2022021015

as a
1
Table of Contents
Glossary 3
Vision and Objective 4
India Tourism Overview 7
Ladakh Tourism Overview 10
Carrying Capacity 15
Tourism Opportunity 17
Tourism Products 22
Infrastructure 28
Sector Development Strategy 34
Appendix 41
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Glossary
ATR Aerei da Trasporto Regionale
BRO Border Roads Organisation
CAGR Compound Annual Growth Rate
DOD Department of Defence
FTAs Foreign Tourist Arrivals
GDP Gross Domestic Product
IMF Indian Mountaineering Foundation
ITAs International Tourist Arrivals
LNG Liquefied Natural Gas
MGNREGA Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
MHA Ministry of Home Affairs
OTA Online Travel Agency/ Online Tour Aggregator
PPP Public Private Partnership
PRASAD Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive
PWD Public Works Department
UDAN Ude Desh ka Aam Nagarik
UT Union Territory
WEF World Economic Forum
3
Vision and Objective
Vision
Our vision is to promote Ladakh as a high-value, low-impact tourism destination that

fosters sustainable and inclusive growth for the local community.
The vision captures the expectations of the stakeholders of the tourism industry as well
as the local population, considering their economic and social needs. By integrating best
practices to improve convenience and experience, the goal is to create tourist
experiences in Ladakh that are comparable to the best places of the world. Suggestions
in the document assure little to no negative effects of tourism on the local ecology and
population through regulated and monitored tourism. Through the promotion of tourism
in Ladakh, we aim to create employment for the locals and promote Ladakh’s culture and
products to tourists from India and the rest of the world.
High-value low-impact tourism destination
The principle of ‘High-value, Low-impact’ will promote sustainable tourism in Ladakh by

marketing it as a ‘unique and exclusive experience’ to boost tourism while
simultaneously curbing adverse ecological and social impacts on the region. This core
value seeks to ensure a meaningful experience for travelers and educating them about
Ladakhi culture and values at the same time.
Foster sustainable and inclusive growth for the local community
Local communities’ benefit from sustainable tourism through economic development,

job creation, and infrastructure development. Tourism revenues bring economic growth
and prosperity to attractive tourist destinations, which can raise the standard of living
in host communities. Thus, the goal is to involve local communities to build sustainable
tourism practices in Ladakh.
Benefits of tourism reaching the last mile
Currently, tourism in Ladakh is concentrated in a few major places, thus benefiting only
a portion of the population leading to the development of only prominent cities. Despite
a rich cultural heritage, the remote communities are overlooked. Our vision entails
dispersing tourism to these unexplored places so that tourism revenue can ensure direct
welfare of each segment of the population, the last mile. Tourism fees collected would
fund the medical, economic, and social needs of the local population.
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Objective:
The objective of these recommendations is to promote quality tourism to foster

sustainable, competitive, and inclusive growth; to enhance the industry’s contribution
to build Ladakh and at the same time, balance environmental sustainability of this unique
geographical location.
A major problem being faced by the region is rural to urban migration. These indicative
measures aim to create opportunities within rural regions and spread tourism
throughout Ladakh, including remote border villages, and unexplored towns, instead of
concentrating on the already overburdened cities.
The actionable and achievable vision and objectives can be realized by focusing on-
▪ Creating unique and niche tourist experiences

▪ Focusing on increasing inflow of international tourists
▪ Regulating activities to protect the environment
Tourism disbursement
Overcrowded tourist hotspots like Leh city and Diskit create an adverse impact on the
ecological, social, and cultural balance of the region. Our objective is to disburse the
large inflow of tourists from these overrun zones to other untraveled and unexplored
areas that have a bountiful to offer, thus creating an equitable and sustainable balance.
Use of greener fuels
A large increase in the number of motor vehicles and great rush of tourists have
contributed to the menace of vehicular pollution in Ladakh. Usage of greener fuels and
adoption of renewable energy will curb the dilapidation of ecology in Ladakh, an
important milestone for sustainable and green tourism.
Promotion of carbon neutral activities
With increasing environmental consciousness, tourists must aim at minimizing the

carbon footprint from their travel. With an emphasis on ecolodges, recycling and waste
management, greener transport, and construction, Ladakh can be promoted as a
responsible and environment-friendly tourist destination. Screening activities like
motorized vehicle tours that generate heavy pollution and enhancing low-carbon
emitting activities will be the key to ensuring sustainable tourism.
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This report provides a comprehensive insight on the issues and current scenario of the
tourism sector in Ladakh and suggests courses of action for the future. It is intended to
act as a guide for future projects. As next steps, respective government departments
should form “Action Committees” and detailed project reports to implement the
suggested actions.
The suggested action points have been based on a phased approach:
Phase Years
Short Term 0-3
Medium Term 4-7
Long Term 8-10
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India Tourism Overview
From affordable luxury to unique backpacker stays, from deserts of Rajasthan to lofty
peaks of the Himalayas, from tiny green villages of South India to bustling cities of Delhi
and Mumbai, India has something for every kind of traveller. The country is ranked 34th in
the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index 2019. The WEF
report called out India as the majority stakeholder of South Asia’s Tourism GDP with the
country attracting almost 11 million foreign tourists in 2019. As the graph shows, the
foreign tourist arrivals in India are constantly on the rise, increasing from 2.54 million
people in 2001 to 10.93 million people in 2019 with a CAGR of 8.4%.
India is also one o

Source: Ministry of Tourism
India is also one of the most digitally advanced traveller nations in terms of digital tools
being used for planning, booking, and experiencing a journey. The rapid spread of
digitalization creates an ecosystem that allows deeper integration of technology in daily
lives, and India has proved its merit in developing a progressive approach towards a
technology-led tourism industry. The application of technology in tourism is displayed on
ground through “India Cultures” various web portals and through QR Code installation at
monuments to facilitate the purchase of entry tickets.
For tourism infrastructure development in the country, the Ministry of Tourism has two
major schemes, viz. Swadesh Darshan, a scheme for integrated development of theme-
based tourist circuits and PRASHAD, Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage
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Augmentation Drive. Identification, diversification, development, and promotion of
niche tourism products in the country is the Ministry's initiative to overcome the aspect
of ‘seasonality’ and promote India as a 365-days tourist destination. A new category of e-
Tourist Visa for five years with multiple entry in addition to the existing e-Tourist Visa for
one year, and a new category of e-Tourist Visa valid for one month with double-entry has
also been introduced.
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Tourism in India has significant potential considering the rich cultural and historical
heritage, variety in ecology, terrains, and places of natural beauty spread across the
country. The government of India has taken many initiatives to leverage the potential of
the tourism industry in India. The Ministry of Tourism promotes India as a holistic
destination covering various tourism destinations and products across different
states/union territories. The Ministry continually works towards augmenting tourism
infrastructure, easing visa regime and assuring quality standards in services of tourism
service providers.
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Ladakh Tourism Overview
Ladakh, the roof of India, is one of the country's most unique destinations, offering a
blend of nature, spirituality, and adventure sports. The union territory is nestled between
the Karakoram Mountain range to the north and the Himalayas to the south. The tourism
sector in the region contributes to 50 percent of Ladakh's GDP and employs many people
in related sectors like transport, hotels, catering services, and the cottage industry. As
of 2020, the tourism industry in Ladakh was worth INR 600 crore. The natural beauty and
picturesque locations have made it a favored destination for tourists across the world.
Situated at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh
connects Ladakh with the rest of the country. The new terminal of Leh airport is expected
to be ready by the end of 2022. The Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 laid the
foundation stone of the new terminal building of Kushok Bakula Rimpochee (KBR) Airport
in Leh. The new terminal will provide seamless passenger movement with all modern
amenities.
Ladakh has also developed world-class roads with 96 roads and 2 bridges completed
under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana to provide connectivity to unconnected
habitations. In addition to this, the construction of 45 more bridges in Ladakh will be
completed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the next two years.
The Zojila tunnel – at a length of 14.15 kilometers, will be India’s longest road tunnel, and
Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel. The tunnel is being developed to provide all-weather
connectivity between the Srinagar valley and Leh (Ladakh) plateau on NH-1. As it will open
up possibilities for tourists and travelers to move between these two terminal locations
all year round, it will allow for more tourists to go by road.
Until now, the Zojila Pass that connected Srinagar and Leh was accessible for transport
only for six months every year. As the pass was in mountainous terrain prone to heavy
snowfall and inclement weather, the road stretch was inaccessible and risky to go
through during cold months of the year. On some parts of the stretch, only single vehicles
could move at once.
The completion of the tunnel will drastically reduce travel time for passengers currently
commuting by the Zojila Pass. The current travel time of about three hours will come
down to 15 minutes. The project is also expected to lead to the integrated development
of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
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It is also poised to bring about all-round economic development and socio-cultural
integration of these regions that remain cut-off from the rest of the country during
winters due to heavy snowfall and lack of connectivity as the tunnel will provide access
all throughout the year.
The Indian Himalayan Region has experienced continued growth and increased
diversification in tourism over the last few decades and has become one of India's
fastest-growing economic sectors, and Ladakh proves a classic example. A traveler’s
paradise, Ladakh attracts people from far and wide for its awe-inspiring nature, rural
simplicity, and spiritual intensity. Leh, the capital and the largest town in Ladakh, has
been open for tourism since 1974 and has registered an increasing number of tourists
who are attracted to its landscape, culture, and traditional environment. Leh regularly
features on the international tourist map and attracts a large inflow of tourists from
abroad. A major hotspot for trekkers, Ladakh is a global adventure tourism destination
with attractions like Khardungla pass, the world's highest motor-able road along with
Nubra valley, Tsomoriri lake, and several beautiful glaciers, and majestic peaks.
Domestic tourist arrival has been on the rise with 55,685 travellers visiting in 2010 to
241,285 in 2019 showing the compounded annual growth rate of 17.69% while foreign
tourist arrivals show a growth rate of just 6.40%. As the domestic tourists’ arrivals
increased, the FTAs started declining. In 2019, highest number of tourists arrived from
Thailand closely followed by tourists from France and Israel. Significant number of
tourists also arrived from various Asian countries and from Europe and America.
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Source: Tourism Department, Leh District
Source: Tourism Department, Leh District
While the region gets a fair number of tourists in all types of weather conditions, the
summer months from May to August are the most popular. Domestic tourists visited most
in June while the foreign footfall was most in the month of July. A substantial slice of the
tourism pie in Ladakh comes from trekkers and hikers, who travel to areas with very
limited fodder and fuel resources. This opens employment opportunities for Ladakhi
youths as trekking guides. They can be trained on ecologically friendly trekking practices
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and can then encourage trekkers and hikers to adopt the same. The major attractions
include trekking, mountaineering, rafting, motorcycle tours, cycling, camping, and
safaris.
Promoting, restoring, and conserving the region's natural landscapes and heritage is
being implemented in full force post the global pandemic. Ladakh administration
resumed tourist activities post-global pandemic with its 'Zanskar Youth Festival 2021'.
During the 13-day festival, visitors were given a serene and isolated environment to
practice yoga in, along with trekking over the frozen Zanskar river and experiencing local
cuisine, culture and festivals. Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture
inaugurated the National Tourism Day 2021 at Ice Hockey Rink Biamathang in Kargil
district of Ladakh.
Source: Tourism Department, Kargil District
The above graph shows a comparison between the number of domestic and foreign
tourists arriving in the Kargil region of Ladakh. The year 2017 saw a massive jump in
foreign tourist arrivals and 2018 had the highest number of total tourists arriving in the
region. There has been a dip in arrivals since 2019 but this is expected to reach higher
numbers again powered by the UT government’s first ever tourism policy and the recent
opening of Ladakh’s tourism activities after the pandemic.
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The state also got its first-ever “Tourism Incentive Policy” in September 2020, backed by
the full support of the central government. Some of the government's key initiatives
include sanctioning 104 mountain peaks in the Leh-Ladakh region for adventure tourism,
approving mega projects to promote Ladakh as a spiritual and wellness destination,
directing capital and interest subsidy for investment in the tourism sector, and creating
ice hockey rinks under MGNREGA scheme. The central government also recently
announced the 'Tangible Cultural Heritage Conservation Fund' listed as an integral part of
incentive policy in Ladakh.
The Ministry of Tourism, under its Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes, also
provides INR 595 crore financial assistance to state governments and union territories
for the development of tourism infrastructure. Ministry of Tourism launched the
'DekhoApnaDesh' webinar series in April 2020, which provides information on the
country's rich culture and heritage and shared the depth and expanse of the destinations
in India. As part of the ongoing series, the Ministry of Tourism conducted its 5th webinar
on the rich heritage of Ladakh titled 'Ladakh: Explore the Unexplored'.
The tourism demography has changed drastically over the past few decades. Initially, in
the early 80s and 90s, almost 90% of the tourists were foreigners, the late 2000s
started attracting an influx of almost 50% domestic tourists to now catering to more
than 80% domestic tourists with the total tourist arrivals increasing from 14,282 in 1982
to 2,79,937 in 2019.
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Carrying Capacity
Carrying Capacity in terms of urban/suburban planning can be defined as the maximum
population size that can sustain an environment through optimum utilization of available
resources. In 2019, 38,652 foreign and 2,41,285 domestic tourists visited Ladakh,
exceeding its own population, thus, making the calculation of carrying capacity an
essential factor in developing Ladakh more sustainably and protecting its fragile
ecosystem. With such a high demand for tourism, infrastructure interventions are
required to minimize tourisms’ adverse environmental, social, and cultural impact.
In the absence of carrying capacity and impact assessment data, it is difficult to say if
the current rate of tourist influx is sustainable. In popular destinations around the world,
overtourism is being visualized as a potential threat as the dynamic forces that power
tourism often inflicts unavoidable negative consequences if not managed well. In fact, in
some areas, this may result in a decline in tourism as a sustainable framework is never
put into place for coping with the effects of tourism. Consequently, the impact on local
residents is expected to be very high.
Threats to the socio-cultural heritage, intense use of scarce resources, and negative
externalities could have other negative impacts including the replacement of traditional
eco-friendly and aesthetic architecture with resource-intensive and non-environment
friendly construction, inadequate solid waste management, increased air pollution,
decline of water sources, and the loss of biodiversity.
The mass tourist arrivals during the peak season have already caused a huge challenge
for adequate availability of civic services. Traffic jams, lack of regular water supply, poor
waste management, and increasing pollution are causing enormous difficulties to the
tourists and locals alike. If this goes unabated, Ladakh may not remain a preferred
destination, particularly for those tourists who are looking for a unique eco-experience.
Therefore, in the context of tourism development, Ladakh currently is on crossroads of
the opportunities emanating from its unique landscape elements and cultural heritage,
and the challenges largely posed by 'overtourism'.
As per latest data, there are a total of 291 hotels in Leh having a capacity of 8,865 beds
whereas total number of guest houses are 807 having a bed capacity of 7,842. In Kargil,
there are a total of 43 hotels excluding the Zanskar district with a bed capacity of 1,503
and a total of 86 guest houses with a bed capacity of 773. The total number of taxis
available in Ladakh are 3,646; out of which 1,422 are more than 10 years old. In peak
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tourist months (May-July), there will be a shortage of beds in A+ category hotels in
Ladakh.
We recommend that there should be a thorough assessment of the carrying capacity of

ecological environment, sociodemographic & economic dimensions to manage tourism
and the region sustainably.
Population
Population Growth in Growth in Area (in sq Density
Ladakh
(Census 2011) 2011 2001 km) (persons per
sq km)
Kargil 140,802 13.87% 30.15% 14,036 10
Leh 133,487 18.02% 33.55% 45,110 3

