Ladakh has added another feather to its cap, this time through its centuries-old culinary heritage. The region’s traditional Yak Churpi-Soft cheese has won a Gold Medal at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026, marking a significant milestone for India’s artisanal dairy industry and bringing global recognition to the nomadic communities of the Changthang Valley.
Ladakh’s Yak Churpi Shines on the International Stage
Competing against nearly 2,500 cheeses from around the world, Nordic Farm’s Yak Churpi-Soft secured a Gold Medal at Brazil’s prestigious international cheese competitions. The award formed part of India’s successful debut at the event, where the country earned four medals, highlighting the growing global appreciation for Indian artisanal cheeses.
The achievement is especially remarkable because Yak Churpi has long been a staple of Ladakh’s high-altitude nomadic communities, made using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
A Centuries-Old Tradition from Changthang Valley
in the remote Changthang Valley of eastern Ladakh, yak herding is more than an occupation, it’s a way of life. Every morning begins with milking yaks that graze freely on wild alpine pastures over 4,000 metres above sea level.
Traditional churpi is prepared using fresh yak milk, which is slowly heated over wood fires before butter is separated. The remaining milk is then transformed into cheese using age-old methods that rely entirely on nature, seasonal cycles, and the pristine Himalayan environment.
For generations, every household in the region has practiced this craft, making Yak Churpi an integral part of Ladakh’s cultural identity.
Blending Heritage with Global Standards
The award-winning cheese was developed by Nordic Farm, founded by entrepreneurs Thenlay Nurboo and Mausam Narang in Leh.
Rather than changing the traditional recipe, the duo focused on refining production standards to meet international hygiene and quality benchmarks while preserving the authentic taste and texture of Ladakhi Yak Churpi.
Their efforts have helped transform a local delicacy into a globally recognised artisanal product without losing its cultural roots.
Recognition from National Leaders
The international victory received praise from across the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the winners, calling India’s success at the Brazilian cheese competition a proud moment for the nation’s artisanal dairy sector. Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor also hailed the achievement, expressing hope that the recognition would create new economic opportunities for Changthang’s yak herders and encourage younger generations to continue their traditional livelihoods.
The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), which supported the initiative, described the award as proof that Ladakh’s indigenous cheese can compete alongside some of the world’s finest cheeses.
Why This Win Matters for Ladakh Tourism
The recognition comes at a time when travelers are increasingly seeking authentic cultural and culinary experiences in Ladakh.
While destinations like Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri continue to attract visitors, Changthang’s pastoral lifestyle and traditional food culture are slowly emerging as unique travel experiences. The global spotlight on Yak Churpi could encourage more travelers to explore Ladakh beyond its landscapes, offering them a chance to experience local homestays, yak herding traditions, and indigenous Himalayan cuisine.
For the nomadic communities of Changthang, this Gold Medal represents far more than an international award. It celebrates generations of craftsmanship while opening new doors for sustainable livelihoods, rural entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation in one of the world’s highest inhabited regions.
