Ladakh, Sep 09: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena on Wednesday said that tourism in the Union Territory has reached new heights, with 4.05 lakh visitors visiting the hilly region in the first eight months of 2026.
“This year-on-year tourism growth is a testament to Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji’s vision for promoting domestic tourism and the Centre’s sustained push for infrastructure development, along with the tourism-friendly policy framework in Ladakh,” the LG said.
Sharing statistics on his X handle, Saxena said that in just eight months of 2026, Ladakh received 4.05 lakh visitors, surpassing the entire 2025 tourist footfall of 3.35 lakh by 20.61 percent.
Comparing last year’s figures with those of 2026, he said Ladakh witnessed a 50.37 percent growth in tourist arrivals this year.
“Ladakh received 2.69 lakh tourists between January and August 2025, which rose to 4.05 lakh during January to August 2026, an increase of 50.37%,” he said.
The total tourist footfall of 45,201 in August 2025 increased to 74,753 in August 2026, marking a jump of 65.38 percent, he shared.
Giving further details, he said Ladakh received 25,082 foreign tourists between January and August 2025, which rose to 33,346 during the same period in 2026, marking an increase of 32.95 percent.
The numbers reflect the phenomenal surge in tourism, the LG said.
Saxena reaffirmed his commitment to building a sustainable, responsible and year-round tourism economy in Ladakh.
“By promoting off-season festivals and events, we are creating sustained livelihood opportunities for our local youth, artisans and homestays, while offering visitors a peaceful, less crowded and affordable experience,” he said.
He appealed to all travellers to come and explore the unmatched beauty and culture of Ladakh.
