Glaciers, magnificent scenery, and a wide variety of flora may all be found in Sikkim. As one of the world's most popular tourist attractions, it's famed for its natural splendor and rich cultural history.
With the celebration of these festivals, these aspects are well-represented. While vacationing in Sikkim, tourists may participate in a variety of events. Because of Sikkim's rich cultural legacy, the state's festivals are a fascinating blend of history, art, and enthusiasm.
All of this comes together into a stunning sight that one can't miss when vacationing in this lovely place of the world's cultural heritage. Check out the list of Sikkim's most popular festivals before planning your trip.
Sikkim is a great choice for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday because of how easy it is to fall in love with this vibrant and friendly locale. Sikkim has something new to offer every visitor, no matter how long they've come.
The Buddhist calendar governs the celebrations of Sikkim's festivals, which are marked by a great deal of fanfare. Music and dance are a big part of the celebrations in Sikkim during all of these events.
Buddhism and Hinduism are the two most prevalent faiths in Sikkim, a land steeped in cultural history dating back to the ancient monarchy that formerly ruled.
In this lovely location, people from different ethnic groups, such as the Bhutias, the Nepalese, the Lepchas, and the Tibetans, coexist, work, and have fun.
With its seven-lakh-strong people and diverse culture, Sikkim never has a month without a celebration. It's important to know about these 15 festivals in Sikkim.
Most Popular Festivals of Sikkim
Losoong Festival
It's one of Sikkim's most elaborate celebrations, Losoong. The celebration occurs during the tenth month of each year, which corresponds roughly to the December month on the Tibetan Calendar.
For the most part, Chaam dancing and archery competitions attract the most attention. December is the time of year when the celebration takes place. As the year draws to a close, this is the period when harvesting comes to an end.
The customs and practices observed during the Tibetan New Year, known as Losar, have served as a source of motivation or, more accurately, as a model for the Losoong Festival.
Losoong Festival in Sikkim, like many others in India, would not be complete without local foods. The cuisine of the Sikkimese is unique. Guests may also join in the fun by sipping on some locally brewed beverages.
The roofs of monasteries and private houses are festooned with colourful festoons and flags. Seeing the beauty of winter snow with the flora in full bloom is a sight to see.
Where is Losoong Festival celebrated - Northern part of India
Key Attraction - In a style known as Chaam, Lamas perform masked dance plays.
Date - 27th December 2021 (May vary)
Sonam Lhochar Festival
A religious celebration in Sikkim and Nepal, Sonam Lochar, is regarded as a sacred occasion. Following the Bikram Sambat calendar, the celebration takes place on the night when the new moon rises during the month of Magh.
Sikkim and Nepal have distinct names for the same day. The Tamang population uses monasteries and private homes to mark the Festival's observance. Individuals worship at monasteries or in their own homes to commemorate the day.
Also, family members go to the elders' houses to ask for their blessings. Tamangs mark a new year. Everyone gets together to see and participate in a classic mask dance.
Mask-wearing dancers perform Tamang Selo, which is said to ward off bad spirits and bring positive energy into houses. The Gusto, a classic costume, is worn by the dancers. As a visual representation of Tamang culture, clothing is a powerful visual aid.
In addition, Damphu drums, a kind of traditional percussion instrument, are performed. Regular business and school activities are prohibited in countries and regions where this holiday is commemorated. In addition to praying, many people enjoy themselves by singing and dancing with their loved ones.
Where is Sonam Lhochar Festival celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - An important part of this celebration is the traditional Damphu dance.
Date - In the middle of the February every year
Losar
The Tibetan New Year, also known as Losar, is commemorated with a multi-day festival that begins on the first day of the Tibetan lunisolar calendar and will continue for the following two weeks.
The King's Losar ceremony is held on the next day, recognized as King's Losar. Tourists and locals give the monks at the surrounding monasteries presents. Fireworks are also set off believing that they would frighten away any bad spirits.
After three days, everyone gets up bright and early, puts on their best clothing, and pays homage to the gods with food and other sacrifices. Buffet cakes and noodles with your loved ones this holiday season.
Losar is a pre-Buddhist festival celebrated by Tibetans who had practised the Bon religion before Buddhism came to their land. Gatherings of worshipers would take place in the winter to offer incense to the local gods and spirits.
Sikkim's Losar Celebration is best experienced by staying in a local's house, which offers a more authentic experience. This is how you'll get to view Losar's most notable features. The natives make Tsampa buckets, which are made from a mixture of roasted malts, flour, and butter.
Where is Losar celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - The main event occurs at Rumtek monastery two days before Losar, when Chaam is performed.
Date -In the middle of February every year
Bhumchu
The Buddhist celebration of Bhumchu occurs during the 1st month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, which corresponds to February or March in the Gregorian calendar. The celebration is named after the first moon that occurs during this month.
