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Hemis Festival (June/July)

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Duration

3 days

Cancellation

No Cancellation

Group Size

1 people

Languages

English, Hindi, Ladakhi, Punjabi, Tibetten

The Hemis Festival is the most famous Buddhist festival in Ladakh and is held annually at Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and most renowned monasteries in Ladakh. Dedicated to Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, this festival is deeply rooted in spiritual and cultural traditions. It’s celebrated with great zeal and devotion and draws crowds from around the world.

Additional Tips

  • Arrive Early: The festival draws large crowds, so try to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Cham Dance and thangka unveiling.
  • Dress Warmly: The festival is held in June/July, but Ladakh’s high-altitude climate can still get cold, especially in the early mornings.
  • Respect Religious Customs: During the dances, do not interrupt or photograph without permission, especially around sacred objects.

Highlights

  • • Cham Dance: The Cham Dance is a highlight of the Hemis Festival. Monks perform these ritual dances wearing intricate masks and colorful costumes that depict Tibetan Buddhist deities, mythical figures, and heroes. The dances are accompanied by the beat of traditional drums and chants.
  • • Thangka Unveiling: A giant Thangka (Buddhist painting) is unfurled during the festival. It is a sacred act that allows devotees to seek blessings and meditate on the spiritual significance of the artwork.
  • • Rituals and Offerings: Monks perform prayers, chants, and rituals to celebrate the life and teachings of Padmasambhava, seeking protection, good fortune, and blessings for the entire region.
  • • Sacred Music: The festival includes performances of traditional Ladakhi music, featuring instruments like the drum, trumpet, and long horns that accompany the dances.

1. Day 1: Arrival and Monastery Visit

Arrive in Leh and travel to Hemis Monastery. Attend the opening ceremonies and explore the monastery complex. Be present during the thangka unveiling and the ritual prayers in the morning.

2. Day 2: Watch the Cham Dance and Procession

Spend the entire day at Hemis Monastery to witness the Cham Dance and enjoy the procession of monks. In the evening, join the locals for a spiritual gathering to listen to Buddhist chants.

3. Day 3: Local Interaction and Folk Music

Visit the nearby Hemis village to witness local traditions, interact with villagers, and learn about Ladakhi life. In the evening, enjoy local folk music and traditional dances in the community area.

Hemis Monastery

3 days

English
Hindi
Ladakhi
Punjabi
Tibetten

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Member Since 2025