Infrastructure and Facility-Oriented Perceptions of Sports Tourism Development in Ladakh

Abstract

Background: This study explores the role of infrastructure and facilities in developing sports tourism in Ladakh, India, within the larger context of sports tourism as a driver of destination competitiveness and economic growth. Method: Using an exploratory qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 35 stakeholders from the sports and tourism sectors, including government officials and tourism service providers. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis, supported by NVivo-based word clouds and thematic coding. Results: The findings highlight a strong focus among stakeholders on infrastructure-driven development, revealing deficiencies in sport-specific facilities—especially for winter sports—and facing limitations in transport connectivity and supporting tourism infrastructure. The study shows a shift in stakeholder discourse from emphasising nature-based approaches to implementation readiness, stressing the importance of government intervention, public–private collaboration, and region-specific planning to advance sports tourism. Conclusion: Although Ladakh has notable natural and climatic advantages for adventure and winter sports, strategic investments in infrastructure, accessibility, and institutional coordination are necessary to transform the region into a well-structured and competitive sports tourism destination capable of hosting training programs and sporting events.