Zanskar, Mar 27: The fifth edition of the Zanskar Winter Sports and Tourism Festival 2026 commenced on Thursday with a blend of traditional cultural displays, sporting activities, and a renewed focus on tourism promotion in the remote sub-division of Kargil district.
The festival was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, LAHDC Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, while Councillor of Karsha constituency, Stanzin Jigmath, attended as the Guest of Honour.
The inaugural ceremony witnessed a traditional reception of dignitaries by local artists, accompanied by folk music performed on Daman and Surna. The officials were escorted in a ceremonial procession from the Tourist Reception Centre to the venue on yaks and horses, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage.
Soon after the inauguration, the Deputy Commissioner flagged off a walkathon involving students from the Sports Stadium, covering a distance of four kilometres, as part of efforts to encourage youth participation and public engagement in the festival.
Earlier, Tehsildar Zanskar, Mohd Hassan, delivered the welcome address, acknowledging the presence of dignitaries and participants and expressing appreciation for their attendance despite the prevailing weather conditions.
In his remarks, the Guest of Honour underlined the need to fix festival dates well in advance to attract more tourists. He also appreciated the Deputy Commissioner’s visit to Zanskar, noting the challenges posed by difficult terrain and harsh weather.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner commended the Zanskar administration, led by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, for organising the event on a large scale despite severe winter conditions. He later interacted with local artists and participants involved in archery and volleyball, and inspected exhibition stalls set up by various government departments and Self-Help Groups showcasing local products.
Cultural performances marked the opening day, with artists presenting traditional songs and dances that drew participation from locals and visitors.
On the sidelines of the event, the Deputy Commissioner visited the camp of 13 BRTF Zanskar and interacted with officials. He also inspected a government building identified for development as a Tourist Information Centre-cum-Museum. The proposed facility is expected to provide detailed information on tourist destinations in Zanskar, including the locations and history of Gonpas and other attractions.
The festival aims to promote winter tourism in the region while providing a platform for local culture, sports, and community participation.
