Introduction

Many of the festivals around Keylong are family or community based ones and by and large, visitors are welcome to join in. Revelry and dancing mark practically every one of these events and their joyous celebration of life. Bhumskor is a religious - agrarian festival where the fields are blessed by the lamas. In January-February comes Halda, the New Year celebration. Along the valleys of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, a few members of every household step out with lit cedar twigs to a west oriented place selected by the lamas. These slender branches form the first flames of a bonfire which is then dispersed. The goddess of wealth, Shiskar Apa is worshipped, flowers are offered by way of greeting and the festivities continue for a couple of days. On a mid-night towards the end of the month of Paush (December-January), Phagli begins in the Pattan valley, with snow being packed in a conical basket - kilta. This is upturned on a roof and resembles a Shivalinga. Shiva, Naga and the goddess Hadimba are worshipped, and the younger generation also marks the moment by venerating village elders. Chhang and lugari, locally brewed liquors flow freely and ritual dishes are eaten. Ritual dances and an unbelievably rich imagery mark Lossar in February. Lahaul's monasteries have some of the most spectacular dances.

Of all the festivals, and one that has been started keeping visitors and tourists in mind, is the annual tribal fair. This coincides with Independence Day and is celebrated in Keylong with great pomp and show from 14th to 16th August. This is one time when Lahaul turns out in its celebratory best and the event is marked by dances (including the highly stylised 'chhaam' dance, with elaborate costumes and masks; this commemorates the assassination of the cruel Tibetan king, Lang Darma in the ninth century). Music and other events are a part of this event.

Special Attributes

Unique festivals with exotic costumes and music

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Comfortable

Connectivity

By taxi, bus or on foot

Enjoyed by

Culture buffs

Exposure

Yes. UV is high. Sunscreen lotion and other appropriate precautions are suggested.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Parking and restaurants in Keylong

Things Not Allowed

Not such restriction

Tip

For the tribal festival, try and get in early for good seats.

Type of site

Monasteries or open spaces