New Delhi/Leh, Feb 25: “Stakeholders are also present here. Our participation in this exhibition to promote tourism in Ladakh, especially winter tourism, shows that we are working to boost tourism in Ladakh. Our effort is that in the coming times, the number of tourists here should increase,” said Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta while addressing the 33rd edition of the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Speaking at the premier travel exposition held at Yashobhoomi in Dwarka, the Lieutenant Governor underlined that Ladakh’s presence at SATTE 2026 reflects a focused strategy to position the Union Territory as a year-round destination, with special emphasis on winter tourism. He said the administration is engaging directly with industry leaders, tour operators and international delegates to expand Ladakh’s outreach in both domestic and global markets.
The event was attended by Union Minister for Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who stated that tourism now occupies a central space in India’s development framework under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He described tourism as a driver of livelihoods, entrepreneurship and inclusive growth, adding that the government’s approach blends heritage conservation, sustainability and community participation to strengthen India’s position as an experience-oriented destination.
Highlighting the transformation underway in Ladakh, the Lieutenant Governor pointed to upgraded road infrastructure that has enhanced connectivity between Leh and remote border regions. He also referred to the steady progress on the Zoji La Tunnel project, which is expected to ensure all-weather access to Ladakh and further stimulate tourist inflow.
He described Ladakh as home to internationally acclaimed destinations known for their natural splendour, adventure activities and spiritual legacy.
From the changing hues of Pangong Lake and the sand dunes of Nubra Valley to the historic town of Leh and the high-altitude pass of Khardung La, Ladakh offers diverse experiences across seasons. Attractions such as Tso Moriri, Hemis Monastery, Shanti Stupa, Zanskar Valley, Lamayuru Monastery, Drass, Aryan Valley and Hanle continue to draw visitors seeking both adventure and spiritual retreat. Hanle, which hosts the Indian Astronomical Observatory with the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment telescope, has also emerged as a niche destination for astro-tourism.
The Lieutenant Governor said the administration has introduced structured measures to promote tourism throughout the year, including fixed calendars for Union Territory-level festivals, participation in national and international travel marts, the unveiling of a new tourism logo and the organisation of familiarisation tours for travel operators. He added that the process of registration for hotels and travel operators is being streamlined through an online portal, while environmental safeguards such as support for sewage treatment infrastructure are being strengthened to ensure responsible tourism practices.
Calling upon travel trade representatives to feature Ladakh more prominently in their itineraries, he assured full cooperation from the administration to facilitate investment, coordination and visitor safety. He maintained that collective efforts between government and industry stakeholders would help elevate Ladakh’s profile and ensure that every tourist leaves with a memorable experience.
Later, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated the Ladakh Pavilion at the expo and interacted with exhibitors and delegates. The 33rd edition of SATTE has drawn around 2,000 exhibitors from India and abroad, with participation from representatives of nearly 60 countries engaging in business-to-business meetings aimed at expanding global tourism partnerships.
