In a heartening display of solidarity and resilience, the tourism community in Ladakh has come together to support over 2,000 tourists stranded in the region due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions that have led to the temporary shutdown of several northern Indian airports.
As travel disruptions continue, local hoteliers, guesthouses, and tour operators have extended a helping hand by offering complimentary accommodation and meals to the affected travellers.
With airports non-operational and limited connectivity via road, the uncertainty initially left tourists anxious about how and when they would be able to return home. However, the local tourism stakeholders quickly mobilised to provide both comfort and logistical support. Many establishments in Leh and surrounding areas have opened their doors without charge, offering a place to stay and warm meals to ease the stress of the stranded visitors.
The All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHAGHA), for instance, issued a statement stating that it will provide complimentary accommodation to tourists stranded in Ladakh. "This decision comes at a time when it is vital for the hospitality industry to extend care and support to guests during unforeseen challenges," ALHAGHA President Rigzin Wangmo Lachic said in a statement.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to arrange safe passage for those looking to leave the region. Tour operators, in coordination with the local administration, are organising transportation to Manali, Himachal Pradesh—a key transit point for those attempting to return to cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. According to reports, these services, too, are being offered free of cost as part of the industry’s collective humanitarian response.
The unrest has also led to a wave of cancellations, with tour operators reporting near-total wipeouts of bookings for May. Operators have informed the government about their ongoing relief efforts, hoping for both recognition and future support in rebuilding the season once the situation stabilises.
(With inputs from multiple sources)