Q. Congratulations on receiving the award during Rpal Ngam Duston for being the first female travel agent in Ladakh. How does it feel, and did you expect this recognition?

Thank you! The award came as a surprise to me. I was asked to send my CV, which I did, and then I received an invitation for the Rpal Ngam Duston ceremony while I was out on a family picnic. I wasn't aware of the award process and couldn't fully grasp it until I was on stage. I was thrilled to receive such recognition after years of overcoming challenges. It was especially meaningful given the stories I’ve heard about my role as the first female travel agent and the struggles I faced to get here.

Q. Briefly introduce yourself, tell us about your educational background, and share when you first set up your travel agency. Were your parents and family members supportive of your decision?

My name is Lobzang Tsendol, and I am from Gonpa village, Leh-Ladakh. I studied in Dehradun since childhood, completed my 10th grade under the ICSE board, and graduated in Arts from Hyderabad.  In 1994, my cousin sister Angmo and I, both of whom had a keen interest in tourism, decided to start a travel agency and become travel agents. We faced significant challenges early on, particularly because our family was not supportive of our choice. While family members often encouraged us to pursue government jobs, which were more conventional and secure, we chose to follow our passion for tourism instead.

Q. What inspired you to become a part of the Tourism Industry?

Initially, I didn't have a strong interest in the tourism industry. I spent several years teaching at Moravian Mission School in Leh. It was only while working there that I began guiding tourists. This experience sparked my curiosity about Ladakh, a region I had not explored deeply due to my long-term studies outside the area. As I guided tourists, I had the opportunity to visit various monasteries and engage in trekking, eventually leading women's trekking groups and expeditions. This allowed me to explore Ladakh more thoroughly and piqued my interest in learning about other places and cultures. Although guide training was rare in Ladakh at the time, I took advantage of the numerous books available to deepen my knowledge. This self-education gave me the confidence to provide in-depth guidance about Ladakh, including its monasteries, cuisines, and traditional lifestyle. My work was well-received by tourists, which further fueled my passion for the industry and made the job feel both rewarding and enjoyable.

Q. Was it challenging to be in a male-dominated sector?

Yes, it was challenging. There were times when people questioned our choices, often saying things like, "You’ve studied so much—why pursue this kind of work? Such businesses are only for men, not women." This skepticism was especially pronounced during guiding or cultural tours, which sometimes involved overnight stays. Given the conservative nature of Ladakhi society, my family was initially disappointed and concerned. However, having confidence in our chosen profession made it somewhat easier to navigate these challenges and judgments. During expeditions and treks, I often went with my husband and cousin sister, which helped alleviate some of our family’s concerns.

Q. Do tourists or travelers exhibit gender-based prejudice during bookings and reservations?

In the early days of tourism in Ladakh, most tourists were inbound travelers, and I found it relatively easy to work with them, as they were generally understanding. My extensive reading also helped in guiding and leading these tourists effectively. In the 21st century, I believe that women face fewer difficulties in any sector. Women now walk side by side with men, excelling in various fields. In Ladakh, for instance, women entrepreneurs in the tourism industry, including travel agents, are thriving. During my tenure as vice president of the Travel Agent Association, I was given equal rights and opportunities without my capabilities being questioned due to my gender.  However, there were occasional instances where people questioned the idea of a woman leading an association or becoming a president. Despite this, confidence in one’s own abilities can help overcome such prejudices.

Q. Age is often considered a limitation when starting a business. What would you say to those who feel it’s too late to begin?

In Ladakh, women are excelling in various fields, proving that age is truly just a number. If someone has a genuine interest and passion for a particular work, age should not be seen as a barrier to success. With dedication and enthusiasm, one can overcome any obstacles and achieve their goals, no matter when they start.

Q. How financially challenging is it to start a travel agency in Ladakh? Are there government schemes or financial services available for women?

When we first started our business, there was limited support and knowledge available. However, today there are various government aids and schemes designed to help. For those interested in becoming travel agents or guides, there are skill training programs and low-interest loans available to support new ventures. With these resources at hand, achieving success has become more accessible. I encourage women to pursue their business interests—it's a rewarding field to be in. I was one of the first women to conduct an all-India tour and initiate outbound tours. Today, we operate tours to numerous international destinations and have received positive feedback for our services.

Q. How would you inspire the upcoming young generation, especially girls, to pursue careers in this field?

The trend of pressuring people to pursue government jobs has been prevalent for a long time. However, times have changed, and there are now numerous sectors and fields to explore. While preparing for competitive exams can be challenging, it is not the only path to success. It’s essential to follow your interests and passions, regardless of the size or nature of the work. In Ladakh, local businesses are often overshadowed by outsiders. I encourage locals to engage in and promote businesses that highlight homegrown and handmade products. This approach not only supports local industries but also offers significant potential for growth and export once validated in the market. Ladakhi women have unique opportunities to excel in various fields. By pursuing interests with dedication and striving for excellence, they can achieve success and make a meaningful impact.

Message to the readers

"As Ladakh’s first woman travel agent, I’ve learned that no dream is too big. This land has taught me that success comes from daring to dream. I hope my journey inspires you to embrace your adventures, break barriers, and pursue your passions. In a male-dominated field, let’s value our unique strengths and turn challenges into opportunities. Stand tall, and pave the way for future generations. Our courage can reshape the industry and inspire others to believe in their dreams."