The Apricot Blossom Festival 2025 began with great enthusiasm at Skyurbuchan village in Leh district on April 10. Marking the first celebration of the season, the event was organised by the Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh, in collaboration with LAHDC Leh and the local community of Skyurbuchan. 
Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, Ghulam Mehdi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

The festival opened with traditional Ladakhi music, setting a serene and festive ambiance. Stalls featuring authentic local cuisine added flavour to the event, highlighting the region’s rich culinary heritage.

In his address, Chief Guest Ghulam Mehdi underscored the importance of preserving Ladakh’s cultural heritage through such festivals. He encouraged local farmers to adopt organic farming practices, particularly in apricot cultivation, and highlighted the potential for exporting local organic products to international markets. He also commended the young performers for their cultural presentations and expressed appreciation for the efforts of local teachers in nurturing talent.

Ven. Stanzin Nurboo delivered the welcome address, extending warm greetings to the officials from the UT administration and all attendees. In her keynote speech, Padma Angmo, Assistant Director, Tourism Department Leh, described the breathtaking beauty of Sham Valley during apricot blossom season, likening it to a divine canvas of white and pink hues. She noted that the festival, first launched in 2021 to promote tourism, has witnessed increasing participation each year. She also emphasized the cultural and economic importance of apricot cultivation in Ladakh, renowned for its unique varieties.

The celebration featured captivating folk dance performances by local artists in traditional attire. 

A special felicitation ceremony was held by the Indian Army to honour local residents of Skyurbuchan for their support during the 1999 Kargil War.

Chief Planning Officer Tsewang Gyalson reiterated the administration’s commitment to expanding tourism beyond Leh city by improving infrastructure in villages, promoting homestays, and ensuring essential amenities for visitors.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (JKAS) Ghulam Mohammad emphasized the goal of establishing year-round tourism in Ladakh. He praised the local food stalls for preserving and presenting authentic Ladakhi flavours and urged the media and visitors to promote such events to enhance Ladakh's tourism potential and support the local economy.

The festival concluded on a high note, with a shared vision of making Skyurbuchan and other Ladakhi villages key destinations on India’s tourism map.

The event showcased not only the region’s vibrant culture but also its potential in organic farming and sustainable rural tourism.
The celebration was attended by SDM Khaltsi, XEN I&FC Leh, XEN R&B Division Khaltsi, Horticulture Development Officer Khaltsi, SHO Khaltsi, alongside other officers, officials, tourists, and local residents—all of whom enjoyed the vibrant and culturally enriching atmosphere.