The Government of Ladakh on July 22, 2024, invited comments and suggestions from the stakeholders and public on the draft Ladakh Mountaineering Policy 2024.
To regulate the mountaineering and trekking activities in Ladakh and to make organizers and participants of such activities more responsible and accountable towards the fragile ecosystem of Ladakh, the Department of Tourism, UT of Ladakh has drafted Ladakh Mountaineering Policy 2024 attached to the document.
Comments and suggestions if any, are invited within 28 days from the date of publication of the notice on the official website of the Administration of Union Territory of Ladakh and official websites of Leh District and Kargil District.
The Ladakh Mountaineering Policy 2024 aims to achieve the following objectives:
· Encourage Sustainable Mountaineering: Promote mountaineering activities in the Union Territory of Ladakh while ensuring the preservation of region's natural beauty & ecological balance through sustainable practices.
· Recognition of Mountaineering Tour Operators (MTOs): Professional execution of mountaineering activities through recognized MTOs and involving them in the value chain.
· Economic Elevation: Leverage mountain tourism to stimulate the local economy by creating job opportunities and supporting the local businesses like MTOs, guides, porters, accommodation units, equipment rental services, etc.
· Inclusive Community Development: Extension of direct benefit to the local communities, especially the ones in remote mountain regions, from mountaineering activities through fair wages, skill development programs and community-based tourism initiatives.
· Enhance Safety and Training: Establish robust safety standards and training programs for climbers, MTOs & guides to ensure safe mountaineering practices, reducing risks and enhancing the overall experience for adventurers.
[Notification No. LA(Trm)(LMP)/UTL/2024(223)/1124-30]
