The Zanskar Winter Sports and Tourism Festival 2024-25 captivated audiences on March 20 with a dynamic fusion of culture and sport, set against the stunning winter landscape of Atting village in the Zanskar Valley.

Celebrating Ladakh’s unique winter heritage, the festival drew large crowds of locals and tourists alike, showcasing the region's potential as a premier winter tourism destination.

Organised by the Department of Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh, the festival featured a wide range of activities, including yoga on snow, snow skiing, traditional archery, yak and horse riding, and enthralling cultural performances. These events highlighted Zanskar’s rich traditions while promoting adventure tourism in the high-altitude region.

Vikram Singh Malik, Administrative Secretary of Tourism & Culture and Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh, attended the event as the Chief Guest, while Executive Councilor Er. Punchok Tashi (Rural Development & Panchayati Raj / Cooperative / FCS&CA / Forest & Wildlife / Information), LAHDC-Kargil, was the Guest of Honour.

The Chief Guest visited various stalls set up by Self Help Groups (SHGs) and local entrepreneurs, showcasing traditional cuisine, indigenous produce, and ethnic attire.

Speaking on the occasion, Malik highlighted the administration’s commitment to developing infrastructure for winter sports in Ladakh and efforts to bring national-level winter sports events to the region. He further announced the development of a snow ski slope and the upgradation of the snow ski school in Zanskar.

He proudly noted that due to the consistent efforts of the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh and the support of the Government of India, the Indian Ice Hockey Team—featuring many players from Ladakh—represented the country at the Winter Asian Games in Harbin, China, marking a moment of pride for the entire region.

The festival saw vibrant participation from hundreds of locals, tourists, and members of various organizations, including Ama Tsogspa (Women’s Association) and school students, contributing to the event's success.

Cultural performances by different Ama Tsogspa groups featured traditional folk dances and songs, offering a deep dive into the cultural richness of Zanskar. Students from local schools demonstrated their athletic prowess in snow skiing competitions, including short-distance, long-distance, and cross-country races using handcrafted wooden skis. A crowd favourite was the traditional archery competition, which added excitement and competitive spirit to the event.

In his address, EC Er. Punchok Tashi expressed gratitude to Lieutenant Governor Brigadier (Dr.) BD Mishra (Retd.) and the Administrative Secretary for their unwavering support in expanding sports and winter tourism opportunities in Zanskar. He also acknowledged that the unexpected late-season snowfall made the festival possible.

He later distributed mementoes and prizes to outstanding performers in both sports and cultural events.

The Zanskar Winter Sports and Tourism Festival 2024-25 not only provided thrilling entertainment and adventure but also reinforced Zanskar’s status as a leading winter destination, celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship while preserving and promoting Ladakh’s vibrant cultural and natural legacy.