It is stated that Bumchu's water level may forecast the future of Sikkim for a full calendar year. If it is observed that the Bumchu is filled to the very top, it is interpreted as an omen that the next year would be one of upheaval and change.
On the other side, if the water level is low throughout the year, there will be an increased risk of illnesses. On the other hand, if the Bhumchu is at the halfway point of its capacity, the next year will be a wealthy one.
Following the ceremony's conclusion, a portion of the water is distributed to the countless travellers who are witnessing the celebration.
The vessel is then flushed with water drawn from a river in the area, after which it is covered and stored in a secure location inside the abbey until the following calendar year.
Where is Bhumchu celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - It is believed that Bumchu's water level can forecast the future of Sikkim for a full calendar year
Date - Between February to March
Chaite Dashain
A local celebration known as Chaite Dashain takes place on the seventh day of the Baishakha month, according to the Bikram Sambat calendar. For those of us who live by the western calendar, it normally takes place around Late March or in April.
Bikram Sambat's last month, Chait is when Chaite Dashain occurs. The 15-day long major Dashain takes place in the autumn, whereas the 2-day long little Dashain takes place in the spring.
The Nepali community in Sikkim celebrates a well-known Nepali holiday, Chaite Dashain, popularly called Ram Navami. Nepali influences heavily influence Sikkim's history and customs.
Chaite Dashain commemorates Rama's triumph against Ravana, the ten-headed monster, with the assistance of the maa Durga, also known as Bhagawati, in the classic Ramayana.
Where is Chaite Dashain celebrated - All over India
Key Attraction - Gigantic images of the goddess A procession of Durga sculptures was transported the next day to the sacred rivers to commemorate the conclusion of Dashain.
Date - Between March and April
Saga Dawa
Several centuries of distinguished history may be traced back to Saga Dawa. During the inaugural meeting of the World Fellowship of Buddhists, which took place in Sri Lanka in the year 1950 and formally confirmed the day, the anniversary was established.
The celebration is now observed by people all over the world! A variety also knows it of other names and monikers. One of Sikkim's greatest popular and revered festivals, Saga Dawa, is performed with tremendous fanfare each year.
Mahayana Buddhists honour Lord Buddha's arrival, his achievement of wisdom, and his liberation from this physical realm on this fortunate date. Of all the places to view Buddhist history, Saga Dawa festival is best for tourists and cultural connoisseurs who want a glimpse into the rich Buddhist culture.
The procession is conducted after the ceremony. Begin in Gangtok's Tsuk-La-Lang Monastery, with monks leading the procession with sacred books and beautiful images adorning their shoulders. Buddhist songs are sung in the background, creating an intoxicating mood.
Where is Saga Dawa celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - Saga Dawa festival is best for tourists and cultural connoisseurs who want a glimpse into the rich Buddhist culture.
Date - Between June to July
Tendong Lho Rum Faat
Tendong Lho Rum Faat, one of Sikkim's oldest and most prominent festivities, is observed by the Lepcha people. The opening ceremonies of this three-day event in Sikkim occur at Namchi, located in South Sikkim.
According to Lepcha legend, it was thought that the whole Lepcha clan was spared from a massive flood that's been produced by nonstop rain and lasted for forty days and forty nights.
This flood was so severe that it submerged the whole Mayel Lyang region, known as Sikkim. During the celebrations, residents erect a Mountain-shaped model outside their houses, where they pay homage to it.
Nine stones are the only ones used in its construction, and the devotees wear masks to invoke the gods' favour. Tendong Hill near Namchi is the site of the most elaborate celebrations of the event, which is observed throughout Sikkim. South Sikkim's administrative and political centre is located at Namchi.
Where is Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - During the celebrations, residents erect a Mountain-shaped model outside their houses, where they pay homage to it.
Date - 8th August 2021( May Vary )
Indrajatra Festival
Indra Jatra is a Nepalese national festival celebrated with much fanfare each year. On the other side, Sikkim is one of the places that observes it.
This event is significant because it pays respect to Lord Indra and the mother in the hopes that they may bestow their blessing on the coming harvesting season. Yenla, Nepal's eleventh month, is when Indra Jatra takes place on its 15th day.
During this Festival, which lasts for eight days, the local farmers show their appreciation to Lord Indra and the mother, Dagini, and ask for the success of the next crop season.
Two little girls, roughly 3 years old, are picked as actual representations of deities following the customs of this event. Carrying them is the only way to get them around.
Once a girl reaches puberty, she no longer qualifies as a goddess. Lord Ganesha and Bhairab are 2 young lads accompanying the females throughout the festivities. Large crowds gather to pay their respects in front of the 12-foot-tall Bhairab monument.
Where is Indra Jatra celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - During this FestivalFestival, which lasts for eight days, the local farmers show their appreciation to Lord Indra and the mother, Dagini, and ask for the success of the next crop season.
