Leh, November 27, 2025: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Tourism Department Leh organised a one-day Rock Art Tour of Chiling to introduce local tour operators to Ladakh’s rich petroglyph heritage. The programme aimed to promote awareness, appreciation, and the integration of heritage conservation into tourism practices.
A total of 25 tour operators participated, accompanied by experts including Dr. Tashi Ldawa, Viraf Mehta, Khadim Hussain, and officials from the Tourism Department. The tour began at Sangam, where participants were briefed on the cultural and historical significance of Ladakh’s rock art and the importance of protecting these ancient sites.
Participants visited 6–7 major petroglyph sites, including Choksti, Chutsan, and Waru, observing engravings dating back to the Stone and Bronze Ages. Expert presentations by Dr. Ldawa and Viraf Mehta highlighted the heritage and anthropological importance of these petroglyphs. The tour also included a visit to Serzo Museum, showcasing Ladakh’s traditional artisanal practices.
The event concluded with tour operators taking the Constitution Day pledge, reaffirming their commitment to preserving cultural heritage, and a vote of thanks by Dr. Fatima Bano, Accounts Assistant, Tourism Department.
Tsering Angchuk, representing the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association, appreciated the initiative and encouraged fellow operators to promote awareness of rock art conservation in their tourism practices.
