Latest news with #HemisFestival
San Francisco Chronicle
07-07-2025
- General
- San Francisco Chronicle
Photos of a Buddhist festival show ritual dances in India's Ladakh
LADAKH, India (AP) — One by one, 13 Buddhist monks wearing brightly colored silk costumes and wide-brimmed black hats, stepped onto the rectangular courtyard of the Hemis monastery. They began a ritual dance to a slow rhythm set by drums, cymbals and horns. As they moved, the white human skull motifs on their costume caught the morning sun. They danced to ward off mythical evil beings and clear the courtyard of negative energy. That set the stage for the ritual dances to follow at the Hemis Festival — or Hemis Tsechu. Hemis Gompa belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the most important monasteries in Ladakh. Built in the 17th century, it lies at an elevation of about 3,560 meters (12,000 feet) in the northern Indian desert mountainous territory. The festival, believed to have originated in the first half of the 18th century and observed annually ever since, commemorates the birthday of the 8th-century Indian master Padmasambhava, who is credited to have helped establish Buddhism in Tibet. The two-day summer festival falls on the 10th and 11th days of the fifth month in the Tibetan calendar. This year's festival was observed on July 5 and 6.
Al Arabiya
07-07-2025
- General
- Al Arabiya
Photos of a Buddhist festival show ritual dances in India's Ladakh
One by one, 13 Buddhist monks wearing brightly colored silk costumes and wide-brimmed black hats stepped onto the rectangular courtyard of the Hemis Monastery. They began a ritual dance to a slow rhythm set by drums, cymbals, and horns. As they moved, the white human skull motifs on their costumes caught the morning sun. They danced to ward off mythical evil beings and clear the courtyard of negative energy. That set the stage for the ritual dances to follow at the Hemis Festival–or Hemis Tsechu. Hemis Gompa belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the most important monasteries in Ladakh. Built in the 17th century, it lies at an elevation of about 3,560 meters (12,000 feet) in the northern Indian desert mountainous territory. The festival, believed to have originated in the first half of the 18th century and observed annually ever since, commemorates the birthday of the 8th-century Indian master Padmasambhava, who is credited with having helped establish Buddhism in Tibet. The two-day summer festival falls on the 10th and 11th days of the fifth month in the Tibetan calendar. This year's festival was observed on July 5 and 6.
The Independent
07-07-2025
- General
- The Independent
Photos of a Buddhist festival show ritual dances in India's Ladakh
One by one, 13 Buddhist monks wearing brightly colored silk costumes and wide-brimmed black hats, stepped onto the rectangular courtyard of the Hemis monastery. They began a ritual dance to a slow rhythm set by drums, cymbals and horns. As they moved, the white human skull motifs on their costume caught the morning sun. They danced to ward off mythical evil beings and clear the courtyard of negative energy. That set the stage for the ritual dances to follow at the Hemis Festival — or Hemis Tsechu. Hemis Gompa belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the most important monasteries in Ladakh. Built in the 17th century, it lies at an elevation of about 3,560 meters (12,000 feet) in the northern Indian desert mountainous territory. The festival, believed to have originated in the first half of the 18th century and observed annually ever since, commemorates the birthday of the 8th-century Indian master Padmasambhava, who is credited to have helped establish Buddhism in Tibet. The two-day summer festival falls on the 10th and 11th days of the fifth month in the Tibetan calendar. This year's festival was observed on July 5 and 6.
