The Apricot Blossom Festival 2025 was celebrated in full colour and cultural vibrancy on April 13 at Alchi. Organised by the Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh in collaboration with LAHDC Leh, the event attracted locals, tourists, officials, and artists for a spirited celebration of Ladakh's cultural traditions and hospitality.

The festival kicked off with a traditional welcome, followed by a site visit to stalls offering local cuisine, handicrafts, and cultural artefacts curated by villagers and self-help groups. The cultural programme was a highlight, featuring the Mentok Stanmo dance led by Sonam Nurboo, performances by students from Council Model School Alchi and Alchi Institute, and a series of folk dances including Shondol, Jabro, Zhung Lu, and Ali Yoto by local cultural groups. A special moment was marked with the distribution of land allotment papers to beneficiaries of Alchi Thang, underscoring a significant step forward in rural development efforts.

Adv. Tashi Gyalson, Chairman/CEC of LAHDC Leh, attended as the Chief Guest. He congratulated the people of Alchi and praised the organisers for a successful festival. He likened the apricot blossom to Japan’s cherry blossom festival, noting its potential to create a unique springtime experience for visitors. Gyalson also commended Khaltsi Councillor Lobzang Sherab for his efforts in coordinating the event at the grassroots level, and highlighted the importance of community-driven festivals in promoting cultural revival and responsible tourism.

DC/CEO LAHDC Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve (IAS), expressed appreciation for the collaboration between the community, LAHDC, and government departments in making the festival a success. He noted that such initiatives not only strengthen rural economies but also preserve cultural values. Sukhadeve congratulated the land allotment beneficiaries and reaffirmed the administration's commitment to inclusive development in tourism, agriculture, and youth engagement.

Lobzang Sherab, Councillor of Khaltsi highlighted the potential of community-led tourism and encouraged villagers to actively promote homestays as a sustainable source of income, thereby enriching the Ladakh tourism experience.

Director of Tourism, Kunzes Dolma, expressed her gratitude to the organisers, villagers, and all participating departments for their unwavering support in ensuring the success of the festival. She reiterated the department’s continued focus on sustainable tourism across Ladakh.

The festival concluded with a lively group dance that brought together villagers, guests, and artists for a joyous finale. Tsewang Norboo, President of Dukling Tsogspa Alchi, acknowledged the tireless efforts of the organisers, villagers, and all stakeholders. The day ended on a hopeful note, echoing the spirit of community, culture, and a shared commitment to preserving Ladakh’s living heritage.