Source: Department of Tourism, Leh District
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Tourism Opportunity
There is an immense opportunity to plan tourism in Ladakh right now as the region is still
in a nascent stage. Tourism needs to be disbursed throughout the region in order to
benefit the last mile. If tapped in a sustainable manner with the support of a proper
marketing initiative, the tourism industry could transform Ladakh’s fortunes with
unprecedented economic prosperity. The challenge is to enhance the infrastructure
facilities that support tourism in this region such that the full potential of the sector can
be harnessed. In this regard, the provision of road connectivity to remote regions is
important, as is the setting up of facilities in fields such as telecommunications, medical
help, and emergency evacuation services. There is also a great requirement to set up an
institute for professionally training locals in hospitality management. The UT
administration needs to create detailed sustainable development plans at a district and
community level by focusing on air and road connectivity, quality homestay development,
wayside amenities, tourism circuit mapping, waste management systems, signages, and
training and skill development of locals.
Potential
Tourism Hubs
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Leh District
Leh is connected via National Highway 1 to Srinagar in the southwest and to Manali in the
south via the Leh-Manali Highway. These roads are only open from May to November, but
local roads remain open throughout the year. Leh airport has flights to Delhi, Srinagar,
Jammu, and Mumbai. The resident population in Leh drops down by 15-20% from summer
to winter as many residents travel to warmer places.
Leh district is divided into 12 wards. Almost 70% of the tourist population is concentrated
in 4 wards- Changspa, Tukcha, Shenam, and Leh main market. These wards have the
highest number of hotels and guesthouses. The city is overcrowded with tourists during
the peak season. In terms of development planning, Leh city needs better roads,
signages to tourist attractions, tourist facilitation centers, and a solid waste
management system, especially for the hotel industry.
Diskit is a village and headquarter of the Nubra tehsil and the Nubra subdivision in the Leh
district of Ladakh. The region already has an abundance of campsites, hotels, and
guesthouses. The area between Hunder and Diskit is well developed with effective
accommodations and road connectivity. The area has acquired fame for its sand dunes,
cold desert, and Bactrian camels.
The area between Hunder and Turtuk is still undeveloped in terms of tourism but has huge
potential for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, heritage tourism, and rural tourism.
Hunder village sits in the middle of a cold desert in Nubra valley and is 7 km from Diskit
which is known for its Monasteries. Turtuk is a little village flanked by Nubra on one side
and Baltistan on the other, sitting along the shores of Shyok River. Various attractions
like Brokpa Fort, Turtuk Waterfall, Mosque, and the Balti Heritage House Monastery make
the village a good tourist spot. Bogdang is the largest settlement between Hunder and
Turtuk. The development of tourism infrastructure and wayside amenities can boost
tourism in this region. Similarly, the Saspol Mangu belt may be promoted for adventure
tourism. Saspol is a small village in Leh with Buddhist caves famous for its Alchi and Likir
monasteries. The rock-cut temples of Saspol caves are in the vicinity of the village itself.
Trekking and river rafting in Alchi, and the Alchi cultural festival are some of the major
attractions in Saspol. Homestays and adventure activities may be promoted here.
Panamik, a village in Nubra valley, is famous for its hot springs. It is also the final frontier
village of India close to the Indo-Tibetan border. There are a few guesthouses and
accommodations in Panamik with efficient infrastructure set-up, but the area is
overcrowded with tourists. From Panamik, the road continues up the entire length of the
Nubra, ending where the river emerges from the Karakoram glaciers, including the
Siachen Glacier. Even further north-east is Aksai Chin and Karakoram Pass. Beyond
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Panamik, the road is firmly closed to all but military vehicles. Authorities need to identify
areas for development beyond Panamic which can be opened up to tourists.
The Chumathang and Nyoma belt also has huge potential for eco-tourism and wellness
tourism. Chumathang is situated on the bank of Indus River, 138 km southeast of Leh and
41 km northwest of Nyoma. It is famous for hot Sulphur springs which evolve from the
ground near the Indus River. Chumathang has few homestays which offer
accommodations to guests. Nyoma village, situated in the Leh district on the banks of
the Indus River has a huge Yak population and many small Buddhist monasteries. The
Village is known for its peace and tranquility. It is well connected from Jammu (857 km
via NH44), from Leh (180 km via Leh Manali Highway), and from Srinagar (594 km via NH1).
In order to boost tourism in this belt, there is a need to set up more tourist
accommodations (homestays), restaurants and eco-tour packages, and other supporting
infrastructure.
Hanle in the Changthang region of Ladakh is home to about 1000 people. It also houses
the Indian Astronomical Observatory which is the world’s highest observatory at a height
of 4500 m. Hanle has the potential to be the hub for Astro-tourism in Ladakh. Community
based Astro-tourism and nomadic experiences may be promoted in this region.
Kargil District
Kargil is one of the two districts of Ladakh region and is the second largest town of
Ladakh, situated roughly at equal distance of 200 Km from Srinagar, Leh, Padum, Zanskar
and Skardo, Baltistan. Kargil has always been an important trade center in the past.
Traders from China, Central Asia, and different parts of India used to trade in tea, wool,
carpets, silk, and precious stones in olden days and Kargil was known as a historical
meeting point.
Kargil regained its importance when the area was opened for tourists in the year 1974
with other parts of Ladakh and a considerable number of tourists, trekkers, and
mountaineers started visiting Kargil.
Besides its historical importance, unique landscape, and number of heritage sites,
Buddha statues, forts, palaces, ancient rock carvings, mosques, monasteries, pilgrim
sites, and war memorials are found all over the district.
Kargil has also been bestowed with great potential for adventure tourism and winter
sports such as mountaineering (as Kargil is the seat of world-famous Nun-Kun peaks)
trekking, river rafting, snow skiing, border tourism, and religious Tourism. Emphasis
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needs to be given on developing quality tourist infrastructure at places with tourism
potential like Drass-Umba valley, Suru Valley, Kargil, Mulbek, Panikhar, Rangdum, and
Padum, Zanskar.
In order to take tourism to the next level in Kargil, air connectivity needs to be improved.
In the short term, small fixed-wing aircraft can be operationalized under the UDAN
scheme. Even if these aircraft cover Kargil, Nubra, and Leh, it will become easier for
tourists visiting Leh to visit Kargil. This way, Kargil may be accessible throughout the
year.
The most important step in diversifying the spread of tourists throughout the district is
the need to develop rural tourist destinations and provides them due marketing
promotions. Kargil may be developed as an infrastructural hub and a center for
coordinating various sports, and tourism activities.
Drass has the potential to be developed and marketed as a winter sport, eco, and patriotic
tourism destination. Mushkoh Valley in Drass has a population settled in a highland village
surrounded by the mountains and meadows on all sides. There are many other attractions
like the Tiger Hill, Tololing, Marpo La and Kargil War Memorial. There is no tourism
infrastructure available in Drass. Homestays, A+ category hotels, and ski resorts may be
setup.
Zanskar is the biggest region rich in culture and traditions and has huge potential in
almost every tourism field. It is world-renowned for its monasteries. It has connecting
roads to Himachal Pradesh as well. Thousands of Europeans already visit Zanskar for
cycling and trekking. Tourism units, wayside amenities, and roads need to be set up.
Padum is the main town and administrative center of Zanskar and is located at the
intersection of two major valleys, with the Zanskar river passing through and heading
north. Padum is a small town with basic amenities for travelers including a few
restaurants, snack shops, and tour agencies. For many years, Padum has sat at the end
of the only road that enters the valley. However, major construction has begun on roads
connecting Padum to the Leh-Manali Road at Darcha to the east and to Leh in the north.
There are a few guesthouses scattered around Padum town. Padum has the potential to
become the next Leh in terms of tourism. It is ideal for adventure sports like skiing and
trekking, and Buddhist tourism. Phuktal, Dzongkhul, Sani and Stongdey Monasteries
along with the Zangla Palace are major attractions around Padum.
Batalik, Aryan Valley is known for its apricots, grapes, deep gorges, and Indus River.
There are many unique cultural traditions and festivals in this region. Heritage tourism,
religious tourism and eco-tourism can be promoted. Lalung, Silmoo, Batalik, Darchik,
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Hurdass, Sinikcey, and Gark villages have been plugged into the national electricity
network through the Srinagar-Leh line. The link will facilitate 24X7 supply, helping boost
tourism, and exploit the area’s food processing potential. Developing tourism and
homestay infrastructure and mapping new tourist sites and treks should be the focus in
the short term.
The Mulbekh Wakah cluster is ideal for setting up infrastructure for skiing. Development
of large hotels should not be promoted in this area. There are plenty of homestay options
for tourists to choose from. There are many Buddhist sites in this region that may be
mapped and promoted. Mulbekh (40kms), Apati (20 Kms), and Kartsey (50 kms) which are
in close proximity to Kargil city could be developed as a Buddhist circuit.
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Tourism Products
Adventure Tourism
The topography of Ladakh, spotted with Himalayan mountains, fast flowing rivers, and
high passes makes it ideal for adventure tourism. Characterised by its ability to provide
high sensory stimulation, it is popular amongst the young, and allows for the tourists to
get out of their comfort zones. Major attractions include trekking, mountaineering,
rafting, cycling, paragliding, skiing, and ice climbing. Adventure tourism needs to be
developed sustainably by focusing on local community engagement, improving local
infrastructure, upskilling operators along with a strong management and monitoring
policy. Niche activities like Ice Hockey, Ice Stupa making, and ice climbing should be a
focus points in order to promote winter tourism.
S. DEPARTMENT
ACTION POINTS TIME FRAME
NO. RESPONSIBLE
Ancient trekking routes may be
avoided while constructing new roads Tourism Department,
1. Short Term
or installing electric poles, cables, and PWD, BRO
mobile towers
Expedition briefings to be
decentralised from Indian
Mountaineering Foundation’s (IMF)
IMF, Ministry of
2. Delhi office to local branch in Leh and Short Term
Defence, LAHDC
Kargil. Revenues generated may be
reinvested in training guides and
maintaining cleanliness of the region
Institutionalised training for locals may
be pursued at premier institutions like Tourism Department,
3. Short Term
IISM. Financial support may be UT administration
provided by UT of Ladakh for induction
New ski slopes to be identified and
Tourism Department,
4. mapped in Kargil, Drass, and Short Term
IMF, IISM
Zanskar ranges
International level ice climbing, and
skiing events may be planned and IMF, Tourism
5. Short Term
promoted through tourism department Department
channels
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S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
Heli skiing facilities may be setup in
6. Kargil and Zanskar to cater to Short Term Tourism Department
international level skiers
Gondolas may be set up in Kargil
between:
7. Sherbagh and Kurbathang Short Term Tourism Department
Shilikchey and TikTikmo Hill
Baroo-Zbichu and Kurbathang
Umba La and Lalung La in Kargil
8. district may be explored as summer Short Term Tourism Department
skiing sites
Trainings and incentives may be
9. provided for assistance in revival of Short Term Tourism Department
local porters and horse rearers
Online single window system to be
10. setup for checking availability and Medium Term Tourism Department
booking peaks for climbing
Provisions to be made for income Tourism Department,
11. security and expedition insurance for Medium Term Empanelled
Ladakhi guides Insurance Providers
Ski lifts, gondolas, and ice hockey rinks Tourism Department,
12. Medium Term
may be setup at identified locations UT administration
Trekking routes to be mapped and
13. Medium Term Tourism Department
made available online
An institute on the lines of Indian
Institute of Skiing and
14. Mountaineering (IISM) may be Medium Term Ministry of Tourism
established in Kargil to encourage and
promote winter sports
Wellness Tourism
During the past decade wellness tourism has been identified as one of the fastest
growing travel segments, but also the most lucrative. Ladakh, due to its unique landscape
and environment is very well placed to utilize its existing resources to set up wellness
tourism units throughout the region. As we have seen the success of Ayurveda retreats
in Kerala, which is big among Russian tourists, but the Germans, Belgians, French, and
Americans haven’t taken to it. They prefer spa and yoga retreats. Ladakh offers the ideal
pristine setup for wellness centers, yoga retreats, and spas.
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S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
Yoga retreats may be set up in rural Tourism
1. areas in collaboration with local Short Term Department,
communities Ministry of Ayush
Ladakh may be branded as a
“Rejuvenation” destination for expats Tourism
2. Short Term
and corporates: -clean air, yoga, organic Department
cuisine, spiritual journey
Wellness resorts may be setup around
Tourism
3. the Chumathang and Panamic hot Medium Term
Department
springs using PPP mode
Sowa Rigpa centers may be setup and
promoted as a high-end wellness Tourism
4. Medium Term Department,
product in collaboration with Ministry of
Ministry of Ayush
Ayush
Quality spas and wellness centers may
Tourism
5. be set up exploring Sowa Rigpa/Amchi Medium Term
Department
medicine
Wellness tourism service providers may
be given support under the
6. Market Development Scheme (MDA) for Medium Term Ministry of Tourism
promotions at fairs, events, and
roadshows
Psammotherapy centers may be
established at Mulbekh hot water Tourism
7. Medium term
springs, Yarkashing springs, and Dumbo Department
Shilikchey
Heritage Tourism
The Ladakh region has a rich history and has been built over time with influences that
range from the Tibetan plateau, Central Asia, and the northern subcontinent. Ladakh
should be declared a heritage rich region and promoted through national tourism
channels. Many monasteries celebrate their annual festivals in winter, which are marked
by celebrations and performances. Monasteries, palaces, castles, and mosques need to
be mapped, and a heritage tourism circuit needs to be prepared. Tourist amenities need
to be set up at these sites. The ticket price for domestic and foreign tourists may be
increased from current rates.
24
S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
A Heritage committee may be formed Tourism
to map out a heritage circuit. Department,
1. Short Term
Petroglyph preservation and LAHDC, Local
promotion may also be focused on Stakeholders
Adopt a Heritage Scheme may be
2. leveraged for restoring and Short Term Ministry of Tourism
maintaining heritage sites
QR code based signages may be
installed at heritage sites, monuments, Tourism
3. Short Term
museums, trails, and iconic villages Department
Homestays near iconic monuments,

