Leh, September 26, 2026: As part of Ladakh Festival 2026, a three-day Traditional Archery Tournament commenced today at Shenam Gongma Ground, Leh, bringing together archers from all seven districts of Ladakh.
The tournament was inaugurated by Smt. Bhanu Prabha, IAS, Administrative Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, UT Ladakh, along with Smt. Tashi Dolma, JKAS, Director, Tourism & Culture, UT Ladakh. Shri Sanjit Rodrigues, IAS, Administrative Secretary, Tourism & Culture Department, UT Ladakh, and Shri Mohd Taqi, JKAS, Deputy Director, Tourism & Culture, UT Ladakh, were also present.
The dignitaries lit the traditional lamp and participated in an introductory archery session, marking the beginning of the three-day event.
The opening ceremony was witnessed by Shri Muhammad Ali Tak, Assistant Director, Tourism Department, Kargil; Tsering Tashi, DYSSO Leh; Shri Abid Ali, DYSSO Kargil; and Shri Lobzang Thokthok, President, Traditional Archery Association, along with association members, Miss Lakzess Angmo, National Cyclist, and several national and international tourists and local residents.
Marking a new initiative this year, the tournament features competitive matches among participants representing all seven districts of Ladakh. A total of 14 selected players, two from each district, are participating, replacing the earlier format in which competitions were held between local societies.
The matches are currently underway, with the top three winners to be announced on September 27, 2026. Trophies and cash prizes will be presented to the winners on September 28, 2026.
The tournament is providing a vibrant platform to promote and preserve Ladakh’s traditional archery heritage while bringing together participants and communities from across the Union Territory.
