In the quiet embrace of Ladakh’s winter, snow-capped sentinels stand tall against the Zangkskar river. Within the serenity lies the nest of pristine snow and lends the perfect canvas for a group of 9 artists to start their own venture. Kangsing, a registered society in the region, has been busy since last year building an ice-cafe that could potentially attract a lot of winter tourists coming to the region.
The space would not only serve as a cafe and resting place for trekkers, tourists and local people. It will also be a hub of creativity that will showcase the beauty of snow sculptures and ice artworks of Ladakh.
Tundup Dorjey, a visionary artist hailing from Igoo Village in Ladakh, leads the Kangsing team. Armed with a master’s degree in Ceramics from Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan he has returned to his community, driven by a passion to create a unique space. While the Kangsing team has previously embarked on smaller projects in the region, this venture marks their grand debut, generating excitement in the media and among the locals.
Imagining an ice hockey arena, a children’s experience centre, and a haven for Chaddar trekkers, this ambitious project is gaining momentum, poised to draw winter tourists. Nestled under Ladakh’s azure skies and by the soothing Zangkskar river, the ice cafe promises a one-of-a-kind experience, offering a breathtaking view of the river and the snow-capped Himalayas.The Kangsing team, working tirelessly against the challenges of the terrain, is turning dreams into reality. Local communities, Ladakhi police, and dedicated workers have rallied together, providing invaluable support to bring this vision to life. In the heart of Ladakh, amidst the beauty of nature, the ice cafe emerges as more than just a project—It boasts of a human collaboration and the spirit of realising dreams in the most challenging landscapes.
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