From 3.35 lakh to 4.05 lakh: Ladakh tourism breaks new ground
Ladakh’s tourism sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, with the Union Territory recording 4.05 lakh visitors between January and August this year, marking a 50.37 per cent rise over the 2.69 lakh tourists received during the corresponding period of 2025, Lt. Governor VK Saxena shared on X on Wednesday.
“Pleased to share that Ladakh’s tourism is reaching new heights! The numbers reflect the phenomenal tourism surge”, he wrote.
The surge has been particularly sharp compared to last year, with tourist arrivals rising from 2.69 lakh during January-August 2025 to 4.05 lakh in the corresponding period this year, marking a 50.37 per cent increase. August alone witnessed 74,753 visitors, up 65.38 per cent from 45,201 recorded in the same month last year.
Ladakh is also attracting a growing number of international visitors, with foreign tourist arrivals rising by nearly 33 per cent in the first eight months of 2026.
“In just 8 months of 2026, Ladakh has received 4.05 lakh visitors, surpassing the entire 2025 footfall of 3.35 lakh, by 20.61%. Ladakh received 2.69 lakh tourists between January and August 2025, which rose to 4.05 lakh during January to August 2026, an increase of 50.37%”,the LG said.
He said “Total tourist footfall of 45,201 in the month of August 2025, has increased to 74,753, in August 2026, a jump of 65.38%”.
“Ladakh received 25,082 foreign tourists from January – August 2025, which rose to 33,346 from January – August 2026, marking an increase of 32.95%”, the LG said.
Crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this tourist surge, Saxena said “This year-on-year tourism growth is a testament to Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji’s vision for promoting domestic tourism and the Centre’s sustained push for infrastructure development, along with the tourism-friendly policy framework in Ladakh”.
He reaffirmed the commitment to building a sustainable, responsible, and year-round tourism economy in Ladakh. By promoting off-season festivals and events, we are creating sustained livelihood opportunities for our local youth, artisans, and homestays, while offering visitors a peaceful, less crowded, and affordable experience.
“I appeal all travellers to come and explore the unmatched beauty and culture of Ladakh!”, the LG wrote on X.