Festivals
Hemis Tsechu
Hemis Tsechu Festival
Hemis Tsechu is a vibrant two-day festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism’s Nyingma order. Also known as the Hemis Festival, it takes place at the Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Ladakh, India.
The festival falls on the 10th day of the fifth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, which usually translates to 16th June 2024
Hemis Tsechu is a colorful and lively celebration that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. Here’s what you can expect:
- Cham Dances:The highlight of the festival is the masked Cham dances performed by monks in elaborate costumes. These dances depict stories from Buddhist mythology and are believed to ward off evil spirits.
- Monastery Decorations: The Hemis Monastery is adorned with beautiful thangkas (painted scrolls) and colorful flags during the festival.
- Offerings: People make offerings of food, butter lamps, and incense to the deities.
- Archery and Polo Competitions: Traditional archery and polo competitions are also held during the festival.
- Folk Music and Dance: The festival is filled with the sounds of folk music and dance performances.
If you’re planning to visit Ladakh during Hemis Tsechu, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance as hotels tend to fill up quickly.
