Festival Tours
Those who have lived in Sikkim long enough will testify that life here is, in a sense, an on going [Lachung Monastery (North Sikkim)] festival. In one way or the other there are festivals and festivities throughout the year. This is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim. A cultural heritage which combines the flamboyant aspects of Vajrayana Buddhism and the equally splendid features of Hinduism with the original animist traditions of the Lepchas.
Life in Sikkim, like in the rest of India, is rooted firmly in religion. Everything a person does is related to his faith and his daily life is governed by the patterns and customs of his religion. Even nature finds itself incorporated in this belief.
The majestic Mt. Khangchendzonga- earth's third highest mountain -serene, proud and burnished in the splendour of its mythology, plays a dominant role in the Sikkimese life. This mountain, for the Sikkimese, is not just an example of the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature. Rather it represents the birth place of the Lepchas and is the presiding deity of Sikkim responsible for the peace and prosperity of the land and the people.
The major monasteries like Pemayangtse, Tashiding, (in West Sikkim), Tsuklakhang (the palace monastery in Gangtok), Phodong and Lachung (in North), Enchey (near Gangtok) and Rumtek (23kms from Gangtok) are the venue for the important Buddhist festivals in Sikkim. The lama dances complete with the fierce masks, the gorgeous brocade costumes, the exotic music and chants, may seem to the casual visitor a little bizarre. But to the participants and to the faithful these dances have their own symbolisms and meaning. Most of these dances recreate legends and myths connected with the birth of Buddhism and also represents the eternal battle between the good and the evil and the eventual triumph of the virtuous.
What makes the festivals and festivities of Sikkim more than just dry religious rituals is the communal participation. It is not an uncommon sight to see the Hindu population or those from other parts of India, in the monasteries watching and enjoying the lama dances or the other Buddhist ceremonies; just as it is fairly common to see the Lepchas and Bhutias celebrating Dasain and Dipavali (festival of lights) with their Hindu friends. For those visiting Sikkim the festivals of this place offer a unique opportunity to participate and sample the rich traditions of an ancient culture ; as well as the warmth and hospitality of a friendly people. Click here for details of different festivals.