Date - 20th September 2021 (May Vary)
Pang Lhabsol
The Festival of Pang Lhabsol is held to honour and respect Mount Kanchenjunga, which is ranked third tallest among mountains. Pang means to witness, and in addition to paying respects, it also celebrates the brotherhood pact that Lepchas and Bhutias signed.
It symbolizes the Sikkimese people's togetherness. The Pang Lhabsol Festival in Sikkim attracts a large number of visitors in addition to the natives.
People from many walks of life attend because of the wonderful enthusiasm and excitement that permeates the event. There will be parades, lama warrior dances, and other cultural acts and the preparation of a variety of Sikkimese cuisine.
In Sikkim, particularly in monasteries, people celebrate the mysterious Festival of Pang Lhabsol Sikkim. Gangtok's Tsuklakhang Monastery, a spectacular carnival, takes place.
There are celebrations in Sikkim that bring people from different ethnic groups along. This shows the community peace in Sikkim and shows how people from different ethnic groups join together to celebrate.
Where is Pang Lhabsol celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - This festival shows the community peace in Sikkim and shows how people from different ethnic groups join together to celebrate.
Date - 2nd September 2021 (May Vary)
Tihaar
When it comes to Tihaar in Sikkim, the festival of Diwali, it's a big deal to light candles and sing traditional songs. It is worth pointing out that one of the most well-known and major Hindu festivals, Diwali, is known as Tihar in Sikkim and other regions of North East India.
This is something that has to be addressed. The year's Festival of Lights illuminates the whole state, making it possible for a person to lighten their homes and their spirits.
Aside from the traditional Buddhist celebrations of Tihar, which include animal sacrifices, a Laxmi Ganesh Pujan, cracker breaking, and singing, other noteworthy events include the celebration of animal sacrifices, a Laxmi Ganesh Pujan, and more.
On the 3rd day of the Festival, the cows are honoured by having garlands placed around their necks and having their horns decorated with vibrant colours. On the fourth day, the bullocks have an opportunity to show off.
On the 5th day, which is also referred to as Bhai Tika, brothers visit the houses of their siblings and paint their foreheads red with tikas.
Where is Tihaar celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - On the 3rd day of the Festival, the cows are honoured by having garlands placed around their necks and having their horns decorated with vibrant colours.
Date - 4th November 2021 (May Vary)
Annual Sikkim Paragliding Festival
Paragliding is popular in Sikkim, and it's one of the greatest spots in India to do it. Paragliding in Sikkim is quickly becoming one of the most exciting forms of adventure tourism in the state. This is true for both residents and tourists visiting the region.
Your mind will be blown by the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, valleys, and towns that you'll see when paragliding in Sikkim. So, go out there and fly as you've never flown before in Sikkim! It's possible to get a stunning glimpse of the Himalayas while flying over the beautiful landscapes of Sikkim.
You may also get a bird's-eye view of Gangtok from the top of a nearby mountain. Because of the state's dense forest covering, you may go along a clean, unobstructed path with the help of knowledgeable guides.
Paragliding is better achieved when the sun is shining, and the climate is favourable so that you can have a beautiful perspective of the city's natural splendour. Paragliding's best months are March through June and September through November. Temperatures are generally comfortable, and the sky is almost always clear during this time of year.
Where is Annual Sikkim Paragliding Festival celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - Your mind will be blown by the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, valleys, and towns that you'll see when paragliding in Sikkim.
Date - March to June and September to November
Mangan Music Festival
The district headquarters of North Sikkim is located at Mangan. It's 67 km from Gangtok, the nearest big city. Despite its size, Mangan serves as a stunning district headquarters.
Mangan music festival is a charming place with breathtaking vistas and plenty of environmental splendour. With its beautiful scenery, Mangan is an ideal place to stop on the way to other places in the area.
It is well known that Mangan's music event lasts for three full days throughout the December of every year. As one of Sikkim's rich traditions of fests, the Mangam Music Festival brings a diverse lineup of musical acts and a tonne of excitement to the whole state.
The 3 days Mangam Music Festival, which takes place in December, honours the state's rich cultural history. Folks may purchase handcrafted goods from the region and sample its exquisite food at this annual expo. Tourists flock to the music event, which features music, chilly weather, and mountains, to create a unique atmosphere.
Where is Mangan Music Festival celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - Mangan's music event lasts for three full days throughout the December of every year.
Date - Between the 12th to 14th of December
Hee Bermiok Festival
The Limboo ethnic group is heavily represented in Hee Gaun. Sikkimise's indigenous people practice a unique blend of religion, culture, and way of life. It's a way of life they've maintained for generations.
