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October 23, 2012

Sikkim Festivals Display the Vibrant Expression of Culture

Culture is something, which I always look forward to my trips. Visiting India was already a great opportunity for a wanderer like me and the Sikkim tour added to my pleasure.
culture of Sikkim
Sikkim, the land of monasteries has always fascinated me. On my Sikkim trip, I was sure to learn a lot about the culture of Sikkim. Having heard a lot about Sikkim fairs and festivals, I was too eager to become a bystander of those colourful occasions.

Based on my research on internet, I came across few major festivals of Sikkim. These are named as:

  • Saga Dawa
  • Drupka Teshi
  • Losoong
  • Kagyed Dance Festival
  • Phang Lhabsol
As I was in India in late November, So I decided to extend my trip to December. Reason being, to become a part of Losoong, which takes place in the tenth month of the Tibetan calendar (according to Hindu Calendar-December)

Losoong Festival is like another way to celebrate the Sikkimese New Year. It is held at the end of the harvest season and serves as the best time to rejoice and pray for a better harvest.

I headed towards Rumtek monastery to become a part of the festival. Commemorating the triumph of good over evil, The Black Hat dance took place, which was very interesting to see. I enjoyed the event with “Chamms” that takes place in various monasteries of Sikkim.

Colourfully attired, the “Chamms” look really attention grabbing. The dance represents a way to exorcise the evil spirits and to greet the good spirit. I got to taste Chaang, the local wine there, which was very common during the festival.

Losoong Festival
What I experienced was that traditional gaiety, excitement and colours by the Lepchas and Bhutias.

I was happy to plan my trip to Sikkim during the festival time as it offered me the wonderful chance to witness the extravagant carnival.

Losoong Festival in Sikkim was followed by a series of competitions among which I liked archery the most. As I got to know, these competitions were to bring out the traditional skills to public and it was very exciting to watch the competition as well.

Marking my presence in the sacred festival of Sikkim, I was contended with my Sikkim tour India where I learned a lot about Sikkimese culture.

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