Will develop new sites amid Kargil beautification push : L-G

The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, has emphasised an ambitious beautification plan for Kargil town, aimed at transforming public spaces into vibrant recreational hubs to attract more tourists and extend their stay in the district.

Chairing a review meeting with the Kargil Development Authority, the L-G stressed the need to identify new sites across the district that could be developed into tourist-friendly spaces. He said Kargil’s tourism potential went far beyond existing attractions and there was a pressing need to explore and develop fresh locations — such as riverbanks, hill viewpoints, cultural landmarks and heritage sites — so that visitors enjoy a wider experience of the district.

The L-G observed that creating multiple leisure zones across Kargil would not only spread tourist footfall more evenly but also generate new livelihood opportunities for the local population. He called upon the authority to prepare a comprehensive roadmap that highlights unexplored natural spots and integrates them into the broader tourism circuit of Ladakh.

Gupta also called for expediting the beautification of Bul-Bul Bagh, Sher Bagh and the riverfront at the Tourist Facilitation Centre, to be upgraded with landscaped parks, pedestrian walkways, gardens and seating areas designed to blend modern amenities with the natural charm of the region.

“Tourists come to Kargil for its history and breath-taking landscapes, but we also need to provide them spaces where they can relax, unwind and engage with the local culture. The creation of such aesthetically appealing and functional spaces will not only enhance the beauty of the town but also encourage visitors to extend their stay,” he said.

Gupta further directed officials to ensure that the beautification projects reflect Kargil’s cultural ethos while meeting sustainability standards. He underlined that Ladakh’s tourism growth must be linked with environmental responsibility, striking a balance between development and the preservation of its fragile ecosystem. By focusing on urban aesthetics alongside adventure and heritage tourism, he expressed hope that Kargil would emerge as a more vibrant and tourist-friendly destination in the coming years.

The officials, including Deputy Commissioner Kargil Rakesh Kumar, SSP Kargil Shree Raam R, and the engineering wing of the KDA, discussed key projects in the town area. They apprised the L-G of the completion of the first phase of the River View Front at the TFC and said the detailed project report for the second phase was ready.