They have a distinct eating style and other customs rooted in their socio-cultural heritage. The strategy serves to maintain the Limboos' old cultural legacy, on the one hand, while drawing visitors from across the globe.
During Hee Bermiok's yearly Heritage & Tourism Festival, which takes place from May 10 to 13, the local culture and traditions of West Sikkim are celebrated.
One of its events is a celebration of the village's past when everyone worked together to grow crops and the only entertainment was community dances and music. The visitor may sample regional dishes and brews in the residential properties of many different communities across the world.
There will be food sellers from across the globe on hand at the Festival to satisfy the taste buds. At Gufa Dara, the organizers have set up homestays and campgrounds for tourists and guests.
Where is Hee Bermiok Festival celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - The visitor may sample regional dishes and brews in the residential properties of many different communities across the world.
Date - Between the 10th to 13th of May
Maghe Sankranti
Sankranti, also known in certain regions as Makar Sankranti, is an important day for Hindus who believe that spring is on its way. The Nepalese celebrate this as a big secular holiday. On January 14, each year, it occurs.
It's a prominent Nepalese secular celebration to celebrate Maghe Sankranti, or the beginning of the tenth lunar month, according to the Bikram Sambat calendar.
Around some regions of India, this three-day holiday, named Makker Sakranti, is celebrated in the middle of January. On January 14, each year, it occurs.
A celebration known as Makkar is held for bathing, and it is held at the point where the Rangit and Tista rivers meet. Participants swim in both rivers.
At the confluence of numerous rivers, there are a number of major fairs and melas taking place on this particular day. Thousands of residents and visitors alike flock to participate in what has grown into a huge event.
In 1955, the inaugural Jorethang Agricultural Fair was conducted, which is believed to be the ancestor of today's mela. Attendees may peruse hundreds of booths offering and displaying a wide variety of goods.
Where is Maghe Sankranti celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - At the confluence of numerous rivers, there are a number of major fairs and melas taking place on this particular day.
Date - 14th January
Guru Rinpoche's Thunkar Tshechu
When Guru Rinpoche was born, monasteries and Buddhist monks throughout the state celebrated by leading parades through the markets and performing special prayers and rites to honour the occasion.
Trungkar Tsechu is celebrated throughout the year between July to august of the Tibetan Lunar Calendar. Bay Dremojong is a sacred name given to Sikkim by Guru Rimpoche, a beloved and venerated guardian saint in the area that borders Bhutan and Tibet.
Asambhava's eminence as Lord Buddha's primary student and colleague shines out in the Buddhist monks' universe of Arahats and Rimpoches. Because of his influence, this region became mostly a Buddhist one. The Sikkimese hold Guru Padmasambhava in great esteem regardless of their religious affiliation.
Where is Guru Rinpoche's Thunkar Tshechu celebrated - Sikkim
Key Attraction - When Guru Rinpoche was born, monasteries and Buddhist monks throughout the state celebrates by leading parades through the markets and performing special prayers and rites to honour the occasion.
Date - Between July to August
Conclusion
Sikkim is often regarded as among the most beautiful places to visit in India. Each year, it brings in tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of visitors.
With the Festival, the city’s many traits will be highlighted in an all-encompassing package that showcases the region's tourism potential.
You will take it with you and have a good time with it. Locals in Sikkim celebrate their festivals with tremendous vigour, making it the finest destination to visit if you want to immerse yourself in the country's rich heritage and culture.
As a result of all of the festivities, the colourful setting transforms into a spectacular sight that should not be missed while on vacation in this beautiful place.
Feasts and celebrations are a powerful expression of a place's history, culture, and customs, providing a personal touch of belongingness and connection. Participating in different celebrations is a certain method of maintaining a happy disposition.
Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many Festivals are in Sikkim?
So many celebrations and fairs are held each year in this northeastern state because of its people's diverse backgrounds. Most significantly, they embrace their festivals with tremendous enthusiasm, making it one of the greatest places to visit in the world.
Pang Lhabsol, Bumchu, and others, such as Sikkim's Losar, are some of the many festivals that showcase the region's vibrant culture and rich customs.
Q2. Which one is the famous Festival of Sikkim?
Sikkim has a long and illustrious history that is steeped in a variety of religious and cultural traditions. Sikkim is one of the nation's quietest and most peaceful states because of these traditions, which have served to unite the state's many ethnic groupings.
When it comes to religious and cultural celebrations, the people of this state are united in their passion and devotion regardless of their creed or affiliation.
Q3. Which Festival is celebrated as the Festival of light in Sikkim?
Tihar, the Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated around the same time. One full fortnight after Dasain, people gather to celebrate this Festival.
Lord Ram's homecoming from exile was celebrated by burning clay lights around Ayodhya on this day, as per the tale. It is customary for every Hindu to clean, whitewash, and paint their homes and surroundings before the celebration.
Here are the Festivals of Sikkim :-
