roots Media Network