Tourism
4. monasteries, and heritage sites may be Medium Term
Department
promoted
Public infrastructure and utilities
around popular heritage sites may be Tourism
5. Medium Term
upgraded Department
A sustainable model for museums

focusing on conservation practices, Tourism
6. and a collection and cataloguing policy Medium Term
Department
may be developed
Buddhist Tourism
There are about 35 Buddhist monasteries along the banks of various rivers spread across
the region which thrive on donations made by tourists and locals. Many monasteries need
regular upkeep and renovation. Experts may be hired for the upkeep of these
monasteries and for landscaping the barren regions around it.
▪ Souvenir stores may be setup at monasteries showcasing locally made products.

Baskets, apricot, sea buckthorn juices and jams, buckwheat, copper products like
jars, lampshades, tea strainers, prayer bowls and kitchen tools. Monasteries are
visited by lakhs of tourists every year and can thus be an ideal place to setup
souvenir stores and promote local products as well as crafts.
▪ The tourism department should provide financial incentives to local craftsmen to
setup production facilities.
▪ Major tourist events may be curated around traditional Buddhist festivals which
can be clubbed with group tours of monasteries and popular Buddhist sites.
25
S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
PPP model may be adopted for
Tourism
1. renovation and maintenance of key Short Term
Department
monasteries
Roadshows may be organized on
Tourism
2. India’s rich Buddhist heritage to Short Term
Department
showcase Ladakh’s offerings
Creatives may be used as part of
Incredible India 2.0 campaign in Tourism
3. Short Term Department,
Buddhist source markets such as
Ministry of Tourism
China, Japan, Korea, etc.
Homestays around Buddhist sites may
Tourism
4. be developed to create community Short Term
Department
housing for tourists
Souvenir stores may be set up in
Tourism
5. monasteries to showcase local Short Term
Department
handicrafts and products
Experiential tourism events may be Ministry of Tourism,
6. planned around major Buddhist Medium Term Tourism
festivals Department
Ladakh’s Buddhist sites and
monasteries to be developed and Ministry of Tourism,
7. Medium Term Tourism
promoted under Swadesh Darshan
Department
Scheme
Eco Tourism
The landscape of Ladakh qualifies as a candidate for sustainable tourism promotion

where an area of about 12,350 sq km falls under protected area network (one national park
and two wildlife sanctuaries). Eco tourism in Ladakh should be a major point of focus for
the tourism sector because of the sustainable development opportunity. The area is
covered with mountains, ecology, and wildlife. The focus needs to be put on creating
experiences that have a low impact on the environment and high involvement of local
communities so host communities’ benefit.
26
S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
Pax limits may be set for tour group Tourism Department,
1. sizes based on optimum carrying Short Term Forest & Wildlife
capacity for all eco-tourism activities Department
Commercial activity near lakes may be
shifted at least 200 meters away from
2. Short Term Tourism Department
the shorelines to reduce water
pollution
Promote new trekking and biking trails
3. by participating in fairs and roadshows Short Term Tourism Department
in European countries
Luxury Bedouin camps may be set up
4. around monasteries to attract high Medium Term Tourism Department
spending tourists
Wildlife and birding hubs may be
created in less explored areas
New snow leopard hubs may be
identified to avoid overcrowding of Tourism Department,
6. Tourists: subsequently, homestay and Medium Term Snow Leopard
camping infrastructure may be Conservatory
developed
Brown bear hubs may be identified in
Drass and Suru Valley- subsequently,
homestays and other tourism
infrastructure may be developed
Homestays can be converted to Astro
Tourism Department,
stays by installing telescopes and
8. Medium Term Indian Astronomical
providing technical training to
Institute
homeowners
Potential of agro and organic tourism
9. in Aryan Valley and Sankoo may be Medium Term Tourism Department
studied
27
Infrastructure
Tourism is to a great extent dependent on the range and type of infrastructure available
at the destination. Infrastructure is a core area of the tourism industry and plays a
distinctive role in the development of this ever-expanding industry.
Connectivity
Proposed locations for Helipads Proposed locations for commercial airport Road Connectivity links
▪ Ladakh has a total of 4300 km of road length: 39% under PWD and 61% under BRO.
More than 50% villages do not have access to pucca roads. There is also a lack of
roadside infrastructure for the convenience of travellers.
▪ There is a lack of public transport infrastructure like bus terminals, depots,
shelters, and other passenger facilities. The administration needs to upgrade its
regional road capacity.
28
▪ Leh and Srinagar are only 230 km from Kargil by road. ATR plane services may be
started in the short term so that travel time is cut down significantly and travel
can be done throughout the winter as well.
▪ There is only 1 operational airport in Leh operating limited commercial flights. It is
the only commercial access point by air to the region and thus becomes a burden
for the city. Commercial airports need to be developed in Kargil and Nubra.
Travellers should be encouraged to fly into Ladakh through Kargil or Nubra and not
only through Leh.
▪ 87% of the tourists in the year 2018-19 were domestic tourists. If Kushok Bakula
Rimpochee Airport in Leh is made an international airport, it will help attract a
larger influx of foreign tourists.
▪ The main issue being faced by Kargil is a low influx of tourists due to bad
connectivity. The only way to reach Kargil is by driving from Leh or Srinagar. The
main pass between Srinagar and Kargil is likely to be blocked by snow from
November to March. However, the road between Kargil and Drass is open almost
throughout the year.
▪ The geological location of the current runway in Kargil makes it difficult for larger
planes to land. Currently, the Indian Army provides a shuttle service from Kargil to
Srinagar in their own ATR planes. The cost of the ticket is low and is mainly used
by locals who travel for work. A new site may be identified for developing a new
commercial airport
▪ The airport at Those, Nubra is 30 minutes from Hunder and 4 hours from Pangong
by road. Tourists visiting Pangong can directly land in Nubra instead of going to
Leh.
▪ Helicopter services may be started from Leh and Kargil to remoter regions of
Ladakh to improve connectivity. Places like Nubra and Zanskar have huge tourism
potential which can be harnessed by improving access for travellers.
▪ Helipads may be constructed at remote locations and district headquarters. This
will not only help in connecting these locations but also help in bringing them on
the tourism map during the winters.
▪ Gondola lifts should be installed at places with poor road connectivity. They can
not only act as a tourist attraction but also as a mode of transport for locals.
▪ The proposed helipads and commercial airports at Kargil and Nubra will ensure
connectivity in the region throughout the year.
29
S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
Airports and helipads may be Ministry of Civil
1. constructed at Kargil and Nubra Medium Term
Aviation
Flights connecting Leh to Bangalore,
Ahmedabad, and other smaller cities Ministry of Civil
2. Medium Term
may be introduced Aviation
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport in

Leh may be made an international Ministry of Civil
3. Medium Term
airport Aviation
Gondola lifts and ropeways may be

4. installed at identified locations to Medium Term Tourism Department
reduce travel time
Heli services may be started from Leh Ministry of Civil

5. and Kargil to more remote locations Medium Term
Aviation
Public transportation (buses) and

supporting infrastructure like Forest & Wildlife
6. terminals, depots, stop, and shelters Medium Term
Department, PWD
may be set up
Focus may be given on development of
wayside amenities along key roads and
tourist sites. Consultants may be hired Tourism Department,
7. Medium Term
for future strategies regarding LAHDC
planning and construction
Plan for a robust public transportation Tourism Department,

8. system may be developed. Medium Term
LAHDC
All settlements may be connected with Border Roads

9. all-weather roads Long Term
Organisation, PWD
Electrification and Network

▪ The energy department needs to undertake surveys for assessment of demand
for electricity and availability of renewable energy sources.
▪ Electrification and network capabilities in rural and remote areas is a crucial
factor for the development of homestays in Ladakh. With access to Wi-Fi or 4G,
30
homeowners will be able to list their properties on aggregator sites and manage
their own bookings.
▪ A+ category hotels and resorts should be encouraged to set up a renewable energy
source unit to fulfil part of their energy needs for operations.
S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
Subsidies may be provided for
installation of solar inverters, heaters,
1. home lighting kits, and solar water Short Term Tourism Department
heating plants for tourism units
Micro grids not connected to the main

grids may be set up to supply power to Ministry of Renewable
2. Medium Term
remote areas and high-altitude villages Energy
Financial incentives may be provided

to companies to set up a mobile Department of
network tower in remote areas where Telecommunications,
3. Medium Term
there is no Telecom Service Provider Ministry of
(TSP) Communications
Potential of other renewable energy

sources (wind and geothermal) may be The Ladakh Renewable
4. harnessed in addition to solar and Long Term Energy Development
hydel power Agency, KREDA
Hotels and Resorts

The rating system for hotels in Ladakh is different from that of other cities in India. Hotels
are classified into Classes A+, A, B, C, etc. The grade a hotel gets is determined by the
amenities provided. Additionally, for a hotel to have an A+ rating, it must be open
throughout the year which owing to the sub-zero temperatures, is quite difficult.
Currently, there are only 3 A+ class hotels. At present, there are sufficient A+ category
hotels in Leh. On the other hand, there are none in Kargil. Too many large hotels and
resorts are not ideal to promote in the region because they consume a lot of energy and
generate waste. In Ladakh, a better approach will be to focus on developing alternate
accommodations like lodges and homestays across the region so that there is an
equitable distribution of tourism related earnings. Policies may be devised to ensure the
use of locally sourced materials and traditional architectural styles.
A green hotel policy also may be devised which grades hotels on key performance
indicators based on sustainability. Materials used for construction, electricity
31
consumption, renewable energy setup, waste disposal system, among others, can be
some indicators for grading based on which hotels can be provided financial incentives.
Low impact travel and luxury can coexist. In order to get a green rating, a resort should
use less energy and water than comparable resorts. They should rely on earth-friendly
amenities like solar gardens, smart lighting, solar panels, and an advance on-site energy
and water management system. The furniture and décor must be made from sustainable,
locally procured wood. Hotel water may be heated through the use of solar panels. Hotels
should be encouraged to use local suppliers for food and material. Additionally, the
architecture and operational systems must be designed to meet the highest levels of
energy efficiency and conservation within a luxury setting. Australia, Vietnam, Canada,
and Ecuador have several carbon neutral resorts whose models can be studied and
applied in Ladakh.
In the case of luxury hotels (4 star + equivalents) and wellness resorts, PPP model may be
encouraged where-in state owned land is given on long term lease to local businessman
and hoteliers who may build and run the property themselves or give it on operating lease
to larger private hotel operators. An assessment of existing state-owned tourism
accommodation units may be undertaken, and those units may be identified which can
be operated on suitable PPP models, thereby promoting various target opportunities.
PPP can allow Ladakh to develop tourism assets in accordance with government
priorities and high social and environmental standards while harnessing the efficiency
and creativity of the private sector.
S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
A green hotel policy may be developed
which grades hotels on key Tourism
1. Short Term
performance indicators based on Department
sustainability
Land parcel in Kargil district to be Department of
2. Medium Term
identified for A+ category hotel Tourism
Department of
Tourism, The
Clear norms for renewable energy Ladakh Renewable
3. Medium Term
setup to be laid down for ‘star hotels’ Energy
Development
Agency
Development of hotels and resorts Tourism
4. Medium Term Department, UT
under PPP model
administration
32
Homestays
UT Ladakh’s first Tourism Home Stay Policy was launched with a view to preserve,
promote, and encourage the unique Ladakhi culture involved in the tourism sector as well
as to strengthen the rural economy by means of a responsible and sustainable tourism in
Ladakh.
Rural tourism can be a more effective tool to give a boost to the overall tourism scenario
of UT Ladakh as its rural areas are endowed with amazing natural beauty, serene
environment, heritage sites, and a unique culture. The endorsement of rural tourism will
ensure the dispersal of tourists from main cities like Leh and Kargil to remoter villages.
The policy is expected to boost tourism in remote areas of Ladakh such as Changthang,
Drass, Batalik, Nubra, Singe-Lalok, Zanskar, Shargole, Suru Valley, and Shakar-Chiktan.
Most areas with homestays in Ladakh do not have network capabilities and thus cannot
manage their bookings directly. Travelers and agents inform homestay owners through
word of mouth or arrive at the destination directly. In order for the system to become
more efficient, the tourism department needs to onboard all homestays onto a single
platform internally or through an OTA service provider.
Homestay owners and local youth may be given training for eco-guides as it will be a
value-add for guests as well as the homestay owners. Trainings could cover
mountaineering, bird watching, and other eco-friendly practices of tourism.
S. DEPARTMENT
NO. RESPONSIBLE
Village level hospitality training camps
may be organized covering culinary Tourism
1. Short Term
training, housekeeping, first aid, and Department
behavior training for guest interaction
All homestays may be geotagged and
Tourism
2. registered on a single platform for easy Medium Term
Department
management
Tourism department may collaborate
Tourism
3. with private OTA’s to onboard and Medium Term
Department
manage homestays
33
Sector Development
Strategy
A sustainable approach coupled with a robust marketing strategy could transform
Ladakh’s fortunes with unprecedented economic prosperity. To harness the full potential
of the region, significant infrastructural development in all tourism-support activities
must be undertaken.
In this regard, constructing a well-paved and exhaustive road network and setting up
efficient tourist facilities such as telecommunication networks, medical help, and
emergency evacuation services is crucial. There is also a dire need to set up an institute
for professionally training the locals in hospitality management. The tourism department
must adopt a responsible and sustainable approach for developing the region and
preserve Ladakh’s traditional values and culture as well. Tourism can hence be seen as
an opportunity to make the best possible use of the available resources in this region.
Key Challenge 1: Inadequate Infrastructure
One of the major challenges is the inaccessibility of the region due to its landlocked and
almost year-round snowbound status. The only way to reach Ladakh is by air, and not all
tourists can afford this medium. Accessibility to tourist attractions within Ladakh also
(such as the Tso-Moriri Lake, for instance) is poor, causing inconvenience to travellers.
Better roads are therefore the first infrastructural need in Ladakh, not only for travelling
locally but also to ensure connectivity with the rest of the country.
A paucity of accommodations is the second most prominent challenge. This is especially