Associated Press
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Photos of a Buddhist festival show ritual dances in India's Ladakh
LADAKH, India (AP) — One by one, 13 Buddhist monks wearing brightly colored silk costumes and wide-brimmed black hats, stepped onto the rectangular courtyard of the Hemis monastery. They began a ritual dance to a slow rhythm set by drums, cymbals and horns. As they moved, the white human skull motifs on their costume caught the morning sun. They danced to ward off mythical evil beings and clear the courtyard of negative energy. That set the stage for the ritual dances to follow at the Hemis Festival — or Hemis Tsechu. Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More A Buddhist monk in a ceremonial costume performs a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) A Buddhist monk in a ceremonial costume performs a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More A traditional Tibetan Buddhist art work called Thangka is displayed during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) A traditional Tibetan Buddhist art work called Thangka is displayed during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Devotees pray as they watch the opening ceremony of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Devotees pray as they watch the opening ceremony of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks and nuns watch a ritual dance performance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks and nuns watch a ritual dance performance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks replace a prayer flag in the courtyard of the Hemis monastery the day before the beginning of a two-day festival, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Friday, June 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks replace a prayer flag in the courtyard of the Hemis monastery the day before the beginning of a two-day festival, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Friday, June 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Novice Buddhist monks walk back after lessons at the Hemis monastery the day before the beginning of a two-day festival, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Friday, June 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Novice Buddhist monks walk back after lessons at the Hemis monastery the day before the beginning of a two-day festival, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Friday, June 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Novice Buddhist monks jump on a trampoline outside the Hemis monastery the day before the beginning of a two-day festival, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Friday, June 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Novice Buddhist monks jump on a trampoline outside the Hemis monastery the day before the beginning of a two-day festival, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Friday, June 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More A Buddhist monk in a ceremonial costume performs a ritual dance with others during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) A Buddhist monk in a ceremonial costume performs a ritual dance with others during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Devotees watch Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Devotees watch Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Buddhist nuns and monks watch a ritual dance performance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Buddhist nuns and monks watch a ritual dance performance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Devotees watch Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Devotees watch Buddhist monks in ceremonial costume perform a ritual dance during the first day of the two-day festival at the Hemis monastery, on the outskirts of Leh, India, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Hemis Gompa belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the most important monasteries in Ladakh. Built in the 17th century, it lies at an elevation of about 3,560 meters (12,000 feet) in the northern Indian desert mountainous territory. The festival, believed to have originated in the first half of the 18th century and observed annually ever since, commemorates the birthday of the 8th-century Indian master Padmasambhava, who is credited to have helped establish Buddhism in Tibet. The two-day summer festival falls on the 10th and 11th days of the fifth month in the Tibetan calendar. This year's festival was observed on July 5 and 6.
Time Business News
01-07-2025
- Time Business News
Ladakh Tour Packages for True Adventure and Culture Lovers
Ladakh Tour Packages are a perfect choice for travelers who crave raw landscapes, ancient culture, and meaningful experiences. Nestled between the mighty Himalayas and the Karakoram ranges, Ladakh is not just a destination—it's a journey that reshapes how one experiences travel. From the rugged mountain passes to peaceful monasteries perched high above valleys, every corner of Ladakh holds something memorable. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or in a group, these packages provide thoughtfully curated itineraries, local guidance, and access to off-the-path experiences. The key is choosing a package that fits your interests—whether it's trekking, photography, cultural immersion, or road trips. Ladakh is not your typical travel spot. The terrain, altitude, and limited infrastructure can pose challenges for unprepared travelers. With curated Ladakh Tour Packages, these challenges are taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the journey. Packages often include: Transport and permits for restricted areas Local drivers who know how to navigate Ladakh's mountain passes Stays at guesthouses, homestays, or boutique hotels Guided tours to monasteries, lakes, and local markets Most importantly, these packages are designed by people who understand Ladakh's unique climate and geography, helping you avoid health risks related to high altitudes. Ladakh remains disconnected by road for nearly half the year due to heavy snow. The ideal season to visit is from May to September, when temperatures are pleasant and the roads are accessible. During this window: