Vanishing Nomads : The World Through the Lens For centuries, the nomads of Karnak have navigated some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring yet unforgiving landscapes while tending to their herds. Will their time-honored traditions endure through the sweeping migrations that define their way of life? Tsering Stobdan demonstrated the art of using a yak-hair sling by placing pebbles inside and propelling them through the air with a deft flick of his wrist. He explained that this technique is crucial for safeguarding his livestock from predators and retrieving stray goats. It’s just one of the many skills he has perfected to thrive in this challenging environment. In contrast, at an elevation […]
To reach the Desert Rain Café in the heart of Leh, you must veer off the bustling main street that leads to the mosque and navigate a narrow passageway that runs parallel to the back alleys. These alleys are barely paved and so narrow that more than three people passing through at the same time is nearly impossible. The ruins of the Leh Palace loom over from the hilltop above. Entering through the back door of a building and climbing a steep staircase in traditional Himalayan style, you arrive at a small second-floor space overlooking Bazaar Street. As you step inside and remove your shoes, you’re greeted by a miraculous […]
Date & Venue: Location: Ladakh Dates: December 31, 2024 – January 14, 2025 Overview Welcome the Ladakhi New Year with joy and tradition. Losar, the Ladakhi New Year, is a time of festivity and cultural celebration. This 15-day event symbolizes the dispelling of negativity and the welcoming of prosperity and good fortune. During Losar, the entire region of Ladakh comes alive with vibrant celebrations. Friends and family visit each other’s homes, exchanging greetings and good wishes. Monasteries hold special prayer sessions, and the lighting of prayer lamps transforms houses, monasteries, stupas, and business establishments into a dazzling spectacle. The festival extends over nine days, featuring a variety of rituals and […]
When: December 25, 2024 Where: Across Ladakh Galdan Namchot heralds the New Year in Ladakh with joy and light. Honoring Je Tsongkhapa, the Tibetan scholar and Gelugpa sect founder, this festival sees every monastery, public building, and home aglow with lights. Butter lamps are lit, symbolizing light’s triumph over darkness. Delicious traditional foods are prepared, and families gather to share meals and festive cheer. Festive Highlights: Illumination: Every corner of Ladakh shines with lights. Butter Lamps: Symbolic of light prevailing over darkness. Feasting: Families and friends enjoy traditional delicacies together. Getting There: By Air: The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, just 1 km away. By Train: […]
Where: Chemrey Monastery When: November 21-22, 2024 Nestled in the serene landscapes of Ladakh, Chemrey Monastery stands as a testament to the region’s rich spiritual heritage. Established in 1664 by Lama Tagsang Ragspa in honor of King Sengge Namgyal, this ancient monastery has been a beacon of Tibetan Buddhism for centuries. King Deldan Namgyal and Queen Mother Skalzang Dolma, son and wife of Sengge Namgyal, were its prominent patrons. The monastery is renowned for its impressive two-storied statue of Guru Padmasambhava and its association with the Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Every year, Chemrey Monastery comes alive with the Chemrey Wangchok Festival, celebrated on the 28th and 29th of the […]
Location: Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh Dates: November 18th – 19th, 2024 Festival Overview: Every year, the Thiksey Gustor Festival takes place in the 9th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, specifically on the 17th, 18th, and 19th days. This event is deeply rooted in the Gelukpa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and is hosted by Thiksey Monastery. Highlights: Vibrant Mask Dances: Monks donning elaborate silk robes and masks depicting various deities perform traditional dances, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Intricate Sand Mandalas: Skilled monks craft sand mandalas representing Guyusamaja, Chakrasamvara, and Vajravairava deities. These intricate designs, made from millions of grains of colored sand, symbolize the divine abodes and serve as meditation aids. […]
Location: Diskit Monastery, Nubra Valley Dates: From October 30, 2024 To October 31, 2024 Immerse Yourself in the Deskit Gustor Festival Nestled in the scenic Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhism. Founded by the venerable Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a direct disciple of Tsong-kha-pa, this monastery is both the largest and oldest in the region. Perched majestically on a hilltop, it commands a panoramic view of the valley and the Shayok River below. As a key site of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect, it is renowned not only for its historical significance but also for the vibrant celebration of the Deskit Gustor […]
Location Highlights: Kargil: Garkone, Darchik, Chanigond/Shilikchay, Karkichu Leh: Hundri, Turtuk, Lehdo, Saspol Event Overview: The Ladakh Tourism Department proudly presents the Apricot Blossom Festival, a vibrant celebration of local heritage, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s rich culture. Spanning from April 6 to April 18, 2024, this festival transforms the serene landscapes of Leh and Kargil into hubs of festivity. Throughout these dates, various locations in the valley will host day-long events where attendees can enjoy an array of activities. From lively cultural performances and traditional music to bustling markets and engaging games, there’s something for everyone. Witness the apricot trees in full bloom and explore the unique […]
Celebrating : Leh Ladakh Festival 2024 September in Leh brings a vibrant celebration lasting four days, known as the Leh Ladakh Festival. This annual event, organized by the tourism department, highlights the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh’s diverse communities and tribes. Visitors can enjoy traditional folk dances and songs, exciting local sports such as polo and archery, and exhibitions featuring thangkas and handicrafts. Monastic dances, a food festival, and local Chang (liquor) tastings add to the festive atmosphere. The timing of the festival coincides with the harvest season, offering a chance to savor fresh organic vegetables and fruits. Ladakh is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes that attract tourists, adventurers, and […]
Where: Sani Monastery, Kargil When: 20 – 21 July 2024 Entry: Free Discover the Magic of Sani Nasjal Celebrate the enchanting Sani Nasjal festival at the historic Sani Monastery in Zanskar, Ladakh. This event takes place when the Guru Naropa Flower blooms, usually during the first week of August, but this year it will be held in July. The festivities are deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality, centered around the revered figure of Naropa, a prominent Indian yogi from the 10th-11th century. Event Highlights: Unveiling of the Naropa Statue: Witness the grand reveal of Naropa’s statue, a key moment of the festival. Mask Dances by Lamas: Enjoy the captivating mask […]