true for remote areas where even basic lodging facilities are not available.
Various other amenities such as petrol pumps, telephones, network connectivity, and
medical help are also conspicuously inadequate in Ladakh. The lack of proper
telecommunication facilities is an especially glaring obstacle since many tourists go for
treks to remote areas in Ladakh, and there are hardly any facilities for quick transfer of
information and evacuation in the unfortunate event of a mishap.
34
A key drawback in the current tourism setup of Ladakh is the seasonality; tourism is
restricted only to the summer season, and even then, the bed occupancy rate is a mere
30%. The underlying reason for the same is inadequate infrastructural facilities.
A scientific assessment of the carrying capacity of the region must precede any
infrastructural planning. An analysis of how many tourists Ladakh can handle without
disturbing the social and environmental balance is essential.
Key Challenge 2: Limited Community Based Tourism
Even though community-based tourism is being practiced in certain pockets of Ladakh,

the concept has limited application in the region. The benefits of the tourism industry are
still mostly reaped by urban communities residing in and around Leh.
Key Challenge 3: Need for Skill Development Trainings
Ladakh’s tourism industry started in a rather ad hoc manner when the region was opened
to the rest of the world in the mid-1970s. Even though significant progress has been made
since then, the initiatives undertaken by the tourism department lack systematic
planning and implementation. The consequence is that the hospitality industry in Ladakh
is majorly being operated by private professionals. There is no training institute in Ladakh
where hospitality management and tourism guiding education can be imparted.
Key Challenge 4: Negative Impact on Environment
Finally, increasing negligence by tourists towards the fragile environment of the region
is eroding the ecological landscape of Ladakh. Direct or indirect littering of streets,
valleys, and mountains along with the use of drugs, alcohol, and intoxicants are some of
the many detrimental activities. Such callous activities pose a great threat to the local
natives (especially Ladakhi youngsters) who may be negatively influenced.
Recommendations
Strategy 1: Brand Marketing and Product Positioning
The tourism sector's competitiveness depends on the growth and promotion of Ladakh's
brand image and product selection to meet consumer needs. The foundation for
promotional messages and guiding product development to deliver on the brand promise
is defining and articulating a distinctive brand. Ladakh provides a plethora of one-of-a-
kind experiences.
35
▪ It is imperative to make changes at the media level; the tourism department needs
to start marketing Ladakh as a year-round destination.
▪ The Tourism department may develop marketing strategies to differentiate
Ladakh from the competing destinations including developing a unique market
position, image, and brand.
▪ The Ministry of Tourism needs to enhance and compete effectively to maintain
Ladakh as an exclusive travel destination; by increasing awareness on the unique
offerings of Ladakh through media campaigns.
▪ Pre-season promotions may be planned to attract more first-time visitors and
subsequently boost off-season travel.
▪ Existing repository of digital assets like photos, creatives, videos, and 360˚ tours
may be developed for digital marketing across multiple platforms.
▪ Roadshows and events may be organised to increase awareness on a range of
tourism products available in Ladakh.
▪ Tourism department may provide financial support to tourism service providers
for making promotional materials and organising events.
▪ Incredible India logo may be used for promotion of tourism products and events
as it is one of the most recongnised brands internationally.
Strategy 2: Standard and Quality Control
Tourism product offerings and services require quality and variety to attract and retain
tourists from target markets. Ethics, professionalism, and excellence are important
elements of delivering standard and quality services.
▪ A single window system may be developed by the tourism department for

stakeholder management, compliance checks, licensing, disbursement of funds,
and database maintenance. This activity can be synergized with the IT
department and the planning department and its related software and mechanism
at all levels.
▪ Systems and appropriate guidelines need to be established for the safety of
tourists at sites and recreational facilities.
▪ Regulatory and monitoring frameworks for tour operators may be established to
control and manage tourism activities. A monitoring system will help understand
the capacity a particular trek or peak can handle at a point in time without harming
or polluting the environment. For example, the Chadar Trek (frozen Zanskar river)
might soon become history because of global warming, majorly owing to the
unchecked human traffic.
▪ Tourism department to ensure that tourism projects/units strictly conform to
environment protection norms laid down by the directorate of environment
36
(materials used in construction, quality of adventure sports equipment, over-
booking than allowed capacity, etc.).
Strategy 3: Land Use Policy
An effective land use policy may be developed to help with the planning and development
of the overall region encompassing the physical, social, economic, and political aspects.
▪ Specific tourism zones may be created based on carrying capacity; expert

agencies to be engaged for zoning, planning, carrying capacity study, and
environmental impact assessment.
▪ Responsibility may lie with tourism and wildlife departments. The Rural
Development department and commercial institutions may also be involved
▪ Level of development may be capped in new and existing tourism zones based on
their carrying capacity.
▪ Rules and regulations may be made to make community tourism more favourable
▪ Micro plans may be developed at a district and village level.
▪ A mandate may be put in place to increase engagement of local communities in
Public Private Partnership projects (PPP).
▪ If required, design robust, lean, and small structures/cells within the existing
tourism departments to manage the implementation of suggested strategies and
activities.
▪ Carrying capacity study may be done in 2 years. Zoning and policy may be
completed in 1 year.
Strategy 4: Tourism Dispersion
In Ladakh, tourism remains concentrated in a few areas leading to overtourism in those

zones while the rest of the community fails to reap the benefits. Dispersion of tourism
shall serve as a sustainable practice by mitigating capacity constraints in popular areas
and spreading the economic benefits more evenly.
▪ Decentralisation of existing core destinations by wider circuit mapping for

identified tourism themes.
▪ Identification of new routes and treks in unexplored destinations to be facilitated
by the tourism department of Leh and Kargil.
▪ Theme based tourism may be offered based on zoning and carrying capacity
study.
37
▪ A detailed plan may be devised by the tourism department based on the studies
and area analysis. A committee may be formed for discussion and swift approval
of projects.
▪ Micro planning for short and medium term may be created to promote village
tourism. A series of maps may be created displaying tourism sites and activities
in rural areas (sites to visit, distance, geographical features, required time).
▪ Execution responsibility lies with Tourism and Wildlife Departments. Industry
experts can also be engaged for framing standards and operating procedures.
Strategy 5: Pollution and Waste Management
There is an urgent need to properly manage waste to avoid strain on the health of the
natives and environment thereby avoiding any added pressure to the already fragile
ecosystem of Ladakh. In order to maintain the pristine beauty of the region, a proper
system for solid waste management will have to be put in place.
▪ An Environment fee may be levied on all carbon emitting activities related to

tourism. For example, groups of bikers come to Ladakh every year on tour and use
heavy polluting vehicles. The said collected tax can be used in carbon mitigating
activities.
▪ Industrial setups around tourist attractions and heritage sites may be avoided to
avoid degradation of old structures.
▪ Transition is required to green fuels like LNG and electric for carbon neutrality
▪ The administration needs to undertake studies on feasibility of replacing
commercial vehicles used for intra-city travel with electric or LNG vehicles.
▪ Treatment plants may be developed in urban centres for disposal of solid waste
▪ Efficient collection, transport, storage, and disposal system may be developed for
solid waste management.
▪ Systems may be devised to manage plastic waste at tourist locations. Plastic free
zones may also be created in Wildlife parks and other eco reserves.
Strategy 6: Setup Robust Institutions
▪ Separate divisions within tourism or other relevant departments may be created

to target the key aspects of tourism like capacity building, marketing and
promotion, product development, certifications and guidelines, data
management and research, and integrated destination and infrastructure
planning; Planning Department must oversee the convergence and performance
of the setup.
38
▪ A network of experts consisting of hospitality professionals, accountants, legal
experts, volunteers, etc. may be created to ensure smooth operations and
processes.
▪ Responsible departments need to engage services of expert agencies for framing
such institutions and processes.
▪ The tourism department may develop partnerships with local stakeholders and
tour operators to develop the tourism business in a fair manner.
▪ Quarterly meetings may be orgainsed with senior officials of the Tourism and
Forest & Wildlife departments in the form of workshops to avoid duplication and
build more synergy between the two departments.
Strategy 7: Organising the Tourism Industry
▪ A Tourism Satellite Account should show all aspects and types of databases and
have collection procedures that show the number and types of visitors and their
contribution to the UT’s development.
▪ Visitor feedback needs to be collected, analysed, and used for improving systems
and tourist experience.
▪ A Single window system may be created to manage information online on number
of hotels/homestays, rooms available, tourist sites, parking places, camp sites,
traffic surveillance, highlands Medi-care and rescue logistics, number of tour
guides, and tour operators.
▪ Advance technology-based visitor information and registration system may be
created that can clearly delineate online and real-time site-specific details to
tourists at their place of departure before travelling to the destination.
▪ Operators must register with the tourism department to carry out business in the
region. Upon registration, each unit should be given a unique QR-code for easy
identification and tracking. This QR code should be displayed on all
advertisements, posters, and banners so that a tourist can scan it and be sure that
it’s a verified vendor.
Strategy 8: Training and Capacity Building
▪ Tourism development and capacity building for local communities’ needs to

progress hand in hand. Community capacity building programs help
underdeveloped communities to improve their ability to participate in the tourism
decision-making processes. They encourage community involvement and provide
the tools that enable them to do so.
39
▪ It is imperative to train and build capacity of local communities including
homestay owners, youth and women’s groups who wish to engage in tourism
activities.
▪ Specific themes can be identified- environmental education, waste management,
computing, tour designing, cooking and hospitality, eco and adventure tourism
activities, bird watching, flora and fauna photography, and language.
▪ Training manuals, textbooks, and courses may be prepared for the same.
▪ Village level community-based organisations may be identified and provided with
necessary capacity building trainings.
▪ Tourism department may plan certificate courses for nature interpreters and tour
guides for trekking, heritage tours, adventure, and other activities.
▪ Off-season income generation activities such as handicraft souvenirs, food and
fruit processing, repairing and maintenance of adventure equipment may be
identified.
▪ Hospitality training institutes on the lines of International Institute of Hotel
Management (IIHM) may be established in Leh and Kargil.
▪ Homestay development trainings may be organised to make local communities
‘Atmanirbhar’ through hospitality skill upgradation.
▪ Short modules focusing on common areas like sensitization and basic tourist
handling may be designed.
▪ Region specific trainings can be developed for Ladakh under the Incredible India
Tourist Facilitator and Incredible India Tourist Guide certification programs.
▪ Financial support may be provided by the tourism department for those wanting
to avail advanced level specialized training courses.
40
Appendix
Foreign Country Wise Tourist Arrivals
Table 1: Tourist Arrival Statement for the month of January’16 to

