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Hemis Festival

A Buddhist monastery dance festival for spiritual wellbeing

The Hemis Festival is celebrated at the Hemis Gompa or monastery in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir – and is one of the key attractions of the mountain kingdom. The Hemis Festival is dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, considered a reincarnate of Buddha, who is venerated through dance performances. The observance of these sacred rituals is believed to give spiritual strength and good health, and represents age-old traditions and sacred rites.

The festival can be attended on a day’s excursion from Leh town.

Activities from the Destination

Places of interest to weave into your itinerary

Basgo Ruins
Birdwatching at Chushul Marshes

A high-altitude salt lake birdwatching experience
Culinary experience with a local family
Hemis Monastery

An exemplification of spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur.
Hike to Saboo ruins

A short hike for sunrise or sunset views across Leh valley
Ladakh Trekking

Trek through the lesser-known reaches of Ladakh
Lamayuru Monastery
Leh Market & Central Asian Museum

Discover Ladakh's culinary treasures

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Hemis Monastery

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