himalayan holidays

October 1st, 2010

Stone God in Local Temple

For those looking to use the upcoming holiday season as a chance to escape, why not coincide personal celebrations with new cultural experiences at the same time. (Have your Christmas cookies and try some Tukpa too.)

The region of Ladakh, India has several important upcoming holidays, and we’ve rounded up a few of the upcoming celebrations so you don’t have to do the leg work. Explore the region on a customizable walking tour with Shakti and include the holiday fun in your itinerary.  Check out these festivals you won’t want to miss:

Thiksay Gustor

October 25-26

Held at the Thiskey Monastery (the largest structure in central Ladakh), this festival celebrates the ritualistic dispersal of the Torma (sacrificial cake). This act symbolizes the destruction of all forms of evils. This festival is attended by those who want to take part in the festivities and expand their spiritual well-being.  Colorfully-garbed monks perform five memorable performances of dance, acrobatics, and drama. Rid of the evil spirits in your life just before Halloween stateside.

Chemrey Angchok

November 4-5

The Indian precursor to Thanksgiving, this two-day extravaganza celebrates the rich cultural diversity of Ladakh’s people. This year the colorful festivity will be held at Chemrey Monastery. There’s more than one reason this festival is most popular with tourists – music, theatre folk dances are preformed in the street leading up to a final carnival parade.  

While visiting, don’t miss the monastery’s 10-foot sculpture of Padmasambhava (a sage guru) and special collection of scriptures with writing in actual silver and gold.

Galdan Namchot

November 30

Sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to Tsongkhapa on November 30 for Galdan Namchot taking place all over Ladakh. The day celebrates the birthday and Buddha-hood of the Tibetan saint and scholar that founded the Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism (believing compassion is the most important pillar). To mark the day, all monastic, public and residential buildings are illuminated and traditional Tukpa’ is served.

Losar

December 6

Preparations begin long before its date, as goats and sheep are stored alongside Chang (local barley beer) in anticipation for the celebration of the end of harvest. To mark the end of their labor, people put on new clothes and jewelry and enjoy the feast! Taking place all over Ladakh, if Thanksgiving never leaves you quite satisfied – this ought to do it.

Spituk Gustor

January 2-3, 2011

This celebration falls in the 11th month on the Tibetan calendar – but provides a great way to kick off the Western. The holiday represents the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated with a mask dance performed by the monks representing the guardians, protectors and the gods and goddesses. Held at Spituk Monastery to celebrate the betterment of mankind, beat the Times Square shenanigans and celebrate the New Year in Buddhist style.

While these Ladakhi celebrations offer a unique chance to learn and experience new customs and cultures, the messages at the core resonate with all.

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