December’16
Nationality Jan. Feb. Mar Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec Total
Afghanistan - - - - - 1 - - - - 1 0 2
American 27 33 50 106 236 462 642 553 342 101 36 15 2603
Argentine - - 2 2 - 8 22 16 22 11 2 0 85
Australian 27 19 11 29 56 166 289 243 189 43 13 11 1096
Austrian 1 1 7 5 13 55 251 130 38 8 2 2 513
Bulgarian - - - - - - - - 6 3 0 0 9
Bangladesh - - - 8 2 6 43 30 95 5 6 0 195
Belarus - - - - - 1 10 26 2 - 1 0 40
Belgium 6 7 4 5 16 65 408 146 71 7 16 4 755
Bhutanese - - - 3 - - - 308 13 7 0 331
Brazil - 6 2 7 7 12 70 16 36 12 3 1 172
British 34 73 27 42 91 263 868 809 368 73 30 7 2685
Canadian 49 12 7 13 70 142 171 132 108 32 13 5 754
Czechoslovaki
an - - - - 6 19 - - - - 0 0 25
Chilean - 2 - - - 20 48 39 11 6 1 0 127
Chinese 6 6 37 10 45 43 44 60 131 39 4 0 425
Columbian - 1 - 2 4 6 15 18 11 1 0 1 59
Croatian - - - 1 - 1 5 2 2 - 1 0 12
Czech 3 2 2 9 8 39 145 212 68 31 0 1 520
Danish 1 3 3 1 15 18 95 76 39 4 1 0 256
Dutch 14 6 1 13 34 133 405 275 133 31 11 3 1059
Egypt - - - - - - 5 2 4 - 0 0 11
Ethiopian - - - - - - 50 130 31 9 0 0 220
Estonian - - - 1 7 30 14 1 9 - 0 0 62
Finish - 3 - 2 0 5 13 6 6 2 0 0 37
French 28 50 21 87 223 486 1395 1307 556 112 12 6 4283
German 6 30 36 40 123 302 644 744 315 81 12 17 2350
Greek - - - 10 1 3 8 38 4 1 0 0 65
Hungarian 1 - 3 - 2 36 96 56 11 23 1 10 239
Hongkong 2 3 1 3 - 6 12 5 50 23 0 1 106
Indonesian 2 1 10 4 31 8 96 22 55 10 3 0 242
Iranian - - 2 2 6 3 9 3 3 - 0 0 28
Irish 1 -- 2 3 13 15 56 70 16 8 1 0 185
Israelian 1 6 8 26 87 446 1413 1278 312 17 1 1 3596
Italian 10 4 17 6 27 158 301 899 170 36 2 6 1636
Japanese 6 13 26 117 100 162 205 493 259 99 12 24 1516
Jordan - - 3 - - 1 8 - - - 0 0 12
Kazakhstan - - - - - 5 5 3 0 13
Kenya - - - 1 - - 2 - - 0 0 5
Korean 4 3 1 2 28 1 - - 1 4 528
Kuwait - - - - - 95 - 180 150 46 13 2 0 486
Lebanese - - - - - - 2 - - - 0 0 2
Lithuanian - - - 1 6 3 20 31 10 7 0 0 78
Luxembourg 1 - - - 1 6 4 18 12 - 0 0 42
Malaysian 7 9 6 47 56 55 111 132 190 81 17 5 716
Malta - - 1 - - - - 5 1 - 0 0 7
41
Nationality Jan. Feb. Mar Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec Total
Mongolia - - - - - - - - - - 0 0 0
Mauritius - - - - - 3 - - - - 0 0 3
Mexican - 2 4 5 1 5 31 31 20 8 2 2 111
Mauritian - - - 2 3 - 10 4 5 1 0 0 25
Myanmar - - - 4 - - 3 - 3 1 0 0 11
New Zealander 1 - 5 5 13 34 60 52 32 20 1 2 225
Norwegian 1 1 - 1 4 5 41 21 7 8 1 0 90
Pakistan - - - - - - 1 1 - - 0 0 2
Peru 2 - - - 2 1 - 2 6 - 0 0 13
Philippines 1 - 3 1 - 3 8 9 10 9 2 1 47
Polish 1 - 2 6 14 34 131 112 79 14 4 2 399
Portuguese - - - 1 - 3 27 60 4 5 1 0 101
Romanian - - 3 - - 3 25 6 23 1 1 0 62
Russian 8 1 2 19 18 60 110 99 81 32 5 1 436
S/Africa 7 3 3 19 9 18 20 21 20 7 0 5 132
Scottish - - - - - - - - - - 0 0 0
Serbian - - - - - - 9 3 2 1 0 0 15
Singaporean 28 4 2 20 30 80 99 167 135 14 5 1 585
Sinhalese 1 2 1 1 48 4 7 26 - 3 0 0 93
S/Korean - 1 6 23 22 70 289 154 75 37 7 7 691
Slovakian - - - - 4 15 30 48 17 11 2 2 129
Spanish 6 10 6 13 19 24 172 302 111 25 8 5 701
Swedish 8 - 1 1 5 15 55 23 24 11 1 8 152
Swiss 3 5 9 21 41 93 339 253 94 20 9 5 892
Taiwanese 3 3 1 2 14 48 152 180 134 18 6 1 562
Thai 5 24 31 646 239 198 851 523 491 394 25 27 3454
Tibet - - - - - - 1 - - - 0 0 1
Turkish 2 - 1 1 2 2 5 2 25 - 2 0 42
U. A. E - - - - - 8 - - - - 0 0 8
Ukraine 1 - 1 8 9 - 56 29 19 5 4 1 133
Venezuela - - 1 - - - - 2 - - 2 0 5
Vietnamese 1 20 2 47 16 5 35 55 788 8 4 4 985
Zimbabwe - - - - - : - - - - 0 0 0
Others 3 4 - 6 17 31 51 26 39 9 4 0 190
Total Foreign 319 373 374 1,457 1,847 4,048 10,799 10,390 6,286 1,604 308 200 38,005
Total Home 902 360 354 4,520 46,756 62,503 37,454 20,433 17,326 5,793 929 363 1,97,693
G. Total 1,221 733 728 5,977 48,603 66,551 48,253 30,823 23,612 7,397 1,237 563 2,35,698
42
December’17
Nationality Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Total
Afghanistan - - - - - - 1 2 - - - - 3
American 36 27 41 76 142 800 842 512 363 171 44 16 3070
Argentine 1 - 2 1 3 13 19 21 6 6 1 - 73
Australian 10 24 34 51 31 317 336 208 182 43 12 13 1261
Austrian 16 - 4 3 23 105 163 127 56 14 2 - 513
Bulgarian - - - - - - 10 8 - - - - 18
Bangladesh - 1 5 6 5 88 23 47 139 24 1 12 351
Belarus 2 2 - 2 - 3 8 - 7 1 - - 25
Belgium 14 9 3 18 13 114 328 180 88 23 6 3 799
Bhutanese - - - 1 - 4 34 2 3 - - 1 45
Brazil 1 7 2 11 11 56 17 32 32 28 10 1 208
British 21 66 38 45 79 515 624 532 286 103 32 10 2351
Canadian 53 8 8 18 54 248 226 116 72 63 7 10 883
Czechoslovakian - - - - - 8 17 5 3 10 0 - 43
Chilean - 2 1 - 5 19 17 22 16 12 3 - 97
Chinese 4 7 5 4 29 62 94 42 47 61 8 11 374
Columbian - 1 - 1 8 60 4 5 4 4 0 6 93
Croatian - - - 1 1 1 9 3 2 - - - 17
Czech 1 3 2 7 7 114 163 179 59 16 20 5 576
Danish 3 2 1 10 14 54 98 77 53 8 1 2 323
Dutch 13 4 4 8 23 154 257 135 70 102 4 1 775
Egypt - - - - - - 3 2 3 1 0 - 9
Española - - - - - - - - - 7 0 - 7
Estonia - - - - 1 14 39 6 22 13 - - 95
Ecuador - - - - - - - - 1 - - - 1
Finish 1 - - - - 11 8 8 5 3 1 2 39
French 41 26 43 61 95 797 1566 1467 542 145 31 11 4825
German 14 25 37 46 89 613 733 712 403 118 11 9 2810
Greek - 2 - - - - 10 29 3 - 0 1 45
Hungarian 2 - - 2 - 32 51 43 10 31 5 - 176
Hongkong 2 - - 4 - 8 7 32 2 3 0 1 59
Indonesian - 2 - 36 38 81 61 53 49 19 11 13 363
Iranian - - 1 - 5 27 25 1 4 - 0 - 63
Ireland - - - - - - 9 - 0 2 0 - 11
Irish 1 1 2 3 6 49 58 44 6 18 1 - 189
Israelian 2 - 8 13 22 623 1452 1259 311 33 3 - 3726
Italian - 2 11 17 40 263 579 1150 107 52 11 3 2235
Japanese 16 16 30 139 74 400 289 588 270 73 27 18 1940
43
Jordan - - - - - 2 - 1 - 1 - 1 5
Kazakhstan 1 - - 1 - 2 - 1 - - - - 5
Kenya - - - 7 - 2 1 - - - - - 10
Korean 1 - - - 29 21 124 168 5 61 - - 409
Kuwait - - - 1 - - - - - - - - 1
Lebanese - - - - - 3 - - - 1 - - 4
Lithuania 1 1 1 - 1 16 11 26 7 5 1 - 70
Luxembourg u - - 14 1 5 4 8 5 0 - - 37
Malaysian 13 8 24 15 67 317 132 228 223 151 11 3 1192
Malta - - - - - 5 2 2 1 - - - 10
Mongolia - - - - 3 1 - - 0 - - - 4
Mexican - 3 5 3 9 28 49 13 11 19 4 - 144
Mauritian - - - 2 1 - 7 1 11 - - - 22
Myanmar - - - 2 - 5 5 2 1 9 8 - 32
New Zealand 3 1 4 2 18 73 61 90 68 16 2 1 339
Norwegian - 1 1 4 2 6 40 17 19 4 2 - 96
Oman - - - - - - - - 1 - - - 1
Peru - - - - 1 - 1 4 2 1 1 3 13
Philippines - 1 2 7 1 31 6 6 9 1 - 3 67
Polish 4 - 2 11 3 101 191 161 71 28 - 1 573
Portuguese - - 1 1 - 40 10 18 7 5 - 1 83
Romanian - - - 1 1 18 12 8 15 - 3 - 58
Russian 1 - 7 31 39 114 179 79 97 50 2 4 603
S/Africa 2 2 25 2 12 33 24 20 12 5 3 2 142
S/Arabia - - - - - - - - 1 - - - 1
Scottish - - - - - 4 1 2 - - - - 7
Siberian - - - - - - 1 1 - 1 - - 3
S/Korean 9 2 10 43 57 415 685 314 254 127 18 1 1935
Singaporean 4 17 5 9 33 192 121 115 49 13 8 6 572
Sinhalese - - 4 8 13 5 13 17 2 6 - - 68
Slovakian - - 1 1 3 24 47 40 10 10 3 1 140
Spanish 1 4 35 15 53 97 321 397 119 47 2 2 1093
Swedish 15 14 5 5 6 64 28 17 38 5 1 3 201
Swiss 7 24 4 12 37 245 470 161 125 19 3 8 1115
Taiwanese 2 4 2 18 26 74 300 144 58 188 3 1 820
Thai 49 8 54 1607 689 858 1383 976 491 871 45 39 7070
Turkish 1 - - - 11 10 4 12 4 5 - - 47
Ukraine - 1 2 4 - 17 13 6 7 - 1 2 53
Vietnamese 10 2 6 44 7 25 26 71 87 45 9 3 335
Venezuelan 1 - - - 1 - 3 - - - - 1 6
Others 3 - 4 31 46 118 172 120 111 103 - 8 716
44
Total Foreign 382 330 486 2,485 1,988 8,624 12,627 10,895 5,147 3,004 382 243 46,593
40,55 32,38
Total Home 2,200 573 652 4,075 31,966 68,385 0 0 34,975 12,221 1,622 1,063 2,30,662
G. Total 2,582 903 1,138 6,560 33,954 77,009 53,177 43,275 40,122 15,225 2,004 1,306 2,77,255
45
December’18
Nationality Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov Dec. Total
Afghan - - - - - 2 - 1 1 - - - 4
American 53 38 84 147 243 611 685 444 362 114 24 15 2820
Argentinian 2 - - 7 6 29 24 20 17 4 - - 109
Australian 28 18 24 49 86 195 292 309 223 60 20 13 1317
Austrian 3 - 2 27 19 56 137 140 70 13 2 2 471

