Events

Experience the Ladakh Marathon: A Journey Through Time and Terrain Imagine running through an ancient Buddhist kingdom, where every step takes you deeper into a landscape steeped in history and breathtaking beauty. The Ladakh Marathon offers a rare opportunity to test your endurance against the backdrop of Leh, the historic capital of Ladakh. As you navigate the dramatic climbs, cross the serene Indus River, and push yourself to conquer the heights of Khardung La, you’ll find yourself immersed in one of the most challenging and rewarding marathons in the world. Held annually in September, this marathon is not just a race; it’s a cultural and physical journey like no other. […]

9th Edition – Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2024 “A Journey into the Heart of Zanskar: Celebrating Timeless Traditions Amidst Majestic Peaks” Nestled in the remote and serene landscapes of Ladakh, where the towering peaks of the Himalayas kiss the heavens, lies the mystical valley of Zanskar—a place where time seems to stand still, and ancient traditions are woven into the very fabric of life. It is in this breathtakingly beautiful region that we invite you to experience the 9th Edition of the Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2024, a celebration that brings to life the rich cultural heritage of Zanskar in all its glory. Are you ready to join the vibrant Zanskar Festival […]

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 […]