Founder
Dolkhar
Rigzin Lachic, a Ladakhi entrepreneur, spent the majority of her life away from her home due to the nature of her father's job. After attending a boarding school in Ooty and studying to become an engineer at NSIT in Delhi, she worked in Japan for several years and also contributed to astartup in Delhi. However, she felt a strong pull to reconnect with her roots and contribute more meaningfully. Recognizing the potential of tourism in Ladakh but also acknowledging the challenges posed by climate instability, Rigzin embarked on a mission to reshape the tourism sector.
Driven by her deep love for Ladakh's environment, people, and culture, Rigzin's passion led her to establish a sustainable boutique resort named "Dolkhar." This establishment is an embodiment of Ladakh's essence, showcasing its architecture, traditional crafts, unique ingredients, and
landscape. The inspiration for Dolkhar was rooted in her fond memories of her grandmother, who exhibited a strong connection with the land. This emotional connection, coupled with the urgency to preserve disappearing traditions, laid the foundation for Dolkhar's creation. The name itself,
"Dolkhar," pays homage to Rigzin's grandmother and encapsulates her commitment to giving back to the community that she holds dear.
Beyond Dolkhar, Rigzin's dedication to preserving Ladakh's culture extended to co-founding "Hatti," a social enterprise that empowers local artisans and showcases Ladakh's rich metal, ceramic, wood, and textile crafts. This initiative is a reflection also of her multidimensional approach to cultural preservation and sustainable development.
Rigzin, recently elected President of the All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHGHA), has been a driving force in shaping Ladakh's tourism industry. Previously serving as Vice President and General Secretary, she has consistently championed sustainable practices and community-centric initiatives. Her leadership has been instrumental in bridging the gap between the local community and the administration, particularly during Ladakh's transition into a union territory. ALHGHA, under her presidency, has actively worked on formulating and enhancing policies that promote responsible tourism and environmental consciousness. Their efforts include advocating for sustainable practices and encouraging conscious choices that positively impact the region's delicate ecosystem.
Rigzin's journey is characterised by a deep understanding of Ladakh's unique identity, a commitment to sustainable development, and a genuine connection with her community. Her approach to hospitality stands as a testament of her core values, and her work has set an example for the entire trans-Himalayan belt. As she navigates the intricate dynamics of
stakeholder engagement and community involvement, Rigzin continues to contribute significantly to the evolution of Ladakh's tourism industry, all while upholding her belief in the power of sustainable, culturally rooted practices.
Rigzin's exceptional achievements also encompass a multitude of accolades: Dolkhar in the past year has garnered recognition on platforms including Conde Nast Traveller as “CondeNast Global Hotlist 2023” and on TIME magazine's "World's Greatest Places" feature, as well as in prominent
digital publications like Platform Magazine, Homegrown Magazine, and STIR Magazine, in addition to numerous online blogs and news features across Indian news outlets. Silicon India Magazine lauded Dolkhar in their annual compilation of the “ten best sustainable tourism startups”.
Tsas, a significant part of Rigzin's endeavours, earned a spot on CondeNast's 9 Most Innovative Restaurants in India in 2022 and secured a nomination for the revered Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2023- vying for excellence in the Best Regional Restaurants category. Rigzin Lachic's indomitable spirit also earned her nominations across four categories at the renowned "Inspiring Women in Travel - Asia (IWTA) 2023 Awards, " hosted by Travel Daily Media and her dedication positioned her as the deserving recipient of both the 'Forward Thinker in Travel' and the "Women of the Future" awards.
Most recently, Rigzin Lachic was invited as a panellist for News18's impactful "Rising India SheShakti" initiative, a unifying platform that celebrated exceptional women from diverse spheres who contribute significantly to India's ascent.
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