The Tourism Department, Ladakh on November 08, 2024, issued the Ladakh Mountaineering Policy, 2024.
This shall come into force on November 08, 2024.
The following has been stated namely: -
• It aims to promote sportive mountaineering activities in Ladakh by engaging the local communities, upskilling the Ladakhi guides, and recognizing the contribution of Mountaineering Tour Operators (MTOs) to ensure environmental preservation and economic growth for the long-term benefit of the region.
• It provides the process for the registration of Mountaineering Tour Operators (MTOs), it states that any entity wishing to operate as a Mountaineering Tour Operator (MTO) in Ladakh shall register with the Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh, providing proof of identity, Ladakh residency, business incorporation, essential equipment, qualified guide, and earmarked office space.
• It states that the MTO registration and renewal shall be valid for 3 years with a fee of Rs. 3,000, and the registration remains valid until March 31 of the second succeeding financial year.
• It states that all registered MTOs shall obtain a permit for every mountaineering expedition from the office of Assistant Director (Tourism), Leh & Kargil in the prescribed format at least 30 days before the start of the expedition, and the permit shall be granted within 10 days from the receipt of the complete application form.
• It further provides the Risk Mitigation Measures.
Detailed notification is attached below.
[Notification no. - LA(Trm)(LMP)/UTL/2024/(223)/2411-18]
