15 Day Cultural & Traditional Extavanza from Ist September Ladakh fully geared up for festival

Srinagar, August 18 – Special discount will be given to the tourists by the hoteliers voluntarily during the Ladakh festival commencing from September 1,2009. This was announced by the Minister of Tourism,Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora while talking to the media persons in a special press meet at press club, Raisina Road here today.

Giving the details of the15 day long Ladakh festival, the Minister said that media can play a very important role in giving widespread coverage to the festival which is one of the major annual tourist events organized in J&K state and is attended by national as well as international tourists.

Different pageantry and cultural troupes in colourful costumes along with the Polo horses will participate in the inaugural procession from Chubi to Pologround . This year’s major events are music concert at Sindu Ghat, a motorbike/cycle expedition to Khardung-la, Polo match, Archery and Chams, the famous mask dance at Chowkhang Vihara besides other events.

Mr. Jora said that all the necessary arrangements have been put in place for successfully organizing Ladakh festival. The Department of Tourism, local administration and the Ladakh Hill Development Council has made all arrangements with regard to the proper management during the festival including the health and hygiene of the tourists, as well as the security related arrangements, he added .

The Minister said that a Special three days Residential Meditation Programme at Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre ,Choglamsar and Thanka Exhibition will also be of much attraction this year.

Mr. Minister said that the Cultural Heritage of Ladakh encompasses the centuries old customs and traditions of its people. During the 15-day long Ladakh Festival these customs and traditions will come alive in different aspects which will be showcased including the unique local life style. He said that the biggest annual event funded by the Government has been organized to highlight the appeal of Ladakh and attract tourists to visit the destination in the month of September, which is quite ideal in all respects.

He said that the tourists attending this festival will not only enjoy the scenic beauty of Ladakh and the rich cultural heritage but will also take back the warmth and hospitality of Ladakhis.

The press briefing was also attended by Secretary Tourism, Mrs Tanveer Jahan and Director Tourism, Kashmir, Mr.Farooq Ahmad Shah.