Munish Sood
MANDI: The pristine Zanskar Valley is all set to host one of its grandest cultural spectacles — the Zanskar Festival 2025 — scheduled for September 20-21 at Sani village. The two-day event will bring together some of Ladakh’s most celebrated artists and performers, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the region’s living traditions, music and art forms.
This year’s edition promises to be extra special with live performances by some of Ladakh’s most famous names from the music industry. Dorjay Stakmo, Padma Dolkar, Phuntsog Tsokar, Faisal Ashoor, KKT Tundup, Dashugs Band and Spaow Musical Band will set the stage alive with their soulful melodies and energetic beats. Their presence is expected to draw large audiences, adding a modern flavour to the deeply traditional festival.
Culture, dance, heritage on display
Beyond music, the Zanskar Festival will showcase Ladakh’s unique cultural wealth. Traditional folk dances, the famous masked Cham rituals and displays of indigenous costumes will reflect the valley’s timeless heritage. Artisans from across the region will exhibit Thangka paintings, handcrafted textiles, wood carvings and jewellery, while food stalls will serve authentic Ladakhi cuisine, creating a wholesome cultural experience for visitors.
Organisers view the festival as a vital opportunity to promote sustainable tourism in Zanskar, one of Ladakh’s most remote valleys. Events like these not only attract domestic and international tourists but also bring direct benefits to local communities through homestays, handicraft sales and traditional food stalls.
Authorities believe that the presence of big-name artists will help position Zanskar as a cultural tourism hub, beyond its already famous trekking and adventure sports opportunities.
Social media buzz around the hashtags #LadakhZanskarFestival2025, #ZanskarFestival and #LadakhCulture has already amplified global attention, with travel agencies reporting growing interest in festival-linked itineraries.
The festival venue — Sani village — carries immense cultural and spiritual significance. Known for the ancient Sani Monastery, associated with Guru Padmasambhava, the location blends centuries of tradition with the vibrancy of modern celebration. Hosting the event here symbolises continuity between Ladakh’s sacred past and its evolving cultural identity.
Cultural experts highlight the importance of such festivals in preserving Ladakh’s unique identity amid modernisation and climate challenges. By providing platforms for local talent and engaging younger generations, the Zanskar Festival plays a key role in ensuring that Ladakh’s traditions remain vibrant for future generations.
The Zanskar Festival 2025 will be held on September 20-21 at Sani, Zanskar. With a line-up featuring Dorjay Stakmo, Padma Dolkar, Phuntsog Tsokar, Faisal Ashoor, KKT Tundup, Dashugs Band and Spaow Musical Band, the event promises to be Ladakh’s biggest cultural celebration, a true feast of music, art and heritage in the heart of the Himalayas.