Bulgarian - - - - - - - 7 7 2 - - 16
Bangladeshi 8 2 6 34 12 21 12 59 35 16 2 - 207
Belarusians - - - - 1 3 5 10 4 2 - - 25
Belgians 12 31 15 27 31 66 337 185 101 18 6 2 831
Bhutanese - - 2 - 1 10 18 8 168 - - 2 209
Brazilian 1 8 1 9 5 48 24 91 44 28 3 2 264
British 25 78 32 63 106 321 850 786 406 95 8 14 2784
Canadian 41 12 14 45 93 121 216 136 121 33 5 9 846
Chilean 3 2 . 1 4 13 26 26 11 1 - - 87
Chinese 9 6 4 34 22 72 74 79 82 101 18 5 506
Columbian 2 - - 4 1 9 21 11 23 2 3 - 76
Croatian - - - 1 0 1 1 2 - . - - 5
Czech 4 5 9 7 9 43 214 225 100 12 2 2 632
Czechoslovakian - - - 5 5 26 6 17 32 10 - - 101
Danish 2 9 7 4 25 90 106 69 44 23 1 -4 380
Dutch 6 11 4 8 65 135 354 266 129 43 2 1027
Egypt - - 1 6 - 2 . 1 2 . - - 12
Española - - - - - 42 8 7 - - 57
Estonia - - - 6 8 25 50 20 13 3 - - 125
Ecuador - - - - - - - 1 . - - 1
Finish 3 2 . 2 3 10 40 4 9 2 1 - 76
French 33 52 29 84 247 554 1519 1669 673 171 25 11 5067
German 25 36 29 63 166 368 761 798 486 120 15 24 2891
Greek - 1 - 3 5 2 9 27 25 11 - 1 84
Hungarian 1 - 2 1 2 39 50 36 6 19 7 - 163
Holland 1 - - - - 4 - - - - . - 5
Hongkong - 5 1 1 2 10 9 5 2 3 - - 38
Indonesian 4 11 15 60 66 78 49 80 74 49 24 4 514
Iranian - - - 19 1 3 - - - - - - 23
Iraq 2 - - - - - 1 1 7 - - - 11
Ireland - - - - - - 2 - - - - 2
Irish 2 1 1 9 8 35 68 62 32 8 4 1 231
Israelian 2 5 6 21 108 535 1203 1735 662 39 2 10 4328
46
Italian 5 8 6 28 44 164 403 1142 172 51 2 - 2025
Japanese 10 28 39 170 99 212 297 635 457 41 17 26 2031
Jordan - - - - - 2 1 1 - - - - 4
Kazakhstanis 3 - - - - 8 7 1 - - - -- 19
Kenya - - - - - - - - 3 1 - 4
Korean 7 2 1 5 32 192 297 98 64 33 - 5 736
Kuwait - - - - - - - 4 . - - - 4
Lebanese - 1 - - - - - - 1 - - - 2
Lithuanian - . - 3 3 2 17 5 27 6 1 - 64
Luxembourg 3 - - - 5 3 7 1 - - - 16
Malaysian 23 5 26 25 90 135 168 253 222 33 - 2 982
Malta - - - - - - 2 13 1 2 1 - 19
Mongolian - - 1 - - - - - 1 - - - 2
Mexican - - 8 1 5 21 38 16 38 16 3 - 146
Mauritian - - - - 2 3 3 8 6 - 2 - 24
Myanmar * 1 - 4 3 19 2 2 4 - - - 35
New Zealand 4 5 4 6 13 61 32 145 71 7 2 1 351
Norwegian . - - 3 9 11 40 54 29 7 - 1 154
Oman - - - - - - - 8 3 1 - - 12
Pakistani - - - - 2 - - - - - 3 - 3
Peru - a 1 . - 1 - 1 - - 1 - 4
Philippines 2 2 3 9 4 6 14 24 6 3 - 2 75
Polish 8 4 4 21 16 102 151 243 126 18 5 1 699
Portuguese - . - 5 11 48 42 49 38 10 3 - 206
Romanian 1 - 4 1 1 5 47 22 21 8 - - 110
Russian 8 3 8 18 50 81 124 95 103 23 12 7 532
S/Africa 1 2 2 6 9 22 30 51 37 6 2 2 170
S/Arabia . 2 3 - - - - 2 3 * - - 3
Scottish - . - 2 5 1 - 1 . - - - 9
Siberian - - . 2 1 2 1 7 1 * - - 12
S/Korean 3 14 50 37 178 452 483 226 43 12 25 1523
Singaporean 6 6 8 30 37 111 109 102 115 38 2 13 577
Sinhalese 1 - 2 3 1 5 13 8 22 5 1 3 64
Slovakian 13 1 1 3 2 11 16 56 41 6 - 1 151
Spanish 6 3 11 19 38 73 239 628 230 61 4 4 1316
Swedish 4 6 3 8 13 46 57 65 69 10 - - 281
Swiss 8 8 11 26 56 85 308 244 150 39 4 3 942
Taiwanese - 2 6 23 24 139 240 234 147 53 - 4 872
Thai 32 46 51 1340 716 624 1366 689 539 1534 14 26 6977
Turkish - - 2 1 3 24 - 33 3 - - - 66
Ukraine - - 2 1 2 6 37 38 41 4 3 - 134
47
Vietnamese 6 7 11 72 27 22 85 143 233 50 - 4 660
Venezuelan - - - 1 - - - . . * 1 - 2
Zimbabwe - - - - - - 8 - - - - - 8
Others 1 - 6 47 82 245 372 95 125 105 17 11 1106
Total Foreign 421 476 523 2,678 2,785 6,209 12,226 13,033 7,355 3,223 286 262 49,477
Total Home 5,244 660 775 8,599 41,798 70,832 57,913 40,588 30,694 17,561 2,130 1,095 2,77,889
G. Total 5,665 1,136 1,298 11,277 44,583 77,041 70,139 53,621 38,049 20,784 2,416 1,357 3,27,366
48
December’19
Nationality Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov Dec. Total
Afghan - - - - - - - 2 - - - - 2
American 31 82 70 205 405 532 361 261 110 52 6 2115
Argentinian 39 2 3 1 6 9 9 29 2 1 101
Australian 13 14 16 37 78 140 221 250 233 38 17 11 1068
Austrian 1 25 14 13 54 162 138 49 7 2 1 466
Bulgarian - - 1 1 - - - - - 3 - - 5
Bangladeshi 4 - 4 7 10 10 17 42 19 20 - - 133
Belarus - - - - - - 16 2 5 - - - 23
Belgium 5 4 5 21 9 47 283 152 92 9 2 1 630
Bhutanese 1 2 2 1 1 51 4 53 8 48 171
Brazil 1 2 1 7 13 39 19 17 25 6 130
British 22 82 21 64 103 315 781 453 254 52 10 5 2162
Canadian 29 15 7 30 47 69 106 112 80 26 21 5 547
Chilean 1 2 1 7 25 12 1 - - - 49
Chinese 18 12 29 23 28 21 85 40 79 27 6 6 374
Columbian 1 5 17 5 3 10 5 1 - 47
Czech 6 3 - 3 13 69 111 117 19 6 - 7 354
Czechoslovakian - - 9 - - 6 5 - - 3 - - 23
Danish - - - - 7 47 94 34 36 4 - - 222
Dutch 2 11 3 9 29 129 255 201 87 10 - 2 738
Egypt - - 1 1 2 2 3 1 - - 10
Española - - - - - - - - - 1 - - 1
Estonia - - - - - 3 4 - - - - - 7
Ecuador - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Finish - 2 - - 1 8 11 10 4 - - - 36
French 37 32 25 79 146 464 1254 1368 474 107 14 12 4012
German 21 16 33 43 68 313 582 753 299 64 9 12 2213
Greek - - - 2 1 3 2 39 3 - - - 50
Hungarian - - 4 - - 29 60 36 18 15 - 1 163
Hongkong - - - 2 2 6 1 34 3 2 2 1 53
Indonesian 29 10 20 55 24 50 90 65 182 56 30 18 629
Iranian 2 - 1 2 - 4 3 8 1 - - - 21
Iraq - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Irish 1 1 2 3 16 25 35 25 6 3 - 117
Israelian 12 8 12 7 37 504 1342 1359 282 27 8 - 3598
Italian 7 2 9 15 34 97 327 891 77 31 23 - 1513
Japanese 13 20 27 255 83 155 280 612 298 80 9 28 1860
Jordan - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
49
Kazakhstani - - - - - 1 - - 10 - - 1 12
Kenya - - - 1 - 1 - 8 3 - - - 13
Korean - 4 11 7 20 66 157 17 5 10 - - 297
Kuwait - - - - 2 2 - - 9 - - - 13
Lebanese 1 - - - - - - - - - - - 1
Lithuanian - - 2 - 7 2 32 5 22 8 2 - 80
Luxembourg - - - - - - - 3 285 - - - 288
Malaysian 11 4 9 40 69 71 204 237 43 63 3 2 756
Malta 1 - 2 - - 3 - - - - - - 5
Mongolia - - - - - 1 1 - 2 - - - 4
Mexican - - 3 11 41 6 20 7 - 7 - - 95
Mauritian - - - - - 2 - - - - - - 2
Myanmar - - 1 26 - - 1 1 . 29
New Zealander 3 1 2 8 29 75 91 67 33 15 2 2 328
Norwegian - - 3 4 6 17 36 27 17 5 1 - 116
Oman 2 - - - - - 13 2 - - - 17
Pakistani 4° - - - - - - - - - 0
Peru - - 1 - 1 - 3 - 1 - - 6
Philippine - - in 8 2 11 5 20 3 4 4 . 57
Polish 3 1 1 7 28 50 227 196 76 17 3 1 610
Portuguese - 1 - 1 6 6 9 16 24 1 1 - 65
Romanian - 1 - 1 1 22 3 11 14 1 - 54
Russian 7 1 - 24 17 105 151 138 117 25 2 - 587
S/Africa 2 3 1 4 3 20 18 24 25 5 6 3 114
S/Arabia - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Scottish - - - - - - - - - a - - 0
Siberian - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
S/Korean 6 1 6 29 43 148 374 399 145 43 4 7 1205
Singaporean 5 24 5 11 12 98 56 117 140 20 11 1 500
Sinhalese 3 2 8 3 14 4 8 8 - 1 - 51
Slovakian - 1 1 4 4 17 60 45 47 2 1 - 182
Spanish 1 25 13 31 16 77 290 431 99 36 6 1 1026
Swedish 2 8 3 12 7 22 33 19 31 5 3 1 146
Swiss 7 16 5 16 27 79 320 157 151 15 2 2 797
Taiwanese 3 8 5 21 17 75 534 368 86 86 6 - 1209
Thai 15 11 31 1489 472 187 765 364 390 994 12 15 4745
Turkish - - 1 - - 20 15 4 - 1 - - 41
Ukraine 8 - - 2 2 7 30 55 6 3 1 - 114
Vietnamese 2 3 7 89 25 13 160 124 201 71 7 18 720
Venezuelan - - - - - - - 5 - - - - 5
Zimbabwe - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
50
Others 4 12 9 93 131 230 129 86 17 4 4 719
Total Foreigner 340 424 431 2,596 1,936 4,384 10,585 10,179 5,082 2,181 291 223 38,652
Total Home 3,307 1,173 874 8,027 41,736 68,411 55,652 33,928 17,257 8,280 1,580 1,060 2,41,285
43,67
G. Total 3,647 1,597 1,305 10,623 2 72,795 66,237 44,107 22,339 10,461 1,871 1,283 2,79,937
51
December’20
Afghan - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
American 43 58 37 Nil - 3 3 1 - 1 - 3 149
Argentine - - 1 - - - - - - - - - 1
Australian 21 7 9 - - - - - - - - - 37
Austrian 1 - 12 - - - - - 1 - - - 14
Bulgarian - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Bangladesh - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Belarus - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Belgium 17 4 - - - 3 - - 1 - - - 25
Bhutanese 22 - 2 - - - - - - - - - 24
Brazil 1 2 1 - - - - - - - - 1 5
British 13 37 30 - - - 1 1 - 3 5 2 92
Canadian 41 8 8 - 1 - - 1 - - - - 59
Chilean - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Chinese 30 6 - - - - - - - - - - 36
Columbian - 1 - - - - - - - - - - 1
Croatian - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Czech 1 4 4 - - - - - - - - - 9
Czechoslovakian - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Danish - - 1 - - - - - - - - - 1
Dutch 14 2 5 - - - - - - - - - 21
Egypt - - - - - - - 2 - - - - 2
Española - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Estonia - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Ecuador - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Finish - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
French 23 32 18 - - - - - 2 5 2 - 82
German 13 21 107 - - - - 1 - - - - 142
Greek - 1 1 - - - - - - - - - 2
Hungarian 9 1 1 - - - - - - - - - 11
Hongkong - 3 - - - - - - - - - - 3
Indonesian 1 2 9 - - - - - - - -- -- 12
Iranian - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Iraq - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Irish 2 3 2 - - - - 1 - - - 8
Israelian 5 8 1 - - - - - 2 - - - 16
Italian - 2 4 - - - - - - 1 - - 7
Japanese 8 16 12 - - - - - 1 1 - 1 39
Jordan - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Kazakhstani - - - - - - - 1 - - - - 1
Kenya 2 - - - - - - - - - - 2
Korean - - - - - - - - - - 1 1
Kuwait - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Lebanese - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Lithuanian - 3 - - - - - - - - - - 0
Luxembourg - - - - - - - - - - - - 3
Malaysian 5 11 - - - - - - - - - - 0
Malta - - - - - - -- -- - - - - 16
Mongolia - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Mexican - 14 5 - - - - - - - - - 19
Myanmar - 1 - - - - - - - - - - 1
New Zealander 4 2 - - - - - - - - - - 6
Norwegian - 1 2 - - - - - - - - - 3
Oman - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Pakistani - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
52
Peru - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Philippines - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Polish 5 - 6 - - - - - 1 - - - 12
Portuguese - - 3 - - - - - - - - - 3
Romanian - - 2 - - - - - - - - - 2
Russian 4 - 3 - - - 2 4 8 2 - 1 24
S/Africa 1 1 4 - - - - - - - - - 6
S/Arabia - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Scottish - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Siberian - - 1 - - - - - - - - - 1
S/Korean 1 8 3 - - - 1 - - - - - 13
Singaporean 7 - 1 - - - - - - - - - 8
Sinhalese - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Slovakian - 1 - - - - - - - - - - 1
Spanish 2 5 7 - - - - - - - - - 14
Swedish 7 6 7 - - - - - - - - - 20
Swiss 3 14 36 - - - - - - - - - 53
Taiwanese 3 1 1 - - - - - - - - - 5
Thai 19 16 23 - - - - - - - - - 58
Turkish 5 3 - - - - - - - - - - 8
Ukraine - - - - - - - - - - 2 - 2
Vietnamese 37 1 2 - - - - - - - - - 40
Venezuelan - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Zimbabwe - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Others 1 4 1 - - - - - - - - - 6
Total Foreign 371 310 372 0 1 6 7 12 16 13 9 9 1,126
Total Home 3,788 896 314 0 3 18 10 97 179 699 259 480 6,743
G. Total 4,159 1,206 686 0 4 24 17 109 195 712 268 489 7,869
53
Foreign Tourist Arrivals
Table 6: Foreign Tourist Arrival statement for the month of January’19 to

