Hemis Festival, Ladakh

This is the time when the summer knocks at the door of Ladakh and the wait of Ladakhi people gets over to celebrate their largest festival Hemis. It holds a two-day celebration in honour of their Guru. People of Ladakh believe that he was a reincarnation of Lord Buddha. He fought with demons for the people of Ladakh and showed them the path of spirituality. Many International and National tourists gather here at the beginning of June to celebrate the Hemis festival.

This festival is organized by the head of Lama. The local people are dressed up in their finest traditional outfit for the festival celebration. The Lamas perform a sacred masked dance known as Chaam. Mask dancers perform their dance along with musical instruments like drums, longhand cymbals. These performances portray the victory of good over evil. The display of beautiful handicrafts of Ladakh is another highlight of the festival.

If you're planning a Hemis Festival tour in Ladakh, here's what you can expect

Timing: The Hemis Festival takes place in the month of June or July, typically falling on the 10th day of the Tibetan lunar month. The exact dates can vary from year to year, so it's essential to check the local calendar or consult with a travel operator for the specific dates of the festival during your visit.

Hemis Monastery: The festival is celebrated at the Hemis Monastery, which is located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) southeast of Leh, the main town of Ladakh. The monastery itself is a significant religious and cultural site, housing valuable artifacts, religious scrolls, and an awe-inspiring collection of thangkas (scroll paintings).
Hemis Monastery: The festival is celebrated at the Hemis Monastery, which is located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) southeast of Leh, the main town of Ladakh. The monastery itself is a significant religious and cultural site, housing valuable artifacts, religious scrolls, and an awe-inspiring collection of thangkas (scroll paintings).

Masked Dances: The highlight of the Hemis Festival is the mesmerizing Cham dance or Masked Dance performed by the lamas (Buddhist monks) wearing intricate and colorful masks. These dances depict various aspects of Buddhist mythology, and each dance has a specific meaning and significance. The Cham dance is believed to bring blessings and drive away evil spirits.

Religious Ceremonies: During the festival, special prayers and rituals are performed by the monks to honor Guru Padmasambhava. The rituals are accompanied by the chanting of sacred texts and the playing of traditional musical instruments, creating a serene and spiritually enriching atmosphere.

Thangka Unfurling: Every 12 years (based on the Tibetan calendar), a massive thangka painting of Guru Padmasambhava is unfurled at the Hemis Monastery during the festival. This is a rare and significant event that attracts a large number of devotees and tourists alike.

Cultural Fair: In addition to the religious ceremonies, the Hemis Festival also features a vibrant fair with stalls selling traditional handicrafts, local products, and delicious Ladakhi cuisine. It offers visitors a chance to interact with the locals and experience the unique culture of Ladakh.

Leh Exploration: While you are in Ladakh for the Hemis Festival, take the opportunity to explore Leh and its surrounding attractions, including the ancient monasteries of Shey, Thiksey, and Diskit, the stunning Pangong Lake, and the breathtaking Nubra Valley.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Hemis Festival tour, consider booking your trip with a reputable tour operator that specializes in Ladakh tours. They can arrange accommodation, transportation, and guide you through the various festival events and cultural experiences in Ladakh.

How to reach Ladakh for Hemis Festival?

Air: The nearest airport is at Leh.

Road: Hemis is an easy day trip from Leh by surface. Bus services are very frequent during the festival time.

Train: There is no direct train available on this route.

Frequently Asked Questions