Zojila Tunnel
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As Ladakh awaits two of its biggest connectivity upgrades—the Zojila tunnel and a new terminal at Leh airport—tourism stakeholders are preparing for what they believe could be a sustained expansion of the sector, with improved road and air access expected to reshape travel to the high-altitude region over the coming years.The optimism stems from infrastructure projects that stakeholders say will address two of Ladakh’s biggest constraints—seasonal road closures and limited flight capacity.The Zojila tunnel, expected to be completed by 2028, will provide year-round road connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, while the new terminal at Leh airport is expected to increase flight-handling capacity to around 54 flights a day from the current 15 to 17.Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Wednesday said 83 per cent of the physical work on Leh’s new airport terminal had been completed. Once operational, the terminal will be capable of handling up to 54 flights a day—more than three times the current capacity—advancing the government’s vision of next-generation aviation infrastructure.Norboo Wangchuk, General Secretary of the All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHGHA), told businessline that improved connectivity would be critical to ensuring the long-term growth of tourism in the region. “Once these two crucial projects are completed, Ladakh’s tourism sector will witness a major transformation,” he said.Wangchuk said all-weather road connectivity through the Zojila tunnel and increased flight capacity at Leh airport would make the region far more accessible, reduce travel uncertainties and attract more domestic as well as international tourists.After years of disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the fallout of the 2025 Pahalgam attack, Ladakh has witnessed a strong recovery in tourist arrivals this year. Figures shared by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena show that foreign tourist arrivals doubled in June.“Foreign tourist arrivals reached 6,680 in June, a 100 per cent increase over 3,349 in the same month last year,” Saxena said in a post on X. He said Ladakh recorded 1.07 lakh tourist arrivals in June, marking a 44 per cent year-on-year increase.Stakeholders said the tourist season had begun on a subdued note after the Iran-Israel conflict in June prompted many overseas travellers to defer or cancel their trips because of rising airfares.“International travel became more expensive after aviation fuel prices increased, and many tourists cancelled their bookings. However, arrivals picked up significantly in the last month,” said a hotel owner in Leh.He said sustained investment in connectivity and tourism infrastructure would be key to maintaining the current momentum. Published on July 9, 2026
