Ladakh recorded 55,582 tourist arrivals in September 2026, compared to 34,610 in September 2025, registering a year-on-year increase of 60.60%.
Between January 1 and September 30, 2026, Ladakh received 4,60,667 tourists, compared to 2,78,599 during the corresponding period in 2025, marking an increase of 65.38%. The total arrivals during the first nine months of 2026 have already surpassed the 3,35,872 visitors recorded during the entire year of 2025 by 37.16%, with three months remaining in the current year.

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena attributed the growth to improved connectivity and the promotion of events such as Ladakh Bike Week, the Ladakh Marathon and various regional festivals. He also highlighted initiatives such as the development of high-altitude Lilium flower fields and the introduction of a high-altitude wildlife safari, which have further diversified Ladakh’s tourism offerings.

Tourist arrivals increased across both domestic and foreign segments. During the first nine months of 2026, Ladakh welcomed 4,20,927 domestic tourists and 39,740 foreign tourists, compared to 2,46,565 domestic tourists and 32,034 foreign tourists during the corresponding period in 2025. This represents growth of approximately 70.72% in domestic arrivals and 24.06% in foreign arrivals.

In September 2026, domestic tourist arrivals increased from 29,888 in September 2025 to 49,188, while foreign tourist arrivals rose from 4,722 to 6,394.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasised the importance of promoting festivals and events to extend tourism beyond the traditional peak summer season.

“Our aim is to encourage travel during shoulder and off-season periods, diversifying the tourism economy and creating more sustained livelihood opportunities for local residents. The Administration’s focus is not limited to increasing visitor numbers, but also on ensuring that tourism growth translates into tangible benefits for local communities,” said L-G Saxena.

The increase in tourist footfall has been supported by the Administration’s efforts to expand Ladakh’s tourism calendar through festivals, sporting events and cultural programmes. Events such as the Ladakh Festival, Ladakh Marathon, Ladakh Bike Week and Ladakh Zanskar Festival have enhanced the region’s appeal among visitors interested in its distinctive culture, traditions, landscapes and adventure tourism experiences.