Leh, July 8: Tourism in Ladakh continues to witness a strong surge, with foreign tourist arrivals almost doubling in June this year compared to the corresponding period last year, reflecting the region’s growing popularity among international travellers.
According to official data, Ladakh received 6,680 foreign tourists in June 2026, compared to 3,349 in June 2025, registering a growth of 99.46 per cent. The rise highlights Ladakh’s increasing appeal as a destination for adventure, culture, spirituality and sustainable tourism experiences.
Israel emerged as the largest source market among international visitors, followed by Thailand, the United States, Vietnam, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, Malaysia, Australia, Taiwan, Russia, Italy, South Korea, Spain and other European and Southeast Asian countries.
Overall tourist arrivals in Ladakh also recorded significant growth, reaching 1,07,740 in June 2026, a 43.48 per cent increase over 75,089 visitors in June 2025.
During the first six months of 2026, Ladakh welcomed 2,25,286 tourists, including 2,11,645 domestic and 13,641 foreign visitors.
Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said the rise in tourist numbers reflects the administration’s efforts to develop Ladakh as a premier year-round tourism destination while ensuring sustainable and responsible growth.
He said tourism remains a key pillar of Ladakh’s economy, providing livelihood opportunities to hoteliers, homestay operators, transporters, tour guides, artisans and local communities.
The administration has undertaken several initiatives to boost tourism, including improving infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, simplifying regulations, promoting private investment and granting industry status to hotels and guest houses.
Officials said Ladakh is also expanding its tourism offerings beyond the traditional summer season by promoting winter tourism, adventure activities, high-altitude trekking, wildlife tourism, rural tourism, wellness, cultural, spiritual and astro-tourism.
The hosting of national and international events, festivals and tourism campaigns has further helped increase Ladakh’s visibility among domestic and global travellers.
