Festivals of Sikkim

Sikkim's famous mask dances provide an opportunity for a unique experience to witness a time-worn tradition, that has endured. Performed by lamas in the gompa courtyard to celebrate religious festivals, these graceful dances demonstrate perfect foot-work.

Costumed lamas with gaily painted masks, ceremonial swords and sparkling jewels, leap and swing to the rhythm of resounding drums, trumpeting horns and chanting monks.

SAGA DAWA is a very auspicious day for the Mahayana Buddhists. On this day people go to monasteries to offer butter lamps and worship. A huge procession of monks goes around Gangtok carrying the holy scriptures.

PHANG LHABSOL is a festival unique to Sikkim. It is celebrated to offer thanks to Mount Khangchendzonga, the guardian deity of Sikkim and to Yabdu, the supreme commander.

DIPAVALI, is the festival of lights.

Calendar of Events

The festivals in Sikkim are governed by a lunar calendar and may vary according to the English calendar. Festivals celebrated in Sikkim are mentioned according to the Buddhist calendar, with approximate months corresponding to the English calendar.

Saga Dawa Full moon of the 4th month, around end of May and early June. Drukpa Tseshi 4th day of the 6th month, around August. Pang Lhabsol 15th day of the 7th month, around end of August-September. Losoong Sikkimese New Year, last week of December. Losar Tibetan New Year, around February Dasain Month of Aswin, September-October Maghe Sankranti Month of Magh, around January Enchey "Chaams" 18th & 19th days of the 11th month, around December-January. Ramtek "Chaams" Tse-Chu'Chaams'- 10th day of the 5th month, around June. Winter 'Chaam' (Guthor 'Chaam') 2 days prior to Losar.

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