December’19
Thai 15 11 31 1489 472 187 765 364 390 994 12 15 4745
American 31 82 70 205 405 532 361 261 110 52 6 2115
Afghan - - - - - - - 2 - - - - 2
Argentine 39 2 3 1 6 9 9 29 2 1 101
Australian 13 14 16 37 78 140 221 250 233 38 17 11 1068
Austrian 1 25 14 13 54 162 138 49 7 2 1 466
Bulgarian - - 1 1 - - - - - 3 - - 5
Bangladesh 4 - 4 7 10 10 17 42 19 20 - - 133
Belarus - - - - - - 16 2 5 - - - 23
Belgium 5 4 5 21 9 47 283 152 92 9 2 1 630
Bhutanese 1 2 2 1 1 51 4 53 8 48 171
Brazil 1 2 1 7 13 39 19 17 25 6 130
British 22 82 21 64 103 315 781 453 254 52 10 5 2162
Canadian 29 15 7 30 47 69 106 112 80 26 21 5 547
Chilean 1 2 1 7 25 12 1 - - - 49
Chinese 18 12 29 23 28 21 85 40 79 27 6 6 374
Columbian 1 5 17 5 3 10 5 1 - 47
Czech 6 3 - 3 13 69 111 117 19 6 - 7 354
Czechoslovakian - - 9 - - 6 5 - - 3 - - 23
Danish - - - - 7 47 94 34 36 4 - - 222
Dutch 2 11 3 9 29 129 255 201 87 10 2 738
Egypt - - 1 1 2 2 3 1 - - 10
Española - - - - - - - - - 1 - - 1
Estonia - - - - - 3 4 - - - - - 7
Ecuador - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Finish - 2 - - 1 8 11 10 4 - - - 36
French 37 32 25 79 146 464 1254 1368 474 107 14 12 4012
German 21 16 33 43 68 313 582 753 299 64 9 12 2213
Greek - - - 2 1 3 2 39 3 - - - 50
Hongkong - - - 2 2 6 1 34 3 2 2 1 53
Hungarian - - 4 - - 29 60 36 18 15 - 1 163
Indonesian 29 10 20 55 24 50 90 65 182 56 30 18 629
Iranian 2 - 1 2 - 4 3 8 1 - - - 21
Iraq - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Irish 1 1 2 3 16 25 35 25 6 3 - 117
Israelian 12 8 12 7 37 504 1342 1359 282 27 8 - 3598
Italian 7 2 9 15 34 97 327 891 77 31 23 1513
Japanese 13 20 27 255 83 155 280 612 298 80 9 28 1860
Jordan - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Kazakhstani - - - - - 1 - - 10 - - 1 12
Kenya - - - 1 - 1 - 8 3 - - - 13
Korean - 4 11 7 20 66 157 17 5 10 - - 297
Kuwait - - - - 2 2 - - 9 - - - 13
Lebanese 1 - - - - - - - - - - - 1
Lithuanian - - 2 - 7 2 32 5 22 8 2 - 80
Luxembourg - - - - - - - 3 285 - - - 288
Malaysian 11 4 9 40 69 71 204 237 43 63 3 2 756
Malta 1 - 2 - - 3 - - - - - - 5
Mongolia - - - - - 1 1 - 2 - - - 4
Mexican - - 3 11 41 6 20 7 - 7 - - 95
Mauritian - - - - - 2 - - - - - - 2
Myanmar - - 1 26 - - 1 1 . 29
54
New Zealander 3 1 2 8 29 75 91 67 33 15 2 2 328
Norwegian - - 3 4 6 17 36 27 17 5 1 - 116
Oman 2 - - - - - 13 2 - - - 17
Others 4 12 9 93 131 230 129 86 17 4 4 719
Pakistani - - - - - - - - - - 0
Peru - - 1 - 1 - 3 - 1 - - 6
Philippine - - in 8 2 11 5 20 3 4 4 . 57
Polish 3 1 1 7 28 50 227 196 76 17 3 1 610
Portuguese - 1 - 1 6 6 9 16 24 1 1 - 65
Romanian - 1 - 1 1 22 3 11 14 1 - 54
Russian 7 1 - 24 17 105 151 138 117 25 2 - 587
S/Africa 2 3 1 4 3 20 18 24 25 5 6 3 114
S/Arabia - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
S/Korean 6 1 6 29 43 148 274 399 145 43 4 7 1205
Scottish - - - - - - - - - 0 - - 0
Siberian - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Singaporean 5 24 5 11 12 98 56 117 140 20 11 1 500
Sinhalese 3 2 8 3 14 4 8 8 - 1 - 51
Slovakian - 1 1 4 4 17 60 45 47 2 1 - 182
Spanish 1 25 13 31 16 77 290 431 99 36 6 1 1026
Swedish 2 8 3 12 7 22 33 19 31 5 3 1 146
Swiss 7 16 5 16 27 79 320 157 151 15 2 2 797
Taiwanese 3 8 5 21 17 75 534 368 86 86 6 1209
Turkish - - 1 - - 20 15 4 - 1 - - 41
Ukraine 8 - - 2 2 7 30 55 6 3 1 - 114
Venezuelan - - - - - - - 5 - - - - 5
Vietnamese 2 3 7 89 25 13 160 124 201 51 7 18 720
Zimbabwe - - - - - - - - - - - - 0
Thai 15 11 31 1489 472 187 765 364 390 994 12 15 4745
Total Foreign 340 424 431 2,596 1,936 4,384 10,585 10,179 5,082 2,181 291 223 38,652
55,65 33,92
Total Home 3,307 1,173 874 8,027 41,736 68,411 2 8 17,257 8.280 1,580 1,060 2,41,285
43,67 66,23 44,10 22,33
G. Total 3,647 1,597 1,305 10,623 2 72,795 7 7 9 10,461 1,871 1,283 2,79,937
55
Table 7: Month Wise Tourist Arrival Statement (Leh) for the year 2019
Road
Road Road
(via Road (via
Air (via Total Air (via Total G. Total
Month Kashmir Kashmir)
Manali) Manali)
)
Foreigner Domestic
January 340 - - 340 3307 - - 3307 3647
February 424 - - 424 1173 - - 1173 1597
March 431 - - 431 874 - - 874 1305
April 2554 42 - 2596 7407 620 - 8027 10623
May 1545 391 - 1936 29596 12140 - 41736 43672
June 2716 721 947 4384 31870 20421 16120 68411 72795
July 7452 1718 1415 10585 22452 29000 4200 55652 66237
August 7987 498 1694 10179 18908 10220 4800 33928 44107
September 4168 143 771 5082 15842 505 910 17257 22339
October 1968 130 83 2181 7381 570 329 8280 10461
November 291 - - 291 1580 - - 1580 1871
December 223 - - 223 1050 - - 1060 1283
Total 30,099 3,643 4,910 38,652 1,41,440 73,476 26,359 2,41,285 2,79,937
Foreign 38,652
Domestic 2,41,285
Total 2,79,937
56
Table 8: Month wise tourist arrival statement (Leh) for the year 2020
Road
Road (via Road (via Tota (via Road (via
Month Air Kashmir) Manali) l Air Kashmir) Manali) Total G. Total
Foreigner Domestic
January 371 - - 371 3788 - - 3788 4159
February 310 - - 310 896 - - 896 1206
March 372 - - 372 314 - - 314 686
April - - - 0 - - - 0 0
May 1 - - 1 3 - - 3 4
June 6 - - 6 18 - - 18 24
July 7 - - 7 10 - - 10 17
August 12 - - 12 97 - - 97 109
September 16 - - 16 179 - - 179 195
October 13 - - 13 699 - - 699 712
November 9 - - 9 259 - - 259 268
December 9 - - 9 480 - - 480 489
Total 1,126 0 0 1,126 6,743 0 0 6,743 7,869
Foreign 1,126
Domestic 6,743
Total 7,869
57
Domestic vs Foreign Tourist Arrivals
Table 9: Year wise tourist arrival by Air/Road to Ladakh

Year No. of Foreign Tourist No. of Home Tourist Total
1974 500 27 527
1975 650 128 778
1976 1798 253 2051
1977 7127 266 7393
1978 8748 873 9621
1979 9213 621 9834
1980 13104 1013 14117
1981 14000 N. A 14000
1982 12786 N. A 12786
1983 12833 N. A 12833
1984 11785 N. A 11785
1985 12245 6666 18911
1986 12828 3683 16511
1987 13668 4114 17782
1988 16256 8608 24864
1989 16079 6669 22748
1990 6342 396 6738
1991 8014 1041 9055
1992 13580 2438 16018
1993 12401 2000 14401
1994 14369 2080 16449
1995 12391 5594 17985
1996 13036 3537 16573
1997 12810 3991 16801
1998 15229 6767 21996
1999 10234 2110 12344
2000 11828 6227 18055
2001 15439 4260 19699
2002 5120 2959 8079
2003 15362 13031 28393
2004 21608 13483 35091
2005 24536 13444 37980
2006 26114 17707 43821
2007 28178 26168 54346
2008 35311 39023 74334
2009 30570 48517 79087
2010 22115 55685 77800
2011 36662 142829 179491
2012 38510 140460 178970
58
Year No. of Foreign Tourist No. of Home Tourist Total
2013 31143 106559 137702
2014 59305 121996 181301
2015 29614 116887 146501
2016 38005 197693 235698
2017 46593 230662 277255
2018 49477 277889 327366
2019 38652 241285 279937
2020 1126 6743 7869
Total 8,87,294 18,86,382 27,73,676
Table 10: Year wise Tourist Figures for Kargil District by Road Registered at
Tourist Registration Office Drass from: 2010 to 2020
Domestic Foreign
Year Total
Figure Growth Figure Growth
2010 25,772 2,984 28,756
2011 54,397 111% 2,692 -10% 57,089
2012 57,603 6% 3,155 17% 60,758
2013 46,614 -19% 1,634 -48% 48,248
2014 47,174 1% 2,204 35% 49,378
2015 59,605 26% 2,393 9% 61,998
2016 62,168 4% 839 -65% 63,007
2017 96,886 56% 4,612 450% 1,01,498
2018 103,442 7% 6,116 33% 1,09,558
2019 73,476 -29% 3,643 -40% 77,119
Source: Department of Tourism, Kargil District
59
Table 11: Category-wise Hotels, guesthouses & other private assets
Number of Rooms
Category Nos. Total Beds
Double Room Single Room
3 — Stars 02 Nos. 86 - 172
(A+) Class Hotel 23 Nos. 485 3 973
A Class Hotel 121 Nos. 2068 50 4186
B Class Hotel 77 Nos. 1046 58 2150
C Class Hotel 48 Nos. 477 24 978
D Class Hotel 20 Nos. 198 10 406
G. Total Hotel 291 Nos. 4,360 145 8,865
Upper Class Guest Houses 143 Nos. 869 90 1828
Medium Class Guest Houses 139 Nos. 658 49 1365
Economy Class Guest Houses 365 Nos. 1634 301 3569
Home Stay 160 Nos. 539 2 1080
G. Total Guest House 807 Nos. 3,700 442 7,842
Restaurant 140 Nos.
Travel Agencies 689 Nos.
Pony Walas 24 Nos.
Dealers 102 Nos.
Camel Wala 41 Nos.
Camping Agents 88 Nos.
Guide 24 Nos.
Total 8,060 587 16,707
Buddhist & Heritage Tourism
Table 12: List of heritage Sites

Heritage Sites
Leh Mosque Drupati Kund Matayen
Sculptures and Carvings at Drass and Zanskar Baroo Khanka
Rock Cut Sculptures at Mulbekh, Apati, Kartsey Khar Old Bazar Kargil
Lamayuru Monastery Larsi Masjid Pashkum
Leh Palace Chiktan Razi Khar
Shrine of four Lords Gon-Khang Tsemo Hill Buddha Rock Statue, Kartsey Khar
Stupa at T- Suru Syed Mir Hashim Astana Karpokhar
Shey Palace Imam Bargah Trespone
Source: Department of Tourism, Leh & Kargil Districts
60
Table 13 & 14: List of current Buddhist Monasteries
Monasteries
Hemis Monastery
Thiksey Monastery
Diskit Monastery
Alchi Monastery
Lamayuru Monastery
Phugtal Monastery
Spituk Monastery
Likir Monastery
Shey Monastery
Phyang Monastery
Stakna Monastery
Takthok Monastery
Rizong Monastery
Matho Monastery
Rangdum Monastery
Sumda Chun Monastery
Karma Dupgyud Monastery
Basgo Monastery
Sankar Monastery
Dzongkhul Monastery
Shargole Cave Monastery
Rgyal Monastery, Wakha
Sani Monastery
Karsha Monastery
Zangkul Cave Monastery
Bardan Monastery
Table 15: Major trekking Routes

Trekking routes
Hemis to Tso Moriri
Jhunglam, Hemis to Padum
Lamayuru to Alchi via Stakspi La
Lamayuru to Alchi via Tar La
Lamayuru to Chilling
Lamayuru to Hemis
Markha valley from Chilling
Markha valley from Spituk
61
Trekking routes
Markha valley & Stok Kangri
Nubra, Phyang to Hunder
Nubra, Saboo to Khalsar
Rangdum to Lamayuru via Kanji La
Rumtse to Kibber via Tso Moriri
Rumtse to Tso Moriri
Sham valley
Spituk to Matho
Spituk to Stok
Stok Kangri (6153m)
Stok Kangri from Spituk
Tso Moriri to Kibber
Zanskar, Lamayuru to Darcha
Zanskar, Padum to Lamayuru
Zanskar, Rangdum to Padum
Zanskar, Stongde to Phuktal
Zanskar to Tso Moriri
Chadar trek (winter trek)
Snow leopard trek (winter trek)
Kargil, Panikhar, Warwan Valley to Srinagar
Kargil, Sapi, Rusila, Bartoo, to Sankoo (Rusila trek)
Kargil, Choskor, Sapi, Kanoor trek (Naktul Expedition)
Sanko to Drass
Sanko, Umba, to Purtikchey
Wakha, Rgyal, to Itcho
Parkachik La Trek
Rangdum, Wanla, to Lamayuru
Saliskote to JasgundDrass
62
Table 16: Popular peaks
Mountain Height
Stok Kangri 6,153 m
Kang Yatse I 6,400 m
Kang Yatse II 6,200 m
Mentok Kangri 6,250 m
Chamser Kangri 6,620 m
Lungser Kangri 6,666 m
Mt Nun 7,135 m
Mt Kun 7,077 m
Mt Nindum 5,510 m
Table 17: Rafting trails

