Location
The Hemis Monastery is situated about 40 Km away from Leh. It is a UNESCO world heritage site that is owned by Drukpa Lineage. The monastery is enveloped by the majestic mountains that captivate the attention of the travelers visiting the monastery. The monastery was primarily founded by first incarnation of Stagsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso in the year 1630. Offering prayers to the copper-gilt statue of the Lord Buddha provides inner peace and knocks out all the stress and worries. There are several stupas made up of gold and silver and holy thankas inside the monastery.
Celebrations
Hemis Festival is one of those festivals that reflect the history, tradition and Buddhist culture. On this day, a ritual is followed by the people of Ladakh. They wear colorful masks, dance and celebrate the festival with great fervor. One of the prime attractions of the festival is the mask dance performed by the Lamas of the Hemis Monastery.
The dance illustrates the victory of good over the evil. The Lamas dress themselves in dazzlingly patterned brocades and perform the dance around the central flagpole, which is situated in the courtyard of the monastery.
The vivid masks are the most prominent elements of the festival. The Lamas dance to the music of drums, long horns, trumpets and cymbals. The dance movements are typically slow and every mask worn by the Lamas represent certain deities. Some of the dance forms depict the popular Tibetan fables. The sacred environment during the festival fills the people with joy and adds a new charm to the festival.
Be a part of this spectacular cultural fiesta, pay homage to the almighty, enjoy an enthralling adventure safari ride on yaks while you are on a vacation and attain good health and spiritual strength.
