Full Breakdown
Ladakh’s Twin Flower Fields Open as World’s Highest-Altitude Floriculture Project
By Drooid · · How we work
Inauguration of the Highest-Altitude Flower Fields
Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena inaugurated twin flower gardens at Choglamsar and Stakna in Leh, marking the launch on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday. The ceremony highlighted the project as a showcase of agricultural diversification in the Union Territory’s cold-desert environment.
Project Scope and Agricultural Details
The gardens cover 40 acres and host over 25 lakh flowers, comprising approximately 24 lakh Lilium and 1 lakh Gladiolus. Planting at Choglamsar began on July 16, with the first blooms appearing in the first week of September. At Stakna, planting of nearly 14 lakh Lilium started in August, with blooms expected by the end of October. The administration plans to expand cultivation to include tulips and other ornamental species for domestic and international markets. The fields will serve as a demonstration and training centre where farmers and youth can learn modern cultivation techniques, scientific farming practices, and post-harvest management.
Official Vision and Expected Impact
He emphasized that floriculture is a high-value activity that can complement traditional agriculture, enhance incomes, and generate employment and entrepreneurship. The project envisions transfer of the cultivated fields to self-help groups and cooperatives after the first harvest, with the Agriculture Department assisting in marketing. Public access is scheduled from September 18, with entry fees of Rs 25 for adults and Rs 10 for children; revenue will fund garden maintenance.
Data & Statistics
- 40 acres of cultivated land
- 25 lakh total flowers (24 lakh Lilium, 1 lakh Gladiolus)
- Lilium wholesale price: Rs 60-70 per stick (retail higher)
- Public opening fee: Rs 25 (adults), Rs 10 (children)
Verbatim Quote
“The long-term success of the project will depend on the sustainability of flower cultivation in Ladakh’s high-altitude environment, access to irrigation, production costs and market linkages” — an official