Pangong Lake is accessible Khardung La Pass is open for visitors Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri are at their best Local festivals like Hemis Festival take place Tour packages are usually launched ahead of the season, and early bookings are recommended, especially if you plan to travel during June or July. Ladakh Tour Packages usually follow routes that cover the best locations without rushing the traveler. Some common circuits include: This 5 to 7-day route is ideal for first-time visitors. You'll experience: Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace Magnetic Hill and Sangam Point Camel rides in Hunder Sand Dunes Overnight by Pangong Lake This longer route dives deeper into eastern Ladakh. Highlights include: Lamayuru Monastery Alchi and Likir Tso Moriri's serene beauty A remote visit to Hanle Observatory Each route is crafted to balance sightseeing and acclimatization, which is crucial when visiting high-altitude destinations like Ladakh. Different travelers have different goals. Here's how Ladakh Tour Packages are often categorized: Ideal for trekking enthusiasts and bikers. These include: Markha Valley Trek Chadar Trek (frozen river trek in winter) Mountain biking from Manali to Leh These are relaxed and well-paced, with: Comfortable stays Fewer travel hours Visits to safe and accessible locations Ladakh's natural light and rugged textures are perfect for camera lovers. These packages offer: Sunrise/sunset timings at Pangong Visits during monastery festivals Guided astrophotography sessions in Hanle Group Ladakh Tour Packages are great for solo travelers or those wanting to reduce costs. You get to meet people while enjoying safe, scheduled travel. Almost every well-designed Ladakh Tour Package will include these stops: Leh City : The heart of Ladakh, with its markets, monasteries, and cafés : The heart of Ladakh, with its markets, monasteries, and cafés Nubra Valley : Home to the double-humped camels and Diskit Monastery : Home to the double-humped camels and Diskit Monastery Pangong Lake : Known for its ever-changing colors : Known for its ever-changing colors Khardung La : One of the highest motorable roads in the world : One of the highest motorable roads in the world Sham Valley : Visit Alchi, Likir, and confluence of the Zanskar and Indus Rivers : Visit Alchi, Likir, and confluence of the Zanskar and Indus Rivers Tso Moriri: A less touristy lake, known for its peace and birdwatching Each spot is more than a photo-op; it offers quiet moments and real interactions with local life and nature. Ladakh isn't just about landscapes. The culture here is ancient, rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. A good Ladakh Tour Package will include time to: Attend morning prayers in monasteries Visit local homes and try traditional Ladakhi food Learn about thangka painting or butter sculpture Join in for festivals like Hemis, Losar, or Ladakh Festival These cultural touchpoints make your trip deeper and more meaningful. While pre-built packages cover most interests, many providers offer flexible options. These may include: Private car hire instead of shared transport Extension to Zanskar Valley or Kargil Option for more trekking or camping nights Special dietary arrangements Custom tours also allow flexibility in case of roadblocks, altitude sickness, or personal interests. Ladakh is remote, but you'll be surprised at the accommodation options available through proper Ladakh Tour Packages: Homestays in villages like Turtuk or Likir in villages like Turtuk or Likir Camp stays near Pangong or Tso Moriri near Pangong or Tso Moriri Hotels and guesthouses in Leh with basic but comfortable facilities in Leh with basic but comfortable facilities Luxury tents with attached washrooms and hot water Every stay is selected to balance comfort with the local experience. Nights spent at remote lakes under the stars are often the most cherished memories. Before finalizing your booking, consider the following: Acclimatization days : Ensure the itinerary has rest days in Leh before heading to higher areas : Ensure the itinerary has rest days in Leh before heading to higher areas Oxygen support : Some vehicles include cylinders as a precaution : Some vehicles include cylinders as a precaution Permit arrangements : Make sure the agency handles restricted area permits : Make sure the agency handles restricted area permits Backup plans : Weather can disrupt routes—choose a package that accounts for such delays : Weather can disrupt routes—choose a package that accounts for such delays Local support: Having Ladakhi guides or contacts is a major plus in case of emergencies Being informed helps avoid common travel issues in high-altitude terrain. Sustainable travel is not a buzzword in Ladakh—it's necessary. The fragile ecosystem needs travelers to be responsible. Good Ladakh Tour Packages will: Use refillable water bottles to reduce plastic waste Encourage stays at solar-powered guesthouses Avoid littering and promote Leave No Trace practices Work with local communities instead of outsourcing services If your tour provider values sustainability, you're already making a positive impact. The pricing of Ladakh Tour Packages depends on: Duration of stay Type of vehicle used (bike, SUV, bus) Group vs private tour Accommodation style Activities and permits A basic 5-day tour might start around INR 15,000–20,000 per person (excluding flights). Premium, all-inclusive packages with comfortable stays and full support can go upwards of INR 50,000–70,000. It's wise not to go for the cheapest option, but rather for the one that ensures safety, comfort, and depth of experience. Ladakh isn't just another hill destination—it's an intense, beautiful region that stays with you long after you return. The wind here carries stories, the silence speaks louder than words, and the faces you meet reflect a life that is peaceful yet resilient. Choosing the right Ladakh Tour Package is about more than ticking off locations. It's about going slow, connecting with people, and letting the journey shape you. The best experiences don't happen by chance—they're crafted with care, and that's exactly what these tour packages aim to offer. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