Rafting Routes Grade Difficulty Level
Phey to Saspol Grade I Easy
Upshi to Kharu Grade I or II Easy
Upshi to Nimo Grade II or III Medium
Phey to Nimo Grade II or III Medium
Alchi to Khaltsey via Nurla Grade II or III Medium
Phey to Indus via Zanskar at Nimo Grade III to V Medium to Hard
Nimo to Alchi Grade III+ Hard
Table 18: Camp Sites

Pangong,
Hundar Disket Turtuk Sumur
Spangmic
15-20 camps 8-10 camps 5-6 camps 10 camps 10 camps
10-20 tents each 10-15 tents each 10-15 tents each 10 tents each 10 tents each
Source: All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Owners Association
Table 19: Popular Camping Sites

Camping Sites
Nubra Valley
Indus River
Pangong Lake
Tso Kar Lake
Markha Valley
Tso Moriri Lake
Zanskar Valley
63
Camping Sites
Yarab Tso Lake
Thiksey
Suru Valley
Drass Valley
Garkone Batalik
Zanskar Valley
Chiktan
Bodhkharboo
Wakha Mutbek
Sapi
Shargandik
64
Tourism Opportunity Action Plan
Table 20: Action Plan Summary of suggested completion timeline and

department responsible.
S.
ADVENTURE TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Ancient trekking routes may be
avoided while constructing new Leh & Tourism Department, PWD,
1. Short Term
roads or installing electric poles, Kargil BRO
cables, and mobile towers
Expedition briefings to be
decentralised from Indian
Mountaineering Foundation’s (IMF)
Delhi office to local branch in Leh IMF, Ministry of Defence,
2. Leh Short Term
and Kargil. Revenues generated may LAHDC
be reinvested in training guides and
maintaining cleanliness of the
region.
Institutionalised training for locals
may be pursued at premier
Leh & Tourism Department, UT
3. institutions like IISM. Financial Short Term
Kargil administration
support may be provided by UT of
Ladakh for induction
New ski slopes to be identified and
Leh & Tourism Department, IMF,
4. mapped in Kargil, Drass, and Short Term
Kargil IISM
Zanskar ranges
International level ice climbing, and

skiing events may be planned and Leh &
5. Short Term IMF, Tourism Department
promoted through Tourism Kargil
department channels
Heli skiing facilities may be setup in

6. Zanskar to cater to international level Kargil Short Term Tourism Department
skiers
Gondolas may be setup in Kargil

between:
7. Sherbagh and Kurbathang Kargil Short Term Tourism Department
Shilikchey and TikTikmo Hill
Baroo-Zbichu and Kurbathang
65
S.
ADVENTURE TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Umba La and Lalung La in Kargil
8. district may be explored as summer Kargil Short Term Tourism Department
skiing sites
Trainings and incentives may be
provided for assistance in revival of Leh &
local porters and horse rearers Kargil
Online single window system to be

Leh &
10. setup for checking availability and Kargil Medium Term Tourism Department
booking peaks for climbing
Provisions to be made for income Tourism Department,

Leh &
11. security and expedition insurance for Medium Term Empanelled Insurance
Kargil
Ladakhi guides Providers
Ski lifts, gondolas, and ice hockey

Leh & Tourism Department, UT
12. rinks may be setup at identified Medium Term
Kargil administration
locations
Trekking routes to be mapped and Leh &

made available online Kargil
An institute on the lines of Indian

Institute of Skiing and
14. Mountaineering (IISM) to be Kargil Medium Term Ministry of Tourism
established in Kargil to encourage
and promote winter sports
S.
WELLNESS TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Yoga retreats may be set up in rural
Leh & Tourism department,
1. areas in collaboration with local Short Term
Kargil Ministry of Ayush
communities
Ladakh may be branded as a
“Rejuvenation” destination for expats Leh &
2. Short Term Tourism department
and corporates: - clean air, yoga, Kargil
organic cuisine, spiritual journey
Wellness resorts may be setup
3. around the Chumathang and Leh Medium Term Tourism Department
Panamic hot springs using PPP mode
Sowa Rigpa centers may be set up as
Leh & Tourism Department,
4. a high-end wellness product in Medium Term
Kargil Ministry of Ayush
collaboration with Ministry of Ayush
66
S.
WELLNESS TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Quality spas and wellness centers
Leh &
5. may be set up exploring Sowa Medium Term Tourism department
Kargil
Rigpa/Amchi medicine
Wellness tourism service providers
may be given support under the
Leh &
6. Market Development Scheme (MDA) Medium Term Ministry of Tourism
Kargil
for promotions at fairs, events, and
roadshows
Psammotherapy centers may be
established at Mulbekh hot water Leh &
springs, Yarkashing springs, and Kargil
Dumbo Shilikchey
S.
HERITAGE TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
A Heritage committee may be
formed to map out a heritage circuit. Leh & Tourism Department,
1. Short Term
Petroglyph preservation and Kargil LAHDC, Local Stakeholders
promotion may also be focused on
Adopt a Heritage Scheme may be
Leh &
2. leveraged for restoring and Short Term Ministry of Tourism
Kargil
maintaining heritage sites
QR code based signages may be
installed at heritage sites, Leh &
monuments, museums, trails, and Kargil
iconic villages
Homestays near iconic monuments,
Leh &
4. monasteries, and heritage sites Medium Term Tourism Department
Kargil
may be promoted
Public infrastructure and utilities
Leh &
5. around popular sites may be Medium Term Tourism Department
Kargil
upgraded
A sustainable model for museums
focusing on conservation practices, Leh &
and a collection and cataloguing Kargil
policy may be developed
S.
BUDDHIST TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
PPP model may be adopted for Leh &
renovation and maintenance of key Kargil
67
monasteries
Roadshows may be organized on

Leh &
2. India’s rich Buddhist heritage to Short Term Tourism Department
Kargil
showcase Ladakh’s offerings
Creatives may be used as part of
Incredible India 2.0 campaign in Leh & Tourism Department,
3. Short Term
Buddhist source markets such as Kargil Ministry of Tourism
China, Japan, Korea, etc.
Homestays around Buddhist sites to
Leh &
4. be developed to create community Short Term Tourism Department
Kargil
housing for tourists
Souvenir stores may be set up in
Leh &
5. monasteries to showcase local Short Term Tourism Department
Kargil
handicrafts and products
Experiential tourism events may be
Leh & Ministry of Tourism,
6. planned around major Buddhist Medium Term
Kargil Tourism department
festivals
Ladakh’s Buddhist sites and
monasteries to be developed and Leh & Ministry of Tourism,
7. Medium Term
promoted under Swadesh Darshan Kargil Tourism department
Scheme
S.
ECO TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Pax limits may be set for tour group Tourism Department,
Leh &
1. sizes based on optimum carrying Short Term Forest & Wildlife
Kargil
capacity for all eco-tourism activities Department
Commercial activity near lakes may
be shifted at least 200 meters away Leh &
from the shorelines to reduce water Kargil
pollution
Promote new trekking and biking
Leh &
3. trails by participating in fairs and Short Term Tourism Department
Kargil
roadshows in European countries
Luxury Bedouin camps may be set up
Leh &
4. around monasteries to attract high Medium Term Tourism Department
Kargil
spending tourists
New snow leopard hubs may be
identified to avoid overcrowding of Leh & Tourism Department, Snow
5. Medium Term
Tourists: subsequently, homestay Kargil Leopard Conservatory
and camping infrastructure may be
68
S.
ECO TOURISM DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
developed
Wildlife and birding hubs may be Leh &

created in less explored areas Kargil
Brown bear hubs may be identified in
Drass and Suru Valley- subsequently, Leh &
homestays and other tourism Kargil
infrastructure may be developed
Homestays can be converted to
Astro stays by installing telescopes Leh & Tourism Department, Indian
8. Medium Term
and providing technical training to Kargil Astronomical Institute
homeowners
Potential of agro and organic tourism
Leh &
9. in Aryan Valley and Sankoo may be Medium Term Tourism Department
Kargil
studied
S.
CONNECTIVITY DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Airports and helipads may be
1. Kargil Medium Term Ministry of Civil Aviation
constructed at Kargil and Nubra
Flights connecting Leh to Bangalore,
2. Ahmedabad, and other smaller cities Leh Medium Term Ministry of Civil Aviation
may be introduced
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport in
3. Leh may be made an international Leh Medium Term Ministry of Civil Aviation
airport
Gondola lifts and ropeways may be
Leh &
4. installed at identified locations to Medium Term Tourism Department
Kargil
reduce travel time
Heli services may be started from
Leh &
5. Leh and Kargil to more remote Medium Term Ministry of Civil Aviation
Kargil
locations
Public transportation (buses) and
supporting infrastructure like Leh & Forest & Wildlife
6. Medium Term
terminals, depots, stop, and shelters Kargil Department, PWD
may be set up
Focus may be given on development
7. of wayside amenities along key roads Medium Term
Kargil LAHDC
and tourist sites. Consultants may be
69
S.
CONNECTIVITY DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
hired for future strategies regarding
planning and construction
Plan for a robust public
8. transportation system may be Medium Term
Kargil LAHDC
developed.
All settlements may be connected Leh & Border Roads Organisation,
9. Long Term
with all-weather roads Kargil PWD
S.
ELECTRICITY AND NETWORK DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Subsidies may be provided for
installation of solar inverters,
Leh &
1. heaters, home lighting kits, and solar Short Term Tourism Department
Kargil
water heating plants for tourism
units
Micro grids not connected to the
main grids may be set up to supply Leh & Ministry of Renewable
2. Medium Term
power to remote areas and high- Kargil Energy
altitude villages
Financial incentives may be provided
to companies to set up a mobile Department of
Leh &
3. network tower in remote areas Medium Term Telecommunications,
Kargil
where there is no Telecom Service Ministry of Communications
Provider (TSP)
Potential of other renewable energy
sources (wind and geothermal) may The Ladakh Renewable
Leh &
4. Long Term Energy Development
be harnessed in addition to solar and Kargil
Agency, KREDA
hydel power
S.
HOTELS & RESORTS DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
A green hotel policy may be
developed which grades hotels on Leh &
key performance indicators based on Kargil
sustainability
Land parcel in Kargil district to be
2. Kargil Medium Term Department of Tourism
identified for A+ category hotel
Clear norms for renewable energy Department of Tourism, The
Leh &
3. Medium Term Ladakh Renewable Energy
setup to be laid down for ‘star hotels’ Kargil
Development Agency
70
S.
HOTELS & RESORTS DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Development of hotels and resorts Leh & Tourism Department, UT
4. Medium Term
under PPP model Kargil administration
S.
HOMESTAYS DISTRICT TIMELINE DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE
NO.
Village level hospitality training
camps may be organized covering
Leh &
1. culinary training, housekeeping, first Short Term Tourism Department
Kargil
aid, and behavior training for guest
interaction
All homestays may be geotagged and
Leh &
2. registered on a single platform for Medium Term Tourism department
Kargil
easy management
Tourism department may collaborate
Leh &
3. with private OTA’s to onboard and Medium Term Tourism Department
Kargil
manage homestays
71
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Vision and Objective 4

India Tourism Overview 7

Ladakh Tourism Overview 10

Sector Development Strategy 34

BRO Border Roads Organisation

CAGR Compound Annual Growth Rate

DOD Department of Defence

FTAs Foreign Tourist Arrivals

GDP Gross Domestic Product

IMF Indian Mountaineering Foundation

ITAs International Tourist Arrivals

LNG Liquefied Natural Gas

MGNREGA Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act

MHA Ministry of Home Affairs

OTA Online Travel Agency/ Online Tour Aggregator

PPP Public Private Partnership

PRASAD Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive

PWD Public Works Department

UDAN Ude Desh ka Aam Nagarik

WEF World Economic Forum

Our vision is to promote Ladakh as a high-value, low-impact tourism destination that

High-value low-impact tourism destination

The principle of ‘High-value, Low-impact’ will promote sustainable tourism in Ladakh by

Foster sustainable and inclusive growth for the local community

Local communities’ benefit from sustainable tourism through economic development,

Benefits of tourism reaching the last mile

The objective of these recommendations is to promote quality tourism to foster

▪ Creating unique and niche tourist experiences

Use of greener fuels

Promotion of carbon neutral activities

With increasing environmental consciousness, tourists must aim at minimizing the

The suggested action points have been based on a phased approach:

India is also one o

Source: Ministry of Tourism

Source: Ministry of Tourism

Source: Ministry of Tourism

Source: Tourism Department, Leh District

Source: Tourism Department, Kargil District

We recommend that there should be a thorough assessment of the carrying capacity of

Kargil 140,802 13.87% 30.15% 14,036 10

Leh 133,487 18.02% 33.55% 45,110 3

Homestays near iconic monuments,

A sustainable model for museums

▪ Souvenir stores may be setup at monasteries showcasing locally made products.

The landscape of Ladakh qualifies as a candidate for sustainable tourism promotion

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport in

Gondola lifts and ropeways may be

Heli services may be started from Leh Ministry of Civil

Public transportation (buses) and

Plan for a robust public transportation Tourism Department,

All settlements may be connected with Border Roads

Electrification and Network

Micro grids not connected to the main

Financial incentives may be provided

Potential of other renewable energy

Hotels and Resorts

Key Challenge 1: Inadequate Infrastructure

A paucity of accommodations is the second most prominent challenge. This is especially

Key Challenge 2: Limited Community Based Tourism