Kargil, March 21: The Zanskar Winter Sports and Tourism Festival 2024-25 was successfully held on Thursday at Atting Village in Zanskar, offering an exhilarating blend of cultural and sporting events against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Zanskar valley.
The festival showcased Ladakh’s unique winter heritage, attracting both locals and tourists in large numbers.
Organized by the Department of Youth Services & Sports, Union Territory of Ladakh, the festival featured an array of activities including yoga on snow, snow skiing, traditional archery, yak and horse riding and mesmerizing cultural performances. These events not only celebrated the region’s rich traditions but also promoted winter tourism in Zanskar.
The Administrative Secretary, Tourism & Culture and Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh, Vikram Singh Malik, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Executive Councilor (Rural Development & Panchayati Raj/Cooperative/FCS&CA/Forest & Wildlife/Information) LAHDC-Kargil, Er. Punchok Tashi, was the guest of honor.
The chief guest inspected the stalls including local cuisine, local produce, ethnic clothes etc. produced by Self Help Groups (SHGs) and local entrepreneurs.
The Administrative Secretary said that the administration is developing infrastructure for winter sports in the UT and trying its best to get some national-level winter sports events held in Ladakh.
He further stated that the administration is working on development of snow ski slope in Zanskar and upgradation of snow ski school in Zanskar.
Malik said that due to the persistent efforts of the Hon’ble LG and support of GoI, the Indian Ice Hockey team represented the country at the Winter Asian Games at Harbin in China in which most of the players were from Ladakh which is a matter of pride for the whole Ladakh.
The festival witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of locals, tourists and representatives from various organizations including members of Ama Thoqspa (Women’s Association) and school children, making the event a resounding success.
The programme featured captivating cultural performances by various Ama Thoqspa groups who presented traditional folk dances and songs, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Zanskar.
Students from different schools showcased their athleticism in snow skiing competitions, including short-distance, long-distance, and cross-country races, using traditionally crafted wooden skis. A highlight of the festival was the traditional archery competition, which brought an added element of excitement to the event.
While speaking at the event, Executive Councilor, Er. Punchok Tashi said that the snowfall at the end of the season made it possible to conduct the winter festival.
He expressed gratitude to Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd.) and the Administrative Secretary, Tourism & Culture for their unconditional support to Zanskar in enhancing the scope for sports and winter tourism.
EC Er. Tashi also distributed momentoes and prizes among students and participants who performed well in the sports and cultural activities.
The Zanskar Winter Sports and Tourism Festival 2024-25 not only provided a thrilling adventure for participants but also reinforced Zanskar’s reputation as a premier winter destination. The event celebrated the spirit of winter sports while preserving and promoting Ladakh’s vibrant cultural and natural heritage.
