In a remarkable event high up in the Himalayas, at Umling-la, the highest motorable road globally, situated at an astonishing altitude of 190,024 feet, history was made with the World’s Highest International Fashion Runway. This fashion show, part of the Vibrant Ladakh festival, featured models from 14 different countries.
The event was organized by the Ladakh administration and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Leh, in collaboration with Ladakh Art and Entertainment Alliance, with support from the Indian Army and Border Roads Organisation.
The fashion show aimed to celebrate India’s diverse culture, exemplified by the idea of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ and showcased the prized Pashmina of Ladakh, which has a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The event also highlighted the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism, according to an official spokesperson.
The models wore outfits inspired by the colors of spring and summer and displayed Pashmina products from the Changthang region.
This event was significant as it allowed international tourists to stay overnight in Hanle, and local villagers expressed their appreciation by honoring the models with special cultural performances.
Tashi Gyalson, the Chairman of LAHDC, praised this achievement and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for enabling foreign tourists to visit, anticipating increased tourism activities in the region.