Sikkim's famous mask dances provide a spectacle, perhaps nowhere to be experienced
in the entire world. Performed by lamas in the Gompa courtyard to celebrate
religious festivals, these dances demonstrate perfect foot work and grace.
Costumed Lamas with gaily painted masks, ceremonial swords and sparkling jewels,
leap and swing to the rhythm of resounding drums, trumpeting of horns and chanting
of monks.
SAGA DAWA
Saga Dawa is a very auspicious day for the Mahayana Buddhists. On this day people
go to monasteries to offer butter lamps and worship. A huge procession of monks
goes around Gangtok with holy scriptures.
PHANG LHABSOL
Phang Lhabsol is a festival unique to Sikkim. It is celebrated to offer thanks
to Mount Kanchendzonga, the guardian deity of Sikkim and to Yabdu the supreme
commander.
KAGYAT DANCE
Kagyat dance is performed every 28th and 29th day of the Tibetan calendar. The
solemn nature of the dances is interspersed with comic relief provided by the
jesters.
DASAIN
Dasain the biggest and most important festival of the Hindu-Nepali population
is celebrated in September - October. It symbolizes the victory of good over
evil.
