Lchang Nang Retreat - Owner's Story

Nestled within the pristine expanse of Ladakh’s Nubra Valley, Lchang Nang Retreat is a sanctuary where conscious luxury meets ecological responsibility. At its helm is Rigzin Wangtak Kalon, a native of Kyagar Village, whose journey from the oil and gas industry to sustainable hospitality is as compelling as the landscape he calls home.

Born and raised in one of the most breathtaking yet ecologically fragile regions of the world, Rigzin’s connection to Ladakh runs deep. After earning a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious IIT Delhi, he spent 14 years working in the oil and gas sector. Yet, despite the success, an unshakable desire to create something more meaningful pulled him back to the mountains.

“Ladakh was changing rapidly. Tourism was booming, but with it came unsustainable practices that were straining our delicate ecosystem. I knew there had to be a better way,” he reflects. With a vision to redefine hospitality in Ladakh, Rigzin set out to build a retreat that would celebrate local culture, operate with minimal environmental impact, and offer guests an experience deeply rooted in place. And so, in 2016, Lchang Nang Retreat was born.

Every element of Lchang Nang Retreat is a testament to sustainable living. The cottages are built using traditional Ladakhi materials—locally sourced stone, mud, and wood—blending seamlessly with their surroundings. A 20 KW solar power system runs the entire property, while solar water heaters ensure a minimal carbon footprint.

“Sustainability isn’t just about being eco-friendly. It’s also about preserving culture and fostering community,” Rigzin explains.

This philosophy is evident in the retreat’s commitment to local partnerships. Farmers from nearby villages supply fresh, organic produce, and collaborations with the Women’s Alliance have created immersive experiences for guests, from village walks to the Karakoram dining experience.

At Lchang Nang, luxury is redefined—not through extravagance, but through meaningful connections.

“Our guests come here for something deeper,” Rigzin shares. “It’s about immersing in Ladakh’s essence—its landscapes, its people, its stories.”

This ethos has earned the retreat not just the loyalty of travellers seeking authenticity but also prestigious accolades. In 2024, Lchang Nang Retreat was named the overall winner of the Indian Responsible Tourism Awards—an extraordinary achievement for a boutique hotel in one of India’s most remote regions.

Never one to rest on his laurels, Rigzin is now steering Lchang Nang towards an even more sustainable future. Plans are underway to introduce luxury villas designed with solar-passive architecture, ensuring comfortable stays even in the harsh Ladakhi winters with minimal energy consumption. A world-class wellness centre, grounded in the principles of sustainability, is also in the works.

For those looking to enter the hospitality industry, Rigzin’s advice is simple yet profound: “After COVID, travellers seek more than just a hotel—they seek experiences that resonate. Focus on crafting something unique, something that leaves a positive impact. And above all, never compromise on your core values.”

Through Lchang Nang Retreat, Rigzin Wangtak Kalon has not only created an exceptional destination but also a blueprint for sustainable tourism in Ladakh. In a world increasingly aware of the delicate balance between travel and conservation, his vision serves as an inspiring testament to what’s possible when luxury and responsibility go hand in hand.